The University of Helsinki Scholarship 2026 is a competitive funding opportunity for talented international students from non-EU/EEA countries. It targets high-achieving applicants admitted to Master’s degree programs at the University of Helsinki, Finland. The scholarship structure offers varying levels of support, including 100% and 50% tuition fee waivers, alongside supplementary benefits like meal discounts at Unicafe, public transport reductions, and low-cost access to Unisport services. Selection is based primarily on an overall assessment of academic performance, motivation, and the university’s strategic goals. The application is integrated into the Master’s degree admission process, with a final submission deadline of January 16, 2026.
University of Helsinki Scholarship Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Finland |
| Study Abroad | Study in Europe |
| Category | Postgraduate / Masters Scholarships |
| Eligible Countries | All non-EU/EEA Countries |
| Reward | Full/Partial Tuition + Subsidies |
| Key Criteria | Academic Excellence & Admittance to Masters |
| Application Deadline | January 16, 2026 |
University of Helsinki Scholarship in Finland 2026 Detailed Overview
The University of Helsinki Scholarship 2026 represents a prestigious gateway for global scholars to access one of Europe’s leading research environments. Renowned for its commitment to innovation and social inclusivity, the University provides a world-class platform for Master’s students to advance their academic and professional careers.
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This scholarship is specifically designed to attract high-achieving individuals who demonstrate not only academic brilliance but also the potential for leadership in their respective fields. By removing financial barriers, the University of Helsinki ensures that international talent can thrive in Finland’s vibrant academic ecosystem.
Selection Criteria
Scholarships are awarded based on a comprehensive academic assessment. This includes a review of previous academic results, the strength of the applicant’s motivation letter, and the alignment of the candidate’s profile with the university’s strategic and programmatic goals.
Benefits of the University of Helsinki Scholarship in Finland 2026
Tier 1: Fully Funded Excellence Award (100% Waiver)
- Full Tuition Fee Waiver: Covers 100% of the tuition fees for the duration of the Master’s program (usually two years).
- Supplementary Grants: In some cases, highly ranked candidates may receive additional grants to assist with relocation or living expenses in Helsinki.
Tier 2: Partial Academic Support (50% Waiver)
- Tuition Reduction: Provides a 50% discount on the total tuition fees for international students.
- Meal & Transport Subsidies: Significant discounts on daily meals at Unicafe restaurants and reduced rates for public transportation within the Helsinki metropolitan area.
Tier 3: General Student Welfare Benefits
- University Services: Access to Unisport services and sports facilities at specially discounted “student prices.”
- Research Resources: Full access to the university’s world-class library, laboratory facilities, and innovation hubs.
Eligibility Requirements for University of Helsinki Masters Scholarship 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Applicants must demonstrate exceptional academic results from previous studies and show clear leadership potential through their motivation statement.
- Study Status: You must be applying for and subsequently admitted to an accredited Master’s degree program at the University of Helsinki.
- Visa Status: Open to international students who are non-EU/EEA nationals and who meet the requirements for a Finnish entry visa and residence permit.
- Program Admission: Candidates must provide evidence of proficiency in English and meet all specific faculty-based admission criteria for their chosen subject.
How to Apply for University of Helsinki Scholarships 2026 (Step by Step)
- Apply for Program: Choose your desired Master’s program via the university’s official Master’s programmes page and prepare all necessary academic attachments.
- Automatic Evaluation: Use the same application form for the Master’s degree to apply for the scholarship; there is no separate portal for the grant.
- Eligibility Assessment: Submit your motivation letter and academic proofs. The admissions committee will evaluate your scholarship eligibility during the degree application review.
- Notification of Award: Results regarding your scholarship status will be included in your official acceptance email from the University of Helsinki.
Application Deadline: January 16, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the University of Helsinki Scholarship open to EU citizens?
No, the scholarship program is specifically targeted at international students who are non-EU/EEA nationals required to pay tuition fees.
2. Does the scholarship cover the entire duration of the Master’s program?
Yes, the scholarship is usually awarded for two years, provided the student makes satisfactory academic progress.
3. Can I apply for the scholarship after I have been admitted?
No, you must apply for the scholarship using the same application form used to apply for the Master’s program during the application window.
4. What is the deadline for the 2026 intake?
The application deadline for the Master’s programs and the scholarship is January 16, 2026.
5. Does the scholarship provide a monthly stipend for rent?
The primary benefits are tuition waivers (100% or 50%); however, some specific grants may include living cost components depending on the year’s funding.
6. Are there any discounts for public transport?
Yes, selected scholarship holders and students at the University of Helsinki receive significant reductions on public transport fares.
7. Do I need to provide an English proficiency test?
Yes, as part of the admission criteria, you must provide evidence of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL).
8. What is “Unicafe” mentioned in the benefits?
Unicafe is the student restaurant chain at the University of Helsinki where scholarship students receive meal discounts.
9. Can I apply for any Master’s program?
The scholarship is available for most international Master’s programs, but you should check the specific program page to ensure it is eligible.
10. How will I know if I have won the scholarship?
The scholarship result will be communicated to you within your official letter of admission/acceptance email.
