The University of Oulu Scholarship 2026 is a merit-based financial aid scheme designed to attract high-achieving non-EU/EEA students to Finland. Administered by the University of Oulu, the program offers significant tuition fee waivers for both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. For the first year of study, the scholarship typically covers the full international tuition fee (100%), while subsequent years offer partial waivers ranging from 10% to 40% based on academic performance. By integrating the scholarship application directly into the study admission form, the university ensures a streamlined process for global applicants seeking a world-class Nordic education.
University of Oulu Scholarship 2026 in Finland Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Finland |
| Host Institution | University of Oulu |
| Study Level | Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees |
| Eligible Regions | All Countries (Non-EU/EEA Citizens) |
| Financial Reward | 100% Tuition Waiver (Year 1) |
| Renewal Reward | 10% – 40% Tuition Waiver (Subsequent Years) |
| IELTS/TOEFL | Required (Proficiency Proof) |
| Deadline | January 21, 2026 |
University of Oulu Scholarship 2026 in Finland Details
The University of Oulu Scholarship is a strategic initiative aimed at fostering an international academic environment in Northern Finland. It targets “academically talented” students who do not hold a permanent residence permit in Finland.
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The scholarship is structured to reward consistency; while the first year can provide a full waiver of international fees, the continuation of the award is contingent upon the student successfully completing 55 ECTS credits. This ensures that recipients remain focused on their academic progression. The scholarship covers the tuition fees specifically and does not typically include living expenses, meaning students must demonstrate they have the funds to cover their stay in Oulu separately.
Benefits of the University of Oulu Scholarship 2026 in Finland
Tier 1: International Master’s Full Scholarship (100% Waiver)
The most prestigious tier, this award is granted to the highest-ranking applicants in the Master’s degree programs. It covers 100% of the tuition fees for the first academic year. Selection is based purely on previous academic excellence and the quality of the application.
Tier 2: Finland Scholarship (Special Category)
This mid-level award is often integrated with national Finnish funding strategies. It targets specific high-priority Master’s programs and may include a one-time relocation grant in addition to the tuition waiver for the first year of study.
Tier 3: Bachelor’s & Master’s Performance Waiver (20-40% Waiver)
This tier applies to students in their 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year of study. Depending on the degree program and the number of credits completed (minimum 55 ECTS), students receive a tuition reduction ranging from 10% to 40% to assist with the remainder of their degree.
Eligibility Requirements for University of Oulu Scholarship 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Applicants must have obtained their first academic degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) from a recognized institution with a high GPA.
- Study Status: Must be applying for a full-time international Master’s or Bachelor’s program at the University of Oulu for the 2026/2027 academic year.
- Visa Status: Must be a non-EU/EEA citizen who does not possess a permanent Finnish residence permit.
- Program Admission: Candidates must meet all program-specific requirements and prove a high level of proficiency in the English language (via IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
How to Apply for University of Oulu Scholarship 2026 (Step by Step)
- Apply for Program: Visit the Studyinfo.fi portal and select your desired international degree program at the University of Oulu.
- Automatic Evaluation: Complete the “Student Application Form.” There is no completely separate portal; the scholarship evaluation is part of the admission process.
- Eligibility Assessment: Within the application form, locate and complete the section titled “Application for Scholarship” found at the end of the form.
- Notification of Award: Results for both admission and the scholarship are typically announced together in early Spring. Conditional offers are issued to those in their final year of current studies.
Application Deadline: January 21, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does the scholarship cover my living expenses in Finland?
No, the University of Oulu Scholarship is a tuition fee waiver only. Students are responsible for their own accommodation, food, and travel costs.
2. What is the “55 ECTS” requirement?
To keep your scholarship for the second year, you must complete at least 55 ECTS credits (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) by the end of your first academic year.
3. Can EU citizens apply for this scholarship?
No, EU/EEA citizens do not pay tuition fees in Finland and are therefore not eligible for tuition fee waivers.
4. Is there a separate application for the scholarship?
There is no separate portal. You must fill out the “Application for Scholarship” section inside the general University of Oulu Student Application Form.
5. Can I apply if I haven’t graduated from my Bachelor’s yet?
Yes, if you are in your final semester, you can apply. If successful, you will receive a conditional scholarship offer pending your graduation.
6. What percentage of tuition is covered in the second year?
For Master’s students, the second-year waiver typically covers 10% to 40% of the fee, depending on the specific program and academic performance.
7. Which English tests are accepted?
The university accepts IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, and C1/C2 Cambridge certificates. Check the university website for specific score requirements.
8. Is the scholarship available for PhD students?
The information provided covers Bachelor’s and Master’s students. PhD positions in Finland are often treated as employment or funded via different research grants.
9. What happens if I fail to reach 55 ECTS credits?
If you do not meet the 55 ECTS credit threshold by the end of the academic year, you will likely lose the waiver for the following year and will have to pay the full tuition fee.
10. Can I apply for more than one program?
Yes, you can apply for multiple programs via the Studyinfo.fi portal, but you should indicate your scholarship interest for each eligible program.
