Finland is renowned for its world-class education system, innovative culture, and vibrant student life. For international students, it’s not just the quality of education that makes Finland an attractive destination—it’s also the multitude of discounts and benefits available to make student life more affordable and enjoyable. Whether you’re studying in the bustling capital of Helsinki or a smaller Finnish city, there are numerous opportunities to save money while making the most of your time in this beautiful Nordic country.
This blog will walk you through the essential discounts and benefits international students on Finland study visa can access in Finland, from transportation to cultural experiences, all aimed at making your student life both affordable and fulfilling.
How to Access Student Discounts in Finland?
To access most student discounts and benefits, you will need a student card. The most common card is issued by your student union, and it is your key to accessing discounts on transportation, food, and more. You can apply for your student card when you enroll in your university, and it’s valid as long as you are a full-time student. Additionally, there are apps like UniDays and Student Discount Finland that offer aggregated discounts across various industries, including retail, travel, and entertainment.
The Finnish Student Union and Its Role
To fully access student discounts and benefits in Finland, becoming a member of a student union is key. The Student Union of Finland (SYL) is a nationwide student organization that advocates for students’ rights, welfare, and overall quality of student life. By being a part of your university’s student union, you’ll unlock a wide range of exclusive student benefits and discounts.
As a member, you get access to reduced prices for public transportation, housing, food, and even cultural events. In Finland, the student card, which is often issued by your student union, is the primary way to access these discounts. The student card is widely recognized across the country and allows you to enjoy substantial savings, whether it’s in the form of cheaper movie tickets or discounted train fares.
Transportation Discounts in Finland
One of the most significant areas where international students can benefit from discounts in Finland is public transportation. Finland has an excellent public transport network, and students can enjoy substantial reductions.
- Public Transit: In cities like Helsinki, Tampere, and Turku, students can apply for discounted travel passes for buses, trams, metros, and even trains within the city. These discounts can cut your commuting costs significantly. For example, Helsinki offers a student travel pass which grants students access to unlimited travel within the Helsinki metropolitan area for a fraction of the regular price.
- Long-Distance Travel: For students traveling between cities or exploring the country, long-distance buses and trains also offer discounts. The Finnish Railways (VR) offers student tickets that are generally 30–50% cheaper than regular fares. On long-distance buses (e.g., Onnibus or Matkahuolto), student discounts are typically available, so it’s always worth checking before booking.
- Cycling and Alternative Transport: If you’re in a city like Helsinki, where cycling is popular, students can also enjoy discounts on bike-sharing services. Some cities have programs that allow students to rent bikes at a reduced rate, promoting eco-friendly transport and an active lifestyle.
Housing Benefits and Discounts in Finland
Finding affordable housing is one of the biggest challenges for international students on Finland student visa, but Finland provides several ways to ease the financial burden.
Student Housing
Many universities in Finland collaborate with local student housing foundations to offer cheap, quality accommodation to students. For example, HOAS (Helsinki Student Housing Foundation) provides students with affordable housing options in and around the capital. The rents are subsidized and are typically lower than regular market prices.
In other cities, local student housing organizations provide similar options, helping you find accommodation close to your university at discounted rates.
Other Housing Support
In addition to student housing, international students in Finland may be eligible for subsidies or support in covering housing costs, especially if they live in university-owned or student-organized accommodation. Students with a Finnish social security number may also be eligible for Kela housing benefits, which can further ease the cost of rent.
Discounts on Food and Dining in Finland
Finland offers several ways for students to save on food, whether they prefer eating out or cooking at home.
Affordable Student Lunches
One of the biggest perks for students is the heavily subsidized meals available at university cafeterias. Most Finnish universities have their student restaurants where students can enjoy a hearty meal at a very low price—typically between EUR 2.5 and EUR 5.5. The subsidy is part of Finland’s commitment to ensuring that students are well-fed and can focus on their studies without worrying about expensive meal costs.
Cafes and Grocery Stores
Many cafes and restaurants also offer student discounts. Whether it’s a discount on coffee at your favorite cafe or a special deal on a lunch combo, student perks are common in eateries frequented by university students. Additionally, grocery store chains offer student discounts, and students can find special offers on staple items such as bread, dairy products, and pasta.
Discounts during Shopping in Finland
Finland has a wide variety of shopping options, from global fashion chains to local boutiques, and students can enjoy exclusive deals at many stores.
- Fashion and Retail: Popular retail chains like H&M, Zara, and Uniqlo, as well as Finnish brands such as Marimekko, often provide student discounts either online or in-store. These discounts can range from 10% to 20% off, especially during seasonal sales.
- Electronics and Tech: If you’re in need of new electronics or tech gadgets, Finnish stores offer discounts on laptops, smartphones, and accessories for students. Make sure to keep an eye out for student-specific promotions, especially during back-to-school seasons.
Discounts for Culture and Entertainment in Finland
Study in Finland isn’t just about academics—it’s also about experiencing the rich culture, music, and arts that the country has to offer. As a student, you can enjoy discounted access to many cultural and recreational activities.
- Museums, Concerts, and Events: Many museums, galleries, and cultural institutions offer student discounts or free entry for students. This includes places like the Kiasma Museum of Contemporary Art and the Ateneum Art Museum in Helsinki, where students can enjoy exhibitions for a fraction of the regular price. Additionally, many concert halls, theaters, and music venues offer student prices, making it easier to explore Finland’s thriving arts scene.
- Sports and Fitness: Staying active is an important part of student life, and many universities offer sports facilities to students at a discounted rate. Students can access university gym facilities, swimming pools, and even outdoor sports equipment for a nominal fee. Additionally, local sports clubs and fitness centers often have special rates for students.
Health and Insurance Benefits in Finland
Good health is essential to academic success, and Finland ensures that students have access to affordable health care.
Finnish Student Health Service (FSHS)
International students on Finland study visa who are registered as full-time students at a Finnish university are entitled to healthcare services through the Finnish Student Health Service (FSHS). The FSHS provides general healthcare, dental care, and mental health services, often at reduced prices or free of charge. This is a huge benefit, as healthcare can otherwise be expensive, especially in a foreign country.
Student Health Insurance
International students must have health insurance to cover any medical expenses. Finland offers several affordable health insurance plans, including those through Kela, the Finnish social insurance institution, which may offer subsidies for students’ healthcare costs. If you’re coming from outside the EU, it’s important to arrange proper health insurance before arrival.
Financial Support and Part-Time Work Opportunities in Finland
Aside from discounts, Finland also provides financial support for international students on Finland student visa through scholarships and work opportunities.
Scholarships and Grants
There are various scholarships available to international students, including government scholarships and university-specific awards.
Part-Time Work
International students in Finland are allowed to work part-time while studying, which can help supplement their income. Working in Finland is a great way to improve your Finnish skills, make friends, and gain work experience. Additionally, student jobs often come with extra perks, such as discounts on services and products.
Study in Finland offers many opportunities to save money, but it’s important to take full advantage of all the discounts and benefits available to you as an international student on a Finland student visa. From affordable transportation to subsidized healthcare and cultural perks, there are countless ways to enhance your student experience without breaking the bank.
West Highlander Immigration – Consultants for Students Planning Study in Finland
West Highlander Immigration offers expert guidance for students looking to pursue their higher education in Finland. With a deep understanding of the Finnish education system and visa requirements, their consultants assist students in every step of the process. Moreover, the counselors there are guided by Ms. Parwinder Kaur, who is a director and an ICEF-trained agent counselor. Whether you’re applying for a Bachelors, Masters, or doctoral program, West Highlander Immigration makes the process streamlined and stress-free.