The University of Eastern Finland (UEF) offers various financial aid options to support international students in managing their tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with their studies. Here are the key financial aid opportunities available:

1. UEF Scholarships for International Students

• Tuition Fee Scholarships: UEF offers scholarships to non-EU/EEA students who are admitted to Master's degree programs taught in English. These scholarships cover up to 100% of the tuition fees for the duration of the studies. The scholarship is awarded automatically based on the student's admission, and no separate application for the scholarship is required.
• Living Cost Scholarships: Some scholarships also offer a living cost allowance (approximately €5,000 per year) to help cover the student's living expenses. This is particularly offered through the Finland Scholarship, which is available for students from certain non-EU/EEA countries.
• Eligibility: Scholarships are based on academic merit, and only students who have been admitted to a degree program at UEF are eligible to apply for the scholarship.
• Application Process: Scholarships are awarded automatically after admission, so there is no need for a separate application. Students need to apply to the degree program through the Studyinfo.fi portal.

2. Finland Scholarship

• Coverage: The Finland Scholarship is a national initiative that covers both tuition fees (for non-EU/EEA students) and a living allowance. The scholarship includes a partial or full living cost allowance, typically around €5,000 per year, in addition to tuition fee coverage.
• Application: Students applying for Master's programs at UEF are automatically considered for the Finland Scholarship when applying through the Studyinfo.fi portal.

3. Government of Finland Scholarships

• The Finnish government offers scholarships for students from specific countries. The Finnish Government Scholarship Pool is aimed at students from developing countries who wish to study Master's or Doctoral programs at Finnish universities.
• The scholarship typically covers living expenses and tuition fees for one year. It is available for non-EU/EEAstudents who have already been admitted to a program at UEF.
• Students can apply for this scholarship through the Finnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI). The application process is separate from the UEF admissions process.

4. Erasmus+ Scholarships

• UEF participates in the Erasmus+ Program, which provides scholarships for students coming from partner institutions to study at UEF for a period of exchange (typically 3-12 months).
• Erasmus+ scholarships cover living expenses and travel costs related to the exchange period.
• Students applying for exchange opportunities through the Erasmus+ program must be nominated by their home university.

5. Student Loans and Government Financial Aid

• Student Loans: Finnish students have access to government-backed student loans through the Finnish National Agency for Education. While these are primarily for Finnish students, EU students may also be eligible.
• Government Financial Aid: EU students who meet certain criteria may be eligible for government financial aid(including study grants and loans) from the Finnish government.

6. Part-time Work Opportunities

• International students in Finland are allowed to work part-time during their studies. Students can work up to 25 hours per week during term time and full-time during holidays.
• On-campus job opportunities and internships are available for students, especially in departments like research, administration, and student services.
• Many students also find work in local businesses, cafes, and retail, which can help support living costs.

7. External Scholarships and Grants

• In addition to the UEF scholarships and government support, students can apply for external scholarships from foundations, NGOs, private organizations, and international institutions that support education in Finland.
• Some organizations that provide scholarships for international students studying in Finland include:
  • The Finnish Cultural Foundation
  • The Finnish Foundation for Education and Culture
  • The Fulbright Finland Foundation (for U.S. students)
  • The Nordic Council of Ministers (for students from Nordic countries)

8. University of Eastern Finland’s Financial Aid for Students

• UEF provides various financial aid services to help students manage their finances while studying. This includes:
  • Information on scholarships and financial aid options.
  • Guidance on student loans and government support.
  • Assistance for students facing financial difficulties.

9. Alumni Support and Donations

• UEF’s alumni network sometimes provides financial support to current students, especially in the form of scholarships or grant opportunities. Students are encouraged to check for any funding opportunities through UEF's alumni and donor relations channels.

10. How to Apply for Financial Aid

• Most scholarships at UEF are automatically awarded when students are admitted to a degree program. However, students may need to apply for some external scholarships, such as those from the Finnish government or other international organizations.
• Be sure to check the specific scholarship page for the program you are applying to for detailed instructions on eligibility, application deadlines, and required documents.

11. Deadlines for Financial Aid Applications

• Scholarships tied to admissions generally follow the same application deadlines as the degree programs. For most Master’s degree programs, the application period is from December to January.
• Erasmus+ and other exchange-related scholarships have their own application deadlines, typically earlier in the year.
• Government scholarships (e.g., Finnish Government Scholarship Pool) typically have separate application periods, usually in the spring.

For the most detailed and up-to-date information on available financial aid options at UEF, it is advisable to regularly check the official UEF website and the Studyinfo.fi portal for deadlines and eligibility criteria.