Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Degree Offered |
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) / Licentiate of Medicine (equivalent to MBBS) |
|
Duration |
6 years (including clinical training and internships) |
|
Medium of Instruction |
Primarily Finnish or Swedish; few universities offer English-taught pre-med or preparatory courses |
|
Eligibility |
High school diploma with Biology, Chemistry, Physics; English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL); entrance exam or interview required |
|
Top Universities |
University of Helsinki, University of Turku, University of Eastern Finland, Tampere University, University of Oulu |
|
Tuition Fees |
€10,000–€18,000 per year for non-EU/EEA students; free for EU/EEA students |
|
Living Costs |
Approx. €700–€1,200 per month (housing, food, transport, insurance) |
|
Clinical Training |
Conducted in university-affiliated hospitals and community healthcare centers |
|
Intake |
Once a year (usually in August/September) |
|
Recognition |
Globally recognized by WHO, European Medical Council, and other international bodies |
|
Post-Graduation Options |
Residency in Finland or other EU countries; international medical licensing exams for practice abroad |
World-Class Education System
Finland is renowned for its innovative and student-centered education system. Finnish medical universities emphasize research, problem-based learning, and clinical competence, ensuring graduates meet global healthcare standards.
Global Recognition of Degree
The MBBS (Licentiate of Medicine) degree from Finland is recognized by the WHO, European Medical Council, and other international medical bodies, enabling graduates to pursue medical careers worldwide.
Advanced Healthcare Infrastructure
Students train in modern hospitals equipped with the latest medical technologies. Clinical exposure begins early, offering hands-on experience under expert supervision.
Research and Innovation Opportunities
Finnish universities are at the forefront of medical research in fields like biotechnology, genetics, and public health. Students can engage in cutting-edge projects that enhance their professional profiles.
Safe and High-Quality Living Standards
Finland consistently ranks among the world’s safest and happiest countries, offering a clean environment, excellent healthcare, and supportive student services.
Affordable Education and Scholarships
Compared to other Western countries, Finland offers affordable tuition fees, and many universities provide scholarships or fee reductions for international students with strong academic performance.
Rank (Finland) |
University Name |
Approx. Annual Tuition Fees (for Non-EU Students) |
QS World/University Ranking 2024 |
Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
€13,000 – €18,000 |
#112 (QS World) |
Helsinki |
|
|
2 |
€12,000 – €16,000 |
#291 (QS World) |
Turku |
|
|
3 |
€13,000 – €15,000 |
#501–510 (QS World) |
Kuopio |
|
|
4 |
€12,000 – €15,000 |
#436 (QS World) |
Tampere |
|
|
5 |
€12,000 – €16,000 |
#401–410 (QS World) |
Oulu |
|
|
6 |
€10,000 – €12,000 |
#601–650 (QS World) |
Turku |
|
|
7 |
€10,000 – €13,000 |
#441 (QS World) |
Jyväskylä |
|
|
8 |
€8,000 – €10,000 |
#801–1000 (QS World) |
Rovaniemi |
|
|
9 |
€13,500 – €15,000 |
#451–460 (QS World) |
Lappeenranta |
|
|
10 |
Hanken School of Economics (Pre-med & health management options) |
€12,000 – €15,000 |
#601–650 (QS World) |
Helsinki |
Expense Category |
Estimated Cost (per year) |
Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Tuition Fees |
€10,000 – €18,000 |
Varies by university and program; EU/EEA students often study for free. |
|
Accommodation |
€300 – €700 |
Student housing or shared apartments; Helsinki is more expensive than other cities. |
|
Food & Groceries |
€250 – €400 |
Monthly expenses for meals and daily needs. |
|
Transportation |
€40 – €70 |
Public transport passes for students are discounted. |
|
Health Insurance |
€300 – €600 |
Mandatory for international students. |
|
Study Materials & Supplies |
€100 – €300 |
Books, lab coats, stationery, and digital resources. |
|
Miscellaneous/Leisure |
€100 – €200 |
Personal expenses and social activities. |
High-Quality Medical Education
Finland’s universities are globally recognized for their advanced teaching methods, research excellence, and practical training. The MBBS (Licentiate of Medicine) program integrates classroom learning with early clinical exposure, preparing students for international medical careers.
Global Recognition and Career Opportunities
Degrees from Finnish medical universities are recognized by the WHO, European Medical Council, and other global bodies. Indian graduates can appear for licensing exams like FMGE (NExT), USMLE, or PLAB to practice in India or abroad.
Affordable and Transparent Costs
Tuition fees range from €10,000 to €18,000 per year, with affordable living costs. Several universities offer scholarships and financial aid based on academic performance.
Safe and Student-Friendly Environment
Finland ranks among the safest countries worldwide. It offers modern infrastructure, a supportive international community, and an excellent quality of life for students.
Research and Innovation Opportunities
Finnish medical programs emphasize research and encourage students to participate in projects across biotechnology, neurology, and public health—enhancing global employability and specialization prospects.
Event / Process |
Tentative Dates |
Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Application Opens |
November – January |
Universities open online applications for the next academic session (Autumn intake). |
|
Application Deadline |
Mid-January |
Last date to submit applications through the Studyinfo.fi portal. |
|
Entrance Exam / Interview |
March – May |
Required for most medical universities; may include written tests and interviews. |
|
Admission Results Announcement |
May – June |
Selected students receive admission offers via email or portal. |
|
Acceptance & Fee Payment Deadline |
June – July |
Students must confirm admission and pay the first tuition installment. |
|
Visa Application Period |
June – July |
Apply for a Finnish residence permit after receiving admission confirmation. |
|
Academic Year Begins |
August – September |
Classes commence for the Autumn intake. |
Criteria / Exam |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Academic Qualification |
Completion of 10+2 (or equivalent) with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as main subjects. Minimum 75% aggregate preferred. |
|
Language Proficiency |
Most programs are taught in Finnish or Swedish; students must show language proficiency. Some universities offer English-taught pre-med programs requiring IELTS (6.0–6.5) or TOEFL (minimum 80). |
|
Entrance Examination |
Conducted by individual universities; may include written tests in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and logical reasoning. Some may require interviews. |
|
Age Requirement |
Applicant must be at least 17 years old at the time of admission. |
|
NEET Qualification (for Indian Students) |
Mandatory for those planning to return to India for medical practice. |
|
Other Requirements |
Valid passport, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and motivation statement are typically required. |
|
Document |
Description / Requirement |
|---|---|
|
Application Form |
Completed online application through the official university or Studyinfo.fi portal. |
|
Academic Certificates |
Scanned copies of 10th and 12th mark sheets (with Physics, Chemistry, Biology). |
|
Passport |
Valid passport with at least six months’ validity beyond the course start date. |
|
Proof of English Proficiency |
IELTS (6.0–6.5) or TOEFL (≥80) for English-taught programs. For Finnish/Swedish programs, language test certificates are required. |
|
Entrance Exam Results |
Score or confirmation of participation in the university’s entrance test or interview. |
|
NEET Scorecard |
Mandatory for Indian students intending to practice in India after graduation. |
|
Recommendation Letters |
Two academic or professional references supporting the application. |
|
Statement of Purpose (SOP) |
Personal essay outlining motivation, career goals, and reasons for choosing Finland. |
|
Financial Proof |
Bank statement or sponsorship letter showing funds to cover tuition and living expenses. |
Research and Shortlist Universities:
Identify Finnish universities offering the Licentiate of Medicine (equivalent to MBBS), such as the Universities of Helsinki, Turku, and Oulu.
Check Eligibility:
Ensure completion of 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, proficiency in English or Finnish, and a valid NEET score (for Indian students).
Submit Application:
Apply online through the official university website or Studyinfo.fi between November and January, uploading all required documents.
Entrance Examination / Interview:
Appear for the university’s entrance test (Biology, Chemistry, Physics) or interview held between March and May.
Receive Offer Letter:
Successful candidates receive admission offers by May–June.
Visa Application and Enrollment:
Pay tuition fees, apply for a Finnish student residence permit, and prepare to join the program starting in August or September.
Intake Session |
Application Period |
Entrance Exam & Selection |
Course Commencement |
Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Autumn Intake (Main Intake) |
November – January |
March – May |
August – September |
Primary intake for all Finnish universities offering the Licentiate of Medicine (MBBS equivalent). |
|
Spring Intake (Limited / Rare) |
April – June |
June – July |
January – February |
Available for a few preparatory or foundation medical programs only. |
Program Component |
Duration |
Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Total Duration |
6 years (Full-time) |
Equivalent to the Licentiate of Medicine degree. |
|
Pre-clinical Phase |
Years 1–3 |
Focus on basic medical sciences – Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, and Public Health. |
|
Clinical Phase |
Years 4–6 |
Practical training in hospitals; includes Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, and other specialties. |
|
Research Project / Thesis |
Final Year |
Students complete a medical research project under supervision. |
|
Internship / Clinical Rotations |
Integrated |
Conducted throughout the program in university-affiliated hospitals. |
Aspect |
MBBS in Finland |
MBBS in India |
|---|---|---|
|
Degree Name |
Licentiate of Medicine (Equivalent to MBBS) |
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) |
|
Course Duration |
6 years (includes internship) |
5.5 years (includes 1-year internship) |
|
Medium of Instruction |
Finnish/Swedish; few English preparatory courses |
English |
|
Admission Process |
Based on academic merit, entrance test, and language proficiency |
Through NEET entrance exam (high competition) |
|
Tuition Fees |
€10,000–€18,000 per year (for non-EU students) |
5–25 lakhs total (varies by college type) |
|
Quality of Education |
Research-based, globally recognized, with modern facilities |
Good but varies widely between government and private colleges |
|
Clinical Exposure |
Early and extensive in advanced hospitals |
Depends on institution; often limited in private colleges |
|
Global Opportunities |
Widely accepted in Europe and globally |
Recognition mainly within India; foreign practice requires extra exams |
|
Overall Advantage |
Ideal for students seeking global exposure and advanced learning |
Suitable for those planning to practice in India only |
Indian students who do not wish to take the NEET exam can still study medicine in Finland, provided they plan to work or practice outside India after graduation. Finnish universities require students to clear their entrance examination(covering Biology, Chemistry, and Physics) and meet language proficiency standards—usually IELTS (6.0–6.5) or equivalent. Admission is based on academic performance, entrance test scores, and interview results. However, without NEET, graduates cannot practice medicine in India after completing their degree. Finland’s medical programs are ideal for students seeking international medical careers or European residency opportunities.
Year |
Subjects / Focus Areas |
Description |
|---|---|---|
|
1st Year |
Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology |
Foundational medical sciences with lab work and introductory patient communication. |
|
2nd Year |
Microbiology, Pharmacology, Pathology, Genetics |
Core medical subjects; introduction to disease mechanisms and drug actions. |
|
3rd Year |
Immunology, Public Health, Behavioral Sciences |
Transition from theory to applied medical sciences; community health exposure. |
|
4th Year |
Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology |
Start of clinical rotations; hands-on hospital training. |
|
5th Year |
Psychiatry, Ophthalmology, Orthopedics, Emergency Medicine |
Advanced clinical practice and specialization exposure. |
|
6th Year |
Clinical Rotations, Research Project, Thesis, Electives |
Full-time hospital practice, research thesis submission, and professional readiness. |
Finland Government Scholarship Pool – for postgraduate and research-based medical studies.
University of Helsinki Grant – partial or full tuition waivers for high-achieving students.
University of Oulu International Scholarship – covers 50–75% of tuition fees.
University of Turku Tuition Fee Scholarship – merit-based reductions for outstanding applicants.
Erasmus+ Scholarship – for student exchange and research programs across Europe.
Medical Practice in Finland:
Graduates can apply for a medical license from Valvira (National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health) to work as general practitioners or hospital doctors in Finland. Proficiency in Finnish or Swedish is mandatory for local practice.
Postgraduate Specialization:
Students can pursue residency programs in specialties such as Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, or Public Health at Finnish universities or hospitals.
Research and Academia:
Finland’s strong focus on medical research and innovation offers opportunities in biomedical sciences, biotechnology, and clinical research projects. Graduates may continue toward a Ph.D. in medical sciences.
Global Career Opportunities:
Finnish medical degrees are recognized by the WHO and European Medical Council, allowing graduates to take exams like USMLE, PLAB, or NExT to practice in the USA, UK, or India.
Healthcare Administration & Public Health:
Many graduates work in public health organizations, NGOs, or international medical agencies focusing on healthcare policy, management, and global health development.
Specialist Medical Training (Residency):
Graduates can enroll in specialist training programs offered by Finnish universities in areas such as Cardiology, Surgery, Neurology, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, Radiology, and Public Health. These programs typically last 5–6 yearsand combine advanced coursework with hospital-based clinical training.
Master’s Programs in Health Sciences:
Some graduates pursue Master’s degrees in fields like Global Health, Health Management, Biomedical Engineering, or Epidemiology to broaden their career prospects beyond clinical medicine.
Ph.D. and Medical Research:
Finland’s universities provide excellent opportunities for doctoral studies in medical sciences, biotechnology, or clinical research. Students may work with research groups funded by organizations such as the Academy of Finland or the European Union.
International Licensing Exams:
Graduates aiming to practice abroad can appear for USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), or NExT (India) after completing their Finnish degree.
After completing the Licentiate of Medicine (MBBS equivalent) in Finland, doctors earn competitive salaries reflecting their specialization and experience. On average, general practitioners earn between €4,000 and €6,000 per month, while specialist doctors can earn €6,000 to €10,000 per month or more. Newly graduated doctors working as interns or junior physicians may start around €3,000–€4,000 monthly. Salaries increase significantly with postgraduate specialization, private practice, or research positions. Additionally, Finland’s healthcare professionals enjoy strong job security, excellent work-life balance, and benefits such as paid vacations, healthcare coverage, and pension plans.
Offer Letter:
Obtain an official admission letter from a recognized Finnish university offering the MBBS program.
Valid Passport:
Must be valid for at least the duration of the course.
Proof of Financial Means:
Students must show sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses — approximately €560 per month or €6,720 per year, along with proof of tuition fee payment or scholarship.
Health Insurance:
Mandatory coverage for the entire study period. It must cover medical and hospitalization expenses of at least €120,000 per year.
Academic and Supporting Documents:
Include mark sheets, language proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL or Finnish test), NEET score (if applicable), and passport-sized photographs.
Visa Application Process:
Apply online via the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri) portal and schedule an appointment at a VFS Global centerin India for biometrics and verification.
Processing Time:
Typically 1–2 months.
Yes, an MBBS (Licentiate of Medicine) degree from Finland is valid in India, provided it meets the National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines for Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs). Finnish medical universities are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and maintain international academic standards.
Indian students who complete their medical degree in Finland must qualify for the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or National Exit Test (NExT), as mandated by the NMC, to obtain a license to practice medicine in India.
The program should include at least 54 months (4.5 years) of academic training and 12 months of internship or clinical rotation, matching NMC requirements.
Additionally, the student must obtain eligibility certificates, maintain English-taught or NMC-approved curriculum equivalence, and complete registration with the State Medical Council after passing NExT.
University Shortlisting:
Experts at Standyou evaluate your academic profile, career goals, and budget to shortlist the best Finnish universities offering the Licentiate of Medicine (MBBS equivalent) program.
Application Documentation:
The team assists in preparing and reviewing essential documents such as transcripts, recommendation letters, Statement of Purpose (SOP), and proof of language proficiency to ensure compliance with university standards.
Exam Preparation:
Standyou provides resources and counseling for entrance exams or language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL, helping students achieve competitive scores.
University Applications:
They guide you through the entire Studyinfo.fi or direct university application process, ensuring timely submission and accuracy.
Scholarship Assistance:
Standyou helps identify and apply for tuition waivers and scholarships offered by Finnish universities and government programs.
Visa Filing Support:
Experts assist with student visa documentation, financial proofs, and residence permit applications to ensure smooth visa approval.
1. What is the MBBS degree called in Finland?
In Finland, the MBBS is known as the Licentiate of Medicine degree, which is equivalent to an MBBS qualification.
2. What is the duration of MBBS in Finland?
The program lasts six years, including clinical training and internship.
3. Is MBBS in Finland taught in English?
Most full MBBS programs are in Finnish or Swedish, but some universities offer English-taught pre-med or foundation programs.
4. What is the eligibility for Indian students?
Students must have 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, good English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), and a valid NEET score (for practice in India).
5. What is the cost of studying MBBS in Finland?
Tuition fees range between €10,000–€18,000 per year, and living expenses are around €700–€1,200 monthly.
6. Is the Finnish MBBS degree valid in India?
Yes, but graduates must pass FMGE/NExT to practice medicine in India.
7. Do Finnish universities offer scholarships?
Yes, many universities offer merit-based or tuition-fee reduction scholarships for international students.
8. What is the medium of clinical training?
Clinical practice is mostly conducted in Finnish or Swedish, so language proficiency is important.
9. What are the job prospects after MBBS in Finland?
Graduates can work in Finland, pursue postgraduate specialization, or take international licensing exams (USMLE, PLAB, NExT).
10. When does the academic year start?
The main intake begins in August or September each year.
