FINLAND · OULU
University of Oulu
public · Founded 1958 · Languages: Finnish, English
In short
The University of Oulu offers 21 English-taught Master's programmes in a vibrant tech city in northern Finland. Non-EU/EEA students pay tuition, but scholarships and affordable living costs are available.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1958
- Students
- 14,200
- International students
- 1,800
- Acceptance rate
- 45%
- Tuition (intl)
- €8–13k/yr
- Languages
- FINNISH, ENGLISH
- Location
- Oulu, Finland
The University of Oulu is a large public research university in Oulu, northern Finland, founded in 1958. It is a leading institution in information and communication technology, materials science, and biomedical research, and hosts over 14,000 students across seven faculties. The university offers 21 English-taught international Master's programmes, making it one of Finland's most accessible universities for international applicants. As a founding member of the SEA-EU European University alliance, it fosters deep cross-border academic collaboration.
Why study here
- 21 fully English-taught international Master's programmes across technology, sciences, and humanities.
- World-leading research in wireless communications, materials, and Arctic/Nordic studies.
- Affordable tuition (EU/EEA fees apply to some nationalities) and low cost of living in Oulu.
- Compact, bicycle-friendly campus with a strong international student community.
- Finland consistently ranks among the world's happiest countries and top education systems.
Student life
Life at the University of Oulu is shaped by close community ties and Finland's renowned quality of life. The campus is safe, compact, and surrounded by forests and lakes. Students can join over 200 student organisations through the Student Union, enjoy Nordic nature activities year-round — from midnight sun to the Northern Lights — and experience a lively city with a strong technology and innovation culture. International students benefit from a dedicated buddy programme and active international student associations.
Fees
InternationalNon-EU/EEA international students pay approximately €8,000–€13,000 per year depending on the programme.
HomeEU/EEA students currently study free of tuition fees at the University of Oulu.
LivingMonthly living costs in Oulu are estimated at €700–€900, covering subsidised student housing, food, and transport — lower than Helsinki.
Scholarship opportunities are available for international students to offset tuition fees, including the University of Oulu Scholarship covering partial or full tuition.
Admissions
Bachelor's degreeA recognised Bachelor's degree (minimum 180 ECTS or equivalent) in a relevant field.
Application portalApply through Studyinfo.fi during the joint application period (typically January).
Supporting documentsTranscripts, degree certificate, CV, motivation letter, and passport copy.
IELTS Academic6.0 overall (programme-dependent; some require 6.5)
TOEFL iBT79–92 depending on programme
PTE Academic59–62 depending on programme
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2024342
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024601-800
University scholarships
University of Oulu ScholarshipPartial or full tuition fee waiver for non-EU/EEA students
Finland Government ScholarshipVaries — administered by CIMO/OPH
Accreditation
The University of Oulu is a Finnish state university regulated under the Finnish Universities Act and is institutionally accredited by the Finnish Higher Education Evaluation Centre (FINEEC).
Programs
a selectionUniversity of Oulu · Finland
AI Models for Cancer Research: Bridging Clinical Challenges with Advanced Machine Learning
This course focuses on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in cancer research. It is designed for PhD researchers aiming to understand how these advanced technologies can help overcome challenges in cancer diagnosis, treatment, and research. The program will cover fundamental aspects of cancer, including data preparation and analysis of medical imaging, and the application of ML techniques specifically within medical imaging and radiomics.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
University of Oulu · Finland
Basic Statistical Analyses with SPSS Software
This course, 'Basic Statistical Analyses with SPSS Software,' is a field-specific doctoral level course offered within the Health and Biosciences Doctoral Programme (HBS-DP) at the University of Oulu. It focuses on providing foundational knowledge in statistical analysis using SPSS software. The course is designed for doctoral students and is relevant for those in Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, as well as Medicine, Dentistry, and Health Sciences. It is offered as an optional course and awards 1 ECTS credit.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
University of Oulu · Finland
Basics of University Pedagogy for Doctoral Researchers
This optional course is designed for doctoral researchers to develop their understanding and skills in university pedagogy. It aims to foster their teacher identity and enhance their interest in student-centered teaching methods. The course provides a framework for planning and evaluating teaching practices, encouraging a reflective approach to professional development.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
5 mo
Duration
University of Oulu · Finland
Business Development for Researchers
This course is designed for doctoral researchers and focuses on the fundamental concepts of early-stage business development. It covers the experimentation and testing of new business ideas, the development of business models and plans, and the management of business growth and change. The aim is to equip researchers with the knowledge to understand the entire business development process, from inception to launching and sustaining a business, and to identify core business processes in practice.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
University of Oulu · Finland
Communicating Science to the Media, General Public and Decision Makers
This course focuses on the essential skills needed to effectively communicate scientific research to various audiences, including the media, the general public, and policymakers. It aims to equip students with the understanding and tools necessary to bridge the gap between complex scientific findings and broader societal understanding. Upon completion, students will be able to articulate the significance of science communication and utilize diverse methods to share their own research.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
1 mo
Duration
University of Oulu · Finland
Computational Simulation in Edge Computing Research with EdgeCloudSim
This course focuses on computational simulation techniques within the field of edge computing research. Edge computing is a crucial area in next-generation computing systems, enabling low-latency processing closer to data sources, a shift from traditional cloud computing. The field involves complex interactions between software and hardware components distributed across networks, creating diverse research opportunities. Simulation is a primary research methodology in edge computing, offering a cost-effective way to evaluate performance, test new algorithms, and understand intricate system dynamics. This course provides an introduction to the architecture and applications of edge computing, emphasizing the role of simulation, particularly Discrete Event Simulation (DES). Participants will gain an overview of prominent edge computing simulators, including EdgeCloudSim, iFogSim, and YAFS. The course involves practical experimentation using EdgeCloudSim, allowing students to design, implement, and analyze simulations to address real-world edge computing challenges. Upon completion, students will have a solid understanding of edge computing systems and research methodologies, with the ability to leverage simulation tools for their own research.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Scholarships
for Finland
living only fundingFinnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI)
EDUFI Fellowships (Finland Government Scholarship Pool)
For early-stage doctoral students and young researchers of any nationality to spend 3 to 12 months of their doctorate at a Finnish university. A Finnish host professor must invite and supervise the visitor and submits the application; the fellowship funds a research visit, not a full degree.
living only
Funding
€18k
Max
Oct 17, 2026
Deadline
tuition only fundingUniversity of Oulu, Finland
University of Oulu Tuition Fee Scholarships
Open to fee-paying international (non-EU/EEA and non-Swiss) students admitted to an English-taught Bachelor's or Master's degree at the University of Oulu; the scholarship covers tuition and continues each year if the student completes at least 60 ECTS credits per academic year.
tuition only
Funding
€18k
Max
Jan 15, 2027
Deadline
full fundingFulbright Finland Foundation & University of Helsinki
Fulbright-University of Helsinki Graduate Award
Open to students from the United States, Finland and other countries who have been admitted to one of the University of Helsinki's two-year International Master's Degree Programs taught in English. Applicants must take part in the Fulbright Finland Foundation grant competition and separately apply for admission to the University of Helsinki, with final award selection made by the Fulbright Finland Foundation.
full
Funding
€18k
Max
Nov 30, 2026
Deadline
partial fundingFinnish higher education institutions, supported by the Ministry of Education and Culture of Finland
Finnish Government Scholarships (University Finland Scholarships)
For non-EU/EEA international students who pay tuition fees in Finland and are applying for a fee-charging bachelor's or master's programme at a Finnish university or university of applied sciences. Each institution sets its own scholarship criteria, coverage, and deadline within its admission process.
partial
Funding
€15k
Max
Jan 15, 2027
Deadline
tuition only fundingUniversity of Eastern Finland (UEF)
University of Eastern Finland (UEF) Master's Scholarships
Open to international and domestic applicants to UEF Master's programmes. Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree or equivalent, provide proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent), and meet all programme-specific requirements. Non-EU/EEA students pay a EUR 10,000 annual tuition fee against which waivers of 30%, 50%, or 100% are awarded by academic merit; no separate scholarship application is required.
tuition only
Funding
€10k
Max
Jan 21, 2027
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome Trust Fellowships and Grants (for international researchers)
For researchers at different career stages working on health-related science. Wellcome funds a family of fellowships and grants — early-career, career-development, and discovery awards, plus team and translational funding — each with its own eligibility, value, and call deadline. There is no single scholarship application; you apply to the specific scheme that fits your stage and project.
full
Funding
€3000k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students at the University of Oulu?
+
Non-EU/EEA international students can expect tuition fees of approximately €8,000–€13,000 per year, depending on the chosen programme. EU/EEA students currently study tuition-free.
Are there scholarships available for international students?
+
Yes, the University of Oulu offers scholarships, including the University of Oulu Scholarship, which can cover partial or full tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students. The Finnish government also offers scholarships.
What are the estimated living costs for students in Oulu?
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Monthly living costs in Oulu are estimated to be between €700–€900, which covers student housing, food, and transport. These costs are generally lower than in Helsinki.
What are the English language requirements for Master's programmes?
+
For admission to English-taught Master's programmes, you typically need an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall (some programmes may require 6.5), a TOEFL iBT score of 79–92, or a PTE Academic score of 59–62, depending on the specific programme.
What academic qualifications are needed for Master's programmes?
+
Applicants generally need a recognised Bachelor's degree (minimum 180 ECTS or equivalent) in a relevant field to be considered for Master's programmes at the University of Oulu.
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