Are you dreaming of studying in Finland, one of the world’s most innovative, safe, and student-friendly countries? Aalto University, a leading Finnish institution known for technology, business, and design, offers a range of scholarships for international students pursuing Master’s degrees in 2026.
These scholarships help reduce or fully cover tuition fees and offer a golden opportunity to study in one of Europe’s most future-forward academic environments.
About Aalto University
Aalto University is a multidisciplinary institution formed from the merger of three major Finnish universities. Located in Espoo, near Helsinki, it has gained global recognition for excellence in:
- Technology and Engineering
- Business and Economics
- Art and Design
It consistently ranks among the top 10 young universities globally and is part of the European Institute of Innovation & Technology (EIT).
Types of Scholarships at Aalto University
Aalto offers Merit-Based Scholarships to non-EU/EEA students who are required to pay tuition fees. These include:
1. Aalto Excellence University Scholarship (Category A & B)
| Scholarship Type | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Category A | 100% tuition fee waiver |
| Category B | 50% tuition fee waiver |
Both are merit-based and granted to the top-ranked applicants in each program.
Aalto University offers a very limited number of scholarships to fee-paying students.
Aalto University Excellence Scholarships are merit-based and are granted on a competitive basis to the highest-achieving applicants based on the programme’s evaluation criteria.
Scope of scholarship
Aalto University Excellence Scholarships are awarded as tuition fee waivers that cover the full tuition fee. Aalto University Excellence Scholarships do not cover living costs. Students need to cover all living expenses (at least 800 euros per month) and other study related costs from their own financial resources.
- Read more information about living costs in Finland at: Financial matters.
How to apply for a scholarship?
If you are a non-EU/EEA citizen, you can apply for the scholarship when you apply to Aalto University. The scholarship application is part of the application form for admission.
On the application form, you will be asked questions by which your liability to fees is determined. If you are liable to a tuition fee, you will be offered an option to apply or not apply for a scholarship. Only students who are liable to pay tuition fees can apply for Aalto University Excellence Scholarships (i.e. tuition fee waivers).
Scholarship must be applied for during the application period. You cannot apply for a scholarship after the application period. You cannot get a scholarship if you have not applied for it during the application period.
Scholarship decisions
Scholarships can be awarded to the best applicants based on the programme’s evaluation criteria. Programmes may decide not to grant any scholarships. Applicants are ranked according to the criteria indicated on the programme’s webpage.
In master’s admissions scholarships are allocated during the academic evaluation stage as part of the admissions process of a degree programme. The best applicants liable to tuition fees may be awarded a scholarship. The academic evaluation criteria are available on the study option websites.
The scholarship decision is given at the same time with the admission decision.
As defined in the Universities Act, the scholarship decision cannot be appealed to.
Duration of scholarship
Scholarships are granted for the normative period of study of the degree programme.
The normative study period is three years full-time study for bachelor’s degree and two years full-time study for master’s degree. Scholarship requires full-time study and studying according to the approved personal study plan.
2. Finland Scholarship (Full + Stipend)
This is a fully funded option available to top international students admitted to selected Master’s programs. It includes:
- Full tuition fee waiver (100%)
- €5,000 relocation grant/stipend paid upon arrival
Limited awards available per academic program.
Eligible Programs
Scholarships are available for most of the English-taught Master’s programs at Aalto, including:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Cybersecurity
- Engineering Physics
- Industrial Design
- Business Analytics
- Creative Sustainability
- Game Design
- Energy Systems
- Artificial Intelligence
Full program list: CLICK HERE
Application Timeline (2026 Intake)
- Application Opens: December 2025
- Deadline for Applications: January 2, 2026
- Scholarship Results: March 2026
- Start of Classes: August–September 2026
You apply for the scholarship within the same application form as your Master’s degree.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Aalto University Scholarships, you must:
- Be a non-EU/EEA citizen required to pay tuition fees
- Apply for an eligible Master’s program at Aalto
- Have an excellent academic record
- Submit your scholarship application during the admission process
- Demonstrate high motivation and potential
How to Apply
- Choose a Master’s Program
Explore English-taught programs at Aalto University. - Apply Online
Use the Finnish national application portal: studyinfo.fi - Select “Yes” for Scholarship Consideration
You will be automatically considered when you apply for the program. - Submit All Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Transcript of records
- Motivation letter
- Proof of language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
- Portfolio (for art/design programs)
Why Study at Aalto University?
- Located in Finland — world’s happiest country & top in innovation
- Interdisciplinary learning in tech, business, and design
- Multicultural campus with students from over 100 countries
- Strong industry ties with Nokia, KONE, Rovio, and startups
- Travel access to 26 Schengen countries
Conclusion
The Aalto University Scholarships in Finland offer a life-changing opportunity to study in a leading European university, with support ranging from partial to fully funded coverage.
If you’re aiming to build a career in tech, business, design, or sustainability, Aalto is the place to be in 2026
FAQs – Aalto University Scholarships
Q1: Are Aalto scholarships fully funded?
A1: Yes, the Finland Scholarship covers full tuition and includes a €5,000 stipend. Other scholarships offer up to 100% tuition waiver.
Q2: Can I work while studying?
A2: Yes. International students in Finland can work up to 30 hours/week during studies.
Q3: Is IELTS required for admission?
A3: Yes. A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent TOEFL is usually required.
Q4: How competitive are the scholarships?
A4: Very. Scholarships are awarded to the best applicants based on academic excellence and motivation.
Q5: Can I apply for multiple Master’s programs?
A5: You can apply to up to two programs at Aalto via the Finnish joint application system.
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