Non-EU students in Finland achieve higher academic results and complete their degrees faster than both Finnish and EU peers, according to a new report from the VATT Institute for Economic Research.
During the 2023–2024 academic year, students with study-based residence permits earned a median of 64 credits, compared to 54 credits by other students. Full-time students in Finland are expected to complete 60 credits per year.
Academic Success Contrasts With Low Earnings
Despite stronger academic outcomes, non-EU students earn significantly less while studying. In 2024, their average monthly income was €770, compared to €1,350 for students without residence permits. The report also notes that non-EU students work less alongside their studies.
Senior Researcher Juho Alasalmi highlighted that the study did not directly link tuition fees to credit accumulation. However, the increased credit completion aligns with the 2017 introduction of tuition fees for non-EU students. Max Toikka, a co-researcher, noted that prior to tuition reforms, credit performance differences between student groups were minimal.
Financial Pressure May Drive Academic Performance
The study suggests that tuition and visa requirements may create financial pressure, encouraging non-EU students to maintain strong academic progress. Students must demonstrate satisfactory performance to remain eligible for their study-based residence permits.
Origins and Fields of Study
Most non-EU students come from South Asia, with India and Bangladesh representing a large portion of arrivals. In 2024, roughly 8,000 first-time residence permits for higher education were granted, a rise from 2,000 permits in the late 2010s.
Non-EU students are almost evenly split between universities of applied sciences and research universities. About half of these students pursue technology or ICT programs, while enrolment in health and welfare fields has also increased.
Graduation Rates and Academic Efficiency
The report finds that 38% of non-EU bachelor’s students complete their degrees on schedule, compared to 30% of Finnish students. For master’s programs, 58% of non-EU students graduate on time, versus 51% of Finnish students.
Employment Challenges
Non-EU students are under-represented in employment data, earning less annually than Finnish and EU students throughout the study period. While academic success is evident, many face challenges finding work in Finland after graduation. A smaller share of non-EU graduates secure employment compared to those who remain legally eligible to stay.
Policy Implications
The VATT report recommends that Finland align work rights and integration support with the strong academic outcomes of non-EU students. Supporting post-graduation employment could help international students contribute more fully to the Finnish labour market.
This study adds valuable insight into trends in study-based immigration to Finland. Non-EU students achieve impressive academic results but continue to face economic and employment challenges, highlighting opportunities for policy adjustments to better support international talent.
