Finland student housing aid reform will take effect in August, cutting financial support for around 150,000 students across the country. Those renting from their parents will face the steepest reductions.
The reform replaces the previous general housing allowance with a narrower study grant housing supplement. Now, support is paid only during months when students are actively studying and in smaller amounts than before.
Inka Kuusjärvi, a chemistry student in Turku, explained how her monthly housing aid will shrink from 217 euros to just 83 euros. She rents from her parents and called the decision unfair.
“I pay rent just like anyone else,” Kuusjärvi told Yle. “This is not about sending Kela money to parents. It is about securing stable housing.”
Students renting from family members will be limited to a maximum of 83 euros per month, down from the previous average of 344 euros. Students renting from private landlords will not face such steep cuts.
Kela, the Finnish social insurance institution, confirmed that just over 5,000 students rent from parents, but the reform impacts a wider group of 150,000 students.
Under the new rules, housing support will not be granted during summer months unless students are enrolled in courses at that time. Additionally, the monthly aid amount will decrease by 50 euros to 128 euros, depending on the student’s location.
Piia Kuusisto, benefits manager at Kela, advised students to prepare for the changes. “There are two ways students can manage,” Kuusisto said. “They can study during the summer or work during the academic year.”
Students starting or continuing their studies in September will lose housing aid after July. Many may not be aware of this gap in support. Kuusisto recommended students apply for study loans in August. She also mentioned basic social assistance as a last-resort option.
The Finnish government estimates that this reform will save over 5 million euros annually.
