Opintoraha (Student Grant)

A monthly study grant from Kela for students in Finland who are enrolled in qualifying degree programs and make adequate progress.

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Detailed explanation

Opintoraha is available to Finnish citizens and, under certain conditions, to international students who have a permanent residence permit or have lived in Finland for a sufficient period. The grant is intended to cover living expenses during studies and is paid for months in which the student is actively studying. Students must make adequate academic progress to continue receiving the grant.

The full student financial aid package in Finland consists of three parts: opintoraha (study grant), opintolaina (government-guaranteed student loan), and possibly asumistuki (housing allowance). Together, these are designed to make higher education accessible without reliance on family wealth. The study grant amount depends on the student's age, living situation, and type of educational institution.

How it affects expats

•Eligibility restrictions: Most international students on temporary residence permits do not qualify

•permanent residence or long-term EU residence is typically required

•EU citizens: May qualify after registering residence and meeting certain conditions

•Income limits: Earning above a certain annual threshold reduces or eliminates the grant

•plan part-time work carefully

•Progress requirements: You must earn a minimum number of credits per academic year to retain eligibility

•Application: Apply through Kela's online service before the start of your studies or academic year

Key details

•Amount: Approximately €268/month for students living independently (higher education)

•Income ceiling: Annual income limits apply

•exceeding them triggers repayment

•Study months: Typically 9 months per academic year

•Maximum duration: Limited to the normative duration of your degree plus some extra months

•Tax: Opintoraha is taxable income

•Kela — Finland's social insurance institution

•Opintotuki (Student Aid) — the full student financial aid package

•Asumistuki (Housing Allowance) — housing benefit for low-income residents

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