Finland Intakes Timeline, Deadlines, Courses & Tips for Bangladeshi Students
Finland is increasingly becoming a top destination for international students, offering high-quality education, innovative teaching methods, and a safe, multicultural environment. For Bangladeshi students, understanding Finland’s intakes, application deadlines, and course options is essential to plan a successful study abroad journey in 2026/2027.
This article provides a complete guide to Finland’s study intakes, timelines, visa requirements, scholarships, and tips, helping Bangladeshi students make informed decisions and secure admission efficiently.
Statistic Insight: According to the Finnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI), over 40,000 international students enroll in Finland annually, with the majority starting in the Autumn intake (August/September), making it the primary entry point.
What Are the Different Intakes in Finland?
Most universities and universities of applied sciences in Finland offer two main intakes:
Intake | Start Month | Application Opens | Application Deadline | Courses Offered |
Autumn Intake (Primary) | August/September 2026 | December 2025 – January 2026 | 1–15 January 2026 (varies by university) | Most Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes, with full scholarships available |
Spring Intake (Secondary) | January/February 2027 | August–October 2026 | November 2026 | Limited Master’s programmes; some universities may offer specific courses |
Note: Not all universities offer a Spring intake; most undergraduate programmes only begin in Autumn.
Difference Between Autumn and Spring Intake
- Autumn Intake (August/September)
- Main intake for both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
- A wide range of course options, scholarships, and student services are available.
- Aligns with Finland’s academic year (Autumn to Spring).
- Spring Intake (January/February)
- Limited intake, primarily for selected Master’s programmes.
- Smaller cohorts may offer more individualized attention.
- Suitable for students who need extra time for English tests, finances, or visa processing.
Why Do Finnish Universities Offer Multiple Intakes?
- Flexibility for international students from different academic calendars.
- Resource management: Balances classroom space, faculty workload, and housing.
- Backup option: For students who miss the primary intake deadlines.
- Internships and research alignment: Multiple intakes help match students with project cycles.
Which Intake Should Bangladeshi Students Choose?
- Autumn Intake (August/September 2026):
- Best choice for most Bangladeshi students due to wide course selection, scholarships, and complete orientation programs.
- Aligns with the Bangladesh HSC/university academic schedule.
- Spring Intake (January/February 2027):
- Suitable for students needing extra preparation time.
- Limited course selection — mostly postgraduate programmes.
Application Timeline for Autumn 2026 Intake
Month (Bangladesh) |
Action Step |
June–December 2025 | Research universities, shortlist programs, and prepare for IELTS/PTE. |
December 2025–January 2026 | Submit applications and scholarship requests. |
February–March 2026 | Receive offers, accept, and pay deposits. |
March–April 2026 | Apply for a Finnish student visa and provide the required financial documents. |
August 2026 | Travel to Finland, attend orientation, and start classes. |
For the Spring 2027 intake, adjust the timeline by 6-7 months.
Key Tips for Bangladeshi Students
- Start Early: Applications open months before the intake; begin at least 10–12 months in advance.
- English Proficiency: IELTS 6.0–6.5 or equivalent is generally required.
- Check Course Availability: Not all programmes are available in the Spring intake.
- Financial Proof: Show sufficient funds for tuition and living costs to meet visa requirements.
- Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships are primarily for the Autumn intake.
- Visa Processing: Allow 4-6 weeks for visa approval.
- Accommodation: University dormitories and private housing fill up quickly; book early.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Which intake is best for Bangladeshi students?
Autumn intake (August/September 2026) offers the widest course selection and scholarships. - Are there scholarships for the Spring intake?
Limited, primarily for selected Master’s programmes. - How long does the student visa take?
Approximately 4-6 weeks. - Can I work while studying in Finland?
Yes, international students can work part-time (20 hours/week) and full-time during holidays. - Do all universities offer a Spring intake?
No, check individual program availability. - Can I defer my admission?
Some universities allow deferrals; confirm with the admissions office. - When should I start preparing for the Autumn intake?
Begin preparation June–December 2025 for the 2026/2027 intake. - Is the Spring intake suitable for undergraduate students?
Generally, no; mostly Master’s programmes are available in January/February. - Do I need a scholarship to apply?
Scholarships are optional but recommended to ease the financial burden. - Can I apply to multiple universities at once?
Yes, applications to multiple universities are allowed as long as deadlines are met.
Are you ready to start your Finland Autumn 2026 intake journey?
Our UniEducation counselors assist Bangladeshi students with:
- Selecting the best university and programme
- Applying for scholarships and student visas
- Accommodation guidance and pre-departure support
Book your free counselling session today and secure your Finland study opportunity for 2026/2027!