Living & Accommodation in Finland for Pakistani Students 2025

Finland, known for its clean environment, innovative society, and student-friendly atmosphere, is one of the best places in Europe for international education. For Pakistani students, living in Finland can be both exciting and affordable — provided you plan well.

From student housing and daily expenses to transportation, food, and lifestyle, this guide will help you understand what life is really like while studying in Finland.

Overview of Student Life in Finland

Finland consistently ranks among the happiest and safest countries in the world. For Pakistani students, this means a comfortable environment that supports both academic and personal growth.

Universities in Finland emphasize a balance between studies and wellbeing, offering students access to world-class libraries, innovation labs, sports facilities, and cultural events. The Finnish lifestyle focuses on community living, respect for nature, and a strong sense of equality, making it ideal for students who wish to integrate smoothly into society.

Accommodation Options for Students

Finding accommodation in Finland is one of the most important steps after receiving your admission letter. The good news is that Finnish universities usually assist international students in securing housing before arrival.

There are three main types of accommodation available for students:

Type of Accommodation	Average Monthly Rent (€)	Features
Student Dormitories	250 – 450	Affordable, furnished, close to university, shared kitchen and bathroom
Shared Apartments	300 – 500	Shared with other students, independent living experience
Private Apartments	500 – 800+	Full privacy, suitable for families or students who prefer comfort

Most Pakistani students prefer student dormitories because they are economical, furnished, and located near the campus. Accommodation applications can usually be made through student housing organizations, such as:

HOAS (Helsinki Region Student Housing Foundation)
TOAS (Tampere Student Housing Foundation)
LOAS (Lappeenranta Student Housing Foundation)

Living Costs in Finland

While Finland is not as cheap as some Asian countries, it offers a high quality of life and reliable services that justify the expenses. The cost of living for Pakistani students ranges from €700 to €1,200 per month, depending on location and lifestyle.

Expense Type	Monthly Cost (€)	Description
Accommodation	300 – 600	Dorms are more affordable than private flats
Food	250 – 400	Cooking at home saves money
Transportation	40 – 70	Student discounts on metro, bus, and train
Utilities & Internet	50 – 100	Shared in most student apartments
Entertainment & Miscellaneous	100 – 150	Includes shopping and leisure
Total Monthly Cost	700 – 1,200 (€)	˜ PKR 215,000 – 370,000 (approx.)

Transportation and Commuting

Finland’s public transport is reliable, clean, and eco-friendly. Students receive discounts on local and intercity travel, making mobility easy and affordable.

Monthly Travel Pass: €35–€50 (depending on city)
Bicycles: Widely used by students; many universities have bike-sharing systems.
Intercity Trains and Buses: Discounted fares available through student cards (VR & Matkahuolto).

Most student apartments are located within walking distance of campuses, so many students avoid daily transport costs altogether.

Healthcare and Insurance

Healthcare in Finland is excellent and affordable for students. As a Pakistani student, you must have valid health insurance before applying for your residence permit.

For degrees longer than two years, coverage should be €120,000.
For shorter programs, €40,000 coverage is sufficient.

Universities offer access to Finnish Student Health Service (FSHS), which provides doctor consultations, dental care, and mental health support at low costs.

Working While Studying

Pakistani students can work up to 30 hours per week during semesters and full-time during vacations.
Popular part-time jobs include:

Retail and hospitality
Food delivery services
Research or assistant roles at universities

The average hourly wage is €10–€14, which helps students cover part of their living expenses.

Social and Cultural Life

Finland is home to a vibrant international student community. Universities organize orientation programs, student unions, and cultural events that help newcomers integrate easily.

Students can enjoy:

Winter sports like skiing and skating
Northern Lights in Lapland
Saunas and Finnish outdoor life
Student festivals and gatherings

The Finnish people value privacy, punctuality, and honesty, but they are very welcoming once you get to know them.

Safety and Environment

Finland is among the safest countries in the world, with very low crime rates. Cities are clean, organized, and well-lit, making it easy for students to move around safely even at night.

The country’s commitment to sustainability also means you’ll live in an eco-friendly society — recycling, renewable energy, and clean air are a way of life.

Conclusion

Living in Finland as a Pakistani student is an enriching experience that combines academic excellence with a high quality of life. While costs can be moderate compared to other European countries, the safe environment, supportive communities, and excellent student facilities make it one of the best destinations for higher education.

With proper budgeting, scholarship support, and part-time work, Pakistani students can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle while pursuing their academic dreams in Finland.