Finland is one of the top destinations for international students who want to pursue their higher education. The country is known for its high-quality education system, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture. However, studying in Finland can be expensive, especially for students on a tight budget. In this article, we will explore the cheapest city to study in Finland in 2023.
Why Finland?
Before we delve into the cheapest city to study in Finland, let’s first discuss why Finland is a great place to pursue higher education. Finland has a reputation for being a leader in education, and its universities consistently rank among the top in the world. The country offers a range of degree programs in various fields, including technology, engineering, design, and natural sciences. Additionally, Finland is a safe and welcoming country with a high standard of living.
Cost of Living in Finland
Finland is known for its high cost of living. The cost of living in Finland is relatively high compared to other countries in Europe, with Helsinki being the most expensive city in the country. The cost of living in Finland includes accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses.
Accommodation is one of the most significant expenses for students in Finland. The cost of accommodation varies depending on the city and type of accommodation. Students can choose to live in student housing, shared apartments, or private rental apartments. Student housing is the cheapest option, but it can be challenging to find available space.
Food in Finland is also relatively expensive, with a meal in a restaurant costing around €15-20. However, students can save money by cooking their meals and shopping at the local markets. Transportation in Finland is efficient but can be expensive, with a one-way ticket costing around €3-4. However, students can get a student discount on public transportation.
Cheapest City to Study in Finland
Now that we have discussed the cost of living in Finland let’s look at the cheapest city to study in Finland. The cheapest city to study in Finland is Lappeenranta.
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Cost of Living in Lappeenranta
Lappeenranta is a small city located in southeastern Finland, close to the Russian border. The city has a population of around 72,000 people and is home to Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology (LUT) and Saimaa University of Applied Sciences.
Lappeenranta is an excellent choice for students looking for affordable accommodation and a low cost of living. The cost of living in Lappeenranta is around 20% lower than in Helsinki, making it an affordable option for students.
Accommodation in Lappeenranta is relatively cheap, with student housing starting at around €200 per month. Shared apartments are also available and can cost between €250-€500 per month.
Food in Lappeenranta is also affordable, with meals in restaurants costing around €10-€15. Students can save money by cooking their meals and shopping at the local markets.
Transportation in Lappeenranta is also cheap, with a one-way ticket costing around €3-€4. Students can also purchase a monthly pass for €30-€50, which offers unlimited travel on public transportation.
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Education in Lappeenranta
Lappeenranta offers excellent education opportunities for international students. Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology (LUT) and Saimaa University of Applied Sciences offer degree programs in various fields, including engineering, business, and technology. The universities have a high reputation for quality education and research and offer courses in English, making them accessible to international students.
Lappeenranta is also home to several research institutes, including the Finnish Forest Research Institute and the South Karelia Social and Health Care District. These institutes offer opportunities for research and collaboration, making Lappeenranta an excellent destination for students looking to gain valuable experience in their field of study.
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Student Life in Lappeenranta
Lappeenranta may be a small city, but it offers a vibrant student life. The city has a range of cultural events, including music festivals, theater performances, and art exhibitions. The city is also home to several sports facilities, including a ski resort, ice rinks, and a golf course, making it an excellent destination for sports enthusiasts.
The city is located near several lakes, making it an ideal destination for water sports such as sailing, swimming, and fishing. The city also has several parks and hiking trails, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers.
Finland is an excellent destination for international students looking to pursue higher education. While the cost of living in Finland can be high, Lappeenranta offers an affordable option for students on a tight budget. The city has a low cost of living, affordable accommodation, and excellent education opportunities, making it an ideal destination for international students.
Lappeenranta also offers a vibrant student life with a range of cultural events and sports facilities, making it an excellent destination for students looking to experience Finnish culture and gain valuable experience in their field of study.
In conclusion, Lappeenranta is the cheapest city to study in Finland in 2023, and international students looking for an affordable destination to pursue higher education should consider this beautiful city.