Opiskelijatuet

Opiskelijatuet, or student financial aid, refers to the system of financial assistance provided to students in Finland. The primary provider of these benefits is Kela, the Social Insurance Institution of Finland. The system is designed to help students cover their living expenses while pursuing their studies.

There are two main components to student financial aid: the student grant and the student loan guarantee. The student grant is a taxable monthly payment that aims to cover daily expenses. Its amount varies based on factors such as age, whether the student has a child, and whether they are living independently. In addition to the basic grant, there are supplements for students with children and for those studying abroad.

The student loan is an additional financial resource that students can apply for from banks. Kela guarantees a portion of this loan, making it more accessible. This loan is intended to supplement the student grant and cover larger expenses. Students are expected to repay the student loan after they complete their studies.

Eligibility for opiskelijatuet generally requires being a Finnish citizen or having a residence permit in Finland, being enrolled in a recognized educational institution, and making satisfactory academic progress. The specific criteria and amounts are subject to change and are detailed on Kela's official website. The system aims to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent individuals from obtaining higher education.