Study in Finland vs South Korea: student visa compared
A side-by-side look at the student-visa requirements for Finland and South Korea— the funds you must show, living costs, fees, processing time and document load. Figures are sourced from each country's official pages and date-verified.
| Factor | Finland | South Korea |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of funds (per year) | 9,600 EUR | 20,000,000 KRW |
| Living cost (per month) | 800 EUR | 1,200,000 KRW |
| Visa fee | 350 EUR | 80,000 KRW |
| Typical processing time | ~4 weeks | ~4 weeks |
| Main intakes | Jan, Aug | Mar, Sep |
| Required documents | 5 | 5 |
Funds are shown in each country's own currency, so “lower” is only marked when currencies match. Always confirm current figures on the official sources below.
Verdict: Finland vs South Korea
- Finland needs less money up front — about €9,600/year versus €13,333 for South Korea (≈ €3,733 less).
Money figures normalised to euros at ECB rates for comparison; official requirements are set in each country's own currency.
Unique to Finland
- Admission to a Finnish institution
- Income requirement
- Health insurance
- English language proof
- Tuition fees (non-EU/EEA)
Unique to South Korea
- Certificate of Admission
- Financial requirement
- National Health Insurance (NHIS)
- Language proof
Get matched with a vetted study-abroad consultant for your destination. Free, no obligation.
Get matched →Sponsored matching service. We may earn a referral fee. Informational only — we don't process applications.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to study in Finland or South Korea?
By proof of funds, Finland is cheaper — €9,600/year versus €13,333 (compared at ECB rates, 2026-06-20). Tuition and living costs vary too — see each country's full guide.
Which student visa is faster, Finland or South Korea?
Finland typically processes faster (~4 weeks vs ~4). Embassy appointment availability is often the real bottleneck in both.
Should I study in Finland or South Korea?
It depends on your budget, course and goals. Finland needs less money up front — about €9,600/year versus €13,333 for South Korea (≈ €3,733 less). Use each country's full requirements guide and the eligibility tools to decide.