When you start a new course of study in an upper secondary school or vocational education
- What kind of student financial aid can you get?
Financial aid for students consists of the study grant, a student loan and the housing supplement for students. How much study grant you can get depends on your life situation.
More information about the study grant. - Do you have a long trip to school?
You can get school transport subsidy if your trip (one way) is 7 kilometres or more.
More information about the school transport subsidy. - Do you need help with your housing costs?
If you live independently, you can get the housing supplement for students.
More information about the student housing supplement.
When you start a new course of study in an institution of higher education
- What kind of student financial aid can you get?
Financial aid for students consists of the study grant, a student loan and the housing supplement for students.
Read more about the study grant and student loan. - Do you need help with your housing costs?
If you live in a rented house or apartment, you can get the housing supplement for students. How much you can get depends on where you live.
More information about the student housing supplement. - Remember to pay the healthcare fee for students in higher education
Students can use the services of the Finnish Student Health Service (FSHS).
More information about the student healthcare fee and how to pay it. - What benefits can you get after you have graduated?
If you have completed your degree within the target time, you can get student loan compensation. If your income is small, you can get assistance with student loan interest. You may also qualify for other benefits from Kela depending on your life situation.
More information about the benefits you can get after graduation.
What else is going on in your life?
Are you entering military or non-military service?
Apply for conscript’s allowance. We will automatically stop paying you student financial aid while you are paid conscript’s allowance.
Are you moving in together with someone or leaving a shared household?
Check what benefits you can get if you move in with or marry your partner or if you decide to separate.
Kela benefits for young people
There are many benefits available from Kela for young people who are starting an independent life and have a low income.
Do you have a baby on the way?
Read more about the benefits Kela offers to families. You can also study during your family leave.
Current issues
Changes in housing benefits for students as of 1 August 2025
The majority of students can get the new student housing supplement from the beginning of the autumn term 2025. This means that general housing allowance will no longer be paid to students after 31 July 2025. You can apply for the student housing supplement in the OmaKela e-service. The supplement will be paid from 1 August 2025 onwards. The change will not apply to students who live with their child or their partner’s child.
Read moreMaking the most of your summer: Tips for students
Whether you plan to spend the summer working, looking for a job, studying or just taking a holiday, have a look these tips that can help you ensure that you have the financial security to make the most of your summer. Once you have all of your affairs with Kela in order, you can start looking forward to the summer.
Read more