Banking matters you should take care of before going abroad to study

  • Apply for a student loan or a top-up well in advance.
  • Check the usage area, security limits and payment methods of your payment cards.
  • Check that your insurance covers studying abroad.
  • Update your new contact details in Nordea Mobile.

Higher student loan amount for studies abroad

Students studying abroad are eligible for a larger student loan than those studying in Finland. The maximum student loan amount for university students studying in Finland is 850 euros per month, while those studying abroad can get up to 1,000 euros per month.

  • Apply for student financial aid from Kela. The decision on student financial aid will state the amount of the study grant and the student loan you are eligible for.
  • Apply for a student loan in Nordea Mobile or Netbank.
  • Choose whether you will draw down the loan automatically or in instalments based on your needs.

Read more about student loans and apply

Cards, payments and cash abroad

Before you leave, check that you have all the daily banking services you need, as you may not be able to sign up for new services while staying abroad. 

You will need the Nordea Mobile and Nordea ID apps as well as a payment card to handle your banking. A card is usually the easiest method of payment abroad. 

  • Always check the usage area and security limits of your card before going abroad.
  • Update your phone number and email address in Nordea Mobile. Save your bank’s contact details in case of emergencies. 
  • Find out whether you will need cash in your destination country. 
  • Find out whether you will need a local bank account for paying your rent or for local services or receiving your salary, for example.

Insurance for studying abroad

Before leaving, find out what your current insurance covers and whether you need additional travel insurance or a student’s health insurance.

The need for insurance depends on the destination country, the length of your stay and the requirements of the educational institution.

Plan a budget for your studies abroad

The costs of studying abroad vary depending on the destination country and city and what type of accommodation you live in. Create a budget where you account for the costs of settling abroad as well as your monthly costs.

The first few months abroad often involve extra costs because you have to purchase supplies. You may also have to pay for:

  • travel expenses
  • a visa or residence permit
  • insurance 
  • a rental security deposit.

You should take into account the following monthly expenses: 

  • living expenses, including rent and food
  • transportation
  • phone and internet subscriptions and study supplies
  • recreation.

We have compiled calculations of a typical student’s income and expenses to help you plan your finances.

See what some students say about managing their finances and check out our income and expenses calculations

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