Kela notifies: Income limits for interest assistance have been raised, tips for combining benefits with work
(Translated partly with AI.)
Summer is approaching, and many students are thinking about their income and financial situation. We have compiled a summary of recent Kela (the Social Insurance Institution of Finland) updates concerning changes and topical issues relevant to students who receive financial aid from Kela.
Am I eligible for financial aid from Kela?
The information in this bulletin concerns students who are eligible for student financial aid and other benefits granted by Kela (such as study grants or government guarantees for student loans). As an international student, you are eligible to apply for financial assistance from Kela to support your studies only if your residence in Finland is permanent.
If you are unsure whether you qualify for benefits, you can check the criteria on Kela’s website: Can you get benefits from Kela when you move to Finland?
Income limits for interest assistance were raised in March
Are you about to graduate? Have you taken out a student loan guaranteed by Kela? Please note that the income limits for interest assistance on student loans were raised at the beginning of March.
As a result of the change, a larger number of students who have completed their studies may now qualify for interest assistance. For more details, see Kela’s bulletin Income limits for interest assistance to be raised in March.
Combining studies and work
How much can I earn while receiving financial aid? Will I have to repay benefits to Kela?
It is not always simple to combine student benefits and income from work. Kela’s article Benefits + income: Here’s the correct formula for combining work with your studies offers practical tips on how to balance wages and financial aid.
Where can I get advice?
Questions about benefits and student loans can sometimes be complex. If you are eligible for Kela’s services, you can always contact Kela’s customer service for guidance on benefits, income limits, and financial matters during your studies.
If you are not eligible for Kela’s services and have questions concerning your financial situation, you can contact the University’s own International Student Advice. You can also explore the Financing your studies page on the Studies Service for tips on combining work and studies, and the Working while studying page for information related to residence permits and taxation.