Students should apply for the housing supplement now – Kela may become congested as the support changes in August. Photo: Aku Häyrynen / Lehtikuva
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A major overhaul of Finland’s student housing aid system will take effect in August, cutting support for around 150,000 students. Those renting from parents will see the sharpest drops.
The reform shifts students from the general housing allowance to a more limited study grant housing supplement. Support will now only be paid during months of active study and in lower amounts.
Inka Kuusjärvi, a chemistry student in Turku, said her monthly benefit will fall from €217 to €83. She rents from her parents and described the decision as unfair.
“I pay rent just like anyone else,” she told Yle. “This isn’t about sending Kela money to parents. It’s about having a stable living arrangement.”
Students who rent from family members will now receive a maximum of €83 per month, compared to the previous average of €344. This reduction does not apply equally to students renting from other landlords.
Kela confirmed that just over 5,000 students rent from parents but that the wider reform will affect 150,000 people overall.
Under the new rules, students will no longer receive housing support during summer unless they are enrolled in courses. The monthly support amount will also decrease by €50 to €128, depending on the location.
Piia Kuusisto, benefits manager at Kela, said students should prepare for the change. “There are two ways students can manage,” she said. “Study during the summer or work during the academic year.”
Students resuming studies in September will lose housing aid after July and may not be aware of the gap. Kuusisto said students could apply for study loans in August. She also mentioned basic social assistance as a last option.
The government estimates the reform will save over €5 million annually.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
