Student, are you prepared for the upcoming changes in financial aid this autumn?

News / 1.7.2025

General housing allowance will no longer be paid to students after July 31, 2025. Starting from August 1, 2025, students can apply for the student housing supplement as part of their study grant. These upcoming changes in student benefits are expected to increase the demand for affordable student housing. That’s why it’s important to fill out your housing application for Soihtu carefully as soon as your study place is confirmed.

The housing supplement can cover up to 80% of your rent, but the maximum amount depends on the municipality where you live. You can check the municipality-specific limits on Kela’s website. As a new higher education student, you can apply for the housing supplement once you’ve accepted your study place and know where you’ll be living during your studies. You can only apply after signing a rental agreement.

Continuing students can still receive general housing allowance until July 31, 2025. However, they will not receive any housing support for August unless they are studying during the summer months. Due to these changes, it’s important to submit the necessary applications in good time.

If you already are a tenant of Soihtu and you are concerned about your ability to pay rent, please contact Soihtu’s rent accountant well in advance. We can help you set up a payment plan if needed.