Study in Finland

Finland has emerged as one of the top destinations offering world class education and globally recognized credential. It is one of the happiest countries in the world. Also known as “The land of thousand lakes” Finland is an unbelievable place with natural vistas. The country offers world class education with over 500 English taught programs both bachelors and masters. Students choose to study in Finland as the education is offered in various disciplines ranging from engineering to natural science and arts to humanities. Finland has welcomed over 20000 international students from more than 100 countries where they enjoy high quality of education, safe environment and vibrant student culture.

Benefits of Studying in Finland

Top Notch Education– Study in Finland offers high – quality education in various domains such as arts, humanities, natural science, engineering etc. There is immense research opportunities available for students studying in Finland. The Finland education system is focused on creativity, critical thinking and practical application of knowledge.

Affordable Tuition Fees– Like many other international study destinations, Finland has one of the affordable tuition fees. This ranges from € 4000 to € 18000 per year and varies depending on the course and institution you choose.

Multicultural Opportunities- Finland is a welcoming country, with diverse and rich cultural heritage and age-old traditions. Even though English is widely spoken and used in professional as well as academic settings, languages such as Finnish, Sami, Romani are also popular. Studying in this diverse culture offers international students a chance to explore the Finnish culture.

Outstanding Career Opportunities- The country is ranked among the top countries in Global Innovation Index and offers great career prospects. Finland has a well-developed economy and there are higher job prospects in Finland after your studies.

Education System in Finland

Finland education do not have any limitations unless a person decides to take a different path. The main aim of the Finnish education system is to enhance the overall development of the students and inculcate team spirit and collaborative mindset. The education system in Finland are categorized as follows:

• Early Childhood Education and Care
• Pre-Primary Education
• Primary and Lower Secondary Education (Basic Education)
• General Upper Secondary Education
• Vocational Education
• Higher Education
• Adult Education

International students majorly choose Finland for their higher education right after their 12^th or after pursuing bachelors. Higher education in Finland has the best study programs which is basically provided through two categories of institutions namely the Universities and the University of Applied Sciences (UAS). Both these institutions offer bachelors, masters, doctorate and licentiate degree which are discussed below:

Bachelors in UAS

• The course duration may take around 3.5-4.5 years of full-time study
• The content of study program is determined by UAS
• Study modules may differ in different UAS.

Bachelors in Universities

• The duration is around 3 years of full-time study
• Language of instruction is English
• Allows students to study a term in partner universities

Masters in UAS

• Home to more than 22 Universities of Applied Science
• Study program majorly designed to those who are professionally active
• Covers various disciplines

Masters in Universities

• Duration takes around 2 years of full-time study
• Student faculty engagements are more meaningful due to small class size
• Space for Collaborative learning and industrial collaborations

Doctoral Programs

• Takes about 4 years for completion
• Research specific studies
• Students can choose between structured doctoral programs or personalized paths.

Licentiate Programs

• Pre doctoral qualification
• Duration is about 2 years
• Upon completion students are eligible to take up individual research.

Finland Grading system

In Finland the education is assessed based on the grading system which might vary.  However, the grading system is basically from 0 to 5 in Finland which is converted into ECTS grading system

Intakes in Finland

The Universities in Finland majorly has two intakes which are Autum and Spring. If you are planning to study in Finland you need to take note of these intakes.

Autumn Intake

• Begins in September and lasts till December.
• Most of the courses are open in this intake
• Students get enough time to adjust into the new environment

Spring Intake

• Starts in January and ends in May
• An extension of Autumn intake
• Students who have missed the previous intake can start.

Top Universities in Finland

There are numerous universities in Finland that offers quality education and dedicated course work. Let us look into the universities and their ranking.

Top Courses to Study in Finland

The Finland education system is known for its high quality and hands on experience and innovative study methods. Finland provides promising career prospects in disciplines like technology, international business and education. Additionally, there are scholarship programs to study in Finland which support the students with their education. Top courses in Finland are:

• IT & Computer Science
• Engineering & Technology
• Mathematics
• Business Management
• Education & Training

Let us look into some of the top courses in Finland.

1. IT & Computer Science

As the world is witnessing digital revolution, computer science or IT programs have gained popularity. Finland offers education in this domain which have positively affected the employability of those pursuing this course.

2. Engineering and Technology

Engineering and Technology is another popular domain in Finland and have great importance to innovation technological advancement. The education include studies in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, nanotechnology etc.

3. Mathematics

Finland has a great tradition of providing to quality education and Mathematics is a subject that act as a foundation for every study and research activities.

4. Business Management

Business Management studies is a course that has attained wide popularity among international students. Finland offers studies in fields like finance, economics, innovation management etc.

5. Education & Training

Study in Finland offers tremendous quality of education. Moreover, it is regarded as a country with the best education system. Students often choose these study programs which offer them knowledge in curriculum development, education psychology, special education etc.

Finland Study Visa Requirements

Eligibility Criteria

The basic eligibility criteria for a student to apply for studies in Finland are as follows:

• School completion certificate with a minimum GPA of 60%.
• For Engineering minimum 60% in Math and Physics.
• English Language tests
• Passport
• For bachelor’s student must have completed senior secondary education
• For master’s students must have completed bachelors in relevant subject.
• For PhD students must have relevant masters with strong academic background.

Documents Required

Let us look into the required documents for application process:

• Copy of Degree certificates
• Certified copy of Transcripts
• Passport information page
• CV / Resume
• Motivation letter
• Language proficiency
• Passport
• Passport size – photograph
• Statement of Purpose
• Academic & Professional documents
• Offer letter from college
• GTE
• Tuition fee receipt
• Financial documents
• Medical
• Visa Application fee

N.B. Some colleges might have specific requirements for application.

How to Apply for a Finland Student Visa

To get into the top Universities in Finland there are certain steps that a student must follow which are discussed below.

Step 1: Check Eligibility

The first step to begin your visa process is to check your eligibility for visa application

Step 2: Arrange Documents

After checking your eligibility and confirming you have to arrange all the required documents for application.

Step 3: Translate Document

If your documents are not in English, Finnish or Swedish, you need to get them translated.

Step 4: Fill in Application

Create a user account in Enter Finland portal filling in the application for student permit and attach all the documents.

Step 5: Fee Payment

After the application is duly filled, you can pay the processing fees of 350 €.

Step 6: Book an Appointment

Visit the Finnish embassy with all the required documents and prove your identity

Step 7: Frequent Check

Check your online profile frequently, so that you will be notified about any additional requirement of documents and know your application status.

Step 8: Wait for Decision

After you complete the last step of the visa application, you have to wait for your decision.

Cost of Studying in Finland

European countries has an education system which is affordable. Study in Finland for that matter offers programs at an affordable cost. The tuition fees in Finland varies between 4000- 18000 € per year purely depending on the course and institution chosen by the students. Additionally, there will be accommodation expenses, food, transportation and miscellaneous expenses. On average, the cost of studying for international students are as follows:

N.B Through part-time jobs you can make your education more affordable.

Scholarships in Finland

Study in Finland offers numerous scholarship options which helps the student complete their studies without any financial hurdles. The following are the scholarship options available for international students in Finland.

Cost of Living in Finland

Students fly in flock to Finland because of the lower cost of living. The following are the approximate cost of living in Finland.

N.B The average cost of living in Finland is nearly €1000 per month. This might vary depending on the choice of your study location, transportation, lifestyle, current economic scenario etc.

Part Time Jobs in Finland

Study abroad in Finland offers students the opportunity to work part time and earn hands on experience while they learn. Students in Finland are allowed to work part time if they are enrolled into a full-time study program. This can help them cover their living cost in Finland.

International students are allowed to work up to 30 hours per week in Finland. The amount is determined by the experience, skills and geographical situation in Finland. There is no minimum wage for part time work in Finland. However, the lowest wage is about 7-8 € and the maximum amount ranges from 9-13 €. Moreover, Finland offers highest wage among the European countries.

The most popular part time jobs in Finland are:

• Mail/ Newspaper delivery
• Restaurant jobs
• Cleaning jobs
• Food delivery etc.

Post Study Work Permit in Finland

Like every other international location study in Finland provides students the opportunity to stay and work in the country after study period. The points to be noted when you go for a post study work permit are

1. After graduation students can apply for a 2-year work permit, where they can seek a job or carry out a business.

2. Permanent Residency in Finland is only possible after 4 years of continuous residence in the country without any break, either under residence permit to find a job or under a residence permit based on employment.

3. Moreover, one needs to apply for the permanent residence permit before your employment residence permit expires but not 3 months before expiration.

Career Opportunities in Finland

Finland is continuously ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world. It also provides high living standards along with ample job opportunities. Moreover, one can apply for permanent residency within 4 to 5 years.

The most in demand occupations in Finland are-

• IT & Software
• Engineering
• Finance & Management
• Healthcare
• Sales & Marketing
• Administration
• Project Management
• Manufacturing and Construction

Average Salary in Finland

Finland is considered as a country which pays the highest amount for its employees.  If you secure a job in Finland, you can earn an average annual income of 45365 €. There are numerous job opportunities available in Finland which are shown below with an average salary calculation.

If you are someone planning a study abroad adventure, choosing study in Finland is a perfect decision. Finland is an economically advanced country with immense opportunities of work. Additionally, it is gaining popularity in terms of excellent education system and home to renowned universities. Studying in this advanced country is a definite career progression and helps you achieve a safe and settled career. Plan your study abroad ventures with Canapprove and make your abroad education a reality in Finland.