Higher education in Finland:
Finland, a small unique country in northern Europe, is one of the happiest and safest countries in the world. Modern learning environments and facilities are the main attraction of Finnish higher education institutions. The high-quality teaching style, virtual learning environments and free libraries in Finnish Universities provide the best learning experience for the students. Polytechnics and universities in Finland have about 300,000 students, of which about 20,000 are international students. Recent surveys show that most international students enjoy campus life and the eco-friendly attitude of the educational institutes. In addition, the design and quality of the campus buildings and the off-campus environment also attract international students.
The Finnish higher education system is divided into two parallel areas: Universities and applied science universities that provide practical education. The network of higher education institutions includes 13 universities and 23 applied science universities. These universities offer more than 400 bachelor's and master's degree programs and doctoral degree opportunities in English for international students. All universities offer scholarship opportunities for international students. According to the Finnish educational process, students have the freedom to determine the rate and direction of their courses.
Eligibility
Upper secondary school certificates are required when applying for bachelor's programs. For Master level admission, one must have completed a University Level Bachelor's degree or equivalent. For master's in applied universities, at least 2 years of work experience in the field of study after completing the bachelor's degree is required. If English is not the mother tongue, IELTS (Band Score: 6 - 7.5) and TOEFL are recognized exams to demonstrate English proficiency. The exact criteria for applying will be different for each degree program. That might include entrance exam, SAT test, interview, motivational letter etc. Details about the various courses are available on the website studyinfo.fi.
How to apply for higher education?
First step is to select your favorite program from over 100 available courses. Visit the studyinfo.fi website to find the option that suits you the best or visit the admissions information pages of the respective universities. All the information about the study options is available on studyinfo.fi and on the university websites.
The joint application period for studies starting in August and September will be open on the studyinfo.fi portal in November, December and January. However, some degree programs have different application schedules and specific application forms, so be sure to check with the respective university on how and when to apply for your chosen program. Confirm eligibility criteria, application process, deadline and documents to be submitted as part of the application from the above websites. Scholarships are available for bachelor and master level students. You must apply for the scholarship at the same time as applying for admission.
After the application period and the entrance exams, the universities will process the applications and make the final admission decision. Upon admission, you will receive an official admission letter from the institution. After accepting admission, you can apply for a Student Residence Permit on the Enterfinland.fi website. Visit the Finnish Embassy as part of this process. Start your residence permit process as soon as possible by carefully following the instructions and rules from the immigration authorities. When applying for a Student Residence Permit you need to show that you have adequate support and insurance to cover the cost of living in Finland. In order to obtain a residence permit, it is necessary to take private insurance covering medical and pharmaceutical expenses. Detailed information on residence permit requirements and procedures can be found on the Finnish Immigration Service (www.migri.fi) website. The family (spouse and children) of the student coming to study on the Student Residence Permit can also apply for the Residence Permit. You can also apply for a one-year stay-back permit to look for a job or start a business after graduation.
Important universities and courses
Finland has become a favorite destination for international students in recent years. The most popular university in Finland is the University of Helsinki, which is the oldest and largest university in the country, followed by the Aalto University in Helsinki. Other major universities are Tampere University, University of Oulu, LUT University, and University of Turku.
The most popular courses among international students are:
University of Helsinki: Bachelor's Program in Science, Master's Program in Data Science, Master's Program in Environmental Change and Global Sustainability, Master's Program in Computer Science
Aalto University: Bachelor's Program in Science and Technology, Bachelor's Program in Design,
Master’s Program in Chemical Engineering, Master’s Program in Computational Engineering
Tampere University: Bachelor's Program in International Business, Bachelor's Program in Software Engineering, Master’s Program in Computing Sciences, Data Science, Master’s Program in Computing Sciences, Machine Learning, Master’s Program in Leadership for Change - Sustainable Business Management
Scholarships and part-time job opportunities
International students who are not EU / EEA citizens are required to pay a tuition fee when joining bachelor's and master Level programs taught in English. The annual tuition fee varies from 4,000 to 18,000, depending on the university and degree program. No tuition fee is charged for doctoral level education.
Each university has its own scholarship program. You must apply for the scholarship at the same time you apply for admission. In order to get the scholarship, a letter explaining the knowledge and work experience in the subject should be included with the application. These range from a full fee waiver scholarship to an early bird scholarship with a 50 percent discount on those who receive admission within specified time period.
It is very common here for students to engage in part-time jobs in addition to their studies. In Finland it is permissible to work without restrictions if the work is related to the subject being studied. It is also possible to do other work unrelated to your studies, but only for an average of 25 hours a week. But you can work without restrictions during non-study hours or holidays. Part-time work is a great way to gain valuable work experience and networks along with study. The biggest challenge for international graduates is the Finnish language, which is considered as one of the most difficult languages in the world. Finding a job in Finland is not easy for those who do not know the Finnish language, but opportunities are available in universities and in the IT sector. Students can also opt for part-time jobs such as newspaper distribution, cleaning and food delivery. Although there are many opportunities in the healthcare sector, job applicants require Finnish or Swedish language proficiency.
Cost of living
Depending on where you live and your personal lifestyle, students' monthly living expenses (food, accommodation, travel, insurance, etc.) can be around 700 euros - 900 euros. The cost of living is higher in big cities compared to small ones. Some universities also have scholarship options that include the cost-of-living allowance.
Student accommodation
All universities have student housing facilities for students. The average monthly rent for a single room in a shared flat is around 160 to 380 euros. Apart from this, single apartments and family flats are also available. Rents for student apartments are relatively low compared to regular apartments.
Indian community
As of 2018, more than 12,000 Indians live in Finland. Most cities have Indian Student Associations to meet and network with other Indian students. The Helsinki-based Finnish Malayalee Association also organizes a number of events every year, including Onam celebrations, cultural festivals and picnics. The Indian Embassy also provides necessary support and assistance to expatriate Indians and students.
The climate of Finland is characterized by long and extremely cold winters, and short and mild summers. Of the Scandinavian countries, Finland has the coldest climate. Welcome to the land of thousand lakes, Finland, to enjoy the beautiful snow-capped winters, the midsummer sunset and the rich colors of autumn.
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