Making Study Abroad Easy
Making Study Abroad Easy
Why Should you Study in Finland?
Find all the study programs in Finland
About- Finland
Finland is a country located in northern Europe, bordered by Sweden to the west, Norway to the north, Russia to the east, and Estonia to the south across the Gulf of Finland. It has a population of approximately 5.5 million people and covers an area of 338,000 square kilometers. Helsinki is the capital and largest city of Finland.
Finland is known for its natural beauty, with numerous lakes, forests, and national parks, as well as its vibrant cultural scene, innovative technology sector, and high standard of living. The country has a strong welfare state, with high levels of social security, education, and healthcare.
Finland is also home to the indigenous Sami people, who have their own language and culture. The country is bilingual, with both Finnish and Swedish being official languages.
Finland has a long history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to at least 9,000 BC. The country was ruled by Sweden from the 12th to the 19th century, and then became a Grand Duchy of Russia until gaining its independence in 1917. Today, Finland is a member of the European Union, the United Nations, and many other international organizations.
Religion
In Finland, the main religion is Christianity, specifically the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland, which is the largest religious organization in the country. The Finnish Orthodox Church is the second-largest religious organization in Finland.
According to statistics from 2020, approximately 69% of the Finnish population are members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland. The Finnish Orthodox Church accounts for about 1% of the population, while other Christian denominations, including the Roman Catholic Church, make up about 1.4%. There are also small Muslim, Jewish, and Buddhist communities in Finland.
It is important to note that while many Finns are members of religious organizations, the level of religiosity and religious practice can vary widely. Some Finns may attend church regularly and take part in religious activities, while others may identify with a religious organization but not actively participate in religious activities. Additionally, there is a growing number of people in Finland who identify as non-religious or atheist.
Tourist Attractions
Finland has a variety of tourist attractions to offer visitors. Here are some popular destinations and activities:
Helsinki – Finland’s capital city is a vibrant, cultural center with museums, galleries, shops, restaurants, and a beautiful waterfront. Some popular sights include the Helsinki Cathedral, the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, the Sibelius Monument, and the Market Square.
Lapland – Known as the “land of the midnight sun,” Lapland is located in northern Finland and offers stunning natural scenery, including the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) and vast wilderness areas. Activities in Lapland include dog sledding, snowmobiling, reindeer rides, and ice fishing.
Rovaniemi – The official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi is located in Lapland and offers visitors the chance to visit Santa Claus Village, meet Santa Claus, and cross the Arctic Circle.
Lakeland – Finland’s lake district, located in the eastern part of the country, is a popular destination for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like boating, fishing, hiking, and cycling.
Turku – Finland’s oldest city is located on the southwestern coast and is home to Turku Castle, the Turku Cathedral, and a vibrant riverside market.
Nuuksio National Park – Located near Helsinki, Nuuksio National Park is a popular destination for hiking and camping, with trails through forests, along lakes, and past rocky outcroppings.
Oulanka National Park – Located in northern Finland, Oulanka National Park offers visitors the chance to see stunning waterfalls, deep gorges, and ancient forests. Hiking and rafting are popular activities in the park.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Finland has to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or urban exploration, there’s something for everyone in Finland.
Food
Finnish cuisine is influenced by its location in northern Europe and the country’s history, with a focus on hearty, simple, and wholesome dishes made with local ingredients. Here are some traditional Finnish foods to try:
Karelian pasties – a pastry made from rye flour filled with rice or potato filling and often served with egg butter or a variety of other toppings.
Kalakukko – a traditional Finnish fish pie, consisting of rye bread filled with fish, potatoes, and pork fat.
Poronkäristys – a dish made with sautéed reindeer meat, usually served with mashed potatoes or lingonberry jam.
Lihapullat – Finnish meatballs, made from ground beef or pork, often served with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam.
Graavilohi – raw, salt-cured salmon, often served thinly sliced with rye bread, dill, and mustard sauce.
Salmiakki – a salty licorice candy that is a favorite of many Finns.
Mustikkapiirakka – blueberry pie made with a rye flour crust.
Karjalanpaisti – a traditional Finnish beef and vegetable stew, often made with root vegetables and served with boiled potatoes.
Hernekeitto – a traditional Finnish pea soup, often made with pork or smoked ham hock and served with rye bread.
Ruisleipä – traditional Finnish rye bread, often dense and sour, served with butter and cheese or with a variety of toppings.
These are just a few examples of the traditional Finnish foods. Finnish cuisine has a lot to offer, and the country’s local ingredients and dishes can provide a unique culinary experience for visitors.
Language
The official language of Finland is Finnish, which is a member of the Finno-Ugric language family and is spoken by the majority of the population. Swedish is the second official language of Finland and is spoken by a small minority of the population. English is also widely spoken and understood, especially among younger generations and in the tourism industry.
Finnish is a unique language, with a complex grammar system and a large number of vowel sounds. It is a challenging language to learn, especially for non-native speakers, but there are many resources available for those interested in studying Finnish. The Finnish education system places a strong emphasis on language learning, and most Finns are proficient in multiple languages.
Finnish sign language is also recognized as a minority language in Finland, and there are efforts to promote its use and visibility in the country. Additionally, there are several other minority languages spoken in Finland, including Sami, Romani, and Tatar, among others.
Overall, while Finnish is the dominant language in Finland, visitors should have no trouble communicating in English, and many Finns are happy to speak in English to visitors. Learning a few basic Finnish phrases can be a fun way to connect with the local culture and show respect for the language and traditions of the country.
Politics
Finland is a parliamentary republic with a representative democratic government. The President of Finland is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government.
The Finnish parliament, known as the Eduskunta, has one chamber and is made up of 200 members who are elected every four years using a proportional representation system. The government is formed by the party or coalition of parties that hold the majority of seats in parliament, and the Prime Minister is appointed by the President.
Finnish politics are characterized by a multi-party system, with several major parties and several smaller parties. The major political parties include the Center Party, the Social Democratic Party, the National Coalition Party, the Green League, and the Left Alliance. While there are ideological differences between the parties, Finnish politics are generally characterized by a consensus-oriented approach and a commitment to social welfare policies and social equality.
Finland is also known for its neutral foreign policy and commitment to peace and stability. It is a member of the European Union, the United Nations, and several other international organizations, and it has a strong tradition of promoting human rights, environmental protection, and sustainable development.
In recent years, Finnish politics have been shaped by a number of issues, including immigration, climate change, economic growth, and national security. The country has also been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has affected its economy and public health. However, Finland has generally been considered a stable and well-governed country with a high level of social and economic development.
Currency
The currency of Finland is the Euro (EUR). Finland joined the Eurozone, the economic and monetary union of the European Union, in 2002 and replaced its former currency, the Finnish markka, with the euro. The euro is the official currency of 19 out of the 27 EU member states.
Geography
Geography is the study of the physical and human features of the Earth’s surface, including its landforms, oceans, atmosphere, and the distribution of plant and animal life. It is a wide-ranging discipline that encompasses various sub-fields, including physical geography, human geography, environmental geography, and geomatics.
Physical geography is concerned with the natural processes and phenomena that shape the Earth’s surface, such as climate, weather, landforms, and ecosystems. Human geography focuses on the relationship between people and the environment, including population distribution, urbanization, cultural and economic practices, and geopolitics. Environmental geography studies the interaction between humans and the natural environment, particularly with respect to environmental issues such as climate change, pollution, and resource depletion. Geomatics involves the use of technology such as geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing to analyze and visualize spatial data.
Geography is an important subject because it helps us to understand the world we live in and our relationship with it. It is also an essential tool for a range of professions, including urban planning, environmental management, and international development.
Studying in Finland
Studying in Finland can be a great experience. Finland is known for its high-quality education system and excellent universities. Here are some things you might want to know about studying in Finland:
Education system: Finland’s education system is known for its high quality and equal access for all. Education is free for Finnish citizens and permanent residents, and tuition fees for international students are generally lower than in many other countries.
Universities: There are several universities in Finland, including the University of Helsinki, Aalto University, and the University of Turku. These universities offer a range of programs in various fields, including technology, science, social sciences, and humanities.
Language: Finnish is the official language of Finland, but many courses at universities are taught in English. However, it’s a good idea to learn some Finnish if you plan to live and work in Finland after graduation.
Cost of living: The cost of living in Finland can be quite high, especially in cities like Helsinki. However, there are many student discounts available, and Finnish universities often provide affordable student housing.
Working while studying: International students are allowed to work in Finland while studying, but there are some restrictions on the number of hours they can work.
Culture: Finnish culture is unique and different from many other cultures. It’s a good idea to learn about Finnish customs and traditions to better understand and appreciate the culture.
Overall, studying in Finland can be a rewarding experience. If you’re considering studying in Finland, it’s a good idea to research universities, programs, and the cost of living to determine if it’s the right choice for you.
Why Finland for Studies?
There are many reasons why Finland can be a great choice for studying. Here are a few of them:
High-quality education: Finland has a well-respected education system, with a strong focus on research and innovation. Finnish universities consistently rank highly in international rankings, and the country has a reputation for producing highly skilled graduates.
Affordable education: Finnish universities offer free education to Finnish citizens and permanent residents, and tuition fees for international students are generally lower than in many other countries. Additionally, the cost of living in Finland is relatively low compared to other Nordic countries.
Excellent support for international students: Finnish universities are committed to supporting international students, with a range of services and resources available to help them adjust to life in Finland. These services include language courses, career counseling, and assistance with finding housing.
Beautiful country: Finland is a beautiful country with a unique culture and history. The country is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including forests, lakes, and the Northern Lights. Finnish culture is also distinct and offers a unique perspective on the world.
Innovative and modern society: Finland is known for its modern and innovative society, with a strong focus on technology and sustainability. The country has a reputation for being at the forefront of many industries, including tech, design, and education.
Overall, Finland can be a great choice for studying due to its high-quality education system, affordable education, excellent support for international students, beautiful country, and innovative society.
Cost of Studying in Finland
The cost of studying in Finland can vary depending on the university, program, and individual circumstances. Here are some of the main costs to consider:
Tuition fees: For non-EU/EEA students, tuition fees typically range from 4,000 to 20,000 euros per year, depending on the program and the university. However, tuition is free for Finnish citizens and permanent residents, as well as for students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland.
Cost of living: The cost of living in Finland can be relatively high, especially in cities like Helsinki. However, it is still possible to live on a budget by taking advantage of student discounts and living in student housing. On average, a student will need around 700-900 euros per month to cover basic expenses such as housing, food, and transportation.
Accommodation: Student housing is often the most affordable option for accommodation in Finland, and many universities have their own student housing options. Rent for a shared apartment or dorm room can range from around 200 to 600 euros per month, depending on the location and facilities.
Health insurance: International students are required to have health insurance in Finland. This can be obtained through the Finnish Student Health Service (FSHS) or through a private health insurance provider.
Other expenses: Other expenses to consider may include textbooks, study materials, and transportation costs. However, Finnish universities often provide resources such as digital course materials, and many students opt to use bicycles or public transportation to get around.
Overall, while studying in Finland can be relatively expensive compared to some other countries, there are still many opportunities to keep costs down, and the quality of education and student support is generally considered to be well worth the investment.
Educational System of Finland
The education system of Finland is highly regarded for its quality and equity. Here are some key features of the Finnish education system:
Comprehensive education: Finnish children begin their education at age 7 with a comprehensive primary school program that lasts for 9 years. This program is designed to provide a broad, general education, and to support the development of each child’s individual strengths and interests.
Strong focus on equity: The Finnish education system is known for its commitment to equity and equality. There is no tuition fee for primary or secondary education, and the education system is designed to ensure that all students have equal opportunities to learn and succeed.
Teacher education and professionalism: In Finland, becoming a teacher is a highly respected profession. Teachers are required to have a master’s degree in education, and they are given a high degree of autonomy and responsibility in their classrooms.
Student-centered learning: Finnish schools are known for their focus on student-centered learning, which emphasizes active participation and collaboration among students. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their own learning, and teachers act as facilitators and guides rather than lecturers.
Emphasis on creativity and critical thinking: Finnish schools place a strong emphasis on creativity and critical thinking skills, and there is a focus on developing each student’s individual strengths and interests.
Focus on well-being: Finnish schools also prioritize student well-being and mental health. Schools often provide students with access to healthcare professionals, mental health resources, and outdoor activities.
Overall, the Finnish education system is known for its commitment to equity, student-centered learning, teacher professionalism, and focus on individual strengths and well-being. These features have made the Finnish education system one of the most highly regarded in the world.
Life in Finland
Life in Finland can be a unique and rewarding experience. Here are some things to know about life in Finland:
Culture and traditions: Finland has a rich culture and history, with unique traditions and customs that are still celebrated today. Some examples include the celebration of Midsummer, which marks the longest day of the year, and the Finnish sauna tradition.
Natural beauty: Finland is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including forests, lakes, and the Northern Lights. There are also many opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and kayaking.
Modern society: Finland is a modern and innovative society, with a strong focus on technology and sustainability. The country is home to many successful tech companies and is a leader in green energy.
Safety and security: Finland is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and a strong social welfare system.
Socializing: Finnish people can be reserved at first, but they are friendly and welcoming once you get to know them. Socializing often involves spending time with friends and family, enjoying the outdoors, or visiting cafes and restaurants.
Cost of living: While the cost of living in Finland can be relatively high compared to some other countries, it is still possible to live on a budget by taking advantage of student discounts, public transportation, and other cost-saving measures.
Overall, life in Finland can be a unique and rewarding experience, with a combination of natural beauty, modern society, and strong social values. Whether you are studying or working in Finland, you are likely to find a welcoming and supportive community that values education and innovation.
Accommodation Available
There are several types of accommodation available for students in Finland, including:
Student housing: Most universities in Finland offer student housing options, including dormitories, shared apartments, and private rooms. These accommodations are often affordable and provide a convenient way for students to live close to campus and socialize with other students.
Private apartments: Students can also rent private apartments in Finland, either on their own or with roommates. This can be a more expensive option than student housing, but it provides more independence and privacy.
Homestays: Some students choose to live with local families in Finland, which can provide a unique cultural experience and a way to practice the Finnish language. Homestays can be arranged through various organizations and agencies.
Temporary housing: Students who are in Finland for a short period of time, such as for a summer program or a semester abroad, may opt for temporary housing options such as hostels, hotels, or vacation rentals.
When looking for accommodation in Finland, it is important to consider factors such as location, cost, and amenities. Many universities have housing services that can provide guidance and support to students looking for accommodation, and there are also online resources and real estate agents that can help with the search.
Other Living Expenses
In addition to accommodation, there are other living expenses to consider when studying in Finland. Here are some examples:
Food: The cost of food in Finland can be relatively high compared to some other countries. However, students can save money by cooking at home and taking advantage of student discounts and special offers.
Transportation: Finland has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, trains, trams, and metros. Students can purchase discounted monthly or yearly passes, which can provide significant savings.
Health care: Finland has a public healthcare system that provides free or low-cost healthcare services to all residents. International students are typically required to purchase health insurance, which can be arranged through their university or a private insurance provider.
Entertainment: There are many opportunities for entertainment in Finland, including concerts, festivals, and museums. Students can often access discounted or free tickets through their university or student organizations.
Clothing and personal care: The cost of clothing and personal care items in Finland can vary depending on the brand and quality. However, students can often find affordable options at secondhand stores or discount retailers.
When budgeting for living expenses in Finland, it is important to consider your personal spending habits and lifestyle. It is also a good idea to research the cost of living in your specific city or region, as costs can vary depending on the location. By planning ahead and taking advantage of student discounts and resources, students can manage their living expenses in Finland and make the most of their study abroad experience.
Top Universities- Finland
Finland is home to several world-renowned universities that offer high-quality education in a range of fields. Here are some of the top universities in Finland:
University of Helsinki: The University of Helsinki is the oldest and largest university in Finland, with over 40,000 students. It is known for its research excellence in a variety of fields, including natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities.
Aalto University: Aalto University is a multidisciplinary university that focuses on science, technology, and art. It is known for its strong programs in design, engineering, and business, and has a reputation for innovation and entrepreneurship.
University of Turku: The University of Turku is a multidisciplinary university that offers a wide range of programs in natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, and medicine. It is known for its strong research focus and international partnerships.
University of Oulu: The University of Oulu is located in Northern Finland and is known for its expertise in technology and natural sciences. It is also a leader in Arctic research and has a strong focus on sustainability.
Tampere University: Tampere University is a multidisciplinary university that offers programs in technology, social sciences, and health sciences. It is known for its strong research focus and international partnerships.
Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology (LUT): LUT is a multidisciplinary university that specializes in technology and business. It is known for its strong programs in energy, environmental technology, and sustainable business.
These are just a few of the many excellent universities in Finland. Each university has its own strengths and areas of expertise, so it’s important to research and compare programs to find the best fit for your interests and goals.
Degrees Available
Finland offers a wide range of degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. Here are some of the most common types of degrees available in Finland:
Bachelor’s degree: A bachelor’s degree in Finland typically takes three to four years to complete and is offered in a variety of fields, including arts, science, engineering, business, and technology.
Master’s degree: A master’s degree in Finland can take one to two years to complete and is offered in a range of fields. Some programs require students to have completed a bachelor’s degree in a related field, while others may have more flexible admission requirements.
Doctoral degree: A doctoral degree in Finland typically takes four years to complete and is focused on original research. Doctoral programs are offered in a variety of fields, and admission is typically competitive.
Professional degrees: Finland also offers a range of professional degrees, including degrees in medicine, law, and education.
Joint degree programs: Many universities in Finland offer joint degree programs with other universities in Europe and around the world. These programs allow students to study at multiple institutions and earn degrees from both institutions.
In addition to these degree programs, Finland also offers vocational education and training (VET) programs, which provide hands-on training in a range of fields, including healthcare, technology, and business. VET programs are typically two to three years in length and offer a pathway to employment or further education.
Study Visa- Finland
If you’re a non-European Union (EU) citizen planning to study in Finland, you’ll need to apply for a student visa or a residence permit. Here’s an overview of the process:
Choose your program: Before applying for a visa, you must first apply and be accepted into a program at a Finnish university or college.
Check the visa requirements: Check the Finnish Immigration Service’s website for the latest information on visa requirements for your country. You may also need to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Finland.
Apply for the visa: You can apply for a student visa or a residence permit at your nearest Finnish embassy or consulate. The application process may require you to provide a variety of documents, including your passport, proof of acceptance into a Finnish university or college, proof of sufficient funds, and other supporting documents.
Wait for processing: It can take several weeks for your visa or residence permit application to be processed, so be sure to apply well in advance of your planned departure date.
Arrive in Finland: Once you have your visa or residence permit, you can travel to Finland to begin your studies.
It’s important to note that the visa and residence permit requirements may differ depending on your individual circumstances and the duration of your stay in Finland, so be sure to check the Finnish Immigration Service’s website for the latest information.
Requirements of a Study Visa
If you’re a non-European Union (EU) citizen planning to study in Finland, you will need a study visa or a residence permit. Here are some requirements for a study visa in Finland:
Acceptance letter from a Finnish educational institution: You will need to provide proof of acceptance from a Finnish university or college. This can be in the form of an acceptance letter or an enrollment certificate.
Proof of financial support: You will need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses in Finland during your studies. This can include bank statements or other financial documents.
Valid passport: You will need a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
Health insurance: You will need to have comprehensive health insurance that is valid in Finland.
Language proficiency: You may need to demonstrate proficiency in either Finnish, Swedish, or English, depending on the language of instruction at the educational institution you’re attending.
Completed visa application form: You will need to complete a visa application form and submit it to the Finnish embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
Passport-size photos: You will need to provide passport-sized photos as part of your visa application.
Application fee: There is a fee associated with the visa application process.
It’s important to note that the requirements for a study visa in Finland may vary depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant and the duration of their stay in Finland. Be sure to check with the Finnish Immigration Service’s website or contact the embassy or consulate of Finland in your country for the latest information.
Applying in University
If you’re interested in applying to a university in Finland, here are some general steps you can follow:
Research your options: Start by researching universities in Finland that offer programs in your area of interest. Look at their admission requirements, tuition fees, location, and other factors that may influence your decision.
Check the application deadline: Make sure you know the application deadline for the universities you’re interested in, as it can vary from one university to another.
Check the admission requirements: Review the admission requirements for the university and program you’re interested in. This may include academic qualifications, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
Gather your documents: Gather all the required documents for your application, which may include academic transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.
Apply online: Many universities in Finland have online application systems. Follow the instructions carefully and make sure to fill out all the required fields.
Pay the application fee: Most universities in Finland charge an application fee, which can vary in amount. Make sure to pay the fee as instructed in the application process.
Wait for a decision: The admissions process can take some time, so be patient. Some universities in Finland may require an interview or additional documents before making a decision.
It’s important to note that the application process may differ depending on the university and the program you’re applying to. Be sure to check the university’s website or contact the admissions office for specific instructions and requirements. Additionally, if you’re a non-European Union citizen, you will need to obtain a study visa or a residence permit before you can begin your studies in Finland.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements for universities in Finland may vary depending on the specific program and university you are applying to. However, here are some general requirements that you may need to fulfill:
Educational qualifications: You will typically need to provide proof of completing upper secondary education (equivalent to Finnish lukio) or a bachelor’s degree for master’s degree programs. The specific qualifications required may vary depending on the program and the university.
Language proficiency: You will need to demonstrate proficiency in either Finnish, Swedish, or English, depending on the language of instruction at the educational institution you’re attending. You may need to take a language proficiency test or provide other proof of language proficiency.
Standardized test scores: Some universities in Finland may require standardized test scores, such as the SAT, ACT, or GRE. The specific tests required may vary depending on the program and the university.
Letters of recommendation: You may need to provide letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or other professionals who can vouch for your academic ability and potential.
Personal statement: Many universities in Finland require a personal statement or statement of purpose, where you can explain your interest in the program and your academic goals.
Application fee: There may be an application fee associated with applying to universities in Finland, which can vary in amount.
It’s important to note that the specific admission requirements for universities in Finland may vary depending on the program and university you are applying to. Be sure to check the university’s website or contact the admissions office for specific instructions and requirements.
Finland- Scholarships
Finland offers a range of scholarships to both Finnish and international students. Here are some of the main scholarship opportunities available in Finland:
Finnish Government Scholarship Pool: This scholarship is intended for doctoral level studies and research at Finnish universities. It is available to applicants from all countries, with priority given to those from China, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Japan, Jordan, Mexico, Russia, South Korea, Thailand, and Turkey.
CIMO Scholarships: The Centre for International Mobility (CIMO) offers scholarships to international students and researchers. These scholarships cover a wide range of disciplines and are available for both short and long-term study.
University-Specific Scholarships: Many Finnish universities offer their own scholarships to both domestic and international students. These scholarships may be available for tuition fees, living expenses, or research projects.
Erasmus+ Programme: This is a European Union programme that provides scholarships for students and staff to study, train, or teach in another EU country. Finnish universities are eligible to participate in this programme, and many do.
Fulbright Finland: The Fulbright Finland Foundation offers scholarships to American students and scholars who wish to study, research, or teach in Finland. These scholarships cover a wide range of academic fields and are highly competitive.
There are many other scholarship opportunities available in Finland, so it is a good idea to research the options thoroughly and to speak with representatives from the universities or scholarship organizations you are interested in.
