Study in Finland: Top Universities, Courses, Scholarships, Visa

What would you say about a country where expectant mothers receive special baby cribs with all the necessities from the State or where there are two million+ saunas for roughly 5.5 million people? Amazing, right? If you haven’t guessed the country yet, we’re talking about Finland – a premier study abroad destination (and they’ve got an air guitar world championship too, which is the epitome of coolness). 

Here’s exploring key aspects relating to study in Finland for Indian students and some of the best things about the country.

Finland as a Country- Facts You Probably Didn’t Know 

Deciding to study in Finland is a no-brainer if you seek top-class education, excellent future prospects, and plenty of opportunities. To work and study in Finland for international students is a fulfilling experience, particularly when you think of the Finns’ unique take on life. 

Here are a few fun facts that will give you a better picture of this mesmerizing country: 

• Finland has an estimated population of 5,532,333 people as of August 2020. 
• Finns are the biggest coffee drinkers in the world, with the average citizen consuming 12 kg of coffee (you read it right) annually. Eight cups of coffee a day is perfectly normal in Finland. Though let that not be your key study abroad reason! 
• Finland has a whopping 187,888 lakes, and 74% of the country is forested, which beats all the other European countries. 
• The popular Angry Birds started its journey in Finland in 2003, while other gaming success stories include Clash of Clans and arguably one of the world’s most defining games, Nokia’s Snake. 
• Finland is a welfare state  aiming at carbon neutrality by 2035, with the world’s biggest archipelago and a high reputation for safety. 11 out of 12 lost wallets in the country are returned! Now that’s something! 
• Finland is also where you can view the iconic Northern Lights. 
• The clincher is that Finland is the world’s happiest country, and that too for five years in succession, as ranked by the World Happiness Report. 

Key Benefits of Studying in Finland for Indian Students

Blessed by nature and a proactive government, Finland also pulls quite a few punches in the academic department! Why study in Finland? Here are a few reasons: 

• High-Ranking Universities- Finland is home to several acclaimed universities ranked highly across major rankings, including the QS World University Rankings and others. Students can choose from numerous disciplines to study while enjoying cutting-edge academic and research infrastructure. 
• Affordable Education- Is studying in Finland free? Public universities are usually free of cost for EU/EEA/Switzerland nationals, while some even offer free education for international students. The cost of study in Finland is lower compared to other popular study abroad destinations.
• English Proficiency- Universities in Finland require English proficiency test scores for admission. Wondering if you can study in Finland without IELTS? Of course, you can; but only if you prove your language proficiency through any other accepted tests, such as TOEFL, PTE, etc.
• Excellent Job Opportunities- Finland offers a flourishing job market for international students with its post-study work visas and part-time work opportunities. The latter also enables them to build connections and gain first-hand industry experience, while the former helps them stay back after completing their courses to find employment. 

Living Expenses in Finland:

Cost of Living in Finland

5 Best Universities in Finland

How to apply for free study in Finland? Which is the best location for undergraduate or postgraduate studies in Finland? Before finding answers to these questions, let us go through the list of top universities in the country. 

*www.topuniversities.com 

**as mentioned on the respective university’s website

Admission Requirements for Studying in Finland 

What are the admission requirements at the best universities in Finland? While these may vary across institutions, some of the common criteria for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Finland include the following: 

Bachelor’s Programs- 

• High school diploma or International Baccalaureate certificate
• Transcript of high school grades
• SAT / accepted admission examinations scores
• English language proficiency scores 

Master’s Programs- 

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualifications. 
• Some institutions may require two years of work experience. 
• English language proficiency scores. 

Post Study Work Visa Options in Finland

Obtaining a post study work visa in Finland has become convenient in the current scenario. Finland’s government has implemented new reforms from April 15, 2022, making it easier for international students to stay and pursue career opportunities there. International students and their families will get continuous permits valid throughout the program duration instead of the earlier issued temporary ones granted for two years. The move will also help get permanent residence after graduating as it is provided to foreigners holding continuous residence permits for four years. 

The government has also allowed international students to work up to 30 hours each week and extended the jobseeker’s permit to two years (from one year) for international graduates and researchers. 

Conclusion 

Choosing to study in Finland can be a great move for any international learner, considering the country’s educational standards, leading universities, attractive post study permits, high happiness quotient, and state-of-the-art infrastructure. From extensive professional opportunities to global exposure, the country can benefit those looking to expand their qualification through holistic education.

Disclaimer:  All fees and costs mentioned are indicative and subject to change at any time.

Read More About Study in Finland:

• Finland Universities Fees
• Study in Finland without IELTS
• Education system in Finland
• PhD in Finland
• MS in Finland