Finland

Geography

Finland is the fifth largest country in the European Union (EU) and is the most northerly state on the mainland of Europe. Approximately 130,500 square miles (338,000 sq. km), Finland is similar in size to the state of Montana. However, it is narrower and longer with 690 miles (1100 km) stretching between its southern and northern tips.

A third of Finland’s total area lies within the Arctic Circle, a far higher proportion than for its Scandinavian neighbors Sweden and Norway. Despite sharing the same latitudinal location as Alaska, the North Atlantic Drift makes Finland far milder than its North American counterpart. The alteration between overwhelming lightness during summer and obscurity in winter, however, is the same as in Alaska.

An abundance of lakes and forests characterize much of Finland’s landscape. Between 60,000 - 200,000 lakes have been counted and cover one-tenth of the country; the water in them cited among the cleanest in Europe. A wealth of forests occupies more than 60 percent of Finland’s land surface. The most prominent trees include pine, spruce, and the national tree: birch.

Thousands of islands and small cliffs dot the southern and southwestern coast of Finland in the Baltic Sea. إland, the most recognizable set of islands, is located between Finland and Sweden and boasts more than 6,500 isles and islands. Many important relics of the Stone, Iron and Bronze Ages have been found there. .

Climate

Like many other European countries and much of the United States, Finland enjoys a change of seasons. Characterized by short but warm summers and mystical snow covered winters, Finland’s unique climate attracts many tourists each year.

Exotic arctic activities such as reindeer and snowmobile safaris have helped winter emerge as the most popular tourism period for visiting foreigners. Many flock to northern and eastern Finland on clear winter nights in hopes of catching a glimpse of beautiful Aurora Borealis.

The snow cover is deepest around mid-March with an average of 23.6 to 35.4 inches (60 to 90 cm) in eastern and northern Finland and 7.9 to 11.8 inches (20 to 30 cm) in southwestern parts of the country. The lakes freeze over in late November and early December, and in severe winters, the Baltic Sea may ice over almost completely.

Summer usually begins in late May in southern Finland and lasts until mid-September. The regions north of the Arctic Circle are characterized by polar days, or more romantically the midnight sun, when the sun does not set at all. Northernmost parts of Finland have 73 such days each year.

Most Finns try to begin their summer holiday just before midsummer. This is the time of the mythical Juhannus - the feast of summer solstice. For visitors and Finns alike, this is the perfect time of year to enjoy the pleasures of jumping into the lukewarm waters of the lake after sauna.

People

Honesty, individuality, and a penchant for the simple things in life have long characterized the people of Finland. As a nation, they take great pride in cultivating relationships and fostering individual freedom.

By U.S. standards, the Finnish population is quite small. By the end of 2002, it had reached 5,206,295, a number far less than found in New York City alone. Females slightly outnumber males, and as of 2002, 103,682 foreigners were calling Finland home - Russians and Estonians representing the largest ethnic groups.

The average height of Finnish women is 165 cm (about 5 feet 5 and a half inches), and for men it is 178 cm (slightly over 5 feet 10 inches).

A recent Finnish survey ranked the nation’s top happiness factors. Some of the findings might be surprising, especially to many Americans and others living in highly civilized western cultures.

Finns ranked having a roof over one’s head as the number one factor contributing to happiness. This is not surprising when you consider the Finnish proverb: “Your own home is as precious as gold.” Sunny weather ranked second, also not terribly shocking considering Finland is often characterized by long, dark winter winters.

Happiness factor number three was an honest relationship, followed by a closely related number four: a trusting relationship. Number five revealed something about Finn’s innate independence of mind; it was simply the freedom to be oneself. - No mention thus far of money or worldly possessions apart from the initial roof over one’s head.

Number six was a freshly cleaned home; fitting for culture that prides itself on tidiness. Subsequent factors included: friendship, and gestures/words, actions, fidelity, and security in a relationship.

Most Finns are content with simple, honest pleasures, such as the fresh scent of laundry, falling in love or walking in the countryside. The first direct reference to money on the poll appeared at number nineteen. It was the wonderful feeling that “there’s more money in my account than I remembered.”

Finnish Rate

The Finnish diet combines traditional country fare and upper class cuisine with modern continental style cooking. Spices have been adopted from both East and West.

Finns appreciate fine cuisine, but consume it in moderation. They believe gastronomic delights and healthy habits go hand in hand. Although traditional foods such as sausage are still popular, today they are consumed with a concentration on more meat and less fat. A tradition of functional, healthy ingredients continues. Among these is rye, which has been scientifically demonstrated to improve well-being. Finns, especially young adults, are health conscious.

Most Finns prefer to prepare everything from scratch, but will settle for convenience foods on occasion. In comparison, Finns eat much less fast food than Americans.

In Finland, the main family meal is a full breakfast. Porridges are held in high regard, and many families also go for muesli, bran, cereals, yogurt, milk, and bread - a must at most tables. A Finnish breakfast is likely to resemble an American lunch!

Finland is a world leader in coffee consumption statistics, but tea is gaining ground. In addition to water, many drink milk, buttermilk or beer with their meals, while a small but growing group has discovered a love for wine.

Local and seasonal delicacies can be found throughout Finland. In Tampere, it is black pudding with lingonberry sauce, while a must at the Turku Market Hall is “raisin” or “onion” sausage. Pieksنmنki and Oulu both have their own versions of rieska flat bread. North Karelia is the birthplace of Karelian pastries. This thin rye crust is filled with rice and shaped “like a moccasin,” noted one visiting tourist. The kalakukko fish pie from Savo is a well-known delicacy; it’s a round, loaf-shaped pastry filled with fish and fatty pork. On the Finnish coast, smoked Baltic herring is popular.

Lapland has had a strong influence on Finnish cooking. Reindeer stew with mashed potatoes has become popular everywhere in Finland. Salmon, reindeer or willow grouse, followed by golden cloudberries for dessert, are the heart of the Lapp menu on special occasions.

Language

According to the famous satirical citation by German author and playwright, Bertold Brecht, Finns have a convention to stay silent in two languages. Brecht was referring to the notion that although Finland has two official languages (Finnish and Swedish), they are tied to a culture that emphasizes the meaning of words and assumes that talkativeness is associated with unreliability.

Finns communicate, of course, but they have a special attitude towards words and speech: words are taken seriously, and people are held to what they say. “Take a man by his word and a bull by its horn,” says the Finnish proverb. A Finn will carefully consider what he says and expect others to do so in return.

People often assume that languages spoken in neighboring countries are similar. They ask questions such as, “Is Finnish like Swedish?” or “Does everyone in Finland speak Russian?” A simple answer to both questions is “No.” Swedish and Russian (as well as English) belong to the Indo-European group of languages. Finnish, on the other hand, is one of the Finno-Ugrian languages. The latter group also includes Hungarian, Estonian, Lapp and several lesser-known languages spoken in Russia.

It is thought that speakers of the Finno-Ugrian languages have been living in the area of present-day Finland since at least 3000 B.C. Today, approximately 23 million people speak the languages of the Finno-Ugrian language family.

Research

Finnish researchers are at the leading edge of developments in a number of fields, including forest improvement, brain research, neural networks, low-temperature physics, new materials, biotechnology, and genetic technology. Their results speak for themselves.

Product development work has spawned numerous important and innovative new products. Product areas in which Finnish engineers and companies have made a major international mark include such diverse areas as icebreakers, cruise liners, lifts, diesel engines, sailing yachts, compasses, fishing lures, frequency transformers, stone drills, harvesters, contraceptives, pipettes, and scissors and axes, together with Internet encryption systems and numerous other forestry, engineering, and information technology products. In the latter area, particular mention should be given to the Linux operating system developed by Linus Torvalds.

In 2000, the private and public sectors in Finland invested a total of some EUR 4.3 billion in research and product development, equivalent to approximately 3,3% of the country's GNP. Relatively, it is at the top level in the world.

Information for International Students to Study and Live in Finland

Finland attracts thousands of foreign students. This section provides information about studying, education and visa requirements. Studying in Finland will certainly be a rewarding experience, not to mention the fact that there are practically no tuition fees!

Residence Permits for Students to Finland

To study in Finland for more than 3 months you must apply for and obtain a residence permit. Citizens of the Nordic countries do not need a residence permit and citizens of EU/EEA countries will be issued residence permits by their local police.
To apply for a residence permit for study purposes bring or send the following documents to the Embassy or Consulate:

1.        Completed application form for a residence permit (Parts I and II). Please remember to state the exact dates of your stay in Finland.

2.        Two passport sized photos.

3.        A valid passport or other travel document.

4.        A letter of acceptance from a Finnish school or university confirming that you have been admitted to study there.

5.        Written proof of your housing arrangements in Finland

6.        Proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Finland (currently about USD 5000,- per year is considered to be the minimum); this can be in the form of a letter from your bank.

7.        Written proof of any scholarship you have received

8.        Please write a cover letter stating your current telephone number and address to which your passport is to be returned.

9.        "The Account of the Applicant's studies" form filled out.

Please note that students must leave the country on completion of their studies.

The visa process usually takes 8-12 weeks and cannot be started until all paperwork is received.

The processing fee is USD 77.00. Payment may be in the form of cash, a money order, or a certified check. No personal checks, please. The fee is non-refundable. If you wish your passport to be mailed back to you please add USD 8.00 for registered mail ,or USD 17.00 for overnight delivery by FedEx.

Applying for Your Student Visa: Finland

A visa is official authorization allowing you to enter a country and travel, work, live, or study there for a specific period of time. Generally, a visa is an elaborate stamp that is sealed onto one of the pages of your passport. Visas are issued to American citizens by a foreign country's Embassy or Consulate located in the United States. Every country has its own regulations governing the issuance of visas.

Do I need a visa to go to Finland?

A visa is required for students going to Finland through an officially registered organization or program such as ISEP or UM's Direct Exchange program, so you (and your dependents, if applicable) will need to obtain a visa for your period of study in Finland.

What do I need to apply for a visa?

You need the following documents to apply for a visa (also called a "residence permit"):

• A valid passport;

. Please see page 1 in the Study Abroad Handbook for how to apply for a passport.

. Apply early for your passport! It may take 6-8 weeks to process your application.

• Completed application for residence permit (part I and II); remember to provide the exact dates of your

• Be sure all documents are in order. Missing documents may cause delays in the processing of your application.

• Do not leave the country until you have received your passport and visa.

Education in Finland

The main aim of the Finnish education system is to ensure that the entire population has access to education and training. The principle of lifelong learning, the idea that people are always capable of learning new things at all stages of life, is an important principle for all education provision, from basic schooling to adult education.

In 1998, public spending on education accounted for 6.2 per cent of GDP in Finland (against an OECD average of 5.3 per cent). Finnish people have a high standard of education. Young people, in particular, have been rated very highly in international comparisons. The OECD Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), which evaluates the educational achievement of children of school age in the OECD countries, placed Finland among the top countries in 2001.
Higher Education

Higher education system consists of universities and polytechnics. The Finnish higher education system is made up of two parallel sectors: universities and polytechnics. The universities rely on the connection between research and teaching. Their basic purpose is to perform scientific research and to provide higher education connected with it.

Students at universities may take a lower (Bachelor's) or higher (Master's) academic degree and also academic further education, consisting of licentiate and doctoral degree. Universities also arrange further education and open university teaching.
The polytechnics are usually regional higher education institutions which provide instruction in subjects from several sectors, and which emphasize a connection with working life. The degrees they provide are higher education degrees with a professional emphasis. There are universities and polytechnics all over Finland, and the ultimate aim is to ensure that all prospective students have equal opportunities for study, regardless of where they live.

Education and training leading to a degree is free of charge in Finland at all the educational institutions and universities which form part of the official education system. Students can also apply for student grants for all forms of training after comprehensive school.

Studying in Finland

Finnish universities are host to approximately 3,700 students from abroad studying for a degree. Additionally, about 3,500 international students from over 100 countries visit Finnish universities annually.

In 2002, 6,032 exchange students studied at Finnish higher education institutions – 3,784 in the university sector and 2,248 in the polytechnic sector.

The most significant exchange system used is the European Union’s Socrates/Erasmus program. Other important exchange systems include individual institutions’ own agreements, the Nordic Nordplus program and Free Mover Mobility. Exchange students most commonly study economics, technology and the social sciences.

Finland offers excellent opportunities in higher education in every field of study. In general, there are no tuition fees at Finnish universities and polytechnics for students enrolled in regular degree programs.

Finland is regarded as a country in which you can easily get by speaking English. There are a variety of English courses offered at both the universities and polytechnics.

A survey provided by The Centre for International Mobility indicated that students and trainees traveling to Finland received a great deal of information about Finland prior to visiting. Their image of Finnish higher education and work was very positive; an image that was mostly confirmed during their stay.

Exchange students regarded Finnish education as having a very high standard and found the courses offered to be quite interesting. In some specific fields, such as communication, information technology, architecture, and design, Finnish know-how was rated particularly high. Finland is a different and exotic country, but also a socially advanced, high-tech country and forerunner in many specialized technological fields.

Students can also choose from a variety of leisure activities coordinated by the Finnish students’ unions and other student organizations that arrange tutoring and special courses for foreign students.

 

Universities

Multi-faculty Universities

Åbo Akademi University
International Office
Tavastgatan 13
FIN-20500 Åbo
Tel. +358 2 215 4836
Fax +358 2 215 3230
E-mail international@abo.fi

University of Helsinki
Student Exchange Co-ordinator
Research and International Relations
P.O. Box 33 (Vuorikatu 3 A)
FIN-00014 University of Helsinki
Tel. +358 9 191 22177
Fax. +358 9 191 22176
E-mail tuula.hellstedt@helsinki.fi

University of Joensuu
International Student Services
P.O. Box 111 (Yliopistonkatu 2)
FIN-80101 Joensuu
Tel. +358 13 251 111
Fax +358 13 251 2010
E-mail intnl@joensuu.fi

University of Jyväskylä
International Office
P.O. Box 35 (T)
FIN-40014 University of Jyväskylä
Tel. +358 14 260 1086 or 260 1052
Fax +358 14 260 1061
E-mail intl@jyu.fi

University of Kuopio
International Office
P.O. Box 1627
FIN-70211 Kuopio
Tel. +358 17 162 042
Fax +358 17 16 3496
E-mail intl@uku.fi

University of Lapland
International Relations
P.O. Box 122 (Yliopistonkatu 8)
FIN-96101 Rovaniemi
Tel. +358 16 341 2208
Fax +358 16 341 2207
E-mail international.relations@ulapland.fi

University of Oulu
International Relations
P.O. Box 8000
FIN-90014 University of Oulu
Tel. +358 8 553 4042
Fax +358 8 553 4041
E-mail international.office@oulu.fi

University of Tampere
International Office
FIN-33014 University of Tampere
Tel. +358 3 215 6111
Fax +358 3 215 6503
E-mail intoffice@uta.fi

University of Turku
International Office
FIN-20014 University of Turku
Tel. +358 2 333 6582
Fax +358 2 333 6370
E-mail: international@utu.fi

University of Vaasa
International Office
P.O. Box 700
FIN-65101 Vaasa
Tel. +358 6 324 8223 or 324 8225
Fax +358 6 324 8179
E-mail international.affairs@uwasa.fi or
information@uwasa.fi (information requests)

Universities of Technology

Helsinki University of Technology
Office for International Affairs
P.O. Box 1100 (Otakaari 1, Espoo)
FIN-02015 HUT
Tel. +358 9 451 2110
Fax +358 9 451 5332
E-mail kv-info@hut.fi

Lappeenranta University of Technology
International and Career Services
P.O. Box 20
FIN-53851 Lappeenranta
Tel. +358 5 621 6080
Fax +358 5 621 6099
E-mail ibtm@lut.fi

Tampere University of Technology
International Office
P.O. Box 527 (Korkeakoulunkatu 10)
FIN-33101 Tampere
Tel. +358 3 3115 2447
Fax +358 3 3115 2640
E-mail interoff@tut.fi

Schools of Economics and Business Administration

Hanken Swedish School of Economics and Business Administration
Centre for Research and International Affairs
P.O. Box 479 (Arkadiankatu 22)
FIN-00101 Helsinki
Tel. +358 9 431 331
Fax +358 9 4313 3404
E-mail info@hanken.fi

Helsinki School of Economics
Information Office
P.O. Box 1210
FIN-00101 Helsinki
Tel. +358 9 4313 8621
Fax +358 9 4313 8512
E-mail tiedotus@hkkk.fi

Turku School of Economics and Business Administration
Office for Academic Affairs
Rehtorinpellonkatu 3
FIN-20500 Turku
Tel. +358 2 481 4206
Fax +358 2 481 4270
E-mail opintotoimisto@tukkk.fi

Art Academies

Academy of Fine Arts
Kaikukatu 4
FIN-00530 Helsinki
Tel. +358 9 680 3320
Fax +358 9 6803 3260
E-mail kanslia@kuva.fi

 

Sibelius Academy
International Centre P.O. Box 86 (Töölönkatu 28)
FIN-00251 Helsinki
Tel. +358 9 4054 400 or 4054 489
Fax +358 9 405 4600
E-mail leena.veijonsuo@siba.fi

Theatre Academy
P.O. Box 163 (Haapaniemenkatu 6)
FIN-00531 Helsinki
Tel. +358 9 4313 6315
Fax +358 9 4313 6200
E-mail international@teak.fi

University of Art and Design Helsinki
International Affairs
Hämeentie 135 C
FIN-00560 Helsinki
Tel. +358 9 7563 0534
Fax +358 9 7563 0595
E-mail iac@uiah.fi

Polytechnics

إland Polytechnic
International Relations
PO Box 1010
AX-22111 Mariehamn, إland
Tel: +358 18 537704
Fax +358 18 16913
E-mail Anna-Lena.Friman@ha.aland.fi

Arcada Polytechnic
Student Affairs
Metsänpojankuja 3 (From 1.8.2004 onwards:Toukolankatu 1)
FIN-02130 Espoo
Tel. +358 9 5253 2218
Fax +358 9 5253 2280
E-mail degree.students@arcada.fi or
exchange.students@arcada.fi;

Central Ostrobothnia Polytechnic
International Office
Nنrvilنnkatu 8
FIN-67100 Kokkola
Tel. +358 6 825 2012
Fax +358 6 825 2075
E-mail peter.finell@cop.fi

Diaconia Polytechnic
International Office
Maistraatinportti 2 A
FIN-00240 Helsinki
Tel. +358 20 160 6221
Fax +358 20 160 6222
E-mail miika.kekki@diak.fi

Espoo-Vantaa Institute of Technology, EVITech
International Office
Vanha maantie 6
FIN-02600 Espoo
Tel. +358 9 511 961
Fax +358 9 511 9988
E-mail international.office@evitech.fi

Haaga Institute Polytechnic
Student Affairs Office
P.O. Box 8 (Pajuniityntie 11)
FIN-00321 Helsinki
Tel. +358 9 5807 8390
Fax +358 9 5807 8300
E-mail opintotoimisto.hi@haaga.fi

Häme Polytechnic
International Relations Office
Visamنentie 35 A
FIN-13100 Hämeenlinna
Tel. + 358 3 646 4403
Fax + 358 3 646 4400
E-mail international@hamk.fi

Helsinki Business Polytechnic Helia
International Office
Rautatieläisenkatu 5
FIN-00520 Helsinki
Tel. +358 9 1489 0312
Fax +358 9 1489 0310
E-mail hanna.mikkonen@helia.fi

Helsinki Polytechnic Stadia
International Relations
P.O. Box 4010 (Bulevardi 31)
FIN-00099 City of Helsinki
Tel. +358 9 3108 0512
Fax +358 9 3108 0509

Humanities Polytechnic
Central Unit
Vanha Turuntie 14
FIN-02600 Kauniainen
Tel. +358 50 411 9578
Fax +358 9 5404 2444
E-mail timo.sorvoja@akatemia.org

Jyväskylä Polytechnic
International Affairs Office
P.O. Box 207 (Rajakatu 35)
FIN-40101 Jyväskylä
Tel. +358 14 444 6604
Fax +358 14 444 6620
E-mail jamk@jypoly.fi

Kajaani Polytechnic
International Office
P.O. Box 52 (Ketunpolku 3)
FIN-87101 Kajaani
Tel. +358 8 618 991
Fax +358 8 6189 9603
E-mail kajaanin.amk@mail.kajak.fi

Kemi-Tornio Polytechnic
Rector's office
P.O. Box 505 (Kauppakatu 5)
FIN-94101 Kemi
Tel. +358 16 258 413
Fax +358 16 258 401
E-mail annikki.pulkkinen@tokem.fi

Kymenlaakso Polytechnic
Applications Office
P.O. Box 13 (Pääskysentie 1)
FIN-48220 Kotka
Tel. +358 5 220 8317 or 8772
Fax +358 5 220 8209
E-mail applications@kyamk.fi

Lahti Polytechnic
International Office
P.O. Box 214
FIN-15101 Lahti
Tel. +358 3 828 2062
Fax +358 3 828 2064
E-mail intoffice@lamk.fi

Laurea Polytechnic
Administration
Lummetie 2 B
FIN-01300 Vantaa
Tel. +358 20 578 7215
Fax +358 20 578 7200
E-mail intl.info@laurea.fi

Mikkeli Polytechnic
International Office
P.O. Box 181 (Patteristonkatu 3)
FIN-50101 Mikkeli
Tel. +358 15 35 561
Fax +358 15 355 6377
E-mail studies@mikkeliamk.fi

North Karelia Polytechnic
International Office
Kontionkatu 4/3
FIN-80200 Joensuu
Tel. +358 13 260 6720 or 260 6729
Fax 358 13 260 6721
E-mail international@ncp.fi

Oulu Polytechnic
International Relations Office
P.O. Box 222 (Albertinkuja 20)
FIN-90101 Oulu
Tel. +358 8 312 6011
Fax +358 8 312 6674
E-mail international@oamk.fi

Pirkanmaa Polytechnic
International Office
Kuntokatu 4
FIN-33520 Tampere
Tel. +358 3 245 2364
Fax +358 3 245 2351
E-mail International.Office@piramk.fi

Pohjois-Savo Polytechnic
International Office
P.O. Box 6
FIN-70201 Kuopio
Tel. +358 17 255 5062
Fax +358 17 255 5063
E-mail kvinfo@pspt.fi

Rovaniemi Polytechnic
International Relations Office
Jokivنylن 11 C
FIN-96300 Rovaniemi
Tel. +358 16 331 2063
Fax +358 16 331 3328
E-mail international@ramk.fi

Satakunta Polytechnic
Central Administration
Tiedepuisto 3
FIN-28600 Pori
Tel. +358 2 620 3000
Fax +358 2 620 3030
E-mail student.selection@samk.fi

Seinäjoki Polytechnic
Administration Office
Keskuskatu 32 K
FIN-60100 Seinäjoki
Tel. +358 20 124 5000
Fax +358 20 124 5001
E-mail international.office@seamk.fi

South Carelia Polytechnic
International Office
Koulukatu 5 B
FIN-55120 Imatra
Tel. +358 2049 66757
Fax +358 2049 66758
E-mail virve.hakamies@mail.scp.fi

Swedish Polytechnic, Finland
International Relations
P.O. Box 6 (Fabriksgatan 1)
FIN-65201 Vasa
Tel. +358 6 324 2140
Fax +358 6 324 2110
E-mail elisabet.rantschukoff@syh.fi

Sydväst Polytechnic
International Affairs
Raseborgsvägen 9
FIN-10600 Ekenäs
Tel. +358 19 222 7200
Fax +358 19 222 7499
E-mail office@sydvast.fi

Tampere Polytechnic
International Office
P.O. Box 21 (Teiskontie 33)
FIN-33521 Tampere
Tel. +358 3 264 7111
Fax +358 3 264 7238
E-mail international.office@tpu.fi

Turku Polytechnic
International Office
Sepänkatu 3
FIN-20700 Turku
Tel. +358 10 553 5628
Fax +358 10 553 5791
E-mail int.office@turkuamk.fi

Vaasa Polytechnic
International Office
Wolffintie 30
FIN-65200 Vaasa
Tel. +358 6 326 3111
Fax +358 6 326 3112
E-mail info@puv.fi or
international@puv.fi

Frequently Asked Questions for Studying in Finland as an International Student

What is the admission procedure?

If you intend to study for the Finnish academic degrees equivalent to a Bachelor’s or a Master’s degree or the degrees in other institutions of higher education, you should read the information under the "FAQ" (Frequently asked questions) carefully. There you will find information on entry and residence regulations, costs and financial aid, accommodation, health insurances etc.

Generally, you are able to apply to Finnish institutions of higher education if you have completed secondary education and would therefore be eligible to enrol in an institution of higher education in your home country. You should be prepared to take an entrance examination whenever it is required. For the particular requirements and application deadlines of individual institutions you must contact each institution you are interested in. CIMO cannot arrange study placements in Finland.

What is the language of instruction?

The principal language of instruction is Finnish. It is Swedish, however, at Åbo Akademi University, in the Swedish School of Economics and Business Administration, ARCADA Polytechnic, Sydväst Polytechnic, The Swedish Polytechnic, Finland, Åland Polytechnic and some vocational institutions. In some other institutions of higher education – for instance at the University of Helsinki, Helsinki University of Technology and the four Art Academies – you can study either in Finnish or in Swedish.

In some institutions there are complete degree programs taught in English (see International Programs). However, in most cases degree studies require a good knowledge of either Finnish or Swedish. The Finnish universities arrange basic and advanced courses in the Finnish (or Swedish) language for international students. For further details, see "Studying Finnish", or contact the university in question directly.

When does the academic year begin?

The academic year has two semesters. The autumn semester generally runs from September (sometimes from August in polytechnics) to December, and the spring semester from January to May.

There is no summer semester, but university students can take examinations and study for their degrees in the summer months in courses arranged either by the universities themselves or by the Summer University system (21 in all).

What are the costs?

Since university higher education is funded by the State through the Ministry of Education, students enrolled in regular degree studies pay no tuition fees.

The student unions in universities, however, charge an annual membership fee of about EUR 42–84 (approx. USD 50–100) to cover their activities. Student health services are included in this fee. Membership is compulsory for those who are studying for their Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees; those who are pursuing their doctoral studies may join the union if they wish.

Polytechnics do not charge tuition fees either, but a few institutions currently charge fees for tuition materials, etc. Student union membership for students in polytechnics is optional.

Students in both universities and polytechnics have to pay for their books and other materials, plus their accommodation and living expenses. The total monthly living expenses of a single student average around EUR 673 (approx. USD 607).

International programs offered by Finnish Higher Education institutions presented in the database of international programs carry no tuition fees unless otherwise stated in the course description.

How can I finance my studies?

We highly recommend that you arrange adequate funding for your entire study period before leaving your home country.

Visiting students can get a grant if they come to Finland via a student exchange program. Erasmus or Nordplus grants are always awarded to students in their home country. Please contact the international affairs office at your own institution for more information.

International students who are accepted into Finnish degree studies may obtain study aid from the Finnish government only if

·  they have lived in Finland for at least two years for some other purpose than studies, and

·  their residence in Finland is considered to be permanent.

Returning immigrants and refugees are exempt from this regulation.

The citizens of EU and other EEA countries may apply for study aid

·  if their studies are closely related to their work in Finland,

·  if they have become involuntarily unemployed in Finland, or

·  if their parents are working in Finland.

The Centre for International Mobility CIMO and some other organizations grant scholarships for advanced studies and research in Finland. Normally a Master's degree is required. Some of the grants are limited to students from specific countries or fields of study. Please see "Scholarships" on this site for detailed information

How Do I Find a Place to Stay?

Student housing is generally organised by established student housing foundations. In some university towns accommodation can also be arranged through the student unions themselves, or through regional student clubs or faculty organisations. Many towns and municipalities also have dormitories maintained by the municipal community or the educational institution.

Contact the international advisory service of your chosen educational institution in Finland for more information.

For more information about student housing in Finland, please have a look at the web site of the Finland's Student Housing Ltd. which is the central organisation of student housing foundations.

The receiving institution usually takes care of the accommodation of exchange students.

What kind of an insurance policy is needed? What is the health care system in Finland like?

Citizens of the EU and EEA countries are entitled to all health services if they are covered by health insurance in their own country. For further information, contact the social insurance office in your home country.

Before you leave, remember to check up on travel insurance. If you cannot arrange suitable insurance in your home country, and it is not automatically arranged through your exchange program, please inform CIMO, the Centre for International Mobility.

Health-care services

The level of health care in Finland is high. There are two parallel systems: the public one financed by the government and municipalities, and the private sector. Both sectors are available, but the private services are more expensive to the patient.

There are public health-care centers (terveyskeskus/hälsostation) and hospitals throughout the country. At health-care centers you usually have to make an appointment first. If you do not have a Kela sickness insurance card, you can be charged higher fees than permanent residents. Students in universities have a health-care system of their own (although they may also use the national public or private ones). There is also a system of employment health-care services.

In a dental emergency, all foreigners may turn to the dental clinic in a health-care centre. In a medical emergency, turn to the nearest health-care centre or hospital emergency unit.

The general emergency phone number in Finland is 112.

Medication is sold by pharmacies. Some is sold without a prescription, but for stronger medication a doctor's prescription is needed.

Health services for university students are provided by the Finnish Student Health Service FSHS (Ylioppilaiden terveydenhoitosäätiö YTHS/Studenternas hälsovårdsstiftelse SHVS). The FSHS has a full range of medical services including preventive health care and medical care, mental health care and dental services. There is a student health centre in each university town, and all student union members have automatic access to these services. General practitioners can be consulted free of charge, but a nominal fee is charged for the services of specialists and for dental care.

Students of the polytechnics do not have a system comparable to FSHS.

What are the entry and residence regulations?

Visa
Residence permit
Work permit
Entering Finland for entrance examinations

Depending on your nationality and the length of your stay in Finland, you will require a visa or a residence permit. Citizens of the EEA countries (European Economic Area = EU countries and Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) need not apply for a visa or a residence permit before arriving in the country if they intend to stay for less than 3 months. Citizens of the Nordic countries may arrive, reside, study and work in Finland without limitations. They do not need visas or residence or work permits.

Visa

A visa is granted for a maximum of three months and cannot be extended in Finland. A visa has to be applied for before departure to Finland in the country where the applicant permanently resides.

To be issued a visa, the applicant must show that she/he has enough funds to cover living expenses in Finland. ”Enough funds” means about EUR 34 per day.

Residence permit

To study in Finland as a degree student you must apply for a residence permit (see also Directorate of Immigration) in your own country before leaving, unless you are a citizen of an EU or EEA country. Citizens of EU and EEA countries can apply for their residence permits (EUR 26) after their arrival in Finland.

To obtain the permit you must:

·  be at least 18 years old (in most cases)

·  intend to become a full-time student at an institution of higher education or in a secondary vocational school. Finnish language courses for international students are not regarded as full-time study.

·  show proof that you have been accepted as a full-time student at such an institution

·  show that your application indicates the estimated length of your studies and the degree being taken, and

·  show that you have either EUR 6 000 in a Finnish bank account (a new deposit is required every year) or a scholarship/grant that will cover your living expenses for the academic year or that you have been accepted in an exchange program.

The guarantee money is not required from citizens of the EU and EEA countries. However, they must demonstrate that they have means to cover their living expenses while studying in Finland.

Work permit

Students who are citizens of the EEA countries or participate in EU education and training programs need no work permits and they are allowed to work without restrictions (however, they need an employer’s certificate). Other international students are allowed to do paid work for a maximum of twenty hours a week during the semesters and full time during the vacations. You will need a separate work permit if you intend to work more than this during the semesters. International students can obtain a work permit at a Finnish embassy or a legation abroad or in Finland from the local police authorities. But you should bear in mind that the unemployment rate in Finland was approximately 11 per cent in the beginning of 1999.

Entering Finland for Entrance Examinations

For the period of the entrance examinations you need a visa unless your home country has an agreement with Finland abolishing this requirement. You can check this at your local Finnish Embassy or Consulate.

Scholarships

CIMO awards and administers scholarships for Finnish and international postgraduate students, researchers and teachers as well as for Finnish experts in science and the arts. An average of 900 persons participate in the various scholarship programs every year.

The aim is to internationalize teaching and research by forging links and encouraging academic mobility between institutions of higher education in Finland and abroad.

Scholarships are offered for applicants from all countries. However, some emphasis is laid on cooperation with Finland's neighboring countries, the Baltic States, and countries in Central and Eastern Europe.

There are several scholarship programs. Each program has different requirements. The application procedure, application deadline and application forms used also vary according to the program in question.

Information on various other scholarship programs and possibilities than those listed under Scholarships (CIMO fellowships, Bilateral scholarships, Finnish studies and research, the Nordic grant scheme) is available through Other.

9/14/2008CIMO Fellowships

The Centre for International Mobility CIMO grants scholarships for young researchers (post-graduates after Master-level degree or post-doctorates) to Finnish universities. The objective is to encourage academic mobility to Finland and to promote international cooperation in research and teaching.

The programme is open to young researchers from all countries. Some emphasis, however, is laid on the nationals of Russia, the Baltic States and Eastern and Central European countries.

·         The staff of the Finnish receiving university department applies to CIMO for the grant.

·         The scholarship recipient should not be older than 35. The scholarship period is 3-12 months.

·         Applications should be submitted at least 3 months before the intended scholarship period.

·         The monthly allowance is 690 - 1 010 € in 2003.

The scholarship is intended to cover living expenses in Finland for a single person. The exact amount varies according to the academic qualifications of the recipient and to the support given by the receiving department. No additional allowance for housing is paid. Expenses due to international travel to and from Finland are not covered by CIMO.

Finnish studies and research

The programme is divided into two sub-programmes according to the level of studies:

1. Scholarships for post-graduate studies and research at a Finnish university are meant for international post-graduate students and researchers of Finnish language and literature, Finno-Ugric linguistics, ethnology and folklore.

The scholarship recipient should not be older than 35. The staff of the Finnish receiving university department applies to CIMO for the grant. Applications should be submitted at least 3 months before the intended scholarship period. The application procedure is the same as in the CIMO Fellowship -programme.

The monthly allowance is usually 760 € (in 2002).

2. Scholarships for advanced studies of Finnish language at a Finnish university are meant mainly for degree students of Finnish language and literature at universities outside Finland. The scholarship recipient should not be older than 35. Preference is given to applicants who are working on their Master's thesis.

Students apply directly to CIMO for the grant at least 3 months before the intended scholarship period. The applicant should establish contact with the receiving university department before applying.

The monthly allowance is 725 € (in 2002) and it is granted for one academic semester.

Applications should preferably be made in Finnish on CIMO's form. It should include

·  the supporting documents mentioned on the application form, as well as

·  translations of them (Finnish, Swedish, English, German or French),

·  a recommendation letter from a teacher of Finnish language at the applicant's home university, and

·  a confirmation letter from the host department.

CIMO's application forms are available at Finnish embassies, consulates and cultural and scientific institutes abroad or from CIMO. The form may also be downloaded from CIMO's website.

 

 

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