Study in Finland for Free (Chapter 1)

Accessing Scholarships and Funding

• Title: Study in Finland for Free: Accessing Scholarships and
• Funding
• Author: Kolawole, Saheed Oluwasola

No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

For permission requests, please contact the publisher at:

Email: abroaducate@gmail.com

This book is a work of nonfiction. The names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author’s research and/or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.

First Edition: 2024

Contents

Introduction

• Why Study in Finland?

Chapter 1: Understanding the Finnish Higher Education System

• Types of Institutions: Universities vs. Universities of Applied Sciences
• Degree Programs and Language of

Instruction

• Tuition Fees and Living Costs in Finland

Chapter 2: Scholarships for International Students

• Government Scholarships
• University-Specific Scholarships
• Scholarships for Non-EU/EEA Students

Chapter 3: How to Apply for Bachelor’s and

Master’s Degrees in Finland

• Researching Degree Programs
• Application Options: Joint Application vs. Separate Applications
• Mode of Application for Scholarships

Chapter 4: Conditions for Applying for Admission and Scholarship Considerations

• Eligibility Requirements for Bachelor’s and Master’s Programs
• Requirements for HND Holders

Chapter 5: Application Process and How to Fill the

Joint Application Form

• How to Fill the Joint Application Form
• How to Prepare for the Entrance Exam

Chapter 6: Applying for a PhD in Finland

• Understanding the PhD Structure in Finland
• Eligibility Requirements
• Finding a PhD Program and Supervisor
• Application Process
• Funding Your PhD

Chapter 7: Navigating Visa and Immigration

Requirements

• Student Visa Application Process
• Residence Permits and Registration
• Working While Studying: Legal Considerations
• Post-Graduation Opportunities: Staying in Finland

Chapter 8: Living and Studying in Finland

 

• Cost of Living: Budgeting and Expenses
• Accommodation Options: On-Campus and Off-Campus
• Health Insurance and Medical Care
• Cultural Adaptation and Student Life
• Applying for Permanent Residency and Citizenship

Conclusion

• Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Appendices

• Entrance Examination Sample
• Useful Contacts and Websites
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Introduction

Why Study in Finland?

When I first began exploring my options for higher education, Finland quickly stood out to me as a top choice. Known for its exceptional education system, Finland consistently ranks among the best in global education rankings, and it’s easy to see why.

From the moment I delved into what Finland had to offer, I was struck by the country’s commitment to high-quality teaching, innovative learning methods, and, most importantly, a genuine emphasis on student well-being.

Helsinki Cathedral

Finland is home to world-class universities and research institutions where students like myself can engage with cutting-edge technology and dive deep into our chosen fields. What truly stood out to me was Finland’s unwavering commitment to equality and inclusivity. No matter where you come from, Finland ensures that every student has the chance to succeed.

One of the concerns I had about studying abroad was the financial aspect, but I quickly discovered that Finland offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to make education accessible to international students. This relieved a significant amount of stress, allowing me to focus on my studies and fully immerse myself in the Finnish experience.

In this eBook, I’m excited to share how you too can study in Finland by taking advantage of these scholarships and funding options. I want to help you realize your dream of a Finnish education without the worry of financial burdens.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about navigating the Finnish education system, applying for scholarships, and making the most of your time in one of the most innovative and forward-thinking countries in the world.

CHAPTER 1

Understanding the Finnish Higher

Education System

Types of Institutions: Universities vs.

Universities of Applied Sciences

Finland’s higher education system is unique in that it offers two distinct types of institutions: universities and universities of applied sciences (UAS).

Both play a critical role in the country’s education landscape, but they differ in their focus, structure, and the opportunities they offer to students.

• Universities:

These are research-intensive institutions that emphasize theoretical and academic education.

There are 13 universities in Finland, and they offer programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.

Universities are ideal for students who are interested in pursuing careers in research, academia, or advanced professional roles that require a deep understanding of theory and advanced knowledge in their field.

The curriculum is often flexible, allowing students to design their study paths according to their interests and career goals.

University of Jyväskylä, Finland

• Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS):

Finland has 22 universities of applied sciences, which focus on providing practical, hands-on education that is closely aligned with the needs of the labor market.

UAS programs are typically more structured and include a significant amount of practical training, internships, and collaboration with industry partners.

These institutions offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees, with a strong emphasis on preparing students for professional roles in fields such as engineering, business, healthcare, and the arts.

UAS is ideal for students who prefer a more practiceoriented approach to learning and wish to enter the workforce with practical skills and experience.

Degree Programs and Language of Instruction

Finland offers a wide range of degree programs across various fields of study, catering to the diverse interests and career goals of students. One of the key strengths of the Finnish higher education system is its flexibility and accessibility, particularly for international students.

Bachelor’s Degrees: Typically, a bachelor’s degree in Finland takes 3 to 4 years to complete, depending on the field of study.

These programs provide a solid foundation in the chosen discipline and often include opportunities for internships, exchange programs, and practical training.

Master’s Degrees: A master’s degree usually requires 1.5 to 2 years of study. These programs are designed to provide advanced knowledge and specialized skills in a specific field.

Many students pursue a master’s degree after completing their bachelor’s degree to enhance their qualifications and career prospects.

Doctoral Degrees: Doctoral programs in Finland are research-intensive and typically take 4 years to complete.

These programs are aimed at students who wish to pursue careers in academia, research, or specialized professional roles that require a high level of expertise.

Language of Instruction: While Finnish and Swedish are the official languages of Finland, a significant number of degree programs, especially at the master’s and doctoral levels, are offered in English.

This makes Finland an attractive destination for international students who may not speak Finnish or Swedish but wish to pursue their studies in an English-speaking environment.

The availability of English-taught programs is one of the reasons why Finland is a popular choice for students from around the world.

Tuition Fees

Tuition Fees: Tuition fees in Finland vary depending on the type of institution, the degree program, and the student’s country of origin.

• For EU/EEA Students:

Students from the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland generally do not have to pay tuition fees for bachelor’s or master’s degree programs.

• For Non-EU/EEA Students:

Non-EU/EEA students are required to pay tuition fees for English-taught bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.

The fees can range from approximately €4,000 to €18,000 per academic year, depending on the institution and program. However, many Finnish universities and UAS offer scholarships and financial aid to international students, which can significantly reduce the cost of tuition.

• For Doctoral Students:

Doctoral programs in Finland are generally tuition free for all students, regardless of nationality. However, students may need to cover additional costs related to their research and living expenses.