Finland is known for having one of the best education systems in the world. But did you know that studying in Finland can also boost your chances of landing a lucrative job in your field of interest? In this article, we will explain why Finland is a great destination for international students who want to pursue higher education and career opportunities.
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Why Study in Finland?
There are many reasons why you should consider studying in Finland, such as:
High-quality education: Finland offers hundreds of bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes taught in English, as well as doctoral degrees and professional studies. Finnish universities and universities of applied sciences (UAS) are internationally recognized for their excellence in research and innovation. You’ll get to learn from top experts and collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
Affordable tuition fees: Most higher education programmes in Finland are free of charge for EU/EEA citizens and for students who have a permanent residence permit in Finland. Even if you have to pay tuition fees, they are relatively low compared to other countries. You can also apply for scholarships and grants from various sources to cover your living expenses and other costs.
Safe and friendly environment: Finland is a peaceful and stable country with a high standard of living and a low crime rate. You’ll enjoy a clean and beautiful natural environment with four distinct seasons and plenty of outdoor activities. Finns are known for being honest, respectful, and helpful. They also speak fluent English, so you won’t have any language barriers.
Career prospects: Studying in Finland can give you a competitive edge in the global job market. You’ll gain valuable skills and knowledge that are in demand in various sectors and industries. You’ll also have access to a wide network of employers, alumni, and organizations that can help you find internships, jobs, and career guidance. If you want to stay and work in Finland after graduation, you can apply for a residence permit extension for up to one year.
How to Apply for Studies in Finland?
If you’re interested in studying in Finland, you need to follow these steps:
Choose your study programme: You can use the Study in Finland website to find and compare different study options and requirements. You can also contact the admission services of the institutions you’re interested in for more information and guidance.
Submit your application: The application process and deadlines vary depending on the study programme and institution. You can use the Studyinfo.fi portal to apply online for most programmes. You’ll need to provide your personal details, educational background, language proficiency, and motivation letter. You may also need to submit additional documents, such as transcripts, diplomas, certificates, portfolios, or references. Some programmes may also require you to take an entrance exam or an interview.
Receive your admission decision: You’ll receive an email notification from the institution you applied to once they have processed your application. If you’re accepted, you’ll need to confirm your study place and pay the tuition fee (if applicable) by the given deadline. You’ll also receive an official acceptance letter and a certificate of student status, which you’ll need for your visa and residence permit application.
Apply for a visa and residence permit: If you’re a non-EU/EEA citizen, you’ll need to apply for a student visa and a residence permit to study in Finland. You can do this at the nearest Finnish embassy or consulate in your home country. You’ll need to provide your passport, acceptance letter, certificate of student status, proof of sufficient funds, health insurance, and a criminal record certificate. The processing time and fee may vary depending on your nationality and situation.
Prepare for your arrival: Before you travel to Finland, you should arrange your accommodation, transportation, and other practical matters. You can use the Work in Finland website to find useful information and tips on living and working in Finland. You should also contact your host institution and join their orientation programme for international students.
How to Find a Job in Finland?
If you want to work in Finland during or after your studies, you need to follow these steps:
Check your eligibility: Depending on your nationality and study programme, you may have certain restrictions on working in Finland. For example, if you’re a non-EU/EEA citizen, you can work up to 25 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during holidays, as long as your work is related to your studies. You can also work full-time for up to one year after graduation, as long as you have a valid residence permit and a job offer. You can check the Finnish Immigration Service website for more details and updates.
Update your CV and cover letter: You should tailor your CV and cover letter to the Finnish job market and the specific position you’re applying for. You should highlight your skills, achievements, and qualifications that are relevant to the job. You should also use a clear and concise language and avoid any spelling or grammar errors. You can use the Europass website to create a standard CV and cover letter in English or Finnish.
Search for job opportunities: You can use various sources and methods to find job openings in Finland, such as:
Online job portals, such as Jobs in Finland, Oikotie, Rekrytointi.com, and Job Market Finland.
Social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.
Networking events, such as career fairs, seminars, workshops, and meetups.
Personal contacts, such as friends, classmates, professors, alumni, and mentors.
Recruitment agencies, such as Barona, Academic Work, and Adecco.
Apply for the job: Once you find a suitable job opportunity, you should follow the application instructions carefully and submit your CV and cover letter online or by email. You may also need to provide other documents, such as references, certificates, or samples of your work. You should also prepare for a possible phone or video interview or an assessment test.
Follow up and negotiate: After you apply for the job, you should follow up with the employer and thank them for their consideration. You should also express your interest and enthusiasm for the job and ask about the next steps. If you receive a job offer, you should negotiate the salary, benefits, and other terms of the contract. You should also ask for a written confirmation of the offer and sign the contract.
Engineering
Finland is a global leader in innovation and technology, especially in fields such as clean energy, biotechnology, gaming, and telecommunications. If you want to be part of this dynamic and creative sector, you should consider studying engineering in Finland. You can choose from various disciplines, such as electrical, mechanical, chemical, environmental, or industrial engineering, and learn from some of the best professors and researchers in the world. You will also have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, as well as opportunities to collaborate with leading companies and organizations. Engineering graduates from Finland are highly sought-after by employers both locally and internationally, and can expect to earn a competitive salary and enjoy a high standard of living.
Business
Finland is not only a hub for innovation, but also for entrepreneurship and business. Finland has a vibrant and diverse economy, with strengths in sectors such as forestry, manufacturing, services, and tourism. If you want to learn how to start, manage, or grow a business in Finland or abroad, you should study business in Finland. You can choose from various programs, such as business administration, economics, finance, marketing, or international business, and gain valuable skills and knowledge that are relevant and applicable to the modern business world. You will also benefit from the Finnish culture of openness, trust, and collaboration, which fosters a supportive and stimulating learning environment. Business graduates from Finland have excellent career prospects, as they can work in various industries and roles, or even start their own ventures.
Health
Finland is renowned for its high-quality and universal health care system, which provides equal and affordable access to health services for all citizens. Finland also invests heavily in research and development in the health sector, and is at the forefront of fields such as biomedicine, genomics, and digital health. If you want to contribute to the health and well-being of people and society, you should study health in Finland. You can choose from various programs, such as nursing, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, or public health, and learn from some of the most qualified and experienced professionals in the field. You will also have access to cutting-edge facilities and technologies, as well as opportunities to participate in clinical practice and research projects. Health graduates from Finland are in high demand, as they can work in various settings and positions, such as hospitals, clinics, laboratories, or public health agencies.
Arts
Finland is a country of culture and creativity, with a rich and diverse heritage and history. Finland also has a thriving and vibrant arts scene, with festivals, events, and exhibitions happening throughout the year. If you want to express your artistic talent and passion, you should study arts in Finland. You can choose from various programs, such as fine arts, design, music, theater, or film, and learn from some of the most talented and acclaimed artists and educators in the field. You will also have access to inspiring and stimulating facilities and resources, such as studios, galleries, museums, and theaters, as well as opportunities to showcase your work and network with peers and professionals. Arts graduates from Finland have a wide range of career options, as they can work as artists, designers, performers, teachers, or critics, or pursue further studies or research.
Education
Finland is famous for its education system, which is based on the principles of equality, inclusivity, and excellence. Finland also has a strong tradition and reputation of education research and innovation, and is constantly developing and improving its methods and practices. If you want to become an educator and make a difference in the lives of learners and society, you should study education in Finland. You can choose from various programs, such as early childhood education, primary education, secondary education, or special education, and learn from some of the most respected and knowledgeable experts in the field. You will also have access to high-quality and diverse learning environments and materials, as well as opportunities to observe and practice teaching in Finnish schools and classrooms. Education graduates from Finland are well-prepared and well-equipped to teach in any context and level, and can also pursue further studies or research in education.
If you want to learn more about studying in Finland, you can visit the following websites:
Edunation: A platform that helps international students apply to and study in Finland.
Study in Finland: A website that provides information and guidance on studying and living in Finland.
Top Universities: A website that ranks and reviews universities and programs in Finland and around the world.
Conclusion
Education in Finland is a great opportunity for international students who want to pursue higher education and career opportunities. Finland offers high-quality education, affordable tuition fees, safe and friendly environment, and career prospects. To study and work in Finland, you need to apply for the right study programme, visa and residence permit, and job. You also need to prepare for your arrival and adapt to the Finnish culture and lifestyle.
