Higher education has a significant role in Finnish society and the national innovation system: higher education is crucial when working towards a world-class knowledge society.

Intakes:

The academic year in Finland is divided into two terms: Autumn term (from August/September to December) and Spring term (from January to the end of May)

Most degree programmes only accept new degree students at the beginning of the academic year. So, usually your application will concern studies that start in the autumn term (August/September). In some cases, however, it may be possible to apply for studies that start in the spring term (January).

During the so-called summer term (June-August) it may be possible for already registered students to complete some individual course modules, but generally speaking it is “holiday time” and there is no separate summer term intake for degree studies.

Requirements:

Applying to Bachelor’s programmes

Note that the Finnish higher education system does not include “certificate” or “diploma/advanced diploma” level degrees. If you currently hold a one-year or two-year certificate or diploma degree, and are applying to an undergraduate programme in Finland, it is likely that your application would be based on your upper secondary school certificates rather than your certificate/diploma degree. See our FAQ on the subject!

If you are admitted, it may be possible for you to receive some credit point compensation based on your previous higher education studies, but this you should negotiate with the Finnish higher education institution after you’ve been admitted. It is up to the policies and decisions of the individual higher education institutions whether such credit point compensation can be awarded.