Lana Oconnell
Finland is a popular European destination for international students due to its free-tuition policies, high-quality education standards, and the importance its universities place on research and practical training. However, this may not be the case for international students from outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, who may be required to pay tuition fees for English-taught degree programs. For example, the University of Turku, which offers a highly ranked nursing program, charges tuition fees ranging from US$8,869 to US$13,303 per academic year for its bachelor's and master's programs. On the other hand, Diak University, Finland's largest provider of UAS-level education in social work and healthcare, offers a Bachelor of Health Care, Nursing program for US$13,303 per academic year. For international students interested in studying nursing in Finland, it is important to consider the cost of living in addition to tuition fees, as financing one's stay and studies through work is not possible.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nursing degree duration | 3.5 years |
| Language of instruction | English, Finnish, Swedish |
| Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students | 1,500 EUR/year to 15,000 EUR/year |
| Tuition fees for EU students | Free |
| Administrative fees | 100-350 EUR/semester |
| Student union fees | 30-60 EUR/semester |
| Student visa requirements | Proof of accepted study place, proof of financial means, health insurance |
| Nursing schools in Finland | Laurea, Metropolia University, Centria University, Arcada University, University of Turku, Kajaani University of Applied Sciences, Oulu University of Applied Sciences |
What You'll Learn
Nursing programmes in Finland are taught in English
The University of Arcada offers a range of bachelor's and master's degree programmes, including in healthcare. The university's nursing programme is taught in English, with the option to learn Finnish at the same time. Similarly, Centria University of Applied Sciences (CUAS) offers a Bachelor of Health Care, Nursing, which is taught in English.
Lapland University also offers nursing programmes, with three campuses based in different towns across Finland. The university provides a wide range of educational programmes, including degrees in the field of health.
Another option is Laurea University, which offers a nursing degree programme taught in English. This programme is offered as a daytime programme and requires full-time study.
It is important to note that while nursing programmes in Finland are taught in English, some higher-level courses may be taught in Finnish or Swedish. Additionally, non-native English speakers may be asked to provide a certificate proving English proficiency.
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Finland's universities of applied sciences
In Finland, public universities are divided into two categories: regular universities and universities of applied sciences. The latter are higher education institutions that focus on applied training and research. Finland's universities of applied sciences offer a range of English-taught programmes, including nursing.
Finland, Norway, and Germany are popular European study destinations for international students due to their free-tuition policies, high-quality education standards, and the importance universities place on research and practical training. However, Finland's free tuition policy only applies to students from EU/EEA countries and Switzerland. Non-EU/EEA students enrolling in English-taught degrees are typically required to pay tuition fees, which can range from €1,500 to €15,000 per year.
One example of a Finnish university of applied sciences is Diak, which offers bachelor's and master's degree programmes in English, including a Bachelor of Health Care, Nursing. The bachelor's programme at Diak costs US$13,303 per academic year. Another option is Centria University of Applied Sciences (CUAS), which has three campuses in the Ostrobothnian regions (Kokkola, Pietarsaari, and Ylivieska) and offers a range of English-taught programmes. The cost of an undergraduate education at CUAS is around US$10,532 per academic year, while a master's degree will cost approximately US$11,086 per year.
Other universities of applied sciences in Finland that offer nursing programmes include Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, which offers a Bachelor of Health Care, Nursing, taught bilingually in English and Finnish. Tampere University of Applied Sciences also offers a bilingual Bachelor's degree in Nursing aimed at immigrants hoping to enter the Finnish labour market. This programme costs €12,000 per academic year.
It is important to note that while some nursing programmes in Finland are taught in English, fluency in Finnish may be necessary for those who plan to do clinical practice in the country. Additionally, prior learning from other higher education institutions may be recognised as part of nursing studies at universities of applied sciences.
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Finland's tuition fees for non-EU/EEA students
Tuition Fees for Non-EU/EEA Students in Finland
Finland is a popular European destination for international students due to its free-tuition policies, high-quality education standards, and the importance its universities place on research and practical training. However, these free-tuition policies do not extend to students from outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, who are typically required to pay tuition fees for English-taught bachelor's and master's programmes.
Tuition Fees
For non-EU/EEA students enrolling in English-taught degrees at public Finnish universities, tuition fees range from €5,000 to €15,000 per year, with the University of Helsinki being the most expensive institution. The minimum tuition fee set by the Finnish government is around €1,500 per year for bachelor's and master's programmes, but most study programmes charge tuition above this amount. Private universities in Finland typically charge higher fees.
Additional Costs
In addition to tuition fees, non-EU/EEA students studying in Finland should also budget for living costs, which can be relatively high. The Finnish Immigration Service Migri recommends a minimum of €800 per month, but it is advisable to budget for €900-€1,000 per month to cover food, accommodation, and travel expenses. Students must also pay an annual student union fee of about €50-€70, which grants access to discounts on services such as student restaurants and public transport. Additionally, students utilizing the Finnish Student Health Service FSHS are required to pay an annual healthcare fee of around €70.
Scholarships and Discounts
Some Finnish universities offer scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition for non-EU/EEA students. For example, the University of Turku awards scholarships to approximately 30% of admitted students. Metropolia University of Applied Sciences (Metropolia UAS) offers an Early Bird discount on tuition fees for applicants who accept their study places within a specified timeframe.
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Finnish language courses are compulsory
Finland is a great country to pursue a bachelor's degree in nursing as the majority of the programs are taught in English. However, Finnish language courses are compulsory for nursing students at some universities, such as Laurea University of Applied Sciences. This is because fluency in Finnish is necessary for those who choose to do clinical practice in Finland.
Laurea University of Applied Sciences is the largest educator of nurses in Finland. Their nursing programme is taught in English, and students work in multicultural and diverse student groups. The nursing studies are practical and contain lectures, workshops, and simulation exercises. As a registered nurse, you will work for the holistic well-being of individuals, their families, and other groups. Promoting and maintaining good health, as well as preventing and treating illnesses, will be your main interests. Good interaction and communication skills are required in nursing.
Degree studies at Laurea consist of core competence studies, which are obligatory for all students, and complementary studies that allow students to deepen or extend their knowledge. There are seven work placements where students work with their future colleagues in various healthcare settings, developing professional skills and the nursing profession.
Finland's public universities are divided into regular universities and universities of applied sciences. They are all tuition-free for students from the EU/EEA and Switzerland. Non-EU/EEA students enrolling in English-taught degrees are required to pay tuition fees, which can range from 5,000 to 15,000 EUR/year. However, study programmes taught in Finnish or Swedish are free for all international students. The minimum tuition fee set by the Finnish government is 1,500 EUR/year for Bachelor's and Master's programmes, but most study programmes charge higher tuition.
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Nursing degrees in Finland are recognised internationally
Finland's nursing programs are taught in English, making them accessible to international students. The University of Turku, for example, is one of the most international universities in Finland and is ranked among the top 1% of universities globally. Its nursing program is ranked #36 by QS World University Rankings by Subject. The University of Turku awards scholarships to approximately 30% of admitted students, making it a relatively affordable option for international students.
Other universities in Finland offering nursing degrees include Metropolia University, Centria University, Arcada University, and Laurea University. These universities provide a range of bachelor's and master's degree programs in nursing, with courses taught in English and Finnish. The nursing programs in Finland focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workplace.
The nursing bachelor's degree course in Finland typically lasts for 3.5 years, compared to the 3-year duration of Norwegian nursing bachelor's degree programs. This additional time allows students to gain a strong foundation in nursing knowledge and develop their clinical skills through placements and internships. The Finnish nursing curriculum is designed to meet the standards of the European Union Directive and the European Qualifications Framework, ensuring that the degree is recognised within the EU.
Graduates of Finnish nursing programs have excellent employment opportunities in Finland and abroad. They can work in a variety of settings, including inpatient wards, operating theatres, home care services, pediatric wards, and psychiatric hospitals. The Finnish nursing degree allows for comparability and employability as a nurse in other EU countries. However, for those wishing to work outside the EU/EEA area, it is essential to check the country-specific qualification requirements upon graduation.
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Frequently asked questions
No, nursing universities in Finland are not free for international students. However, there are some exceptions. For example, if you are an international student from the EU/EEA or Switzerland, you can study for free at public universities. Additionally, if you are studying in Finnish or Swedish, you may be exempt from tuition fees.
The cost of a nursing degree in Finland varies depending on the university and level of study. For example, the University of Turku charges between US$8,869 to US$13,303 per academic year for bachelor's and master's programmes. Meanwhile, Centria University of Applied Sciences (CUAS) charges around US$10,532 per academic year for undergraduate degrees and US$11,086 per academic year for master's degrees.
Yes, some universities in Finland offer scholarships to international students. For example, the University of Turku awards scholarships to approximately 30% of admitted students. Additionally, international students can apply for institution-specific scholarships or student loans to help finance their studies.
The entry requirements for international students studying nursing in Finland may vary depending on the university. However, some common requirements include a certificate proving English proficiency and prior learning or work experience in the field of nursing or a related field.
A bachelor's degree in nursing in Finland typically takes 3.5 years to complete, compared to 3 years for a similar programme in Norway. A master's degree in nursing is usually intended for practicing nurses or care workers seeking advanced knowledge and skills.
