Study Finland

From August 2026, Finland will begin offering upper secondary education in English—a landmark reform that directly benefits the children of international students and foreign professionals living in the country. For the first time, students can complete Finland’s prestigious matriculation exams in English, breaking the language barrier that has long limited opportunities.

Why This Reform Matters for International Families

Secondary education is one of the most important stages in a child’s academic journey. It not only prepares them for higher education but also develops the critical skills needed for today’s global job market. For Families of international students in Finland, the new English-language pathway means:

• Equal Access to Quality Education – Children who lack Finnish or Swedish skills can now progress confidently through upper secondary school.
• University Readiness – Passing the matriculation exam in English ensures eligibility for Finnish universities and many international study programs.
• Smooth Family Integration – Parents relocating for work can focus on careers, knowing their children won’t face educational setbacks due to language barriers.
• Future Career Advantages – Students benefit from Finland’s globally recognized education system while studying in the world’s most widely spoken academic language.

Who Can Apply?

The new English-language track will be open to students already living in Finland whose Finnish or Swedish skills are deemed insufficient. Schools, particularly in major urban centres with diverse student populations, will be the first to offer this program starting in 2026. The English matriculation exams will be available from 2028.

A Step Toward a More Inclusive Finland

This reform reflects Finland’s commitment to attracting international experts and supporting returning Finnish families. By removing language barriers at the secondary level, Finland is making itself a stronger choice for global professionals considering relocation.

For international parents, this change sends a powerful message: Finland is not only investing in your career opportunities but also in your children’s future success.

More information:https://www.helsinkitimes.fi/themes/themes/education/27564-finland-to-introduce-english-language-secondary-schooling-in-2026.html

Finland is actively seeking skilled professionals in the following areas:

• Healthcare: Nurses, doctors, and other medical staff.
• Information Technology: Software developers, data analysts, and cybersecurity experts.
• Skilled Trades: Electricians, plumbers, and construction workers.
• Engineering: Mechanical, civil, and electrical engineers.
• Education: Teachers, especially in STEM subjects.

These sectors are experiencing significant labor shortages, presenting ample opportunities for foreign workers to obtain work-based residence permits .

Discover over 10,000 job openings across Finland on leading online platforms kaikkityopaikat, featuring diverse roles such as jet engine mechanics, project specialists, teachers, and more. These listings highlight the vast career opportunities available in multiple regions, catering to professionals across various industries.

More information: https://kaikkityopaikat.fi/

With Finland’s universities welcoming more international students than ever before, finding affordable and convenient housing has become more competitive. Whether you’re heading to Helsinki, Tampere, or Turku, applying early for your student accommodation is now more important than ever.

Why Apply Early?

• Increased demand: Growing international student intake means fewer available rooms.
• Better options: Early applicants get priority in choosing housing types and locations.
• Peace of mind: Securing a place before arrival reduces stress and helps you settle quickly.

What Accommodation Options Are Available?

• Student Housing Foundations – Budget-friendly and student-focused providers such as HOAS, TOAS, and TYS.
• University Dormitories – On-campus or nearby housing offered directly by some universities.
• Private Rentals & Shared Apartments – Flexible options for independence or lower costs.

When Should You Apply?

• Apply as soon as you receive your admission letter. Most housing providers operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
• For popular cities like Helsinki and Tampere, apply 3–6 months before your arrival to increase your chances of securing affordable housing.

More information : https://finlandstudy.com/plan-your-studies/

Starting in 2025, Finland will overhaul its university entrance exam system by replacing separate tests with nine streamlined national entrance exams. This major reform, led by the Finnish Universities Rectors’ Council (UNIFI), aims to simplify the application process, allowing students to apply for multiple study fields and universities using the same exam.

The new reform is designed to reduce applicant stress, improve accessibility to higher education, and prevent overlapping exam schedules. Students applying during the second joint application period in spring can choose up to six programs, and with fewer exams, it becomes realistic to apply for multiple fields without the burden of excessive preparation.

The entrance exams will focus on evaluating skills and the ability to understand and apply material provided during the exam, with significantly less advance reading. Only essential preparatory content—mainly aligned with upper secondary education—will be required, and it will be released just days before the exam.

Applicants selected through certificate-based admissions won’t need to take the entrance exams at all. Finalised details and selection criteria will be available on Opintopolku.fi and Yliopistovalinnat.fi  This reform supports educational equality, regional mobility, and a more student-friendly university admissions process in Finland.

More information:https://www.helsinki.fi/fi/uutiset/yliopisto/yliopistojen-valintakokeet-uudistuvat-2025-hakeminen-useammalle-koulutusalalle-helpottuu?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Starting 1 August 2025, international students will receive a student housing supplement instead of the general housing allowance, which ends on 31 July 2025. This does not apply to students living with their child or partner’s child—they can still apply for the general housing allowance.

To qualify for the housing supplement:

• You must live in rented or right-of-occupancy housing.
• You must be eligible for student financial aid.
• The supplement is paid only for active study months and shares the same income limit as student aid.

Additional details:

• It’s a personal benefit—each student must apply individually via OmaKela e-service.
• Payments begin from 1 August 2025.
• The supplement is paid only to your own bank account, not to landlords.