List of Finnish varsities that offer world-class education

If you want to head to Finland, we have a list of varsities that offer world-class education, writes Joanna Kumpula
Finland has been known for decades as the leading country for primary and secondary level education. Lately, it has made a mark in higher education as well.
Finland's universities are known to be among the best performing across the world.Looking at the size of the country, it has made remarkable growth in the education sector, with 13 universities for general studies and 23 universities for applied sciences. The colleges are well connected and offer a number of courses that are relevant for international students.
FINLAND'S HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS
Majority of the higher education institutions are based in larger Finnish cities and towns such as Helsinki and Rovaniemi.
There are two types of higher education institutions in Finland - (a) Universities that offer both bachelor's and master's degrees and also scientific or artistic postgraduate degrees. The basic task of the universities is to engage in scientific research and provide the highest level of education based on it; (b) Doctoral schools, which offer postgraduate training spread across four years.

Presently, most universities are offering 300 degree programmes taught in English, and most of these are master's programmes.
Finnish Universities of Applied sciences (UAS) are mainly multidisciplinary. And regional higher education institutions, whose activities highlight their connection to working life and regional development, are tasked with providing education for professional expertise in the same. Finnish UAS mainly offer English-taught bachelor's programmes, spread across 3.5-4 years, but some English taught master's programmes are also available for those with at least two years of work experience.
STUDY IN FINLAND
Whether international students choose to study new media design, biochemistry, sustainable architecture, public health or innovation management, Finland has something for everyone. International Student Barometer Survey says that 91% of students are either satisfied or extremely satisfied with their studies in Finland.
With almost 7000 courses for the international students, all that they need to do is find their own path by searching through the options at the portal www.studyinfo.fi. Studyinfo is the official website with all the information about study programmes leading to a degree in Finland and is maintained by the Finnish National Agency for Education. Students can also apply for the study places through Studyinfo.
Each university in Finland offers a variety of scholarships for international students.
Finnish higher education scholarships for students are mostly based on merit and are usually given for the full study time.

LIFE IN FINLAND
At the moment, there are little over 20 000 international students completing their bachelor's or master's degrees. The clean and safe living environment ensures students a balanced lifestyle. Finnish university campuses are known for the modern facilities, and the extensive libraries ensure that students can find all the necessary course materials while they study.
International students have a possibility to stay and work in Finland after graduation.
Graduates can apply for residence permit for up to a year to find work. They can even apply for Finnish Startup Permit to kick start their startup career in Finland.
(The author is international marketing manager, Study in Finland)