Finland, often ranked as the world’s happiest country, beckons with its high standard of living, exceptional education, and wealth of opportunities. Suppose you’re a student from Pakistan dreaming of studying in this picturesque land of lakes and forests. In that case, this step-by-step guide will make your journey to obtaining a Finland Study Visa a reality. Here’s everything you need to know to obtain your study visa.
Why Finland for Study?
Finland – The Happiest Country on Earth: Finland consistently ranks as one of the world’s happiest countries, ensuring a welcoming and friendly atmosphere for international students.
High Quality of Life: Finland offers a high standard of living with excellent healthcare and safety, providing a comfortable environment for students.
High-Quality Education: Finnish universities are renowned for their quality education, with a strong focus on research and practical application.
Exceptional Air Quality: You’ll breathe fresh, clean air, as Finland boasts exceptional air quality.
Lucrative Wages and Income: The country offers high earning potential and an excellent income-to-expense ratio.
70% English-Speaking People: Over 70% of the population speaks English fluently, making it easy for international students to communicate.
University Intakes and High-Demand Degrees in Finland
Finland is home to 13 research-based and 23 applied science universities, combining theoretical and practical education.
University Intakes
Finland offers one major intake in Fall/Sept, with application deadlines from October to January. Some programs may have limited courses available in the Winter/Jan intake.
High-Demand Degrees
When considering your program, focus on high-demand degree options, including:
- Computer Science and IT
- Engineering and Technology
- Business and Management
- Nursing
- Education and Training
- Natural Sciences
Admission Requirements: Undergraduate and Postgraduate Programs in Finland Study Visa
Now, let’s explore the documents you need to secure admission:
- For Undergraduate Programs: You’ll require attested marksheets (MOFA+ IBCC+ BOARD+ HEC), IELTS scores (if needed), a CV, and a white background picture.
- For Postgraduate Programs: In addition to the above, you’ll need Letters of Recommendation (LOR), a Letter of Motivation (crucial for admission), work experience documentation (if applicable), and another white background picture.
English Proficiency Test Requirements in Finland
Good news is many colleges does not necessarily demand IELTS or any such language proficiency tests. You can check for entry requirements on university’s official website for more clarity. For graduate admission, IELTS overall score should be 6.5, with no less than 5.5 in each module. For PTE, a score of 61 is required, with no less than 54 in the writing section. Undergraduate admission generally requires an IELTS score of 6, though requirements may vary by program and university.
Entrance Marks Requirements for Pakistani students
Entry-level percentage criteria are essential, with at least 50% marks in your intermediate or 12th standard needed for undergraduate admissions. For postgraduate studies, you must have at least 55% (equivalent to a 2.3 GPA) in your undergraduate degree. However, remember that these percentages vary by college, so consult the university’s official website for specific requirements.
Simplifying the College Application Process and Fees in Finland for Study Visa
College Application Process
To streamline your college application, you can utilize the joint application system. This system allows you to apply to up to six colleges for master’s or seven for bachelor’s programs.
It’s accessible through Studyinfo.fi. However, please note that admissions typically open once a year for the Fall/Sept intake. Suppose you intend to apply for the Winter/Jan intake. In that case, you must apply separately through the open route system on the university’s official website.
College Application Fees
Colleges typically don’t charge application fees, but some might. Fees can vary from university to university, so check their official websites for specific requirements.
Conditional Offer Letter
If you are still waiting to receive result cards or need IELTS scores, you can apply and receive a conditional offer letter. A conditional offer states conditions you must fulfil to receive an unconditional offer letter.
Entrance Exams and Interviews
You may need to pass an entrance exam before being admitted to an undergraduate program. Universities might also conduct interviews for Master’s program selection.
Understanding Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Average Tuition Fees
Finland offers affordable education, with average tuition fees typically ranging from €5,000 to €9,000 per year for bachelor’s degrees and €10,000 to €15,000 per year for master’s degrees. Remember that tuition fees can vary significantly between universities. Hence, referring to the university’s official website for accurate information is essential.
Scholarships in Abundance
Finnish institutions are renowned for their generosity with scholarships. Upon admission, you might automatically qualify for scholarships that can shave off a significant portion of your tuition expenses.
Fast-Track Your Degree
Suppose you want to complete your degree early by taking more credits per semester. In that case, many universities offer a 50% scholarship on tuition fees. It’s a fantastic opportunity to save and fast-track your academic journey.
Paying Tuition Fees
Once you receive your offer letter, the next step is to pay your complete tuition fee upfront, depending on the percentage of scholarship you’ve been awarded.
Visa Application: Your Gateway to Finland
Documents Required for Finland Study Visa
Obtaining a student visa for Finland involves presenting several documents, including:
- Proof of enrollment or a letter of acceptance from your university
- Passport
- Statement of purpose
- Proof of financial stability
- Academic and work documents
- Police clearance certificate
- Travel health insurance with a coverage minimum of €120,000 per year and at least one year of validity
- Tuition fee receipt or certificate of awarded scholarships
- Medical certificate
- Family registration certificate (FRC)
Cost of Finland Study Visa Application
The cost of a Finnish student visa application is €350.
Bank Statement for Finland Study Visa Application
You need to provide a bank statement that is at least three months old and shows a balance of €8,000 to cover your living expenses in Finland for one year and the remaining tuition fee. Ensure that the account is a personal student account.
Bringing Family on a Finland Study Visa
You can bring your dependents alongside your study visa permit, but you’ll need to show additional financial stability. If you’re going with your spouse, you must demonstrate €16,000 in a bank statement. If you’re bringing a child, you need to show them €5,000 in a bank statement.
Visa Application Process
Finland Study Visa File Steps
While Finland doesn’t have an embassy in Pakistan, many students opt to apply through the Abu Dhabi embassy. Here’s a brief overview of the process:
- Apply for biometrics and an embassy appointment at VFS Global Abu Dhabi online. VFS charges around €79 for an appointment to attend the interview in Abu Dhabi.
- Fill out the online application at enterfinland.fi, upload all your documents, and pay the necessary fees.
- Travel to Abu Dhabi to attend your visa interview, taking all the required documents with you.
- Return to Pakistan and await the decision. Remember, there’s no visa stamped in your passport. Instead, if accepted, you’ll receive a residence permit card that allows you to travel.
Visa Processing Time of Finland Study Visa
The processing time for your visa application takes approximately two weeks. If your application is accepted, receiving your residence permit card will take an additional 14 days.
Work Opportunities in Finland
Working Hours for Students
As a student, you can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year. However, during the summer holidays, you can work unlimited hours. It’s an excellent opportunity to gain experience and support your finances while studying in Finland.
Postgraduate Work Options for Pakistani Students
Upon completing your studies, you’ll have the opportunity to stay in Finland and search for employment. Finland offers a generous two-year postgraduate work permit to help you find a job related to your field.
Conclusion:
Securing an Finland Study Visa demands precision, preparation, and professional expertise. With Believers Visa Consultants, you’re not only ensuring a smooth application process but also enriching your journey with insights that empower you every step of the way. Book a free consultation now with Believers Visa Consultants, and let’s turn your Finnish dreams into reality.