Do you want to study in Finland for the upcoming intake? Finland is known for having the best education system in the world. They have carefully curated a way of teaching and learning that is as good as, if not better than, most other countries. Finland is the 8th most educated country in the world.
In this blog, we will discuss Finland’s education system for international students. If you are interested in studying abroad in Finland, this guidance will help you a lot.
Five facts about the education system in Finland
Do you know why the Finnish education system is the best in the world? Let’s learn the top 5 facts about Finland’s education system.
- Finnish students spend only 20 hours a week at school.
- After every 45 minutes of learning in schools, Finnish students get to spend every 15 minutes playing or doing leisure activities.
- Students get to learn new things in schools from baking and industrial works to music and poetry.
- The only mandatory test that Finnish students give is at the age of 16.
- The Finnish schools have mixed ability classes to nurture diverse interests and hobbies.
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Ranking of Finnish Education System
Finland is one of the top countries for studying. Let’s look at some of the rankings it has achieved:
- Finland is the 8th most educated country in the world.
- In 2021, it ranked 3rd in education with a score of 1.631K.
- Finland also has the highest high school graduation rate.
- According to the World Economic Forum, Finland has the best-developed education system in the world.
Finland’s Education System
Are you interested in the Finnish education system? In Finland, Compulsory education applies to all 6–18-year-olds. It includes pre-primary, primary, lower secondary and upper secondary education. After 9 years of basic education, there is general upper secondary or vocational upper secondary education and training.
However, Finland’s education system curriculum consists of 7 parts. Such as-
- Early childhood education and care
- Pre-primary education
- Primary and lower secondary education (basic education)
- General upper secondary education
- Vocational education
- Higher education
- Adult education
Higher Education System in Finland
The Finnish higher education system consists of two types of institutions: universities and universities of applied sciences. Universities focus on teaching and research, and they have the authority to award doctoral degrees, the highest level of academic achievement. On the other hand, universities of applied sciences provide professional education across various fields and emphasise practical research and development.
Higher education in Finland uses a credit system to measure studies. One year of full-time study is about 1600 hours of work for a student and equals 60 credits. This system follows the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS).
In Finland, higher education qualifications are categorised into levels 6, 7, and 8. These levels match both the National Qualifications Framework and the European Qualifications Framework.
Why is Finland Considered the Best Education System?
Finland is considered the best country for education in the world. In 2018, the literacy rate in Finland was 99.0%. Which is comparatively higher than the countries with the best education. The best fact about education in Finland is that their school education is 100% state-funded.
Let’s explore reasons for why Finland’s education system is the best-
- Free education is available for Finnish citizens and people from EU/EEA countries, from preschool to university. This is because everyone has an equal right to education.
- The Finland education system focuses on fairness rather than competition. There are no standardised tests; instead, teachers create their grading systems and the Ministry of Education monitors overall progress by sampling different schools.
- Children in Finland start school at age seven. Before that, their learning is unstructured and playful.
- Teachers in Finland need to have a master’s degree from special teaching schools. Each teacher is assigned a principal who helps them improve. Which makes Finland one of the best countries in the world for education.
- Schools do not compete with each other. Instead, they work together to ensure all students get a good education.
What are the Problems with Finland’s Education System?
One of the biggest problems that international students face in Finland is the language barrier. Even though most Finnish people speak English, the main language used in most universities and colleges is Finnish. This can be a big challenge for international students who don’t know Finnish. Finland is known for being expensive, which can be tough for students from other countries. Tuition fees, housing, and everyday costs can add up quickly, making it hard to manage money.
Final Words
As an international student planning to study in Finland, you will need a valid passport and a visa to enter the country. A single-entry visa allows you to enter the Schengen area once and stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. A double-entry visa lets you enter the Schengen area twice within the same 180-day period. So, if you want to apply for a Finland student visa, you can always contact AIMS Education.
FAQ
Why is Finland considered the best education system?
Ans: This praise comes from its special way that focuses on fairness, students feeling good, and a belief that less is often better. Unlike many school systems, Finland really values play and creativity. They make sure that kids don’t start formal school until they’re a bit older.
Is school education free in Finland?
Ans: Free education is available for Finnish citizens and people from EU/EEA countries, from preschool to university.
What is Finland’s method of education?
Ans: In Finland, schools prioritise learning over testing. Unlike some countries, Finland doesn’t have national tests for young students in basic subjects. Instead, teachers assess students based on what they should learn according to the curriculum.
How long is school in Finland a day?
Ans: Finnish students spend only 20 hours a week at school. Students typically spend only about five hours a day in the classroom.
Are there exams in Finland?
Ans: The only mandatory test that Finnish students give is at the age of 16.
Which country has the best education system?
Ans: Some countries have the best education system in the UK, USA, Germany, Finland, Poland, Denmark, etc.
What is the Finnish model of education?
Ans: In Finland’s education system, learning is more important than testing. Unlike many other countries, there are no regular national exams. Instead, teachers evaluate students based on what they’ve learned from the curriculum.
