Education System in Finland

The Finnish education system is composed of 9-year basic education, preceded by one year of voluntary pre-primary education; upper secondary education, comprising vocational and general education; and higher education, provided by universities and universities of applied sciences.

HIGHER EDUCATION

The Finnish higher education system consists of two complementary sectors: 16 universities and 25 universities of applied sciences. The mission of universities is to conduct scientific research and provide instruction and postgraduate education based on it. Universities of applied sciences train professionals in response to labour market needs and conduct R&D which supports instruction and promotes regional development in particular. Universities of applies sciences are multi-field regional institutions focusing on contacts with working life and on regional development.