Autumn admissions drop to 45,000 applicants for Finnish universities of applied sciences

On September 11, around 45,000 applicants participated in the autumn admissions round for Finnish universities of applied sciences. This number has decreased by about 11,000 compared to last year, aligning with figures from 2022. The decline is primarily attributed to weakened interest among foreign applicants.

Among the participants were Tanja Yrttiaho-Lindgren and Joni Raunio, both of whom are anxiously awaiting news about their potential admission to nursing programs. Their top choice for studies is multi-modal education at Tampere University of Applied Sciences (TAMK). Raunio, 35, noted, “If I get into Tampere, I can continue working at my current apprenticeship. However, I’ve also applied to other universities, including Seinäjoki.”

This autumn’s admissions process offered 10,300 study spots across 325 programs, with 306 being in universities of applied sciences and 19 in universities. The most competitive program was the English-language Bachelor of Business Administration at Haaga-Helia, followed by an English-language nursing program for immigrants at Metropolia.

Both applicants are seeking higher education to further their careers. Yrttiaho-Lindgren, 51, is completing her nursing qualification and has a background in safety and hospitality sectors, along with experience in health-related projects. She emphasized the importance of formal qualifications for career opportunities.

Raunio, who previously worked as a sheet metal worker and office secretary, found a recruitment training program that allows him to study nursing via an apprenticeship. He expressed satisfaction with the arrangement, which enables him to work while studying.

Both are motivated by positive feedback from clients and colleagues, highlighting their eagerness for advanced training and career development in the healthcare field.