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MBA in Finland for International Students

Updated on 08 November, 2023

Pragya Sharma

Pragya Sharma

Sr. Content Editor

Study in Finland

Do you know Finland is a great option if you want to pursue management or entrepreneurship? It is known for its innovation and start-up culture, making it an ideal destination for students interested in entrepreneurship. According to the Global Innovation Index 2022, Finland is ranked 9th globally for innovation, with strengths in human capital and research and development. Let us take an in-depth look at the prospects of pursuing an MBA in Finland.

MBA in Finland: An Overview

MBA in Finland for international students is gaining increasing popularity worldwide. According to the data from the Finnish National Agency for Education, there were 1,579 international degree students studying business and administration in Finland, representing a 7% increase from the previous year. Of these international students, India was among the top five countries of origin.

Finland's business schools are ranked among the top in the world. According to the QS Rankings, Aalto University School of Business in Helsinki, Finland, is ranked 25th in Europe. Its AACSB, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, a prestigious international accreditation for business schools, also accredits the MBA program at this university.

Finland offers a welcoming and inclusive society, which makes MBA in Finland for Indian students an attractive destination. The cost of living in Finland is also relatively affordable compared to other European countries, with various scholarship options available to support international students.

Duration & Course Structure of MBA in Finland

The MBA program in Finland is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the global business landscape, critical thinking skills, and the practical tools necessary to succeed in the business world. The course structure of an MBA program in Finland may vary depending on the university and program selected. However, in general, most MBA programs follow a similar structure.

  • An MBA program typically lasts two years, with the first year focused on core business concepts such as accounting, finance, marketing, strategy, operations, and leadership
  • In the second year, students can choose from various elective courses that align with their career aspirations and interests. 
  • Some programs may also offer specializations in entrepreneurship, innovation, sustainability, or international business.
  • Many programs incorporate study trips or internships as a part of their curriculum, providing students with practical experience in the Finnish business environment. 

Eligibility for MBA in Finland

The admission requirements differ based on the institution to which the student is applying. Some common requirements are listed below:

1.A bachelor's degree in any field is required for admission to the program.

2.2 – 5 years of relevant professional experience.

3.A high level of spoken and written English proficiency. Acceptable language tests with minimum score test are as below:

4.Student visas and related documentation are obligatory.

Application Cycle

Though the application deadlines may differ from university to university. In general, the deadline for those who have a residence permit in Finland is as follows:

  • For batch commencing in January 2024, you must apply before 31.7.2023 
  • For  the one starting in May 2024, you must apply before 31.10.2023 

The below table illustrates a general academic year cycle at most universities.

Academic year 2023/24Study Plan
18.09.2023Welcome week for September intake; studies start
25.09.2023Fall term 2023 - Fall Trimester starts
18.12.2023 to 07.01.2024Winter break
8.01.2024Trimester continues
26.01.2024Trimester ends 
22.01.2024Welcome week for January intake; studies start
29.01.2024Spring term 2023 - Spring Trimester starts
25.03.2024 to 07.04.24Spring break
26.05.2024Trimester ends
20.05.2024Welcome week for May intake; studies start
27.05.2024Summer term 2023 - Summer Trimester start
8.07.2024 to 21.07.24Summer break
22.09.2024Trimester ends

How to Apply for MBA in Finland

To apply for an MBA program in Finland, you must first research and choose the universities and programs that best fit your needs and interests. 

  • Once you have decided on the program, check the admission requirements and application deadlines. 
  • You will have to submit an online application form. 
  • You may also need to take standardized tests like the GMAT or GRE
  • After submitting your application, you may be invited to an interview or assessment. 
  • Finally, if you are accepted into the program, you will need to complete the necessary paperwork for a student visa and insurance that will provide coverage for the entire duration of your stay and arrange your travel & accommodation in Finland.

Top Universities for MBA in Finland

Name of the University

QS WUR 2024*

Total Program Cost**

Aalto University School of Business

109

30 000 Euro (+VAT)
University of Helsinki Business School

115

29500 Euro (+VAT)
Turku School of Economics

=315

20 000 Euro (+VAT)
Jyväskylä University School of Business and Economics

=446

37,000 Euro (+VAT)
Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology (LUT)

=351

27,000 Euro (+VAT)
University of Oulu Business School

=313

24,000 Euro (+VAT)
Tampere University

=436

21600 Euro (+VAT)

*www.topuniversities.com  

**indicative fees, as mentioned on the universities’ websites

Salary & Scope After Completing MBA in Finland

Completing an MBA in Finland can provide various career opportunities in both domestic and international job markets. The average salary after an MBA in Finland is around 61,000 Euros. Here are some potential career paths for MBA graduates in Finland: 

1.Management and leadership roles: 

MBA graduates can pursue leadership roles in various industries and organizations, including corporate, government, and non-profit sectors. These roles can include positions such as CEOs, COOs, and other C-level executives. 

2.Consulting: 

MBA graduates can work as management consultants, providing advice and recommendations to businesses on issues such as strategy, operations, and finance. 

3.Entrepreneurship: 

MBA graduates can use their knowledge and skills to start their businesses as sole proprietors or collaborate with other entrepreneurs. 

4.Finance and banking: 

MBA graduates with a specialization in finance can pursue careers in investment banking, venture capital, private equity, and other financial services. 

5.Marketing and sales: 

MBA graduates with a specialization in marketing can pursue careers in advertising, brand management, sales, and customer relationship management.

 6.International business: 

MBA graduates with an international focus can work in multinational companies, global consulting firms, or international organizations.

Conclusion

An MBA from Finland can provide graduates with a broad range of skills and knowledge that can be applied across various industries and sectors, providing them with numerous career opportunities worldwide. 

Read here to know more about admission requirements and post study work visa options in Finland.

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FAQs

Is a scholarship available for students doing MBA in Finland?

Yes, scholarships are available and vary for every university. You can check the government’s official website or universities’ websites for more details. 

Is MBA free in Finland for Indian students?

Studying in Finland is free for EU/EEA and Switzerland students. Indian students will have to pay the program fees, but you can check if you’re eligible for scholarships to get your studies fully or partially funded.

Can Indian students get PR in Finland?

Once you complete living in Finland for four years, you can start applying for permanent residency in Finland.

Pragya Sharma

Sr. Content Editor

Pragya Sharma is a content developer and marketer with 6.5+ years of experience in the education industry. She started her career as a social media copywriter for NIELIT, Ministry of Electronics & IT, and has now scaled up as a 360-degree content professional well-versed with the intricacies of digital marketing and different forms of content used to drive and hook the target audience. She is also a co-author of 2 stories in an anthology based on the theme- women empowerment.

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