How to Apply to Vamia Finland: International Student Guide (2025-2027)

Thinking about vocational training in Finland? Vamia, a multidisciplinary vocational education organization in Vaasa, offers several programs taught entirely in English for international students. This guide summarizes the key information you need to know about applying, based on Vamia’s official guidelines.

Important Note: Vamia does not charge tuition fees for these vocational qualifications. However, be aware that living and housing costs in Finland are high, and you must ensure you have sufficient funds for your entire study period.

English-Language Programs Offered:

Vamia offers the following vocational qualifications for international students:

• Cook: (Next start likely January 2026 or August 2026, based on application periods)
• Waiter/Waitress: (Next start January 2026)
• Machinist: (Next start August 2026)
• Plater-Welder: (Next start August 2027)

These programs have a scope of 180 ECVET competence points and are planned to last 3 years, involving daytime contact teaching.

Who Can Apply? (Entry Requirements)

Vamia accepts applicants of all nationalities who meet the following criteria:

1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old when your studies begin (no upper age limit).
2. Education: You need a qualification equivalent to Finnish basic education (nine years of schooling). You’ll need scans/photos of your original certificates (or notarized translations in English, Finnish, or Swedish).
3. English Proficiency: You must provide a valid Duolingo English Test certificate with a minimum score of 85.
   • The test is valid for two years.
   • Register and take the test via the Duolingo English Test website.
   • Choose “Vamia” as your school when registering.
   • Attach the certificate file to your application.
   • Crucially: Vamia accepts only the Duolingo English Test as proof of language skill. No other tests, diplomas, or qualifications are accepted, and this requirement cannot be waived. Vouchers are not provided.
4. Identification: You need a valid passport or personal ID card (a copy must be attached to the application).
5. General Suitability: You should demonstrate:
   • Necessary qualifications for the chosen field.
   • An educational need.
   • Motivation to study.
   • Suitability for the tasks involved in the profession.
   • Sufficient health for the chosen field.

Meeting all requirements does not automatically guarantee admission.

Application Periods (Planned Schedule)

Applications are only accepted during specific periods via the studyinfo.fi website. A link will appear on the Vamia “How to Apply” page when a period opens. You cannot apply or complete an application outside these windows.

The planned upcoming application periods are:

• November 2025: For Cook, Waiter/Waitress, and Machinist programs starting in August 2026.
• April 2025: (As listed in the provided information) For Cook, Waiter/Waitress programs starting in January 2027.
• November 2026: For Cook, Waiter/Waitress, and Plater-welder programs starting in August 2027.

(Note: An application period for Cook/Waiter/Waitress starting Jan 2026 recently closed on April 11, 2025).

The Application Procedure Step-by-Step:

1. Wait for the Application Period: The online form is only accessible during the dates listed above on studyinfo.fi. Find the direct link on Vamia’s site when available.
2. Choose One Program: You can only apply to one English-language program per application period.
3. Fill the Form: Complete the application accurately. There is no application fee.
4. Upload Documents: Upload all required documents (educational certificates, passport/ID scan, Duolingo test certificate) during the application period. PDF format is recommended.
   • A work/employment certificate is not mandatory.
   • A motivational letter is not required.
5. Submit: Once submitted, you should receive a confirmation email from no-reply@opintopolku.fi.
6. Selection Process:
   • Applications are scored (Vamia does not disclose the specific scoring model).
   • Diversity of the applicant group is also considered.
   • Approximately 40-50 top-scoring applicants will be invited to online Teams interviews.
   • Final student selection (20-25 students per program) is based on these interviews, focusing on selecting the most suitable candidates.
7. Results: All applicants will be notified of the admission results (whether selected or not) approximately 2-3 months after the application period closes.

If You Are Accepted:

1. Admission Letter: Selected students receive an official admission letter.
2. Residence Permit: Immediately apply for a student residence permit through the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri – check their website for details). This process can take months, so start right away! You will need to prove you have sufficient funds for your living expenses.
3. Health Documents: Visit a doctor in your home country to obtain required health documents:
   • Laboratory test results.
   • Results from a Thorax (lung) X-ray (report/results only, not the actual photographs).
   • Doctor’s Statement T.
   Send these documents to the Vamia School Nurse before coming to Finland.
4. Prepare for Arrival: You’ll receive an email about the start of studies approximately 2 months beforehand. Plan to arrive in Vaasa well in advance.
5. Starting Studies: The first week includes orientation. The school provides necessary work uniforms. Students in Restaurant and Catering Services will need to take a Salmonella test in Vaasa.

Key Things to Remember:

• Vamia staff cannot assist with filling out applications.
• Application deadlines are strict.
• The Duolingo English Test (minimum 85 points) is the only accepted proof of English proficiency.
• Living costs in Finland are high; budget accordingly.
• Successful application requires meeting criteria, scoring well, and performing well in the interview.

For More Information:

Always refer to the official Vamia website for the most up-to-date details: vamia.fi/en

Check the “How to Apply”, “FAQ”, and “Studying” sections on their site.

Contact VamiaGuide via email: vamiaguide@vamia.fi

Great news! The application window is now open for English-taught degree programs starting in January 2025 at Finnish universities and universities of applied sciences (UAS). Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate the process:

Application Period:

• August 28th – September 11th, 2024: This is your opportunity to apply! Visit Studyinfo.fi to access the application portal.

What You Can Apply For:

• Up to 6 Programs: Use the joint application system to apply to multiple programs. You can choose programs from different universities/UAS and across various fields of interest.

Finding Your Perfect Program:

• Studyinfo.fi Database: This is your one-stop shop for finding English-taught programs available in this application round.
• Program Descriptions: Get detailed information about eligibility requirements, scholarship options, and specific application details directly through Studyinfo.fi.

How to Apply:

1. Joint Application Instructions: Follow the step-by-step instructions provided on Studyinfo.fi to guide you through the application process.
2. University/UAS Contact: If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to reach out directly to the institutions you’re interested in.

Scholarships:

• Non-EU Students: Many universities and UAS offer scholarships for talented students from outside the EU. You can usually apply for these scholarships at the same time as you apply for your program.

Upcoming Application Rounds:

• January 8th – 22nd, 2025: This is the application period for English-taught Bachelor’s and Master’s programs starting in September 2025.
• Separate Applications: Some universities may have separate application periods outside of the joint application system. Check their websites for specific deadlines, as some may start as early as late 2024.

Understanding the Joint Application System:

• Benefits: You can apply to multiple programs with just one application!
• Application Preferences:
  • Autumn Application (including this one): You must rank your chosen programs in order of preference. You can only be accepted into one program based on your ranking and meeting the program requirements.
  • Spring Application (English-taught): No ranking is needed. You might receive offers from multiple programs and can choose which one to accept.

Additional Information:

• Supplementary Application Rounds: If there are unfilled spots after the primary application round, there might be a second chance to apply. More details will be available closer to the date.
• Finnish/Swedish Programs: These programs require proficiency in the respective language. Check the website for details on the application period in March 2025.

Ready to Start Your Finnish Study Adventure?

Visit Studyinfo.fi to explore your options and begin your application. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact the universities or UAS. Good luck with your application!