Our team celebrated what is undeniably a major milestone in our journey to providing accessible higher education.

We ran a 5-day-long orientation webinar where we welcomed a diverse group of aspiring students and participants from all around the world. The Edunation community extended a warm welcome and heartfelt congratulations to these students.

Join us as we look into the highlights of the recent launch and orientation event. You may book a counseling session and explore the exciting opportunities that await these aspiring minds from 18 different countries as they take the first step to studying in Finland.

a new beginning for 18 nationalities

a new beginning for 18 nationalities

Our 8th intake showcased a vibrant international community, with students representing 18 different nationalities. This diversity promises a rich learning experience filled with exciting discussions, ideas, interactions, and enduring friendships.

Our 8th intake featured students from a diverse range of countries, including:

• Bangladesh
• China
• Ghana
• Hong Kong
• India
• Indonesia
• Iran
• Iraq
• Myanmar
• Nepal
• Nigeria
• Pakistan
• Philippines
• South Africa
• Sri Lanka
• Thailand
• Vietnam

Three Study Tracks, Five Destination Universities

The Pathway program offers three distinct study tracks: business, engineering & technology, and nursing & social services.

These tracks will cater to a wide range of interests and career aspirations. Students from different countries had the opportunity to choose from five prestigious destination universities in Finland, each renowned for its academic excellence and innovative approach to education.

A Journey of Growth and Transformation

The 5-day orientation webinar was not just lectures; it covered a comprehensive overview of the Pathway program, informative sessions, guest speakers, and interactive quizzes and activities.

The orientation was a whirlwind of information and excitement. We started by meeting the Pathway team and hearing a warm welcome from the Co-Founder of Edunation, Susanne Suominen.

We then looked into the program specifics, learned about the unique “Claned” learning approach, and heard from previous students about their experiences.

The following day, we got to know our teachers, learned about Finnish culture, and explored the practical aspects of our studies, from course details to residence permits. The orientation left us feeling prepared and excited for the journey ahead.

Now, students are in their second week and facing increased course-work challenges. Hence, we are monitoring their questions closely and supporting teachers with emerging issues.

Words from Susanne Suominen, Co-Founder of Edunation

Susanne Suominen, a co-founder of Edunation, delivered an inspiring welcome message to the new cohort. She shared her top five tips for maximizing the Pathway experience:

“At the moment, we’re starting our eighth pathway program today.” Drawing on our extensive experience with hundreds of students, I’d like to offer you the top five tips to maximize your pathway experience.

First one, stay curious and motivated. I would like to offer you the top five tips to maximize your pathway experience.

The second one. View challenges as opportunities. As we know, there might be some challenges. Like in life, usually there are, but you should see those as opportunities. Approach challenges with a positive mindset. Each obstacle is a lesson that prepares you for greater achievement.

Third one, adapt and learn. The pathway program is not just about academics but also about understanding Finnish teaching methods and culture. “Learning the Finnish language will enhance your academic performance, ease your integration into Finnish society, and definitely improve your job prospects.”

The fourth one, which is quite important in Finland, so punctuality matters. In Finland, punctuality is a reflection of respect, reliability and commitment. Always be on time for classes, submissions, and meetings.

And then the fifth one. Set goals, not for us but for yourself. Define what you want to achieve during this pathway program and overall in Finland. Step out of your comfort zone, engage with new people, stay informed about Finnish news, and connect with those already here in Finland.“

Now the team encourages the students to ask themselves how hard they will work to make this pathway program, telling them this is the best decision they have ever made.

We are here to support them, with an amazing team here, great teachers; and ultimately, themselves, who are responsible for how their pathway to Finland will unfold.

In the end, Sussane thanked them for participating and choosing this pathway program. Sussane also made sure that if the students feel overwhelmed right now, the entire Edunation community is here with them, hand-in-hand, to help them work towards making their dreams a reality.

Got No Clues on Where to Start? Here are 5 steps:

1. Visit our website: Edunation Website
2. Book a counseling session request: Tell us your educational background and aspirations.
3. Submit your application: Complete the online application form.
4. Meet the requirements: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.
5. Attend the orientation: Participate in the orientation sessions to learn more about the program.

Student Feedback and Experiences

Don’t just take our word for it. Let’s hear from our previous students who have successfully completed the program and achieved their academic goals:

So, Nuanat is from Thailand, and she said,

“Thank you, Edunation, for your exceptional support and guidance. Your program has been instrumental in shaping my successful academic journey in Finland. Grateful for the incredible foundation you provided.”

And Philip is from the United States and says,

“The structure of the pathway was perfect. The three and five months of studies are indeed structured well. Teachers do an excellent job in giving tasks.

Students can practice, speaking, do presentations and teamwork, like in workplaces in Finland. So these two students were among the many outstanding individual we’ve had.

They showed impressive drive and determination to succeed and life wasn’t always a bed of roses for them during their studies.

They encountered difficulties but they viewed each challenge as a chance to grow and learn. So instead of complaining whenever there’s a challenge facing them.

They try to see that as an opportunity for them to grow and learn. So rather than letting setbacks discourage them, they embrace these challenges as learning experiences, finding ways to turn them into opportunities, and we hope that their stories also inspires you, showcasing their resilience and determination.”

So these two are now in Finland together with their families, experiencing one of the world’s best educational systems and life in the happiest country on earth, and nothing is impossible if you are responsible like them.

Now, can you see the opportunity? Like what an American professional baseball teacher once said, “A man’s determination makes the difference between impossible and impossible.” So please stay persistent and never give up.

Who Knows? Your Bright Future Awaits Here! 

The Pathway to Bachelor‘s program can offer you a unique opportunity to study in one of the world’s leading educational systems. With guaranteed admission, personalized support, and a focus on cultural immersion, students are well-equipped to succeed.

We are excited to see what the future holds for this talented group of individuals. With their determination, dedication, and the support of Edunation community, we have no doubt that they will achieve great things.

We extend our warmest congratulations to the 8th Pathway to Bachelor’s intake and wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Interviews, the universal dread. We’ve all had that mix of anticipation and fear before sitting across from an interviewer.

In the Pathway to Finland program, a recent addition has been a game-changer—the focused interviews. This essential element ensures that students are on the right track and have the right mindset and expectations for success.

In this blog, we will break down the Pathway’s focus interviews. We’ll go over their structure, why they matter, how English proficiency impacts academic success in Finland, and how to prepare for each focus interview.

The Pathway to Finland’s Focus Interviews: The Quest for Purpose

Life is a constant journey of change, and the Pathway to Finland program is no exception. It continuously evolves to set higher standards and prepare international students for success in Finnish higher education.

For those unfamiliar, the Pathway to Finland program is designed to equip international students with the skills necessary for successful university studies in Finland.

However, adding focus interviews to the program raised some questions and concerns. Nevertheless, we are committed to this enhancement because we genuinely care about our students’ success and believe it will benefit them.

But what exactly are these focus interviews? Focus interviews allow students to showcase their communication skills and ensure they have the right mindset and expectations for their studies in Finland. Focus interviews are not just routine conversations. They are carefully designed to achieve specific objectives.

The questions asked during these interviews are general, covering a range of topics rather than focusing on specific subjects.

To ease the process, we’ve introduced Hireflix, a one-way interview tool that allows students to record their responses at their convenience. This approach minimizes stress compared to traditional panel interviews, helping students stay focused and relaxed.

Just as a river’s course changes over time, our Pathway students transform their journey. We are committed to preparing them for success and helping them thrive in their new life in Finland. A student’s progress from pre-Pathway to post-Pathway studies is substantial, and we aim to maximize their growth.

Focus interviews aren’t just about assessing knowledge and skills; they also teach adaptability and resilience, which are essential for success in academics and life.

understanding Focus Interviews: Their Purpose and Content

Let’s go into these interviews to uncover their purpose:

1st Focus Interview – Setting the Stage

The first focus interview is where students begin, usually during the third week of their studies. It assesses their English proficiency, explores their program expectations, and uncovers their goals upon completing pathway studies. This interview delves into their motivation for choosing Finland as their study destination, focusing on language skills, program perceptions, and academic aspirations.

2nd Focus Interview – Tracking Progress

The second focus interview tracks the students’ language development following the first one, typically occurring in the middle of their studies. It serves as a checkpoint for language growth and may touch upon their overall pathway studies in Finland. This mid-way assessment ensures that they are on the right track academically and linguistically.

3rd Focus Interview – Reflecting on the Pathway

The third interview is all about reflection and growth, usually taking place in the later part of their studies. Building upon language progress, it delves into the students’ pathway experience, challenges, and how they’ve overcome them. It’s a moment to celebrate successes, share motivations, and emphasize their commitment to the program.

As students’ progress through the focus interviews, they undergo a process of self-discovery and growth. These interviews act as essential milestones, ensuring they are on the right path to succeed in their pathway studies, with a particular focus on their language skills. With reflection and unwavering determination, students strive to achieve their goals of studying in Finland.

Why should Edunation assess your communication skills in focus group interviews? 

Because at Edunation, we believe this is an essential part of every student’s toolkit for a successful life and studies in Finland. Effective communication is more than a skill; it’s a lifeline when adapting to a new environment and excelling at university.

At Edunation, we use focus group interviews to ensure every student is well-prepared to prosper in their new life in Finland. Think of it as your essential toolkit for student success. Communication, in particular, takes center stage in this toolkit.

The ability to speak well matters greatly when moving to a new country to study. It’s not just about learning the language; it’s also about adjusting to a new environment and succeeding at university. If you’re concerned about your communication abilities, don’t be; we’re here to help.

10 tips to Prepare for Success in Your Focus Interview

Getting ready for your focus interview is crucial for a successful experience. Here are some invaluable tips to help you ace your preparation:

1. Get the Details

Make sure you understand what the focus interview covers and familiarize yourself with the guidelines. Edunation provides comprehensive guidelines to ensure you’re well-prepared for the interview. These guidelines align expectations and ensure that everyone is on the same page. You won’t be walking into the interview blindly, as the guidelines are sent to you in advance.

2. Check Your Internet Connection

It’s essential to have a reliable internet connection before starting the interview. A poor connection can hinder your access to the interview link.

3. Test Your Equipment

Ensure your equipment and internet connection work before the interview. During the interview, your camera must be turned on, as it’s a part of the grading criteria. A closed camera could affect your score. Also, check that your microphone works correctly, ensuring you can be heard clearly.

4. Minimize Interruptions

Silence any devices that may disrupt your focus, such as email notifications on your computer or your phone. Choose a quiet environment to do the interview to avoid distractions.

5. Read the questions carefully

Pay close attention to the questions during the interview. Stay in the moment and make sure you understand the question. This is the key to giving responses that genuinely hit the mark. Give your full attention to each question as it comes your way.

6. Plan, Practice, and Build Confidence

Effective communication is all about accurately conveying information. Plan your responses, practice your delivery, and approach the interview with confidence.

7. Be Authentic

We want to see your genuine self. Be sincere in your responses, as authenticity is highly valued.

8. Speak Clearly

Take your time and enunciate each word. This ensures that your responses are heard and understood during the interview.

9. Keep it Concise

Provide brief and to-the-point answers. Respond directly to the question to make the most of your allotted time. In the online environment, eye contact is important—even though it isn’t true eye contact.

10. Check Your Email:

On the day of your interview, check your email for the interview link. Each student receives a unique link, and you’ll have a specific duration to complete the interview. Stay alert and ready to proceed with your interview when the time comes.

Conclusion

Overall, the journey to mastering focus, the Finnish way, is paved with resilience, determination, and the ability to adapt to new challenges. Just as Jouko Turkka embraced the unfamiliar, we, too, face choices that might seem daunting but lead us to extraordinary growth.

The additional focused interviews in the Pathway to Finland program might have raised concerns, but it is a testament to our commitment to student success. These interviews, designed to evaluate knowledge, communication skills, and mindset, serve as stepping stones toward achieving your academic and life goals in Finland.

To excel in these interviews, careful preparation is essential. With clear guidelines and invaluable tips, you’re equipped to tackle each question with confidence and authenticity. Remember that success is not about getting everything right on the first try; it’s about the journey, the growth, and the resilience that comes from adapting to change.

As Heraclitus aptly noted, change is the only constant in life, and in embracing change, we find the strength to master our focus, purpose, and ‘Sisu.’

In essence, the focus interviews and the Pathway to Finland program embody the philosophy of ‘Sisu,’ pushing students to overcome challenges, adapt to new experiences, and strive for excellence in their academic journey in Finland.

Stricter rules take effect from September 1st of 2024, and it is all about making sure that your paperwork is in good shape and well-prepared.

So, whether you are an aspiring student, a worker, or anyone who’s looking for a fresh start in Finland, read on this blog to be aware of what you need to know before you pack your bags.

Passport is Your Golden Ticket

You can’t rely more on other travel documents. Your passport is now your main key to unlocking your dreams of studying, working and living in Finland.

Starting on September 1, 2024, you will need a valid passport from your country of nationality to apply for a residence permit in Finland.

Even if you have applied before September 1 but haven’t received a decision yet, these new rules may affect your application as well.

First-timers, pay extra attention

In most cases, getting your first permits from outside Finland is usually the most common to happen. Hence, there are exceptions in some special cases, like family ties or studies.

If you are already in Finland and planning to get your first residence permit, it might be harder this time. However, you might be lucky and get the chance, if you fall under one of these categories:

• You are a family member of a Finnish citizen.
• You are applying for a residence permit for a child born in Finland.
• You are applying for a residence permit for studies, or you are a family member of a student.
• You are applying for a residence permit for a researcher, or you are a family member of a researcher.

previous assistance to return home

If you left Finland within the last 5 years and got help from the Finnish government to go back to your home country (or another country) to settle there, you might not get a new residence permit now.

This is because the government wants. to make sure that you are serious in staying in Finland this time.

BUT THERE IS AN exception:

If you got this help to leave before September 1, 2024, this new rule doesn’t apply to you. You can still apply for a residence permit without worrying about this.

Read More:

STRICTER IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR RESIDENCE PERMIT APPLICANTS

planning For a Brighter Future? here’s an UPDATED INCOME THRESHOLD

Finland wants to make sure everyone who calls Finland home can thrive and survive.

Starting November 1st, 2024, there will be some adjustments to the income requirements for certain residence permits. Think of it as a little extra support to ensure you can enjoy the Finnish lifestyle comfortably.

but first, what is the income threshold?

To get a residence permit, you usually need to prove you have enough money to live in Finland without needing financial assistance.

You meet the financial requirement if your net income is at or above the minimum amount set by the Finnish Immigration Service.

We also consider regional differences in living costs, so we might adjust the minimum income requirement by up to 15% lower if housing is cheaper in your area.

Why the change?

It’s been a while since these rules were updated, and the cost of living has naturally increased. This ensures newcomers have enough to cover their basic needs and truly experience all that Finland has to offer!

Here’s a quick look at the new minimum monthly incomes:

 

meanwhile, here’s the income threshold for students

Currently, students need to show they have 560 euros per month to get a residence permit. From November onwards, this will increase to 800 euros per month.

The new threshold is set by considering factors like cheaper student housing, subsidized meals, and student discounts. This same income requirement also applies to students and researchers who want a permit to search for a job or start a business after their studies.

Additionally, the income requirements for family members of students will also go up, as shown in the table earlier in this post.

Read More:

INCREASE IN INCOME REQUIRED OF RESIDENCE PERMIT APPLICATIONS AS OF NOVEMBER 1 2024

What’s Next? Take this first Step to your Finnish Journey

Finland’s doors are still open, but it’s important to be prepared.

These new residence permit rules might seem like a lot to take in, but they’re ultimately about making sure a smooth and successful transition for every aspiring international student, like you, who wants to call Finland home.

Remember, your dream of living in Finland is still within your reach.

Double-check your passport, gather your documents, and ensure you meet the financial requirements. With a bit of planning and preparation, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the beauty, culture, and opportunities this amazing country has to offer.

Book a free counseling session with our experts or visit our website for the most up-to-date information and start planning your move today! Your Finnish adventure awaits!