Studying MBBS in Finland

What are the advantages of studying MBBS in Finland?

According to the World Happiness Report, Finland is the happiest country in the world. Student life is characterized by a unique combination of academic excellence, social activity and a relaxed lifestyle. There are also two important factors: Level of education and cost of study.

1. Universities recognized worldwide

Finnish universities enjoy an excellent reputation worldwide and perform very well in international rankings. If you study here, you can expect highly qualified teaching staff, modern teaching facilities and an exciting curriculum.

2. No tuition fees

Finnish medical universities do not charge tuition fees. This applies both to residents of Finland and to citizens of the EU.

3. English-taught programs 

Most of the medical universities in Finland offer English-taught MBBS programs, making it accessible for international medical students. This eliminates language barriers, although learning some basic Finnish can be helpful to communicate with patients during clinical rotations.

4. Technological advancements 

Finland has one of the effective healthcare infrastructure and is at the forefront of technological advancements. Medical universities in Finland offer access to top-notch facilities, research opportunities, and cutting-edge medical technologies, allowing students to stay up to date with the latest advancements in the field.

5. Focus on research and innovation 

Medical schools in Finland focus more on research and innovation, encouraging students to engage in scientific research projects. This provides them opportunities to work with well-known researchers and contribute to medical advancements.

6. Practical training opportunities: 

MBBS in Finland basically includes clinical rotations and practical training in hospitals and healthcare centers. This hands-on experience helps students to utilize their theoretical knowledge, develop clinical skills, and gain exposure to different medical specialties.

7. Safe and welcoming environment: 

Finland is well-known for its safety, clean environment, and high standard of living. Finnish community is welcoming and inclusive, making it easier for Indian students and other international students to adapt to the local culture and lifestyle.

8. Global career opportunities: 

Graduating from a Finnish medical university opens up a broad range of career opportunities across the globe. Whether you choose to practice medicine in Finland or return to your home country, the internationally recognized degree can enhance your career prospects.

At which universities is it possible to study medicine in Finland?

Studying medicine in Finland is possible for international students at five different universities. Lectures are mainly held in English or Finnish, but some medical courses are also offered in Swedish. If you fancy languages, then go for it!

1. University of Helsinki, Faculty of Medicine

The university is recognized as the best university in the country. The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Helsinki is not only the best in the country, but is also ranked 93rd in the US News & World Report.

The quality of life in the capital of Finland is very high. The city is clean and safe and offers its many students a wide range of leisure activities both inside and in the wooded countryside outside.

2. University of Turku, Faculty of Medicine

The medical education at the University of Turku is highly regarded both in Finland and worldwide. It offers a degree in medicine and dentistry in Finnish. Collegiality, community, expertise and commitment are among the values of the undergraduate program. Particular attention is paid to the supervision and quality of final theses and the continuous academic development of teaching staff.

3. Tampere University of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology

Tampere University is internationally recognised for its cutting-edge research and the high-quality education of its students.

Tampere is located around 170 kilometres north of Helsinki and is the third largest city in the country. It is particularly known for its lively student culture and numerous sights, such as Pyynikki Park and the Observation Tower.

4. University of Oulu, Faculty of Medicine

According to the US News & World Report, the University of Oulu is the 333rd best university in the world, making it one of the best universities in Finland and Europe.

Oulu is located in northern Finland. The city is known for its innovations and technologies. Numerous student organisations, events and clubs enrich student life and create a student-friendly atmosphere.

5. University of Eastern Finland, Faculty of Medicine (University of Eastern Finland School of Medicine)

The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Eastern Finland is a multidisciplinary educational and research institution. It cooperates closely with Kuopio University Hospital and various other hospital districts. The university is strongly committed to sustainability development, especially in the areas of Green Office and Fairtrade.

The Faculty of Medicine is located in Kuopio, on the shores of Lake Kallavesi. Kuopio offers numerous sights, such as the Puijo Tower, which offers a breathtaking view of the city, or Kuopio Market Square, where you can buy local products and handicrafts.

What are the requirements for studying medicine in Finland?

The basic requirement for studying medicine in Finland is a school-leaving certificate or equivalent. Your grades in the natural sciences should also be in the very good range. 

You have the option of choosing between admission based on your grades and admission based on an entrance examination. If you do not have outstanding grades, you can take a science test at the relevant university. This is in Finnish and tests your knowledge of biology, physics and chemistry. As the degree program is taught in either Finnish or English, you will need sufficient language skills. You can prove this with a TOEFL iBT certificate. You need at least 20 points in the writing section. You should pass the IELTS test with at least 5.5 points per section. Other requirements will include the following:

• Accurately filled application form with all the details.

• Original and photocopies of Passport.

• Birth certificates and other necessary certificates must be submitted to the concerned authority.

• Passport sized photographs.

• Marksheets of 10th & 12th standard both original and a photocopy.

• A NEET scorecard (if required).

• Transfer certificate from the previous school.

• Leaving certificate from the school.

• A certificate of code of conduct must be submitted.

• The bank copy of guardians must be submitted which states that they have sufficient funds to pay the fees to Finland Medical College.

• A medical certificate/report is also essential.

How is the medical degree program structured in Finland?

The content of the medical degree program is similar to the German curriculum and begins with a two-year foundation course, also known as the pre-clinical phase. These first two years focus primarily on the basic subjects of anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, biology and chemistry. You will also be slowly introduced to clinical practice.

In the subsequent clinical phase, the focus is on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of various clinical pictures from the different medical specialisms. There are numerous internships on various hospital wards, for example in internal medicine, surgery, paediatrics, gynaecology or psychiatry.

After a Duration The 6-year medical degree programme concludes with the "Lääketieteen lisensiaattii" (equivalent to the German state examination). 

FAQs about studying medicine in Finland