University of Lapland warmly welcomes international students to start their studies in Lapland this autumn. The study offer of the university has attracted altogether almost 200 international exchange and degree students from over 30 countries.
There will be 155 new incoming exchange students, 40 international degree students and 9 international doctoral students arriving in Lapland. The top 3 countries of incoming exchange students this year are France, Germany and Italy whereas the international degree students' top 3 is Finland, Germany and China. All faculties receive at least 30 exchange students, highest number being 56 to the Faculty of Social Sciences.
The University of Lapland took part in the International Student Barometer (ISB) 2017. The study revealed that reasons for choosing University of Lapland are courses offered in English, cost of studies and safe environment. Furthermore, attraction of Lapland plays a remarkable role.
Furthermore, the ISB revealed that for international degree students the cost of studies is an important criterion. This year there are 12 fee paying students, i.e. students coming from outside of EU or ETA countries. Studies in Finland are free of charge for students from other EU countries. There is also no tuition fee for doctoral studies.
Next week international students start with the Orientation Programme which introduces studying in Finland and assists settling into the new social and academic environment. International Students Services organise the Orientation Programme and carries it out in co-operation with a wide range of partners from the university and local community. The Language Center, faculties, the Student Union and Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Lapland from the university community are in key roles. Examples of local partners are Domus Arctica, City of Rovaniemi and Magistrate's Office.
Arrival services include also tutor students to assist new students with both academic and practical issues. In addition, local people offer international students a peek into the ordinary life through Friend Programme. So now wonder that the Orientation and arrival services of the University of Lapland ranked globally number 1 in the ISB 2017 among over 200 universities around the world.
The academic and social integration of international students is a goal for which the whole university community thrives to achieve. Autumn 2018 International Student Services carried out a project with a Master's degree student Teifion Powell to study obstacles and best practices of integration. First steps of the suggested actions are introduced this academic year.