On recurring occurrence, the Finnish government has said that we, international students are important. They even aim to triple the number of international degree students by 2030 (Finnish Government, 2021)! We are often portrayed as vital contributors to the Finnish workforce, to its diversity and overall reputation.
It is therefore surprising that the reality is in such sharp contrast to these ambitions. We have to face daily obstacles to get integrated into Finnish Society and into the workforce. Those obstacles, such as unrealistic income expectations, absurd language requirements for work, come as a punch to the gut for many of us who came here attracted by government promises. Despite the fact that many of us are highly educated, we are pushed to either leave the country, or to accept any kind of job just to pay our bills. A surprising conclusion, when the government, once again, states that their goal is for 75% of international students to be employed after graduation.
In addition, how can the government even propose measures that are excluding non EU/EEA students from obtaining a visa after graduating from UAS, when 45% of them are especially studying in UAS ? Or how to expect international students to win at least 800e per month to gain access to social benefits, when the job market is doing everything it can to discourage any student from finding work ?
This paradox, call it The Schrödinger International Student, is what is harming us the most. Why are we considered so vital to the Finnish society, if we are constantly being pushed away from it ? Why are we invited to the country with promises of employment and high quality of life, when such systemic problems still persists ?
International students have a right to be heard. We have a right to see our issues address in higher spheres, by involving us in process that too often leaves us on the side. It is not only of utmost importance for us, but also for Finland’s future that we are represented and heard.
The future isn’t bleak, as we have the seen the government change proposals and listen to concerns about the change in visas processes, but it promises to be a long and difficult road. One that can be tackled by embracing the diverse landscape of Finnish higher education. One that can be tackled if we work all together.
SOURCES:
Roadmap for Education-based and Work-based Immigration 2035,
Finnish Government 2021 Can you get benefits from Kela when you move to Finland?, Kela website 2025
Author: Théo Bloemen, candidate for SAMOK board for 2026
During the autumn, candidates for the SAMOK Board of Directors for 2026 will be presented on the SAMOK blog and on social media. For more information about the General Assembly, click here.