Are you dreaming of studying in Europe without the burden of tuition fees? Vamia Vocational College in Vaasa, Finland offers international students a unique opportunity to study for free! Whether you’re looking to build a career in hospitality, welding, or machining, Vamia provides high-quality vocational training with no tuition costs.

Why Choose Vamia Vocational College?

Vamia is a government-funded institution that specializes in vocational education. It provides practical training that equips students with real-world skills for the job market. If you’re looking for an affordable way to study and work in Finland, Vamia is the perfect choice!

Key Benefits of Studying at Vamia:

• No Tuition Fees – Completely free education!
• Hands-on Training – Gain practical experience in your chosen field.
• Globally Recognized Qualifications – Open doors to job opportunities worldwide.
• Pathway to Work in Finland – Increase your chances of employment after graduation.
• Diverse Student Community – Meet and network with students from around the world.

Available Training Programs

Vamia offers English-language vocational qualification programs for international students in the following fields:

• Cook
• Waiter/Waitress
• Machinist
• Plater-Welder

These programs provide industry-relevant training that prepares students for immediate employment upon graduation.

Entry Requirements for International Students

To be eligible for Vamia’s vocational programs, you must meet the following general requirements:

• You have the necessary qualifications to study and complete a degree.
• You have an educational need and motivation to study.
• You are suitable for the tasks in your chosen field.
• You meet the health requirements necessary for the profession.
• You have adequate language proficiency in English.

Specific Requirements for English-Language Programs

• Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old when studies start (no upper age limit).
• Educational Background: You must have a qualification equivalent to Finnish basic education (9 years of schooling).
• Document Submission: You must upload scanned or photographed copies of your original educational certificates.
• Certificates must be in English, Finnish, or Swedish.
• If translated, they must be verified by a public notary.
  English Language Proficiency Test:
• You must take the Duolingo English Test (valid for 2 years).
• The minimum required score is 85 points.
• Vamia does not provide free test vouchers.
• Register for the test at Duolingo English Test and select Vamia as your school.
• Valid Identification: You must have a passport or personal ID card to attach to your application.

Important: Meeting all the requirements does not guarantee selection for the program.

Resident Permit Requirements

If selected, you will need a student residence permit for Finland. To apply, you must:

• Be admitted into a Vamia program.
• Show proof of sufficient funds for living expenses.
• Submit your application to the Finnish Immigration Service (migri.fi).

Tip: Start your residence permit application immediately after receiving your admission letter! Processing can take months in some countries.

Application Periods & Deadlines

Planned schedule for upcoming applications:

• 8th-11th April 2025 – Cook, Waiter/Waitress (for programs starting January 2026)
• November 2025 – Cook, Waiter/Waitress, Machinist (for programs starting August 2026)
• April 2026 – Cook, Waiter/Waitress (for programs starting January 2027)
• November 2026 – Cook, Waiter/Waitress, Plater-Welder (for programs starting August 2027)

How to Apply?

The application process is simple! Follow these steps:

• Visit Vamia’s official application page at studyinfo.fi during the application period.
• Fill out the online application form (activated only when applications are open).
• Upload all required documents (preferably in PDF format).
• Submit your Duolingo English Test score.
• Wait for email confirmation from no-reply@opintopolku.fi (Studyinfo).

Selection Process

• Applications are reviewed, and the top-scoring candidates are shortlisted.
• 40-50 applicants will be invited for an interview via Microsoft Teams.
• Final selection is based on interview performance and diversity of the applicant group.
• 20-25 students are admitted per program.
• Admission results are announced 2-3 months after the application closes.
• Accepted students will receive an official admission letter.

Note: There is no application fee and no need for a motivational letter.

Preparing for Arrival in Finland

If accepted, follow these steps to prepare for your studies:

• Apply for your student residence permit ASAP.
• Visit a doctor in your home country for required health documents.
• Send health test results (lab tests, lung X-ray, doctor’s statement) to Vamia’s school nurse.
• Book your travel early to arrive in Finland before studies begin.
• Get ready for orientation week, where you’ll receive practical information and your student uniform.
• Students in the Restaurant and Catering Services program must take a Salmonella test in Vaasa.

Life in Vaasa, Finland

Vaasa is a welcoming student city with:

• Affordable cost of living compared to other Finnish cities.
• Great public transportation.
• Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
• Work opportunities for students after graduation.

Final Thoughts

Studying in Finland for free at Vamia Vocational College is an amazing opportunity to build a future in a high-quality education system. With no tuition fees, hands-on training, and strong career prospects, Vamia is the perfect gateway to a successful career in Finland or beyond!

Don’t miss out! Start your application and take the first step toward studying in Finland for free!