Finland remains one of the most popular destinations for international students seeking a high-quality European education. For English-taught degree programmes, universities usually offer two main admission routes: the Finnish online entrance exam and the SAT.
Which option should you choose? Can you apply through both routes? And which one gives you a better chance of being admitted?
The Finnish Online Entrance Exam
Most Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) use a common online entrance examination for applicants to English-taught programmes.
This admission route has become increasingly popular because it is accessible and convenient.
Advantages of the Online Entrance Exam
Take the exam from home
One of its biggest advantages is that you do not need to travel abroad. The exam is conducted online with remote proctoring, allowing applicants to take it from almost anywhere with a stable internet connection.
More study places available
Many Finnish universities allocate significantly more places to applicants who take the online entrance exam than to those applying with SAT scores.
As a result, applicants often have a better chance of being admitted.
Easier to prepare for
Compared with the SAT, the Finnish online entrance exam is generally considered less demanding and requires more focused preparation.
For many applicants, it is the most practical option.
Applying with the SAT
The SAT is an internationally recognized standardized test accepted by many Finnish universities.
However, there are several important factors to consider.
The SAT cannot be taken in Russia
Applicants need to travel abroad to take the test.
Fortunately, several countries remain accessible to Russian citizens, making the SAT a realistic option.
Fewer admission places
Many Finnish universities reserve fewer places for applicants using SAT scores.
This often makes competition more intense.
When Is the SAT Essential?
Although the online entrance exam is widely used, the SAT is required in some situations.
For example:
- some traditional Finnish universities admit students only based on SAT scores;
- Additional Application and Rolling Admission rounds often accept SAT applicants only.
Having an SAT score therefore opens the door to more universities and study programmes.
Can You Apply Through Both Routes?
Yes.
In fact, many admission experts recommend doing exactly that.
Applicants can:
- apply to UAS programmes using the online entrance exam;
- use SAT scores for universities that require them;
- participate in additional admission rounds based on SAT results.
Using both admission routes significantly increases the number of available opportunities.
Which Option Should You Choose?
If your goal is to study at a Finnish University of Applied Sciences, the online entrance exam is usually the best choice. It is easier, does not require international travel, and offers access to more available places.
If you are considering traditional universities or want to maximize your options, preparing for the SAT is also worthwhile.
For many students, the most effective strategy is to combine both admission pathways.
How UNiF Can Help
UNiF supports students throughout the entire admission process, including:
- choosing the right university;
- selecting a degree programme;
- preparing application documents;
- preparing for the Finnish online entrance exam;
- SAT preparation;
- developing a personalized admission strategy.
If you want to maximize your chances of studying in Finland, start preparing early with the guidance of UNiF's experienced admissions specialists.