Finland — a growing study destination for Pak students

LAHORE: The recent Finland-Pakistan Business Summit, held in May 2025 across Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad, not only explored trade and business opportunities between the two countries but, for the first time, dedicated exclusive sessions of education were also held in each city.

Recognising the growing interest of Pakistani students in Finnish education, Ambassador of Finland to Pakistan Willi Eerola emphasised Finland’s strengths in education, training, and research. Two leading Finnish universities also participated in the summit, where presenters and panelists highlighted the increasing student mobility from Pakistan to Finland and the potential for academic collaboration between the two nations.

A milestone development was the inauguration of the PGC-FGES Finnish International School, launched through a partnership between FGES Finnish International School and the Punjab Group of Colleges.

Representing the Finnish higher education sector, the University of Vaasa and the University of Turku provided valuable insights into Finland’s world-class academic offerings. They showcased Finland as an attractive destination, offering highly specialised undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at relatively affordable tuition fees compared to neighbouring European countries, along with a smooth and transparent visa process for international students.

Current statistics indicate that over 400 Pakistani students are studying in Finland, a number expected to grow substantially in the coming years. This rising mobility highlights the urgent need for both governments to streamline processes, particularly student visa servies and post-arrival support, to ensure a seamless experience for students.

Studying in Finland is also a cost-effective option. Annual tuition fees range from EUR 12,000 to 15,000 - almost 50% lower than those in the UK and several European counterparts - making Finland an increasingly viable choice for Pakistani middle-income families eager to invest in their children’s future.

The conference participants unanimously agreed that the establishment of diplomatic missions is now essential, given the rapid increase in educational exchanges. It is equally vital for Finnish universities and the Ministry of Education to recognise Pakistan as a significant resource country and to enhance their visibility through partnerships, collaborative programmes, regular academic visits, and dedicated education fairs. Without such measures, another promising and affordable study destination for Pakistani students risk losing momentum.

Additionally, the establishment of a Finnish diplomatic mission in Pakistan would directly benefit students, allowing them to access essential consular and visa services locally - the services for which they currently have to travel all the way to Sweden.