# Guidance and support for immigrants - Savonia AMK

> In response to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Ukraine, Savonia University of Applied Sciences offers services and study opportunities for Ukrainians.

## Overview
In response to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Ukraine, Savonia University of Applied Sciences offers services and study opportunities for Ukrainians. For inquiries regarding study possibilities, contact [SimheUkraine@savonia.fi](mailto:SimheUkraine@savonia.fi) (available until 31.5.2025).

The Finnish higher education system consists of universities and universities of applied sciences (UAS). UAS offer professionally oriented higher education on bachelor’s and master’s level with strong ties to working life and regional development. More information can be found at [UASinfo](https://www.uasinfo.fi/).

## Separate Study Rights
Savonia can grant separate study rights in certain bachelor’s degree programmes (daytime studies at Kuopio Campus) to Ukrainian degree students who have been granted temporary protection in Finland under the EU Temporary Protection Directive or international protection.

*   **Eligibility:** Aimed at students with an existing, valid right to study at a Ukrainian university whose studies were discontinued due to the war.
*   **Tuition:** Ukrainian students receive a grant based on humanitarian grounds, exempting them from tuition fees.
*   **Requirements:** Study rights are granted based on the compatibility of earlier studies. Applicants must satisfy specific academic and language requirements.
*   **Application:** Studies start in September. For more information and to apply, see [this link](https://www.savonia.fi/en/study-at-savonia/admissions/separate-study-rights-for-ukrainian-students/).

### Bachelor’s Degree Programmes
The application period is open from May 16 to August 15, 2024:
*   International Business, Bachelor of Business Administration, Kuopio
*   Information Technology (Internet of Things), Bachelor of Engineering, Kuopio
*   Mechanical Engineering (Industrial Management), Bachelor of Engineering, Kuopio
*   Registered Nurse, Bachelor of Health Care, Kuopio

## Open UAS Studies
The course offerings of the Open UAS are free of charge for Ukrainians. This includes:
*   **Path Studies:** English-language path studies at Savonia campuses. Registration for 2025-2026 begins on 6.8.2025 at 9:00 via [this link](https://ella.eduplan.fi/savonia/realizations/amk-polkuopinnot/62a2d7ae4b6817001d94cd6a).
*   **Master Level Studies:** Available online in English for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree.
*   **Contact:** opiskelijapalvelut@savonia.fi

## Finnish Language Studies
*   **Finnish 1:** Recommended for all Ukrainians planning to study at Savonia.
*   **Online Courses:** Available from beginner levels to A2-C1. Some courses are profession-specific (e.g., Engineering Finnish).
*   [View Finnish language courses](https://www.savonia.fi/paivita-osaamistasi/kohdennetut-koulutukset/maahanmuuttajille/suomen-kielen-kurssit-savoniassa/)

## Preparatory Programme
In co-operation with eight other UAS, Savonia provides a preparatory programme for persons who have fled the war in Ukraine. The programme focuses on developing English language skills and competencies needed for degree studies.

## Guidance and Support
*   **SIMHE Services:** The SIMHE (Supporting Immigrants in Higher Education) coordinator provides personal and group guidance (in English and Russian) and info sessions. Contact: [SimheUkraine@savonia.fi](mailto:SimheUkraine@savonia.fi).
*   **National Support:** Finland supports students and researchers who have fled the war. For national initiatives, visit [Study in Finland - Ukraine](https://www.studyinfinland.fi/ukraine).
*   **Additional Resources:**
    *   [Recognition of foreign qualifications in Finland](https://www.oph.fi/en/services/recognition-foreign-qualifications)
    *   [Recognition of health care professions](https://valvira.fi/en/web/en/healthcare/professional_practice_rights)
    *   [SIMHE services in Finland](https://www.oph.fi/en/education-and-qualifications/simhe-services-higher-education-institutions)