Hakupisteet

Hakupisteet, in Finnish higher education, are the application points used to evaluate and rank applicants for degree programs. They are the numerical measure by which an applicant’s eligibility and standing are determined when applying to universities and universities of applied sciences in Finland.

The exact composition and calculation of hakupisteet vary by program and admissions year. In many programs, hakupisteet incorporate the points earned from the Matriculation Examination (or from an equivalent entrance examination) as part of the admission criteria. In addition, some programs may include extra points from other sources defined by the national admissions system, such as prior higher education studies or other eligible criteria. The purpose of hakupisteet is to provide a standardized, merit-based way to compare applicants across different backgrounds.

Hakupisteet are used in two main ways: to determine whether an applicant meets the minimum eligibility threshold for a given hakukohde (application target) and, when there are more qualified applicants than available study places, to rank applicants for admission. Because the exact scoring rules are program-specific and can change from year to year, applicants are advised to consult the specific hakukohde’s scoring criteria and the Studyinfo portal for precise information.

Overview methods and weights are periodically updated by Finnish higher education admissions authorities, and the resulting hakupisteet reflect the current priorities of each program. The system aims to balance academic performance with other relevant qualifications, ensuring transparent and competitive admissions.