Pääsykohteet

Pääsykohteet, or "admission targets" in Finnish, refer to the specific educational institutions or programs that students aim to enter upon completing their upper secondary education in Finland. The Finnish education system emphasizes equal opportunities, and admission to higher education institutions is primarily based on the results of the national matriculation examination (*ylioppilastutkinto*), which students take after their final year of upper secondary school.

The main types of pääsykohteet include universities, universities of applied sciences (AMK), and vocational education and training (AMK and AMK-level programs). Universities in Finland offer academic degrees such as bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs, while universities of applied sciences focus on practical, work-life-oriented education leading to bachelor’s and master’s degrees in applied sciences. Vocational education provides professional qualifications through various programs, often in collaboration with the labor market.

Admission to universities and universities of applied sciences is competitive, particularly for popular programs. Students apply through the national joint application system (*ylioppilaskirjasto*), where they rank their preferred institutions and programs. Selection is based on the matriculation examination grades, with some programs also considering supplementary criteria such as interviews, portfolios, or additional tests. Universities of applied sciences may also consider work experience or other relevant qualifications.

For vocational education, admission is typically based on upper secondary school grades, but some programs may require additional entrance examinations or interviews. Special admission criteria apply to certain fields, such as arts, sports, or health sciences, where practical skills or aptitude tests are often required.

The Finnish education system aims to ensure transparency and fairness in the admission process, providing students with clear guidelines and support throughout their application journey. Counseling services are available to help students choose suitable pääsykohteet based on their interests, skills, and career goals.