Compare IBCP International Schools in Finland

Instructs in Finnish, English

Ages 16 - null years

Fees €29,200

Pupils 9500

Type Co-educational

Educational Consortium OSAO is a Finnish vocational college network based in Oulu. It operates eight campuses across six municipalities, including Haukipudas, Kaukovainio, Kontinkangas and the Kempele–Liminka region, with Muhos, Pudasjärvi and Taivalkoski serving local needs. OSAO delivers the Finnish Curriculum alongside the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) and offers English-language vocational qualifications in Restaurant and Catering Services, Tourism Industry, and Merkonomi (Business). An International IB career-related program in Business and Administration is also available. A flexible, individualized learning path is provided for every student, shaped by prior knowledge, skills and needs. OSAO is one of Finland's largest multidisciplinary vocational colleges, serving about 8,500 students with around 880 staff and roughly 89 million euros in operating revenue (2024). Distinctive activities include participation in events such as Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs, Qstock, and Amistanssit, and a strong culture of external competitions and community engagement. The program emphasizes hands-on learning in real-world settings daily.

Application fees

- There is no separate application fee charged to submit an electronic application for study places; applications are submitted online through OSAO's application process.

Tuition fees (yearly amounts by qualification; charged per academic year)

- For students who are nationals of countries outside the EU/EEA, OSAO charges a tuition fee that is set per qualification and billed per academic year. The tuition fee for vocational qualifications and related further/specialist qualifications is shown as euros per student per academic year as follows:
- Vocational Qualification in the Motor Vehicles Sector: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Food Production (excluding the dairy sector): EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Hairdressing and Beauty Care: EUR 13,100.
- Vocational Qualification in Mining: EUR 18,500.
- Vocational Qualification in Mechanical Engineering and Production Technology: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Laboratory Technology: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Business: EUR 10,000.
- Vocational Qualification in Logistics (other than Transport Services): EUR 13,100.
- Vocational Qualification in Logistics (Transport Services): EUR 17,300.
- Vocational Qualification in Pharmaceutics: EUR 10,800.
- Vocational Qualification in Agriculture: EUR 14,500.
- Vocational Qualification in Tourism Industry: EUR 13,100.
- Vocational Qualification in Media and Visual Expression: EUR 11,500.
- Vocational Qualification in Forestry (other than Forest Machine Operation): EUR 14,500.
- Vocational Qualification in Forestry (Forest Machine Operation): EUR 22,200.
- Vocational Qualification in Surface Treatment Technology: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Process Industry: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Cleaning and Property Services: EUR 13,100.
- Vocational Qualification in Horticulture: EUR 11,600.
- Vocational Qualification in Wood Industry: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Construction (other than Earthmoving Machinery Operator): EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Construction (Earthmoving Machinery Operator): EUR 18,500.
- Vocational Qualification in Restaurant and Catering Services: EUR 13,100.
- Vocational Qualification in Electrical Engineering and Automation Technology: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Social and Health Care: EUR 10,800.
- Vocational Qualification in Arts and Design: EUR 11,500.
- Vocational Qualification in Building Maintenance Technology: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Technical Design: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Textiles and Fashion Industry: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Information and Communications Technology: EUR 11,100.
- Vocational Qualification in Safety and Security: EUR 13,100.
- Vocational Qualification in Equipment Maintenance: EUR 10,800.

- Further vocational and specialist vocational qualifications have separate yearly fees; examples listed include:
- Further Vocational Qualification in Motor Vehicles Sector: EUR 17,700.
- Further Vocational Qualification in Media: EUR 21,500.
- Further Vocational Qualification in Infrastructure Construction: EUR 29,200.
- Specialist Vocational Qualification in Infrastructure Construction: EUR 29,200.
- Specialist Vocational Qualification in Arts and Design: EUR 21,500.

- The stated amounts are expressed as euros per student per academic year (the tuition fee is determined at the start of studies and remains the same for the duration of those studies). Payment is required for participation in instruction for students who are liable to pay.

Other programme-level fees and single-course student fees

- Certain continuing education and qualification programmes require a separate course or student fee (opiskelijamaksu) that is charged in addition to any statutory tuition fee liability for non‑EU/EEA nationals. Examples of programme-level student fees (amounts shown where published):
- Typical opiskelijamaksu examples include EUR 250, EUR 400, EUR 450 and EUR 500 depending on the programme. Individual programme pages state the exact student fee for that programme.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- The tuition fee for liable students is charged after a study place has been offered and must be paid before the student is permitted to begin studies; education-provider invoicing procedures are used to collect the fee.
- For programme-specific student fees (opiskelijamaksu), acceptance of a study place is binding and payment commitments are confirmed at enrolment; several programme pages specify that a student who withdraws after a short introductory period (commonly noted as three weeks from the start) will not receive a refund of a paid programme fee. Examples of these non‑refund rules appear on programme pages.

Boarding / student accommodation fees

- Student accommodation in OSAO student dormitories (asuntolat) is provided without a recurring rent charge for eligible students. A refundable room-and-furniture deposit (huoneisto- ja kalustopantti) of EUR 50 is collected from every incoming dormitory resident; this deposit is paid in advance via OSAO's online store and is returned when the key is returned and the room condition is approved. Occasional service charges (for example, for special services such as door-opening) may apply.

Other expected costs

- Students should budget for course books, personal study supplies and equipment, required work clothing and tools for particular trade programmes, meals, housing and travel. Where a student is liable for a tuition fee, entitlement to free learning materials, equipment and daily free meals in vocational upper secondary education is not provided. IB examination fees and other external exam fees may apply (example: IB exam fees reported around EUR 200 for some programmes).

Refund information

- Programme-specific student fees (opiskelijamaksu) are commonly non‑refundable if the student withdraws after the published short trial period (many pages specify a three‑week rule).
- Procedures for refunds and returns of paid tuition fees for non‑EU/EEA tuition-liable students and related practical collection rules are handled according to OSAO's tuition-fee decision and administrative procedures and are applied in accordance with guidance from the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Finnish Immigration Service; collection and refund procedures are executed by the education provider and are specified in OSAO's tuition‑fee procedures. The tuition fee must be paid before studies begin.

Fee payment options and invoicing details

- OSAO uses standard education-provider invoicing channels. The published invoicing operator and e‑billing identifiers are: Operator CGI Suomi Oy, online billing address 003709924453 (transmit id 003703575029 is shown for the operator). These invoicing channels support electronic invoicing and conventional invoicing practices. Dormitory deposit payments are handled via OSAO's online store. Parent/guardian or employer payment arrangements are managed by agreement with OSAO where applicable.

Summary notes for parents (concise)

- There is no separate application submission charge.
- For non‑EU/EEA nationals accepted to vocational or upper‑secondary programmes, a tuition charge is set per qualification and billed per academic year (listed above as euros per student per academic year). Payment is required before studies may begin.
- Some programmes require additional programme/course fees (examples: EUR 250–500) and these follow their own acceptance and refund conditions (many specify no refund after three weeks).
- Student dormitory accommodation is provided without recurring rent for eligible students, but a refundable EUR 50 room-and-furniture deposit and occasional service charges apply; the deposit is paid online.
- Invoicing is handled through OSAO's billing operator and e‑invoicing identifiers; dormitory deposits are paid via the online store.

Boarding Arrangements

OSAO has student housing (asuntolat) at four locations near campuses. Asuntolat are located at Haukiputaalla, Muhoksella and Taivalkoskella, with housing available to students and applications made for each academic year. Housing is free of charge, but a 50 € apartment and furniture deposit is charged in advance and refunded when the student moves out. Haukiputaan dormitory provides private rooms in four-person apartments with shared living/kitchen areas; Muhoksen dormitories are shared apartments with 3–4 two-person rooms per unit; Taivalkosken dormitory areas consist of four two-person rooms per apartment. The dorms are generally open Sunday 16:30 to Friday 16:30 and are closed on weekends and holidays.

Food Options

OSAO provides on-campus dining through student restaurants; basic vocational or preparatory training includes one free meal per study day, and natural resources students receive free breakfast and dinner. Meals are served in the unit's student restaurant or a designated dining location. Kotkankulma is the on-site teaching restaurant and Oppipuoti offers grab-and-go meals for students.

Governance and Ownership

Educational Consortium OSAO is an IB World School. It operates as a large multidisciplinary vocational college with about 9,500 students and 840 staff. OSAO is an educational consortium (koulutuskuntayhtymä) and is authorized to deliver official diplomas and certificates.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school provides student welfare support through a counselor and a psychologist who support students' growth and wellbeing in collaboration with school staff. The focus is on promoting the wellbeing of the entire school community. The counselor and psychologist participate in planning and coordinating student welfare through the units' student welfare groups and OSAO's student welfare group. They support individual students as needed, assisting with learning, coping, housing and financial matters. Services are available face-to-face and by phone or secure online channels (Microsoft Teams), depending on student preference. Contact information for welfare professionals is available across campuses.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Special support is planned by drafting an Individual Support Plan with the homeroom teacher and a special education teacher, and, if needed, a study counselor and other staff. If you are under 18, guardians participate in planning. The plan considers your strengths, goals and support needs and is reviewed regularly. Special support may include part-time teacher support, small-group instruction, individualized schedules and materials, diverse teaching methods, mentor support, work-based learning, and individualized study and career guidance. When moving from basic education to vocational education, study demands increase; instructors collaborate with a special education teacher, and the special educator plays a central role in planning and ensuring early access to support.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

OSAO offers three English-language vocational qualifications: Restaurant and Catering Services, Tourism Industry, and Business (Merkonomi). The Business program also runs a three-year IB Career-related Programme delivered entirely in English. The programs described as English-language study are explicitly labeled as English-language; other qualifications are taught in Finnish. Preparatory Education for Vocational Training (TUVA) helps immigrant students, includes language study and an individual study plan, and covers Finnish as a second language, English and Swedish.

Mental Wellbeing

The school provides mental wellbeing support through psychologist and counselor services that promote students' learning and wellbeing in collaboration with staff. They participate in student welfare planning and provide support to individuals as needed. Services are available in person or via phone or secure channels (e.g., Microsoft Teams) in accordance with student preferences. Students and staff can contact the psychologist and counselor for support.

Safeguarding

A safe learning environment is created by OSAO's collective actions, including internal safety guidelines and unit-specific fire and crisis plans. The safeguarding plan covers student protection from violence, bullying and harassment, and includes: student safety (5.1); equality and non-discrimination (5.4); dignified conduct in the student community (5.3.1); prevention and response to bullying, harassment and violence (5.3.2); monitoring of incidents (5.3.3); the OSAO equality plan, pedagogical support and continuity of learning; dormitory rules and discipline rules; and crisis management structures with safety officers and crisis teams. The plan is reviewed and updated regularly; guardians are involved for underage students and authorities may be contacted if needed. Each unit has up-to-date evacuation plans and safety protocols; staff and students are educated in safety procedures.

History

Educational Consortium OSAO was established when the member municipalities signed the foundational agreement on 15 December 1994. It is owned by eight municipalities: Hailuoto, Ii, Kempele, Liminka, Lumijoki, Muhos, Oulu and Tyrnävä. OSAO's task is to organize vocational education and qualifications for its member municipalities and to maintain the regional sports institute. It also provides vocational education on a contract basis in Pudasjärvi and Taivalkoski. As of 2024, OSAO serves about 8,500 students with around 880 staff and generates about 89 million euros in operating revenues, and it is one of the largest multidisciplinary vocational colleges in Finland.

Community

OSAO is one of the largest multidisciplinary vocational colleges in Finland, with about 9,500 students and 840 staff. It operates eight campuses across the Oulu region, including Haukipudas, Kaukovainio, Kontinkangas, Kempele–Liminka, Muhos, Pudasjärvi, Taivalkoski and others. OSAO is an IB World School and takes part in national and international skills competitions; entrepreneurship is developed as a competition skill at OSAO. The organization works with a broad network of more than 6,600 cooperation partners and offers studies in English in Business and Administration, including an International IB Career-related program taught entirely in English and three English-language vocational qualifications (Restaurant and Catering services, Tourism Industry, Merkonomi).

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Wilma is the central communication channel between the school and parents. Guardians of minor students can create Wilma accounts after the start of studies, and guardians of students aged 18 and older can obtain Wilma access only with the student's permission. Parents are invited to unit kotiväenilta (parents' evenings) for new students and to unit open days and other events. The unit head is responsible for maintaining active contact with guardians of underage students or guardians of students who arrived in Finland alone. Some units run cooperation groups with school representatives and parents, and parents' associations are welcome to join unit events and open days. Materials from parents' evenings are published for reference.

Facilities Overview

OSAO operates eight campuses across six municipalities in the Oulu region: Kempele, Liminka, Muhos, Oulu, Pudasjärvi and Taivalkoski. The Haukipudas, Kaukovainio, Kontinkangas campuses and the Kempele-Liminka campuses form the core regional network, with Muhos, Pudasjärvi and Taivalkoski campuses also serving local needs. The campuses provide working life based education and training across a wide range of disciplines, and offer vocational and further vocational qualifications. English-language offerings include an International IB career-related program in Business and Administration and three English-taught qualifications: Restaurant and Catering services, Tourism Industry, and Merkonomi (Business).

Academic Facilities

OSAO delivers vocational education in many fields across its campuses. Haukipudas covers Vehicle Technology, Surface Treatment Technology, Construction, Restaurant and Catering Services, Electrical and Automation Engineering, Arts and Design, and Textiles and Fashion. Kaukovainio offers Food Production, Confectionery, Cooking, Hotel and Restaurant Services, Tourism Services, Customer Service and Sales, and Finance and Office Services, plus an International IB career-related program in Business and Administration and three English-language qualifications: Restaurant and Catering, Tourism Industry, and Merkonomi (Business). Kontinkangas includes Hairdressing and Beauty Care, Pharmaceutics, Social and Health Care, and Equipment Maintenance. Kempele and Liminka campuses offer Horticulture, Logistics, Restaurant and Catering, Safety and Security, and Technical Design. Muhos focuses on Vehicle Technology, Agriculture, Forestry and Social and Health Care. Pudasjärvi provides Wood Processing, Electrical Engineering, Social and Health Care, and Business Management. Taivalkoski concentrates on Mining, Forestry, and Infrastructure Construction.

Academic & Intellectual

OSAO is one of the biggest vocational colleges in Finland and provides vocational education in various fields. Students have opportunities to participate in external competitions and events to showcase their skills, including the Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs Competition. Joel Manninen, an OSAO alumnus, won silver at the Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs Competition in Istanbul.

Arts & Creative

Textile and fashion students sew pillows for the students' own space. Cooking students sell their own dishes at cultural events. The metal and wood departments collaborate on cultural artworks: a welder uses surplus metal and a construction student builds a stage for Qstock. Everyday culture deeds include a student organizing community art at Hyvis Stop, students cooking together in the school kitchen, a student pair organizing Halloween for dorm residents, and a casual basketball game in the school yard.

Cultural & Language

International cultural deeds include a student producing a podcast episode with an international guest, and a student on exchange painting a wall mural. Another student participates in an international culture project during work placement. OSAAO participates in Qstock festival by having students plan and create festival artworks and decorations. Amistanssit blends traditional and contemporary culture, with OSAO's first Amistanssit held in 2026.

Social & Hobbies

Everyday culture deeds include a student organizing community art at Hyvis Stop, students cooking together in the school kitchen, a student pair organizing Halloween evening for dorm residents, and a casual basketball game in the school yard.

Community & Service

Foresters chop winter firewood for an elderly person living alone. Automotive students change winter tires at the K-market yard. A practical nurse student takes the elderly to daytime dances. Animal care students visit dog companions at events.

Leadership & Professional

Culture agents plan, organize and inspire others to take part in cultural deeds. To become a culture agent, you select the optional Kulttuuriagenttina toimiminen – tutkinnon osa (Cultural agent operating) as a 3-ECTS module. In 2025–2026, culture agent activities ran across OSAO with unit leaders at Kaukovainion, Kontinkankaan and Haukiputaan campuses. The program includes opportunities to work on major events such as LUMO light festival, the Frozen People winter festival, Oulu2026 events and Qstock, and it awards a diploma for the culture agent work.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Mielenasiat tutuksi -hanke has strengthened OSAO's teaching staff mental-health skills and increased understanding of mental health's impact on learning. Wellbeing and learning capability are built on community, safe encounters and everyday study support. Small actions, such as a teacher greeting in the hallway or timely feedback, help students feel seen and supported, contributing to a safer, more inclusive learning environment.

Language Provision

Finnish is the primary language of instruction in most programs. English language qualifications are available through OSAO Edu, including three English taught qualifications. In those English language programs, all subjects are taught in English, while Swedish and Finnish are used for some subjects. OSAO supports language development and international exposure through domestic language study, international events, hosting international guests, and mobility opportunities abroad.

Bilingual Teaching

OSAO Edu offers English language vocational qualifications: Vocational Qualification in Restaurant and Catering Services, Vocational Qualification in Tourism Industry, and Merkonomi, Vocational Qualification in Business. These programs are taught entirely in English. Swedish and Finnish are used for some subjects.

Immersion Programs

OSAO provides international mobility for study or work placements in Europe. Mobility periods can be completed at partner institutions, with progression recognized through the European mobility framework. Erasmus+ funding partially supports mobility, and OSAO collaborates with international networks such as EfVET, Xarxa FP, and HANAKO. Students may participate in international projects and study trips.

Admissions

1. Language requirement. Applicants must be able to follow lessons in Finnish. Finnish language proficiency is required for admission to study at OSAO. 2. Studies in English. In Business and Administration, a three-year International IB Career-related Programme is taught entirely in English. Completing this program yields a Finnish vocational qualification that enables admission to Finnish universities. OSAO is an IB World School. 3. English-language qualifications. We offer three English-language vocational qualifications: Vocational Qualification in Restaurant and Catering Services; Vocational Qualification in Tourism Industry; Merkonomi, Vocational Qualification in Business. 4. There are two application routes. The joint education application procedure occurs annually in February or March via studyinfo.fi for applicants with no further education beyond comprehensive education. Rolling admissions are available for applicants who have completed upper secondary education or matriculation or possess a vocational qualification or work experience; applications are submitted through the OSAO website. 5. How to apply and documents. An online application form must be filled; the required documents must be attached to the application. Copies of school certificates and an official English translation are required; translations must be done by an authorized translator and include the translator's signature and stamp. A legal guardian is typically the parent for under-18 students. 6. Language testing and admission details. English skills are not required as a separate test; English proficiency is assessed during the entrance examination or interview. 7. Entrance examination. Entrance examinations, learning preparedness tests, and interviews must be attended in person in Oulu; online testing is not available. 8. Non-EU applicants, residence and tuition. Basic entrance criteria for non-EU applicants include basic Finnish language ability, completion of Finnish compulsory education, and good English. A residence permit may be required; as of August 1, 2026, there is a tuition fee for non-EU/EEA citizens. OSAO does not offer scholarships to international students. 9. Rolling admission for foreign graduates and admission restrictions. Upper secondary or higher education graduates from outside Finland can apply via rolling admission; they cannot be admitted in separate admission for the Vocational Qualification in Business including IBCP studies.

Scholarships

OSAO does not have scholarships available for international students.

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Vantaa Vocational College Varia

Instructs in English, Finnish

Ages 15 - null years

Fees €25,000

Pupils 6000

Type Co-educational

Vantaa Vocational College Varia operates across five campuses in Vantaa: Aviapolis (Aerolankaari 5), Hiekkaharju (Tennistie 1), Koivukylä (Talvikkitie 119), Myyrmäki (Ojahaantie 5) and the Leija Business Service Center (Elannontie 3). The school follows the Finnish national curriculum and offers the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IB CP), introduced in October 2024. The CP is taught in Finnish and English within ICT basic degree instruction and links vocational studies with IB values to support pathways to international higher education and the labor market. English-language qualifications include the Vocational Qualification in Restaurant and Catering Services and the Vocational Qualification in Tourism Industry. English-language vocational units include Housekeeping – Targeted Training (20 credits). Extra-curriculars include international activities such as study trips, placements abroad, and eTwinning, plus student leadership, volunteering, tutor roles, and wellbeing initiatives. Facilities emphasize accessibility with illuminated entrances, smooth routes, and lifts or ramps where needed. The campus network supports learners everywhere.

Location

Vantaa Vocational College Varia operates across multiple campuses in Vantaa, Finland. Koivukyla campus is at Talvikkitie 119, 01360 Vantaa. Vehkala campus is at Vehkalantie 6, 01730 Vantaa. A campus in the Aviapolis region is located at Elannontie 3, 01510 Vantaa.

Stages

Vocational upper secondary qualification; vocational qualification; specialist vocational qualification; TUVA preparatory training; Career-related Programme (CP) IB.

Country affiliation

Finland

Application fees
- There is no separate application fee for applying to Vantaan ammattiopisto Varia through the standard national application routes for upper secondary vocational education.

Tuition / Lukuvuosimaksut (academic year 1 Aug 2026 – 31 Jul 2027)
- For students who are subject to annual tuition (primarily third‑country nationals who begin studies 1.8.2026 or later), the annual fees are charged per qualification as follows (amounts apply for the 2026/27 academic year):
- Ajoneuvoalan perustutkinto — EUR 12,000. Per term (approx., two terms per academic year): EUR 6,000.
- Elintarvikealan perustutkinto — EUR 12,000. Per term: EUR 6,000.
- Hius- ja kauneudenhoitoalan perustutkinto — EUR 12,500. Per term: EUR 6,250.
- Kasvatus- ja ohjausalan perustutkinto — EUR 11,000. Per term: EUR 5,500.
- Kone- ja tuotantotekniikan perustutkinto — EUR 12,000. Per term: EUR 6,000.
- Lentokoneasennuksen perustutkinto — EUR 16,000. Per term: EUR 8,000.
- Logistiikan perustutkinto (muu kuin kuljetus) — EUR 12,500. Per term: EUR 6,250.
- Logistiikan perustutkinto (kuljetus) — EUR 25,000. Per term: EUR 12,500.
- Matkailualan perustutkinto — EUR 12,500. Per term: EUR 6,250.
- Media-alan perustutkinto — EUR 12,000. Per term: EUR 6,000.
- Pintakäsittelyalan perustutkinto — EUR 12,000. Per term: EUR 6,000.
- Puhtaus- ja kiinteistöpalvelualan perustutkinto — EUR 12,500. Per term: EUR 6,250.
- Rakennusalan perustutkinto — EUR 12,000. Per term: EUR 6,000.
- Ravintola- ja catering-alan perustutkinto — EUR 12,500. Per term: EUR 6,250.
- Sosiaali- ja terveysalan perustutkinto — EUR 11,000. Per term: EUR 5,500.
- Sähkö- ja automaatioalan perustutkinto — EUR 12,000. Per term: EUR 6,000.
- Talotekniikan perustutkinto — EUR 12,000. Per term: EUR 6,000.
- Tieto- ja viestintätekniikan perustutkinto — EUR 10,000. Per term: EUR 5,000.
- Tieto- ja viestintätekniikan perustutkinto + IBCP-koulutus — EUR 11,000. Per term: EUR 5,500.
- Turvallisuusalan perustutkinto — EUR 12,500. Per term: EUR 6,250.
- Ammattitutkinnot (examples for 2026/27):
- Kasvatus- ja ohjausalan ammattitutkinto — EUR 9,000. Per term: EUR 4,500.
- Kuljetusalan ammattitutkinto — EUR 10,500. Per term: EUR 5,250.
- Puhtaus- ja kiinteistöpalvelualan ammattitutkinto — EUR 9,000. Per term: EUR 4,500.
- Taideteollisuusalan ammattitutkinto — EUR 10,000. Per term: EUR 5,000.
- Talonrakennuksen ammattitutkinto — EUR 9,000. Per term: EUR 4,500.
- Turvallisuusalan ammattitutkinto — EUR 9,500. Per term: EUR 4,750.
- How per‑term amounts are derived: the annual tuition is set per academic year; the institution determines fees year‑by‑year and fees for parts of qualifications are calculated pro rata by months — i.e., the annual fee divided by 12 and multiplied by the number of months the study component covers (so a typical half‑year/one‑term charge will be approximately half the annual fee). The annual fee is determined at the start of the studies and is payable year‑by‑year in advance.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Annual tuition is charged and invoiced at the start of the study period; each year's fee must be paid for each academic year before studies begin. First‑year tuition is not refunded except when a study‑based residence permit is refused. Fees for partial study periods are prorated monthly.
- Standard municipal invoicing options and practices apply (e‑invoice/e‑lasku, paper invoice sent by post, bank transfer instructions on the invoice). Typical municipal invoice payment terms are short (for city services a common invoice due period is 14 days plus three bank days); check invoice instructions when you receive the bill.

Boarding fees
- Varia does not operate a student residence; there is no boarding or school dormitory fee. Accommodation is not included in the tuition.

Other costs and typical additional expenses
- Many study programmes remain free while a student is covered by the free‑education age rule (materials, required tools and workwear free until the calendar year the student turns 20). After that, or for students not covered by the free‑education rule, typical additional study costs by field include (examples and typical estimates for planning):
- Food industry: books ~EUR 150; personal work tools and equipment ~EUR 300.
- Hair and beauty: total additional costs during studies commonly around EUR 1,300.
- Media and visual communications: books ~EUR 100; a suitable laptop typically EUR 800–1,500.
- Restaurant and catering: workwear, tools and footwear ~EUR 400.
- Logistics and technical fields: study‑specific equipment and supplies commonly up to ~EUR 500–1,000 depending on options.
- Security services: students pay official authority fees for professional cards (e.g., approximately EUR 140 for the security/guardian card).
- IBCP and other external examination fees: IBCP exam fees approximately EUR 200.
- The institution may require students to cover costs such as certain permits, professional card application fees, optional course exam fees, personal protective equipment, or materials for specific practical modules. Meal costs are not included in the annual tuition.

Refunds, credits and special cases
- The first annual tuition payment is non‑refundable except if a required study‑based residence permit is denied; if a student withdraws, is expelled, or the study right is cancelled, paid tuition is not refunded. If a student temporarily suspends studies for legally defined reasons, paid tuition may be credited for the suspension period. If a student's residence permit situation changes so that they are no longer subject to tuition, future fees will not be charged but already paid fees are generally not returned. Detailed operational rules govern refunds and credits.

How fees are billed and accepted payment methods
- Fees for tuition are billed by the education provider / city finance unit and follow municipal invoicing practices. Standard invoice delivery and payment channels include e‑invoicing (e‑lasku), paper invoices and bank transfer; payment instructions and reference numbers appear on each invoice. The annual tuition must be paid in advance as specified on the invoice.

Notes on who pays tuition
- Annual tuition obligations apply primarily to students from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland who begin their studies on or after 1 August 2026 and who do not meet statutory exemptions (for example: those who have a permanent residence permit, are covered by international protection, are exchange students of up to one year, or are otherwise exempt by law). Oppivelvolliset (compulsory‑education‑age) students are not charged tuition and remain eligible for free study materials and tools until the year they turn 20.

Curriculum

Varia offers English-language vocational qualifications and study units. English-language upper secondary qualifications include the Vocational Qualification in Restaurant and Catering Services (cook and other hospitality roles) and the Vocational Qualification in Tourism Industry (receptionist or tourism activities organizer in Finland and abroad). English-language vocational qualification units include Housekeeping – Targeted Training (cleaning services for hotel and accommodation facilities, 20 cp). International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IB CP) is part of Varia's international education expansion and began in October 2024; the CP is taught in Finnish and English within ICT basic degree instruction and combines vocational studies with IB values. The CP provides pathways to international higher education and the labor market.

Higher Education Progression

IB CP provides pathways to international higher education institutions.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Varian student welfare supports social and emotional wellbeing. Opiskeluterveydenhuolto (student health care) promotes health, study capacity and a healthy learning environment, with health nurses, doctors, psychologists and counselors working together with other professionals. Kuraattori (counselor) and on-site youth workers visit campuses and organize community activities to support students in daily life. Annie tukibotti is a chatbot that identifies students' need for guidance and directs them to available support services. Varian follows City of Vantaa anti-bullying and harassment procedures to address bullying and harassment and maintain a safe student community.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Special education support is available in Vari a. Erityisopettaja (special education teacher) designs learning-support techniques in cooperation with other teachers. Each study area has a designated special education lead to assist with learning needs. The teacher can support in class, in small groups, or provide one-on-one help. Oppimisen tuki (learning support) is being updated to offer more flexible support for all students, with changes taking effect from 1 August 2026.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Varia offers vocational qualifications and study units in English. There are two degrees in English: Vocational Qualification in Restaurant and Catering Services and Vocational Qualification in Tourism Industry. The instruction language for English-language qualifications is English, but students must be able to use Finnish at the workplace, and Finnish language skills are part of the workplace assessment. Housekeeping Targeted Training is also listed as an English-language unit. International applicants can apply without a Finnish language requirement for these English-language qualifications.

Mental Wellbeing

Opiskeluterveydenhuolto (student health care) promotes health and the ability to study and contributes to a healthy study environment and community wellbeing. The health team includes nurses, doctors, psychologists and counselors who support students as needed in collaboration with other school professionals. In the first year, students may have a health check to review health, studying capacity and life situation and to identify needed support. If students require special support, they are directed to the appropriate services.

Safeguarding

Kiusaamiseen ja häirintään puuttuminen (bullying and harassment intervention) follows City of Vantaa's anti-bullying procedures to address and prevent bullying. Varian offers additional safeguarding resources including Oppilaitosnuorisotyöntekijät (on-site youth workers), Oppilaitosdiakonit ja papit (chaplains and priests), and Annie tukibotti to support students' wellbeing and safety.

History

Vantaa's vocational education has evolved through decades. Varian history began in Hiekkaharju in autumn 1963 with the opening of Tikkurilan ammattikoulu's new building, which still serves as Varia's Hiekkaharju campus. The school initially had space for 430 students and offered lines such as viilaaja-koneistaja, maatalouskonekorjaaja, pukuompelijaksi and keittäjäksi. Over time the institution expanded to five campuses and around 4,500 students annually, and in 1996 a merger with Vantaan käsi- ja taideteollisuusoppilaitoksen ammatillinen koulutus created a broader organisation; in 1999 three institutions merged to form Vakes. In 2006 Vakes was renamed Varia and added an adult education line including apprenticeship training and personalized programs, with ongoing plans to build new facilities in Vehkala and at the Tikkurila Osaamiskampus to keep pace with work-life needs.

Community

Vantaa Vocational College Varia is a multi-disciplinary, practical vocational education institution. It offers education for young people, adults and organizations. It is an IB Candidate school. There are multiple campuses in Vantaa.

Facilities Overview

Varia operates Aviapolis, Hiekkaharju, Koivukylä and Vehkala campuses in Vantaa, all located near good transport connections. The Aviapolis campus is at Aerolankaari 5, 01530 Vantaa; the Hiekkaharju campus is at Tennistie 1, 01370 Vantaa; the Koivukylä campus is at Talvikkitie 119, 01360 Vantaa; and the Vehkala campus is at Vehkalantie 6, 01730 Vantaa. Varia's services cover all vocational qualifications and training forms related to updating staff competencies and acquiring new labour. The facilities emphasize accessibility: entrances are illuminated, routes to entrances are smooth and wide, and lifts or ramps are available where needed. The customer service point is present on the Koivukylä, Hiekkaharju and Vehkala campuses, with three floors at Koivukylä and Hiekkaharju, and four floors at Vehkala.

Extra Curricular Facilities

The Students on the Move programme promotes physical activity and study ability among upper secondary students. Varia students are offered diverse opportunities to participate in international activities and strengthen their international skills.

Cultural & Language

Varian students participate in international activities to strengthen language and cultural competencies. International activities include study trips, placements abroad, teaching events, and international co-teaching. The aim is to provide memorable experiences and enhance language and cultural knowledge for students and staff. Virtual international collaboration with partners enables joint teaching and digital exchanges, including activities such as eTwinning.

Social & Hobbies

Varian students can engage in tutor activities, student council activities, volunteering, or other community involvement inside or outside the school. Tutor activities empower students to strengthen Varian's community and act as ambassadors for their field, guiding new students and helping to run group activities. Student council members plan and carry out events such as wellbeing weeks, friendship weeks, and Easter events. Active participants can also represent the student body in Varian's internal working groups and attend external events.

Community & Service

Other participation and influence activities include group representatives who act as liaisons between students and staff, attend meetings, and participate in cross-institutional working groups to share practices and ideas. Student members can influence Varian's development by providing feedback through a formal feedback process and by engaging in committee and project work.

Leadership & Professional

Varian students have opportunities to lead through tutor roles and student council participation, acting as representatives and coordinators in school-wide initiatives. Tutor roles involve mentoring younger students and representing the program when communicating about training. Student council members gain experience planning events, coordinating with staff, and representing peers in Varian's internal working groups.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Active student association members plan and implement events focused on wellbeing, such as wellbeing weeks and social or friendship weeks, as well as seasonal events like Easter celebrations. These roles also provide space to contribute to wellbeing-related working groups within Varian.

Admissions

1. You can apply to Vantaa Vocational College Varia through a joint application system or through continuous admissions. The joint application system is part of the national admissions process, while continuous admissions are handled by Varia on a rolling basis. The application services help with your studies, applications and study-related choices. 2. Review English-language programs available at Varia. Varia offers vocational qualifications and study units in English, including two degrees in English: Vocational Qualification in Restaurant and Catering Services and Vocational Qualification in Tourism Industry. These programs prepare you for hospitality and tourism roles in Finland and abroad. 3. Decide which program matches your goals and language needs. English-language programs are described in the Studies in English section, while other programs are described in Finnish. 4. Submit your application through the chosen route. Applications can be submitted via the joint application system or through continuous admissions, and the application services provide guidance on the process. 5. Prepare and provide required documents and evidence of language proficiency. Identity must be verified with a valid photo ID; most school and employment certificates must be translated into Finnish or English; language requirements vary by program, and for English-language programs language proficiency is typically assessed during the admissions interview rather than via a separate Finnish test. 6. Under continuous admission, selection may include interviews, documents, a task completed as part of the interview, and sometimes entrance or aptitude tests (e.g., for certain qualifications). If study places are limited and applicants are equally qualified, a random draw may determine offers. 7. If admitted, accept the study place within seven days. Acceptance emails come from noreply@opintopolku.fi, and applicants can also accept via MyStudyPath with Suomi.fi authentication (foreign IDs may not be supported). 8. Tuition fees may apply for students from third countries. Fees for the 2026 intake begin August 1, 2026, and the exact amounts are announced in spring 2026. Fees do not include meals or accommodation, and certain exemptions apply depending on residence and status.

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