Licensing studies for nurses who have completed their degree outside the EU or EEA states

Have you completed your registered nurse degree outside the EU or EEA states? Do you want to work as a registered nurse in Finland?
The registered nurse licensing pathway studies help you obtain the official authorization (professional practice rights) to work as a registered nurse in Finland. The training ensures you gain the nursing competences required in Finland.

For whom?

This program is for you if:

• you live in Finland
• you have completed a nursing degree (Bachelor or Diploma level) outside the EU/EEA states
• you will apply to the Finnish Supervisory Agency for the right to work as a registered nurse in Finland OR you have already received a decision on additional studies from the Finnish Supervisory Agency
• you have sufficient Finnish language skills (at least level A2–B1)

How does the program proceed?

1. Initial assessment
   We review your previous nurse education and work experience and identify the competences you already have.
2. Personal study plan (HOPS)
   We draw up a personal plan for your studies. The plan is based on the initial assessment and, where applicable, on the Finnish Supervisory Agency’s decision.
3. Studies
   You complete the theoretical studies and work placements specified in your personal study plan. During your studies, you can also strengthen your Finnish language skills.
4. Verification of competence
   You demonstrate the competence required for professional practice rights in your work placements and examinations.
5. Licensing (Finnish Supervisory Agency)
   Finally, you apply for professional practice rights as a registered nurse from the Finnish Supervisory Agency.

Teaching is delivered in a blended learning format. This means that you study partly online and partly on campus. Contact teaching takes place at Metropolia’s campus in Myllypuro, Helsinki. You can also study alongside work.

What does the program include?

According to your personal study plan, the program includes theoretical studies and work placements. Theoretical studies cover Finnish social and healthcare legislation and ethics, pharmacotherapy, and clinical nursing.

Language of instruction

The language of instruction is Finnish. To complete the studies, you need Finnish language skills at least at level A2–B1. The language levels (A–C) are described on the Europass website.

Selection

Selection is based on an interview. Only eligible applicants are invited to an interview.
In the interview, the applicant’s Finnish language skills are assessed both orally and in writing.

An applicant may be selected for the licensing pathway if they have:

• a nursing degree from outside the EU or EEA states
• Finnish language skills at least at level A2–B1

Price

The price depends on which studies you complete:

• Theoretical studies: 25 euros per ECTS credit
• Work placements: 45 euros per ECTS credit

If your employer pays for your licensing studies, you provide your employer’s billing details when registering for the study units.
You are responsible for paying the Finnish Supervisory Agency’s application fees, document-related costs such as translation fees, certifications and other similar costs, as well as any vaccination fees.

How to apply

The program has rolling admission. Apply to the program using the e-form below.

Application form for registered nurse licensing studies

You may be contacted by phone or email for additional information.

If you already have a decision on additional studies

If you already have a decision from the Finnish Supervisory Agency (formerly Valvira) on the additional studies required for professional practice rights, you can apply for this program.