Harjoittelu: internship / practical training

Detailed explanation

Internships in Finland take several forms. At universities of applied sciences (AMK), practical training is a mandatory part of the degree, typically totaling 30 credits (approximately 5 months of full-time work). At research universities, internships are usually voluntary but increasingly valued as a way to gain practical experience alongside academic studies.

Many Finnish universities offer harjoittelutuki (internship support), a financial subsidy paid to employers who hire students as interns. This makes it more attractive for organizations to take on student trainees and often results in a decent salary for the intern. Kela also provides some support for students doing mandatory internships.

Finnish internships are generally well-regulated compared to many countries. Paid internships are the norm rather than the exception, especially in fields like technology, business, and engineering. The salary for interns typically follows the applicable collective agreement or a university-recommended minimum. Unpaid internships exist mainly in fields like social work, education, and healthcare where the training takes place within the degree structure.

How it affects expats

• •Degree requirement: Check if your program includes mandatory harjoittelu; failing to complete it will delay graduation

• •Work permit coverage: Internships related to your degree are typically covered by a student residence permit

• •Paid positions: Most Finnish internships are paid, especially in the private sector (typically 1,500-2,500 EUR/month)

• •Language skills: While some internships in international companies are available in English, Finnish language skills significantly expand your options

• •Career gateway: Many Finnish employers use internships as a recruitment pipeline; strong performance can lead to a permanent position

Types of internships

• •Pakollinen harjoittelu: Mandatory internship required by your degree program

• •Vapaaehtoinen harjoittelu: Voluntary internship for additional experience

• •Kesäharjoittelu: Summer internship, often 2-3 months

• •Opinnäytetyö + harjoittelu: Combined thesis and internship at a company

How to find an internship

• Check your university's career services and job boards

• Attend company recruitment events and career fairs on campus

• Search Duunitori.fi, TE-palvelut, and LinkedIn for trainee positions

• Contact companies directly with a targeted application

• Ask your professors and thesis supervisor for industry contacts

Related terms

• •Kesätyö (Summer Job) — The Finnish tradition of summer employment, a key opportunity for students and internationals to gain work experience

• •Opiskelija (Student) — Student status in Finland and the benefits, rights, and working permissions it provides for internationals

• •Työsopimus (Employment Contract) — Legal agreement between employee and employer in Finland defining job duties, salary, working hours, and terms

• •Ammattikorkeakoulu (University of Applied Sciences) — Professionally-oriented higher education institution offering practical degrees with strong industry connections