Universities Act under reform

The Finnish Universities Act is under reform. The Government is planning to submit its proposal for a new Universities Act to Parliament in the spring of 2009. At the moment, the draft act is being circulated for opinions. Deadline for opinions is 15 October 2008. If passed, the new law will replace the Universities Act of 1997.

The reform will make the universities independent legal personalities. The universities will be separated from the State and they will have the choice of becoming either corporations subject to public law or foundations subject to private law.

Degree education will still be provided free of charge. The legislative reforms will, however, make it possible to charge tuition fees on a trial basis to students from outside EU/EEA countries who are taking part in separate master's programmes, provided that the arrangements include a scholarship scheme.

Ministry of Education - University Reform information page
Proposal for the new Universities Act in Brief (pdf)