Most international exchange students satisfied with their experience at UTA

Most international exchange students were satisfied with their overall exchange experience at the University of Tampere (UTA) last year;  64 per cent were reportedly very satisfied and 26 per cent satisfied. Ninety-six per cent would also recommend the University of Tampere as a host university.

A survey of the satisfaction of the international exchange students at the University of Tampere was conducted for the fifth time in autumn 2011. The study measured the opinions in various fields related to applying, arrival, studying, and student life in general.

Improved satisfaction

In total, 76 out of 325 exchange students responded, resulting in a response rate of about 25 per cent. The views were similar to the previous years, but overall, satisfaction seems to have improved even further.

The two main reasons for choosing UTA were Finland as a destination and the quality of education.

The vast majority found the application process easy and had had no trouble finding information or getting help when needed. Arrival in Tampere had also been easy, although one fifth reported having been disappointed in the condition of the accommodation upon arrival. Most were also either satisfied or very satisfied with the tutoring system and found it necessary.

Hopes for wider course selection

The respondents in 2011 found planning of studies easy more often than the last time this was asked in 2009. The majority now also felt that they had got enough help with it.

The course selection could still have been better according to the majority, but they also found that it was easy to find information about the courses and that the credit transfer system was clear. The teaching and the academic level were also appreciated, as were the course arrangements.

The ratings of how the students had received information on the course arrangements and changes in them especially improved greatly from 2009.

Webpages popular as sources of information

The various sources of information for international students received good ratings, and the Studies website, SITR website and the University News and Study News in particular gained more popularity.

Most student services also received satisfied or very satisfied ratings. The respondents were most satisfied with the International Office, the Computer Facilities and the Student Cafeterias. The Student Cafeterias, SITR project, Computer Facilities and also the Student Union received the most improved ratings.

The respondents were least satisfied with the student housing. Two thirds found it good, but one-third was not satisfied. The unavailability of the University Sports gym also showed up in the ratings.

Most would recommend UTA

Ninety-six per cent would also recommend the University of Tampere as a host university.

Those not satisfied most often had had trouble finding courses for their needs and emphasized the need to have precise course information available when applying. Some also wished they had themselves prepared better and had made more effort in advance.

The satisfied majority appreciated the well-organized, high-quality education, good facilities and personal freedom in selecting one’s studies at UTA.

Source: Mr. Ari Kurlin: The University of Tampere Survey for International Exchange Students 2011