If there is any one area that has seen so many internationals move to the Nordic countries then it is education. Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland not only pride themselves on having a rich history and great attractions. The region also hosts some of the premier universities that play in the top league. Here, you meet great scholars engaging in research and training. Every advancement in science and technology that the Nordics may be known for are all thanks to their investment in education and exchange programs.
At once you may not realize why a whole exchange program like Erasmus Exchange Programme opens an avenue for so many internationals to study fully or in part in the Nordics. The answer is simple; the greater the diversity and knowledge exchange, the better a hybrid of scholars that enrich the Nordics. So, we here slice and dice the various exchange programs that an ambitious person may apply for. They range from research, arts, science, information technology and everything else in between.
The Nordics have for some time now affirmed their place as being happy aside from having some of the most attractive natural sites to visit. It’s never an exaggeration to say that the Nordics have some of the most beautiful and calm people that those who have lived in places like the USA may find too meek to be real. The region also emphasizes efficiency and perfection in virtually every aspect of life. It is only in the Nordics where people take a whole training in cleaning so much so that when they get out there to clean, you may be tempted to literally bend and lick the floors because they get spotlessly clean.
Making Academic Exploits in the Nordics
The Nordic people invest their all in whatever they believe in and that is evident even in their cultural and educational exploits. They , not for even a bit, compromise on quality training. To be perfect in whatever training one takes to, the authorities and duty bearers will ensure that all the necessary support comes by.
Also read: Common misconceptions about the Nordics
When we talk about the best facilities, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland are home to great academic platforms that newcomers or other people from other countries want to identify with. Students from different parts who wish to study abroad are usually motivated by the sheer desire to enroll for scholarship opportunities in their dream universities in the Nordics. As an international student, I know you may have different reasons for needing to study in the Nordics. You can extend your horizons, make friends that span the globe, be fluent in Nordic languages, or even challenge yourself. You are close to achieving your dreams. Once you apply for Nordic academic programmes, you will attain all the goals you are searching for.
What International students need to know before applying to academic exchange programmes
Even if you have ever travelled to the Nordic countries, maybe for a visit to the attractive natural sites, studying in these regions is a different experience. This is partially due to the pesky practical matters like getting a student visa. In addition, you should also get ready for the less palpable elements of studying internationally, like an emotional journey that tosses you from anticipation to homesickness. Some things you need to consider before moving to the Nordics for academic exchange programs include the following.
Adjusting to a new culture
Internet photos might excite you about studying abroad in the Nordics because it seems like a dreamy adventure. The fact is that learning in the Nordics is interesting. However, the experience also comes with some challenges. Most students move to the Nordics for academic programs hyped, but landing comes with some anxiety and homesickness. Culture shock can also manifest to be alarming. How can you deal with such an issue?
It will be vital for you to get engaged in your host academic institution. Being part of the international or new students’ events often organized in higher learning institutions in the Nordics so you do not feel so out of place. You can try to learn and pick up a few words from Danish, Finnish, Swedish, Norwegian or Icelandic and the different cultures. As much as you will be in the Nordics for the academic exchange programs, take walks in the cities once in a while. Say hello to the baristas at the coffee shop across the street.
Paying for your studies
Studying in the Nordics depends on your academic exchange program. The costs may be slightly higher or less depending on where you come from. That said, you can still have ways of managing your expenses when coming to study in the Nordics. You first must confirm the funding status with the academic exchange program you have applied to. If you have a scholarship, make sure it applies to your international experience too.
The good news is that if you plan to enrol directly in a foreign university, you can get accessible or affordable tuition rates. You can enrol in the universities for free if you are considering Nordic countries like Iceland and Norway. You will not have any tuition costs to pay.
Popular Academic Exchange Programs in the Nordics
Having an academic exchange program in the Nordics for international students is the same and safe in various ways. Most of these courses are offered in English, and you will also get an opportunity to train your skills in any of the languages in Nordic. In Sweden, most students revise their skills in Swedish to attain the fluency level needed in their careers.
When you decide to have an academic program from Denmark, you can combine Scandinavia and continental Europe. Iceland is non-native, even for a Finn, due to its Viking history and nature. If your option is in Norway, it is a perfect place for an outdoor student. You can apply for an academic exchange program in the Nordics for international students through Erasmus and Nordplus programs.
Erasmus Programme
You will have a subject-specific programme if you consider Erasmus. For instance, if your host university is an Erasmus partner university of the Department of Physics, you will mainly study physics at that university. With the Erasmus Programme, you can enlarge your horizons, learn the new Nordic languages, and have the best adventure while having your academics. You can apply for the Erasmus Programme so long as you are a student or academic teacher. However, you cannot register for this programme if you are on dean’s leave, have taken the programme in the past, or have not completed your semester with all the credits.
As an international student, you may be asking yourself the estimated budget. Well, that all depends on the person, but a rough approximation of the funding for nine months in the Nordics can be between €7,000 and €10,000. This will include books, food, rent, and other necessary items. But as I mentioned, much will rely on your particular budgeting skills and needs.
Nordplus Programme
You only qualify for the Nordplus programme if you come from Nordic or international students from Baltic countries. You will have a higher education programme and can apply for bachelor’s and master’s levels. Nordplus focuses on all educational sectors and organizations engaged in learning education within the Nordics and Baltic regions. You need to note that you cannot apply as an individual. You have to apply for the programme through an educational institution or organization. Some of the sub-programmes offered here include Nordplus Junior, Higher Education, Adult, Horizontal, and Nordplus Nordic Languages.