How to apply

Entry requirements

  • Nationality: all nationalities can apply to the programs
  • Age: you are at least 18 years of age when studies start. There is no upper age limit
  • Qualification equivalent to Finnish basic Education of nine years
  • Scan or photo of your original certificates
    • Original certificates in English, Finnish or Swedish are accepted
    • Translated certificates in English, Finnish or Swedish need to be verified by public notary
  • Certificate of the international English test Duolingo(see below).
  • Enough funds for living expenses on the applicant’s account to be presented for the immigration office for the resident permit. More information on Finnish Immigration Service website.
  • Good physical condition to study and work.
  • Valid passport which is attached to the application

English language test

  • Every applicant needs to have either ONE of the following English test score submitted during applying.
    • Duolingo English Test (85 points minimum).
      • Vamia does not provide free vouchers for taking the Duolingo English test.
    • IELTS General or Academic Training English language test (5.5 band minimum).
  • On Duolingo test choose Vamia as your school and send results and save the file to attach to the application.
  • English language test cannot be waived.
  • We dont accept any other tests, diplomas or qualifications as proof of language skill.
    • Due to the high volume of emails regarding this matter, we are unable to respond to inquiries related to this.
  • Starting from application round in August 2024, we will only accept the Duolingo English Test as a language proficiency test.

Application procedure

  • Due to limited resources, we are limiting the number of applications to 500 per program.
  • Link to the application will be provided when the applying is open.
    • There is no fee for applying to Vamia
  • Application periods are organized twice a year
    • Next application period starts on 4th of December 2023 for the studies beginning in August 2024. In this application period it is only possible to apply to Cook and Waiter/Waitress programs.
    • Application periods for Mechanical fitter available on December 2024. Machinist December 2025 and Plater-welder December 2026.
  • You can only apply to the one of the English programs.
  • Fill out the application form accurately.
  • Upload all required documents while the application period is on.
  • You will be notified by email when the application has been received.
  • The admission results will be announced approximately 1-2 month after the application period is closed. All applicants will be informed, whether they are selected or not.
  • An admission letter will be sent to the selected new students. The admission letter includes information about the health documents and how to apply for the resident permit.
  • Begin to apply for the residence permit immediately, in some countries applying can takes months!

Beginning of studies

  • Approximately 2 months before the studies begin, the new students will receive an e-mail about the start of the studies.
  • Visit a doctor in your home country to get the health documents that we require.
  • Before coming to Finland send the results of laboratory tests, X-ray of lungs [Thorax (please note that you should not send the X-ray photographs)] and Doctors’ statement T to School Nurse.
  • Arrive to Finland well in time before the studies begin.
  • The first week will include orientation studies and practical information about the school.
  • The school will provide the new students with appropriate uniform for kitchen and restaurant work /mechanical work.
  • For students in Restaurant and Catering Services the following test is obligatory and will be taken in Vaasa: Salmonella.