The required application attachments are listed below. Some attachments may be optional or apply only to some applicant groups. If a document is not listed below, it will not be considered.
If a mandatory attachment is not submitted following the instructions, your application will be deemed ineligible and not processed further. More detailed instructions will be published on the University’s website before the application period begins. The instructions may change between application rounds, and you must make sure to comply with the requirements for the correct round.
1. Copy of an official transcript of records of a higher education degree
A transcript of records (mark sheet) is a list of courses and study attainments a student has completed at an educational institution.
2. Official translation of the transcript into English, Finnish, or Swedish (if needed)
If the official transcript of records is issued in a language other than English, Finnish, or Swedish, an official translation into one of these languages is required in addition to the original language version.
3. Copy of a degree certificate of a higher education degree
If the degree used for proving your eligibility is unfinished at the time of application, a degree certificate is not required in the application phase.
4. Official translation of the degree certificate into English, Finnish, or Swedish (if needed)
If the degree certificate is issued in a language other than English, Finnish, or Swedish, an official translation into one of these languages is required in addition to the original language version.
5. Proof of English language proficiency
The required document is either a language test certificate or an educational document, depending on how you prove your language skills. See Eligibility for the approved methods. If an educational document is issued in a language other than English, Finnish, or Swedish, an official translation into one of these languages is required in addition to the original language version.
6. Copy of a valid passport (if needed)
A copy of the identification page(s) of a valid passport with the applicant’s name, date of birth, and nationality. If you do not hold a valid passport, another official identification document (such as an identity card or driver’s license) stating the same information is accepted.
Please note: As a part of the application process, you may be invited to an interview. At the beginning of the interview, you must prove your identity by presenting your passport, official photo ID card, or driver’s license to the camera. An expired document is accepted if it expired less than a year ago from the start date of the application period. If you do not identify yourself in this manner, your application will be deemed ineligible.
If you are a Finnish citizen: You are not required to upload a separate identification document to your application form. However, you must prove your identity at the start of the interview as described above.
7. Copy of a residence permit card (if applicable)
A copy of both sides of the residence permit card. The document is required only if you, the applicant, hold one of the following: a valid residence permit in Finland of type A (that is not based on studies), P, P-EU, EU Blue Card, or a certificate of the permanent right of residence of a UK citizen in Finland, or residence card for a family member of an EU or UK citizen residing in Finland.
8. Curriculum vitae (CV)
A curriculum vitae is a document that provides information about the applicant's educational and work history, skills, and competencies. The curriculum vitae must be written in English.
9. Motivation letter
Clearly articulate your reasons for applying for this programme by addressing the following issues:
- Describe your previous studies, activities, and commitment in relation to the contents of the master’s programme.
- Articulate what motivates and interests you in the contents of the programme.
- Reflect on your future professional plans and the skills and knowledge you expect to gain from this programme for your career after graduation.
The maximum length of the motivation letter is one page (A4 size) using Times New Roman and font size 12 pt. with 1,5 spacing. The motivation letter must be written in English. Please note the instructions for using generative AI in the admission process are given above.
10. Research interests
According to your selected specialisation (Social Sciences or Educational Sciences), write a research interest statement of no more than 1,000 words (excluding references). Use Times New Roman and font size 12 pt. and 1,5 spacing.
The statement should present a specific and original topic that you may wish to explore in your future Master's thesis. Explain what sparked your interest in the topic, for instance, any observation, work experience, coursework, personal encounter, or other experience. Reflect how the topic relates to your future expertise in international development, sustainable development, global education, or the study of social change, as relevant to the programme objectives. Applicants specialising in Educational Sciences should focus on a topic related to education.
The research interest statement should include:
- title
- justification of the research interest
- discussion of the topic in relation to relevant literature
- reflection on the skills that should be learned to conduct the research
- list of references (4-5 references required)
Please note that this does not denote a final research proposal for your thesis. If admitted to the program, the topic and plan can, and most likely will, change during your studies. Observe the maximum length, as the evaluation will be based on the first 1,000 words. Make sure you have carefully read the literature you have referred to and indicate it in detail in the list of references. Research interest must be written in English. Please note the instructions for using generative AI in the admission process are given above.
