Open UAS studies made easier for unemployed people

The change applies not only to open Universities of Applied Sciences but also to open university studies, adult education centres, and summer universities.

The change applies to open studies starting on or after 1 July 2026, such as open University of Applied Sciences studies. The scope or full-time nature of open higher education studies will no longer be assessed from the perspective of unemployment security if the jobseeker is aged 25 or over. Studies can be chosen based on personal goals, interests, and life situation.
This reform makes it easier to develop skills during unemployment and encourages people to make use of the opportunities offered by open higher education to support their careers.

Despite studying, a person is still primarily considered an unemployed jobseeker. The jobseeker must apply for jobs according to their employment plan, be ready to accept full-time work, and participate in services that support employment when offered. Open studies can support job searching, career planning, and building new skills.

The change does not apply to full-time degree studies or to jobseekers under the age of 25.

Flexible learning with Xamk Pulse

Xamk’s open UAS (University of Applied Sciences), known as Xamk Pulse, offers studies from different fields as online studies and flexible study modules. You can complete studies ranging from individual courses to larger study modules, depending on your life situation and goals. Xamk Pulse is the largest open higher education provider in Finland, offering a wide range of options. Most studies are online, which means you can study regardless of time and place.

Open UAS studies are suitable, for example, for updating your skills, planning a career change, supporting career development, or preparing for degree studies.

Check your personal situation

Although the legislative reform clarifies opportunities for unemployed people to study open higher education courses, individual situations may include specific conditions. It is always recommended to check your personal situation with your local employment authority.