Duration of Degree Studies

Regulations concerning the intended duration of degree studies in institutes of higher education can be found under sections 40 and 41 of the Universities Act (558/2009).

Students selected to study both a lower and a higher level degree are entitled to complete their degree studies within a period of two years in addition to the combined normative duration of the degrees.   Students with the study right for a lower level (Bachelor’s) degree are entitled to complete their degree during a period one year longer than the normative duration for that degree. Students with the study right to a higher level degree are entitled to complete their degree studies within a period of two years in addition to the normative duration of the degree.

How to Calculate the Duration of Degree Studies

The duration of studies does not include leave due to voluntary military service or conscription or to maternity, paternity or parental leave. The duration of studies does not include an absence of a maximum of four terms for which the student has registered herself or himself as absent.

A suspension period of a minimum of one year that serves the needs of Labour Administration is comparable to what is referred to as registering as absent student under Section 36 of the Universities Act (558/2009).

At the University of Oulu, students shall register as being present students during their exchange studies. This is because studies during exchange periods are regarded as studies for a degree at the University. 

Notification about the Grounds for Absences and Decisions Regarding These

A student may register as absent for the duration of a maximum of four academic terms without a specified reason and without reducing the time granted for the completion of a degree. In addition to this, students are entitled to leave of absence (due to voluntary military service or conscription or to maternity, paternity or parental leave) that adds to their study period with no regard as to whether they have registered as present or absent students. Absences on legal grounds have been defined under Section 41 of the Universities Act (558/2009).

The form “Notification of the Extension of Degree Studies Period” can be found at Student Affairs forms page.

Extended Study Periods: How to Apply

The study period of students who have begun their studies after 1st of August, 2005, is limited. If a student’s normative degree studies period is coming to its end while the student has not completed the study attainments required for the degree, the student may apply for an extended study period.  Extensions to the study period can be applied for by filling in the form available on the University’s web pages: Application for extended study period for completion of studies . The form shall be submitted to the Student Centre.

Please read the instructions on how to apply for an extended period.