Finland does have a similar education system to what the US has in place. Interesting! We have "Universities" which you can transfer between if you want to attend a different school, community colleges that have a degree, and course limitations, and other private institutions. When I applied for the current school I attend, I had to submit an essay for acceptance. Many Universities also require some form of testing.

Financial Aid consists of grants and loans. Many people also choose to work during their studies depending on their situation. A student can receive funding as long as their grades meet the threshold for government funding. Our support is similar, but by applying for scholarships, less of the support can be loans, and more of it can be in the form of rewards that do not need paying back.

I was working during my studies, but as I get closer to graduation I realize that I need more time to work on my classes and get things in order.

I'm a student who is attending half-time, my options a little different. A few years? Education can span several years as well!