The Number of ‘Ghost Students’ Increases in Finnish Universities
There has been a significant increase in the number of ‘ghost students’ enrolled in Helsinki and Tampere universities who do not attend classes. At the University of Helsinki, over 3,600 students did not attend any classes last year. This number was below 2,000 in 2021 but has nearly doubled in three years.
A similar situation exists at Tampere University. In the 2023-2024 academic year, approximately 2,500 students did not earn any course credits. University officials have stated that students’ financial difficulties, health problems, and family situations are among the various reasons for their disrupted education.
In Finland, student cardholders are entitled to significant discounts on meals, public transportation, gym memberships, and various retail purchases. Additionally, they have access to health services and university IT resources.
Anu Haapala, Director of Development at the University of Helsinki, stated, “Student organizations have made it clear that the benefits and subsidies could be improved to better support the promotion of studies.” Some adjustments are necessary to ensure more effective use of student discounts and benefits in Finland.
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