SORA Procedure Guidelines

Created 5.11.2024
Last Updated: 5.11.2024

SORA Legislation

The goal of the SORA legislation is to improve safety in education and the workplace. The legislation applies to fields where there are requirements related to the safety of minors, patient and customer safety, or traffic safety.

The legislation applies to:

  • Education in the fields of social and health care, humanities and education, sports, and maritime studies.
  • Vocational education, universities of applied sciences, and universities.

The requirement is that the student is physically and mentally capable of performing practical tasks or internships related to their studies. A limitation in health or functional capacity does not prevent studying if its effects can be reasonably addressed, for example, through individual accommodations. The SORA legislation covers the requirements for student admission in these fields, revocation and reinstatement of student rights, background checks for students working with minors, drug testing, and disciplinary matters.

Student Admission Requirements

When planning to apply for education leading to a degree in any of the fields mentioned above, you must evaluate your own suitability based on your health and functional capacity at the application stage. We recommend discussing any health-related limitations with your academic advisor when planning your study path. National guidelines are followed regarding student selection. More information and instructions can be found on the ammattikorkeakoulu.fi website.

Revocation and Reinstatement of Student Rights

Student rights can be revoked if the student is unsuitable for the chosen field of study:

  • If the student does not meet the health or functional capacity requirements for admission.
  • If the student has concealed a previous revocation of student rights.
  • If the studies require working with minors, and the student has a criminal record related to such work.

Before revoking student rights, the institution will work with the student to explore possible support measures to complete the studies and the possibility of applying for alternative education.

Criminal Record Check for Working with Children

You are required to provide a criminal record extract when your studies include an internship involving work with minors. The internship supervisor will provide specific instructions on how to submit the criminal record extract. You can order a criminal record extract for study, work, or voluntary activities through the Finnish Legal Register Centre (ORK) online services. Further information on ordering a criminal record extract can be found on the ORK website.

Drug Testing

If there is reason to suspect drug use, a student may be required to undergo a drug test. The procedures are described in the Lapland University of Applied Sciences’ student substance abuse policy.

Disciplinary Issues

Disciplinary measures and procedures are outlined in the Lapland University of Applied Sciences’ degree regulations.

Sources: (links missing)

  • Act on Universities of Applied Sciences
  • Act on the Student Legal Protection Board