Established in 1998, Savonia-ammattikorkeakoulu (Savonia University of Applied Sciences) is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Kuopio (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Northern Savonia. This institution also has branch campuses in the following locations: Varkaus, Lisalmi. Officially recognized by the Opetus- ja kulttuuriministeriö, Suomi (Ministry of Education and Culture of Finland), Savonia-ammattikorkeakoulu (Savonia) is a medium-sized coeducational Finnish higher education institution. Savonia-ammattikorkeakoulu (Savonia) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees, master degrees in several areas of study. This 24 years old Finnish higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. The admission rate range is 20-30% making this Finnish higher education organization a very selective institution. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. Savonia also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.