University of Helsinki

... Finland

...

The University of Helsinki is Finland’s largest and oldest university, with a history dating back to 1640. It is widely recognised across Europe and has built a strong reputation for research, teaching quality, and international cooperation. The university attracts students from more than 100 countries, creating a multicultural study environment that supports global perspectives and academic exchange.

The university offers a broad range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programmes across fields such as Computer Science, Data Science, Environmental Science, Education, Law, Business, Social Sciences, Life Sciences, Medicine, and Humanities. Many master's programmes are delivered in English, making them accessible to international students.

Research is a major strength of the university. It consistently ranks among the leading universities in Europe for scientific output and research impact. Students benefit from modern learning facilities, extensive digital resources, research-led teaching, and close links with industry, government, and international research networks.

International students have access to academic advising, career guidance, housing assistance, orientation programmes, language support, and wellbeing services. The university's location in Helsinki provides access to Finland’s innovation sector, technology companies, research institutes, and startup community. Students can combine academic study with practical experience through internships, research projects, and collaboration opportunities.

Intakes August
All Campuses Helsinki City Centre Campus, Kumpula Campus, Meilahti Campus, Viikki Campus
Website https://www.helsinki.fi/en
Monthly Living Cost €800–€1,300
Funds Requirements for Visa €9,600
Application Fees €100
Currency
Is Lang Mendatory Yes
Part Time Work Details <p>International students may work alongside studies. No hourly restriction applies for residence permits issued for studies, provided academic progress remains satisfactory under Finnish regulations.</p>
Ranking
    Ranking Category Position
    Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026 Top 150 globally
    QS World University Rankings by Subject Several subjects ranked within the global Top 100, including Education, Agriculture & Forestry, and Environmental Sciences
    Finland National Ranking Regularly ranked among the top universities in Finland
    The Guardian University Rankings Not ranked (The Guardian ranks UK universities only)
English Language Requirements

The University of Helsinki accepts several English language qualifications. Requirements vary by programme.

IELTS Academic

  • Overall score: 6.5
  • Minimum 6.0 in writing

TOEFL iBT

  • Minimum score: 92

PTE Academic

  • Minimum score: 62

Scholarship Policy

The University of Helsinki offers scholarships to outstanding non-EU/EEA students applying to eligible master's programmes.

Scholarship Types

  • 100% Tuition Fee Waiver
  • 50% Tuition Fee Waiver

Eligibility

  • Non-EU/EEA students liable for tuition fees
  • Strong academic record
  • Meet admission requirements
  • Meet Finnish residence permit requirements

Application Process

  • Apply for admission to a master's programme
  • Submit scholarship request within the same application
  • No separate scholarship application is required

Duration

  • Up to two academic years
  • Students must maintain satisfactory academic progress

The university does not provide scholarships that cover living expenses.

Fees & Funding

Bachelor's Programmes

  • Tuition fee: Approximately €13,000 per year

Master's Programmes

  • Tuition fees: €13,000–€18,000 per year depending on programme

Application Guidelines

Step 1

Choose an eligible bachelor's or master's programme.

Step 2

Prepare required documents:

  • Academic transcripts
  • Degree certificates
  • Passport copy
  • English language test results
  • Motivation letter (if required)
  • Programme-specific documents

Step 3

Submit application through Finland's Studyinfo portal.

Step 4

Apply for scholarships during the admission process if eligible.

Step 5

Receive admission decision and accept the study place.

Step 6

Apply for a Finnish residence permit after receiving the admission offer.

Apply Online

Yes

Immigration Support Service

The University of Helsinki provides support for international students before arrival and throughout their studies. Services include:

  • Residence permit guidance
  • Arrival and orientation support
  • Student housing information
  • Academic advising
  • Student wellbeing services
  • Career services
  • International student counselling
  • Exchange and mobility support
  • Finnish language learning opportunities

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The University of Helsinki was founded in 1640 as the Royal Academy of Turku, making it Finland’s oldest university. In 1828, the institution moved from Turku to Helsinki and became a central part of Finland’s higher education system. Over the years, it expanded from a small academic institution into one of Europe’s leading research universities.

The university has played an important role in the development of Finnish education, science, medicine, law, and public policy. Many of Finland’s presidents, government leaders, researchers, and cultural figures studied or worked at the university. Today, the University of Helsinki serves more than 30,000 students and hosts a large international community from over 100 countries.

Research conducted at the university contributes to scientific progress in areas such as environmental science, medicine, agriculture, artificial intelligence, data science, and social sciences. Through international partnerships, research projects, and student exchange programmes, the university maintains a strong global presence and continues to contribute to education and research across the world.

The University of Helsinki is a popular choice for international students seeking high-quality education in Finland. The university combines strong academic standards with modern teaching methods and extensive research opportunities. Students benefit from well-equipped libraries, digital learning resources, career services, academic guidance, and student wellbeing support.

English-taught bachelor's and master's programmes attract students from many countries. Small group teaching, research-based learning, and close connections with industry and public organisations give students valuable academic and professional experience. Helsinki itself is known for safety, public transport, and a high standard of living, making it an attractive place to study and live.

Schools, Faculties, and Institutions
Faculties
  • The University of Helsinki consists of 11 faculties covering a wide range of academic fields, including:

    • Faculty of Arts
    • Faculty of Educational Sciences
    • Faculty of Law
    • Faculty of Social Sciences
    • Faculty of Theology
    • Faculty of Science
    • Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences
    • Faculty of Pharmacy
    • Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry
    • Faculty of Medicine
    • Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Institutes
  • No data found!
Scholarships, Bursaries, and Funding

The University of Helsinki offers financial support for international students through:

  • University of Helsinki Scholarship Programme
  • 100% Tuition Fee Waiver Scholarships
  • 50% Tuition Fee Waiver Scholarships
  • External Finnish Government Scholarship Opportunities
  • Research Grants for Doctoral Students
  • Faculty and Programme-Specific Funding Opportunities

Student Accommodation

The university does not operate traditional on-campus residence halls. Most students apply for accommodation through student housing organisations in Helsinki.

Typical accommodation options include:

  • Student apartments
  • Shared flats
  • Studio apartments
  • Family housing

Estimated monthly accommodation costs:

  • Shared student housing: €250–€450
  • Studio apartments: €500–€900

Housing is available near the university campuses and connected by public transport.

Off-Campus Student Accommodations

Many students choose private accommodation across the Helsinki metropolitan area, including Helsinki, Espoo, and Vantaa. Options include shared apartments, private rental flats, and furnished student housing.

Popular student housing providers include:

  • HOAS (Foundation for Student Housing in the Helsinki Region)
  • Private rental agencies
  • Student apartment networks

Most housing locations offer convenient access to university campuses through buses, trams, metro services, and commuter trains. Travel times between accommodation and campus are generally short, making daily commuting straightforward for students.

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