The Finnish education system, renowned for research-based learning and practicality, includes universities focusing on scientific research and universities of applied sciences meeting labor market needs. Finland's higher education system is globally recognized, ranking 2 in a well-developed public education system and 14 in the best countries overall. Finland's Helsinki, the capital city, ranks 70th in the QS Best Student Cities 2023 list, offering world-class universities and lifestyles.
Why Study in Helsinki - 6 Top Reasons
Here are the top reasons to study in Helsinki:
- Students can explore the vibrant food scene with local produce, fresh seafood, and diverse cuisine options.
- Excellent connectivity via Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (170+ destinations) and efficient public transport.
- This city has an affordability ranking of 34th.
- Desirable student city ranked at 13 in QS Best Student Cities
- Innovative learning involving video calls, field trips, labs, and hackathons.
- Students can expect world-class Finnish education, a system of equal schools, and high-quality teaching.
Table of Contents
Best Universities to Study in Helsinki
To know the five best universities in Helsinki, check out the below table:
Best Universities in Helsinki | World University Ranking 2024 |
University of Helsinki | 121st |
Aalto University | 201–250th |
University of Jyväskylä | 401–500th |
Tampere University | 301–350th |
Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology LUT | 251–300th |
Best Courses to Study in Helsinki
Universities in Helsinki offer a wide range of courses across various disciplines, including:
- Bachelor's Program in Design
- Bachelor's Program in Economics
- Bachelor's Program in International Business
- Bachelor's Program in Chemical Engineering
- Bachelor's Program in Digital Systems and Design
- Bachelor's Program in Computational Engineering
- Life Science Technologies - Master of Science
- Master's Programme in Building Technology
- Master's Programme in Health Technology Engineering
- Biotechnology, Master of Science (Technology)
Cost of Living in Helsinki
Living costs in Helsinki are significant, mainly due to high accommodation expenses. It's essential for students planning to study in Helsinki to budget carefully and consider these living expenses when preparing for their time abroad.
Cost of living | Monthly Cost (for one person) |
Rent | One bedroom in the City Centre: €988.72 |
One bedroom in outside City Centre: €796.17 | |
Utilities: (Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) ) | € 105 |
Transportation: (Monthly Pass (Regular Price) | € 67 |
Internet | €18.82 |
Sports And Leisure | € 41.52 |
Cost of Studying in Helsinki
Studying in Helsinki involves various costs that students need to consider. International students' tuition fees typically range from €13,000 to €18,000 annually. Additional costs include student union membership fees of around €52 per year and a basic student healthcare fee of €36.80 per semester/term.
Top Scholarships for Students to Study in Helsinki
Some of the top scholarships for students to study in Helsinki include:
Scholarship Name | Benefits | Description |
University of Helsinki Scholarship | 50%-100% tuition fee waivers | Subject to academic progress and full-time study and, for two years |
Finnish Government Scholarships 2024 | € 5000 relocation grant | Covers tuition fees for the first year of the master's program. |
Tampere University Degree Scholarships | 100 % tuition fees and offers €7,000 living stipend per year | Exceptional Master’s applicants in various fields may receive full or partial waivers for tuition. |
University of Eastern Finland Doctoral Scholarships | Partial scholarship of up to 50% of tuition fees | Maximum waiver duration of 4 semesters for Master's, six semesters for Bachelor's |
Student Life in Helsinki
Living in Helsinki offers a student-friendly environment with various discounts and benefits tailored to students' needs. The Frank student card app provides a range of money-saving discounts. Students can use it to get deals on services, dining out, and shopping around town. It's a practical way to enjoy the city while keeping costs down. However, students have the flexibility to work part-time (30 hours per week) during their studies. This opportunity allows them to gain work experience and supplement their income.
Beyond the practical perks, Helsinki has a vibrant cultural life. It hosts popular events like the Helsinki Festival, celebrating arts and music, Flow Festival, Helsinki International Film Festival, etc. Students can visit amazing places like the Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage island fortress by the sea. They can enjoy the Old Market Hall, a historic market selling local food.
Career Prospects for Students in Helsinki
Beyond having a high desirability score, Helsinki gets a great score in the employer activity indicator - ranking 82nd globally in 2022. Students find good job opportunities here, particularly in engineering, IT, and electronics fields. Some top careers and average salaries in Helsinki include:
Profession | Average Salary (EUR) |
Software Engineer | €4T - €5T/month |
Data Scientist | €4T - €5T/month |
Environmental Scientist | €2T - €2T/month |
Marketing Manager | €4T - €6T/month |
IT Specialist | €3T - €4T/month |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for a student visa to study in Helsinki?
To get a student visa for studying in Helsinki, start with the university acceptance letter. Next, make an account on the online portal and choose the application form for a study program residence permit. Accurately fill in the online form, attaching scanned copies of documents needed. If applying online is impossible, visit your local embassy or consulate for a paper application in person instead.
Can I work and Study in Helsinki?
International students with student residence permits can work part-time for up to 30 hours a week.
Which course is best to study in Helsinki?
Courses like software engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, and data science are great choices for studies in Helsinki. They provide excellent career prospects after graduation in Helsinki.
What support services are available for international students in universities in Helsinki?
International students at Helsinki's universities receive comprehensive support services to ensure their academic success. Services include counseling, tutoring, exceptional education support, access to psychologists and social workers, and regular welfare meetings.
What cultural experiences and attractions can I explore outside of my studies in Helsinki?
In Helsinki, there are many things beyond studying. You can check out the islands, parks, and beaches in the summer. In the winter, you can go skiing or ice skating. You can visit small shops, art galleries, and a design museum. You can explore places like the Kiasma Museum, Musiikkitalo Concert Hall, and Suomenlinna Sea Fortress. You should also try Finnish foods like Karelian pies and Grillimakkara Sausages to get the full Helsinki experience.
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