Your dream of studying in Europe is closer than you think!
Learn everything you need to know about studying in Helsinki and get end to end expert guidance from us.
Fulfil your Futuristic Academic Goals with AECC
Study in Helsinki 
Helsinki, the vibrant capital of Finland, beckons students from around the globe with its unique blend of modern urban life, pristine nature, and a rich tapestry of history and culture. Recognized for its high educational standards, the city boasts top-tier universities, innovative learning environments, and a strong emphasis on research and development. Helsinki's safe streets, efficient public transport, and plethora of recreational activities make it an ideal destination for students seeking a balanced and enriching study experience.
Why Study in Helsinki?
Safe Environment: One of the safest capitals with a high quality of life.
Top Universities: Home to the University of Helsinki and Aalto University, among others.
Sustainable Living: A strong focus on green initiatives and urban sustainability.
Bilingual City: Finnish and Swedish are both official languages.
Four Seasons: Experience the Midnight Sun, Northern Lights, and snow-covered winters.
International Community: A melting pot of cultures with numerous events and festivities.
Top Universities in Helsinki
Helsinki, the heartbeat of Finland's academic prowess, is graced with universities that have etched their mark on the global educational landscape. From breakthrough research to holistic teaching methodologies, these institutions offer a confluence of tradition, innovation, and excellence. They have produced Nobel laureates, revolutionised fields of study, and are pillars of academic pride for Finland.
Universities | Established | Overview |
University of Helsinki | 1640 | Founded in Turku and later moved to Helsinki, this esteemed institution stands as Finland's largest and oldest. Renowned for its comprehensive research and a broad range of disciplines, it consistently ranks among the top 100 universities globally. |
Aalto University | 2010 | A merger of three major Finnish universities, Aalto is celebrated for its innovations in technology, design, and business. Its interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on entrepreneurship set it apart. |
Hanken School of Economics | 1909 | As one of the oldest business schools in the Nordic countries, Hanken has a sterling reputation in economics and business administration. It emphasises research and boasts an extensive global alumni network. |
Metropolia University of Applied Sciences | 2007 | Resulting from a merger of two polytechnics, Metropolia offers a practical approach to learning. It's Finland's largest UAS and offers a wide spectrum of bachelor's and master's programs. |
Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences | 2007 | Known for its real-world approach to education, Haaga-Helia focuses on business, tourism, and communication. It partners closely with industries, ensuring students are job-ready upon graduation. |
Cost of Studying in Helsinki
Helsinki, with its high standard of living, offers a comprehensive education experience. While the cost of living can be on the higher side compared to some global cities, the quality of life, safety, and world-class education are significant attractions. Below is an estimated monthly cost breakdown for a student living and studying in Helsinki.
Expense Category | Estimated Cost (Monthly) | Notes |
Tuition (Undergraduate) | €0 - €12,000 per year | Public universities in Finland often have no tuition for EU/EEA students. Non-EU students can expect fees, but they vary widely based on program and institution. |
Tuition (Postgraduate) | €0 - €18,000 per year | Similar to undergraduate, with EU/EEA students often exempt from fees. |
Doctoral Degrees | Typically no tuition | Doctoral students may even receive a salary or grant. |
Accommodation | €400 - €800 | Costs vary based on type (student dorms, shared apartments, or private flats) and location. |
Utilities | €50 - €100 | This includes water, electricity, and the internet. It might be included in rent for some student housing. |
Groceries & Food | €200 - €300 | Eating out is pricier, so many students prefer cooking at home. |
Transport | €35 (student discount) | With a valid student card, public transport is discounted. |
Books & Supplies | €30 - €50 | Based on the course's requirements. Second-hand books can reduce costs. |
Leisure & Personal | €100 - €200 | Activities, personal care, and other miscellaneous expenses. |
Popular Activities to do in Helsinki
Helsinki, the Nordic gem, is a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition, urban landscapes and natural beauty. Beyond its academic allure, the city offers a plethora of experiences that captivate the senses and enrich the soul.
- Löyly Sauna Experience: Embrace the authentic Finnish tradition at Löyly, a public sauna. Whether in winter or summer, a sauna session followed by a dip in the Baltic Sea is rejuvenating.
- Market Square (Kauppatori): Dive into the bustling atmosphere of this central square. From fresh fish to handicrafts and seasonal events, it's the city's vibrant commercial heart.
- Helsinki Design District: Walk through 25 streets of creativity. Housing over 200 design spots, from shops to galleries, it's a haven for design and art aficionados.
- Seurasaari Open-Air Museum: Step back in time in this tranquil island setting. Explore traditional Finnish wooden buildings, all while surrounded by the lush beauty of Finnish nature.
Student Life and Experiences in Helsinki
In the heart of the Nordic realm, Helsinki invites students into a world beyond just books and lectures. It's a city that sings in hushed winter whispers and summer midnight sun melodies, offering experiences rich in contrast. Many students start their Helsinki journey on the iconic trams, which not only serve as a transport mode but also as moving viewpoints from where the city's architectural marvels unfold. Weekend escapes often lead them to urban saunas, where the warmth of wooden cabins and the chill of the Baltic Sea become the best of friends. The city's countless cafes, often dimly lit with candles and brimming with the aroma of freshly baked pulla (Finnish cinnamon rolls), become sanctuaries for conversations and budding friendships.
As winter wraps the city in its embrace, students don't hibernate; instead, they engage in ice-swimming, or maybe just a simple, serene walk under the enchanting northern lights. Summer brings its own magic, with picnics under the midnight sun in parks that burst into a myriad of green hues. And of course, there's the effervescent local festival scene, which often sees students dancing the night away or just soaking in the diverse cultures from around the world. In Helsinki, student life is a mosaic of timeless traditions and contemporary thrills, painted on a canvas of natural beauty and urban sophistication.