Helsinki is Finland's largest study city and the main place to look if you want a wide choice of universities, many English-taught programmes, and an international student scene. It is also one of the most expensive cities in Finland, so it helps to plan your budget early and check each programme page and the official student housing and immigration sites.
Main universities and colleges in Helsinki
Helsinki has several well-known higher education institutions. They each focus on different fields, so the right choice depends on what you want to study.
- University of Helsinki - strong in research, humanities, sciences, law, and medicine.
- Aalto University - known for technology, business, design, and engineering.
- Hanken School of Economics - focused on business and economics.
- Metropolia University of Applied Sciences - practical and career-focused, with fields like health care, business, media, and engineering.
- Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences - known for business, hospitality, tourism, sales, and IT.
- Arcada University of Applied Sciences - offers applied study in areas such as business, health care, and media.
Universities in Finland usually focus more on theory and research. Universities of applied sciences are more practical and linked to working life. Both can be a good fit, but they lead to different study styles.
English-taught study in Helsinki
Helsinki has many English-taught bachelor's, master's, and exchange programmes. You will still find some courses only in Finnish or Swedish, so always check the language section on the programme page.
- English-taught options are common in business, technology, design, and international studies.
- Some programmes ask for proof of English, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test.
- For bachelor's study, you may need specific school subjects or entrance exams.
- For master's study, you usually need a relevant bachelor's degree.
Admission rules can change by programme and by year. The safest source is the university's admissions page for the exact degree you want.
Costs, rent, and daily life
Helsinki is usually more expensive than most other places in Finland, especially for rent. Student housing can lower your costs, but private rent is often much higher than student residence prices.
- Rent: student housing is often the cheapest option, while private studios can cost much more.
- Food: supermarkets are reasonable by Nordic standards, but eating out adds up fast.
- Transport: students can usually get a discount on local travel with a student card and the HSL system.
- Books and study materials: some programmes need costly equipment or software, but many libraries and digital resources help.
Compared with other parts of Finland, Helsinki usually has higher living costs, especially housing. If you want a cheaper month-to-month budget, look early for student housing and share a flat if possible.
Student housing and where to live
Student housing in Helsinki is usually handled by student housing foundations and student apartments. These places are often the first choice for international students because they are easier to understand and may be cheaper than the private market.
- Apply early, because demand can be high.
- Check whether the housing is furnished or unfurnished.
- Look at the distance to your campus and the nearest public transport stop.
- Read the contract carefully, including deposit and notice rules.
Popular student areas can change, but many students live in places with good metro, tram, train, or bus links. A short commute can save both money and time.
Transport, part-time work, and student life
Helsinki has a strong public transport network. Trams, buses, the metro, commuter trains, and ferries make it easy to move around the city and nearby areas.
- Check HSL for route planning, ticket types, and student discounts.
- Many students do not need a car in Helsinki.
- Walking and cycling are also common, especially in the city centre.
Part-time work can help with living costs, but it should not be your only plan. In Finland, rules for working while studying depend on your residence permit, so check the national immigration authority before you rely on work income. Jobs often need Finnish or Swedish, but some roles in cafes, logistics, cleaning, customer service, and tech may be open to English speakers.
Student life in Helsinki is active, international, and organised. Universities often have student unions, clubs, sports, tutoring, and events that help you meet people. Winter is dark and cold, but many students say the city feels safe, practical, and easy to live in once you get used to the rhythm.
How to get noticed by admissions offices
If you want universities in Helsinki to notice your profile, make it clear and complete. Admissions teams and programme staff often search for students by field, level, grades, and language background.
- List the exact subject area you want to study.
- Write your current education level clearly.
- Add your English level and any test scores you already have.
- Upload clean copies of your diplomas, transcripts, and passport if you have them ready.
- Use the same name and contact details across all forms.
Also check the university's admissions page for the exact application steps, required documents, and deadlines. Some programmes use separate application rounds, entrance exams, or portfolio review, so small details matter.
Common questions
Is Helsinki a good city for international students?
Yes, if you want strong universities, many English-taught options, and good public transport. It is expensive, so budgeting is important.
Do I need Finnish to study in Helsinki?
Not always. Many programmes are in English, but some courses, housing paperwork, and part-time jobs can be easier with Finnish or Swedish.
Can I work while studying?
Often yes, but your permit rules matter. Check the Finnish Immigration Service before you plan to work, and do not count on a job to cover all costs.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
You stay in control, and you do not need to apply for anybody through Eduuro.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.