For exchange and visiting students
By selecting a degree programme you are able to see the general content as well as the possible degree programme-specific content. You do not have to select a degree programme to see the Open University's instructions.
Search for degree programme
When you search for a degree programme by name or by part of the name the options in the list of degree programmes below the search field is narrowed down. After this you have to choose the degree programme from the list.
Bachelor's Programmes
Master's and Licentiate's Programmes
Doctoral Programmes
Specialist training programmes
The content of this page can only be found in English.
To find e.g. fact sheets and information on nominating, see: information for Mobility Partners.
Instructions
Coronavirus: information for incoming exchange students
On this page we have collected links to important information on the COVID-19 coronavirus situation for incoming exchange students.
Who can apply
Read here for which student status you should apply for.
Application periods
Here you find the annual application periods and deadlines for exchange and visiting student applicants.
The Academic Year and Teaching Periods
The academic year begins on 1 August and ends on the last day of the following July.
How to apply as an exchange student
After your Home University has nominated you for student exchange at UH, you can follow these instructions.
How to apply as a visiting student (free mover)
If your home university does not have a student exchange agreement with the University of Helsinki or if your studies in Helsinki are not based on an exchange agreement, you can apply for the visiting student status.
How to apply for internship/thesis work/research
If you are interested in a laboratory or research group traineeship or wish to work on your thesis at the University of Helsinki, the best way to find a placement is to contact interesting units directly.
Where can I find courses?
This page provides information on where you should search for courses at different stages of your studies.
Housing
Have a look at this list of useful hints and sources of information for house hunters.
Acceptance information
The Faculties at the University of Helsinki consider every exchange/visiting student application individually and make the admission decision on the basis of the fully completed application form and enclosures.
Health insurance
It is very important that you have good health insurance that is valid during the entire time your studies last. Health insurance is one of the obligatory requirements you will need for obtaining a residence permit for studies.
Residence permit for exchange and visiting students
You must apply for a residence permit if you are not a citizen of EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway or Switzerland and you plan to study in Finland for longer than 90 days.
Orientation and Tutoring
Here you will find information concerning the orientation period and student tutors.
How do I register for my courses and exams?
In addition to registering as for the academic year, you will have to register separately for all courses which you intend to complete.
Register with the authorities
After arriving in Finland you will have to register with a few relevant authorities within a certain period of time.
Updating your personal information and contact details
You can update your contact details on Sisu or notify a Student service point.
Important documents during your exchange
During your exchange at the University of Helsinki you will need the following documents for student discounts or for your home institution.
Events for exchange students
Here you can find events for incoming exchange students. Besides these events, pay attention to the events arranged by the student organisations of the university. Besides HYY, there are many other student associations in each Faculty and study programme.
Newsletters for exchange and visiting students
Newsletters for exchange and visiting students
Assessment and grading
Here you can find information about the assessment and grading.
Changes in your exchange
These instructions are for exchange students at the University of Helsinki. If you need special arrangements during your studies or wish to extend, cancel or suspend your exchange or if you failed a course, read these instructions.
Before returning home
You should prepare for your return from Finland well before the end of your exchange studies. We have listed here a few things you should not forget.
International Exchange Services and Education Cooperation
If you are coming from abroad to the University of Helsinki as an exchange student or as a visiting student, we are here to help you! We also help degree students in matters concerning studies or traineeships abroad, as well as flexible study rights (JOO) for degree students.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about exchange
Here you find answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Living in Helsinki
Shaped by the Baltic, swinging between extremes of dark winters and midsummer sun, and defined by its east-meets-west geography – the Finnish capital is a one-off.
-Lonely Planet, 2016
Healthcare for exchange students
See where to call if you fall ill during your exchange.
Vocabulary for new students
Whether you are a new or an old student, here you can find explanations for key terms related to academic studies and student life.
Learning Facilities
Here you can find information about learning facilities, such as libraries and learning centres.
Digital Learning Environments
Learning takes place not just in a variety of physical spaces, but also in digital learning environments. The University of Helsinki utilises a selection of different digital services to make your studies easier.
Student Union of the University of Helsinki (HYY)
HYY’s members consist of all basic degree students of the University of Helsinki as well as postgraduate and exchange students who have joined the Student Union. HYY serves as an advocate, service provider and community for students.
University's webshop
From the University of Helsinki's webshop you can purchase merchandise with the university's logo.