Refugee and forced-migration experiences on entering higher education: Share your university story

A University of Turku doctoral research project is looking for students and recent graduates from refugee or forced-migration backgrounds who have studied at a Finnish university or university of applied sciences.

The study explores students’ experiences of entering higher education, participating in academic life, and developing a sense of belonging. Its aim is to support a better understanding of refugee-background students’ educational experiences and how universities can support them.

Participation involves one confidential interview in English, lasting approximately 60–90 minutes. The interview can take place online or in person.

Participation is voluntary. With the participant’s consent, the interview will be recorded and transcribed. The data will be pseudonymised and stored securely in the University of Turku’s protected systems. Only the researcher will have access to identifiable interview data, and participants will not be identifiable in publications.

The study is funded by the Finnish Cultural Foundation and has received ethical approval from the University of Turku in 2025.

For further information or to participate, please contact:

Somang Yeo
Doctoral Researcher, Faculty of Education
University of Turku
somyeo@utu.fi