United Kingdom

Studying in the United Kingdom: The UK offers exchange students an outstanding academic experience rooted in centuries of educational excellence and world-leading research. Its universities provide rigorous programs in fields such as humanities and social sciences, law, arts, natural sciences, medicine and health sciences, with innovative teaching methods. Students benefit from the country's rich cultural heritage and vibrant cosmopolitan environments, along with excellent public transport systems and diverse student communities that promote integration and a sense of belonging. The UK's focus on critical thinking, independent research, and personal development fosters an intellectually stimulating atmosphere. Active student organizations, language support, and robust student networks help facilitate meaningful friendships and cultural immersion. With comprehensive academic support services, an inclusive campus life, and a welcoming environment for international students, spending a semester or year in the UK provides a transformative, growth-oriented educational experience.

Erasmus exchanges in the UK
The UK is currently not part of the EU's Erasmus+ programme, but will rejoin in 2027. Nevertheless, exchanges to the UK are still possible and the University of Helsinki can offer Erasmus+ scholarships to nominated UH students. Applications for UK destinations can primarily be submitted during the UH main call for applications in February, as they are typically not included in the supplementary application round. We recommend that students apply to at least one non-UK destination as well, as there may not be enough scholarships available to cover all exchanges to the UK in cases of high demand. 

If you are an EU/EEA citizen and your stay is less than six months, you do not need to apply for a student visa. However, starting from spring 2025, you will need to obtain a digital Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the United Kingdom.

Return to Exchange destinations in Europe instruction.  

You can find comprehensive instructions for going on an exchange under the Study Abroad theme. 

NOTE: To see destinations you can apply to, sign in or choose your own degree programme from above. This way you will see your own Faculty's / degree programme's exchange destinations as well as the uni-wide destinations you can apply to. If you don't see any destinations below, it means there are no suitable destination in this country for your degree programme.  If you wish to study subjects in another study field, choose the relevant degree programme from above.