Study Abroad and Experience the World!

A new learning environment, international friendships, fresh perspectives on your field, and experiences that will benefit you long into the future. Student exchange offers much more than studying abroad. Now is the perfect time to start planning your own exchange experience!

Why go on exchange?

• More than 90% of applicants receive an exchange placement
• All selected students receive a grant (approximately €500 per month)
• Additional funding is available for green travel within Europe
• You will develop your language and communication skills in a real-life environment
• You will gain new perspectives on your field and studies
• You will build international networks and gain valuable experience that is highly regarded in working life

Exchange destinations

The University of Helsinki has more than 400 exchange destinations in over 50 countries.

Depending on your degree programme, you can apply for an exchange semester or academic year, or for a shorter period, such as an individual course.

You can also complete an internship abroad. Within Europe, internships can even be undertaken after graduation, provided that you apply for the grant before graduating.

Whatever your life situation may be, there is sure to be a destination and an international opportunity that suits you.

Application periods

Internship and short-course grants

Applications are accepted continuously from 1 August to 15 June.

Exchanges during the academic year 2027–2028

Destinations in EU and EEA countries:
1–11 February 2027. A supplementary application round may be organised in early September 2027 if places and funding remain available.

Destinations outside the EU and EEA:
Supplementary application round 1–11 February 2027 if places and funding remain available. Exchanges take place in spring 2028. The main application round for exchanges during the academic year 2028–2029 will open in October 2027.

Students typically apply for exchange opportunities one to one and a half years before their planned exchange period. Applications for internship and short-course grants must be submitted no later than two months before the start of the internship or course.

How to apply

1. Explore the available exchange destinations well in advance
2. Take a closer look at 3–4 destinations and identify suitable courses
3. Prepare your application carefully and make sure you meet all eligibility requirements
4. Submit your application before the deadline
5. Internship and short-course grants can be applied for once you have found a suitable course or internship placement

Further information

You can learn more about exchange opportunities and the application process from the Study Abroad instructions and from the university’s international education specialists.

You are welcome to attend information sessions, visit during drop-in hours, or book a 20-minute online appointment with the exchange adviser in your degree programme.

Many students consider studying abroad to be one of the most meaningful experiences of their studies. Could the next exchange story be yours?