Erasmus in Finland: Cities, Education, Study Requirements, Activities, Housing and Universities

Living an Erasmus in Finland is a unique experience. To make it the best possible, in this article we tell you the most important details you need to know about the country, including the best cities to study in, the requirements for students, what to do during your stay in Finland, information about the different accommodation options available and the best universities.

Finland, with its worldwide reputation for its cutting-edge education system and exceptional quality of life, is a great destination to live in for a while if you have the opportunity. Let's make your experience the best it can be!

Popular Erasmus Cities in Finland

In this Nordic country, several cities are popular destinations among exchange students. Helsinki, the Finnish capital, stands out as a cultural and academic epicentre, combining the modernity of a cosmopolitan metropolis with the serenity of its natural surroundings. Tampere, another popular choice, offers a vibrant student environment, with cultural events and a relaxed atmosphere. On the other hand, Turku, the ancient capital, is noted for its rich history and medieval architecture, providing a unique backdrop for the Erasmus experience. There’s also Oulu, in the north, which stands out with its technological innovation and active student community.

These are the most popular cities as an Erasmus destination in Finland:

HELSINKI Looking for an apartment for rent in Helsinki? You’re in the right place! We’re here to share all the tips and tricks to help you find the perfect accommodation. Helsinki, the capital and largest city of Finland, is known for its high living costs, a common trait among Nordic countries. It’s important to keep this in mind before planning your move. We’ll hel

TAMPERE Are you looking for student accommodation in Tampere? You need to know that this is a city that welcomes a large number of Finnish and international students every year, so you should start looking for it as soon as possible. Also, pay attention to the information we give you in this article, so you can easily find the accommodation that combines all your pr

TURKU If you’re going to do your Erasmus in this Finnish city, you’re probably wondering, how much does student accommodation cost in Turku? Well, in this article we tell you everything about it! We give you the most important information about accommodation in this city, so surely after reading it you have a clearer idea of what you want. Turku, the former capita

JYVÄSKYLÄ If you’re going on Erasmus to this Finnish city, you’re probably wondering how to find student accommodation in Jyväskylä. After reading this article you’ll be able to answer that question and many others about accommodation in this Finnish city! Known as the "City of Light" and located in the heart of Finland, Jyväskylä is noted for its impressive architect

Study in Finland: a guide for international students

Basic requirements for international students in Finland

To apply for an exchange programme, you generally have to submit some documents, such as a motivation letter, a transcript of your records and fill out the Learning Agreement.
Each institution may have specific requirements regarding this, but most of them ask for a certificate of B2 level in the language in which you will be studying, either English, Finnish or Swedish.
If you are a citizen of the EU, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Iceland or Norway, you do not need visas or permits to reside in Finland. However, you do have to register your residence if the stay exceeds 90 days. This is done at the Finnish Immigration Service if you are from the EU, Liechtenstein or Switzerland, or at the Agency for Digital and Population Data Services if you are from a Nordic country.
If you are from a country not covered in the previous point, you may need to apply for a visa even if you stay less than 90 days. And, if the stay is longer than that duration, you are required to process a residence permit.
It’s mandatory to have health insurance covering the entire period of study. Without this insurance, residence permits won’t be issued. If you have the European Health Insurance Card or the UK Global Health Insurance Card, you can use that as your insurance.
If the stay is longer than 90 days, you also need to get a Personal Identity Code from the Agency for Digital and Population Data Services. This code is an 11-character numerical sequence and may be already included in the residence permit.
All documents have to be translated into English, Finnish or Swedish by an authorized translator.
Both on arrival and departure from Finland, you have to request a certificate attesting to this.

Why study in Finland?

It’s known worldwide that the quality of teaching in this Nordic country is one of the best in the world. During your Erasmus, you’ll have the opportunity to get to know their methods from the inside!

Language is one of the reasons because, although the official language is Finnish, everyone speaks English! They are said to be among the best English speakers in the world, outside of English-speaking countries. Thanks to this, you can take advantage of your exchange to practice English daily. However, we also recommend that you learn at least a little Finnish to get even more immersed in the local culture. At least something like "kiitos" (thank you) and "Ole hyvä" (please).

The exceptional quality of life, backed by the safety and efficiency that characterize this Nordic country, creates an ideal environment for those seeking to study, enjoy the outdoors and form a community. It’s also worth noting that the Finns are very hospitable and open to foreigners.

The diversity of cultural and social activities, along with the proximity to incredible nature, will allow you to have a very enriching experience, being able to have a balance between study and enjoyment.

Best things to do in Finland as a student

For those who appreciate history, Finland offers a lot of fascinating sites. The city of Turku, the former capital, is home to a magnificent medieval castle that transports you back in time. Immerse yourself in history at the National Museum of Finland in Helsinki, where exhibits take you through the country's cultural evolution. In addition, visit the fortress of Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore its walls and historic buildings.

If you're an urban life lover, Helsinki presents itself as a cosmopolitan gem. Explore the Punavuori design district to discover trendy boutiques and chic cafes. Enjoy the art scene at Kiasma, the Museum of Contemporary Art, or take a stroll through the bustling Kauppatori market. Helsinki's streets offer a unique blend of neoclassical and modern architecture, creating a quaint urban atmosphere.

For foodies, Tampere presents itself as a culinary paradise. Explore its market to sample local produce and savour authentic Finnish delicacies. The city is also home to a diverse dining scene with restaurants serving everything from traditional dishes to modern creations. Don't miss the opportunity to try the famous "kalakukko", a fish and meat pie, a culinary delight of the region.

Are you an adventurer and want to go to Finland to enjoy its incredible nature? Well, good news: you will be able to access it easily, even from the cities! But we want to highlight the area of Rovaniemi. Located in the Lapland region, it is an adventurer's paradise. In winter, you can enjoy snowmobile safaris, aurora borealis watching and dog sledding. In summer, the region offers opportunities for hiking in national parks and exploring wildlife in its natural habitat.