Where education meets nature, innovation, and wellbeing.
Finland offers international students a truly unique and enriching experience—an excellent academic environment, clean and safe cities, access to stunning natural landscapes, and one of the highest standards of living in the world. Whether you’re studying in Helsinki or a charming university town like Tampere or Jyväskylä, life in Finland is balanced, inspiring, and deeply student-focused.
🌆 Living in Finnish Cities – A Calm, Connected Lifestyle
| City | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Helsinki | Capital city with top universities, international companies, vibrant cultural life. |
| Tampere | Finland’s most student-dense city; tech innovation hub with a laid-back lifestyle. |
| Turku | Historical port city with top academic institutions and scenic archipelago views. |
| Jyväskylä | Lake-filled city known for education science, architecture, and nature-friendly life. |
| Oulu | Northern innovation city, strong in tech, AI, and environmental sciences. |
| Lappeenranta | Lakeside town near Russia with a growing international student community. |
🏠 Student Housing in Finland
🏘️ Student Housing Foundations (e.g., HOAS, TOAS)
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Affordable, furnished student apartments or shared flats.
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Prioritized for international and exchange students.
🏠 Private Rentals
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Flats or shared apartments; more flexibility but may cost more.
🛋️ Homestays
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Less common, but offer a chance for cultural immersion and language practice.
💸 Estimated Rent:
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Helsinki: €450–€750/month
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Other Cities: €250–€450/month
🔑 Tip: Apply for housing early via city-specific student housing organizations (e.g., hoas.fi, toas.fi).
💶 Cost of Living in Finland (Monthly Averages)
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | €300–€600 |
| Food | €150–€250 |
| Public Transport | €30–€50 (student discount pass) |
| Health Insurance | €75–€120/year (via FSHS or private) |
| Internet & Utilities | €30–€60 |
| Leisure & Travel | €50–€100 |
✅ Student Perks: Students in Finland enjoy deep discounts on transport, meals at student cafeterias (as low as €2.95/meal), cultural activities, and travel.
🧑🎓 Campus Life – Innovative, Inclusive, International
Finnish campuses are modern, student-centered, and sustainability-focused.
🎭 Cultural Activities – Film clubs, music, dance, international festivals
⚽ Sports & Recreation – University gyms, swimming pools, outdoor adventures
🤝 Student Unions (OSAKUNTA) – Organize events, trips, advocacy, and buddy programs
🌍 Language Cafés & Integration Clubs – Practice Finnish, meet locals, join multicultural meetups
💼 Working While Studying
📅 Allowed Hours: Up to 30 hours/week (average) during term time
💵 Minimum Wage: ~€10–€13/hour depending on industry
📄 Internships: Optional in some programs, encouraged in most—often paid
🚀 Tip: Knowledge of basic Finnish improves job opportunities in local roles, especially in customer service, retail, and hospitality.
🏥 Healthcare & Student Safety
🏥 Health Insurance:
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Required for non-EU students (via private insurers or Finnish Student Health Service – FSHS)
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FSHS is subsidized and offers affordable access to doctors, mental health, and dental care
👮 Student Safety:
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Finland consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world
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Campuses have strong student support systems and mental health services
🌍 Explore Finland & Beyond
🌲 Nature on Your Doorstep: Enjoy forests, lakes, Northern Lights, and midnight sun.
🧖 Sauna Culture: A uniquely Finnish tradition that’s part of everyday life.
🛶 Adventure & Travel: Try ice skating, hiking, kayaking, or exploring Lapland.
✈️ European Gateway: Easy travel across the EU with a student residence permit
📩 Planning to Study in Finland?
At Impel Overseas Consultants, we assist you with:
✔️ Pre-departure guidance
✔️ Housing & budgeting tips
✔️ Student visa support
✔️ Campus life & integration advice
✔️ Scholarship & part-time work support
🎓 Discover life in Finland beyond the classroom.
Connect with us today to start your journey! 🇫🇮✨
