Know the Finnish university tradition and practicalities

Universities charge no tuition fees. On the other hand, students are themselves responsible for accommodation, means of travelling, nutrition e.g. It is extremely important that you are able to take care of your daily needs yourself.

  1. Get an apartment in advance. The monthly rent for a single room varies in Kemi and Tornio from 200 to 400 euros and in a shared room in a student dormitory 150 euros / student / month. In the student dormitories the deposit rent is 200 euros. The deposit rent will be returned when you move away from the apartment, if you have complied with the house rules. Rents have to be paid beforehand half-yearly. See information on housing and information on the student dormitories.
     
  2. You will need money. University students have to pay for their books and other materials, clothing, meals, transportation, accommodation and other living expenses. The total monthly living expenses of a single student are around 700 euros in the average. Do not forget your personal and leisure expenses. See information on formalities and other practical matters.
     
    Part-time working is possible during holidays and study semesters. It is easier for you to get a job if you know some Finnish language. To get a job you will have to be active yourself: the university does not provide any working placements. See Accomodation, economy & work.
     
  3. Be active. In Finland we do not have a caring boarding school tradition. Universitiesmainly focus on their instructional task, meaning providing education and training for your future working life. Universities of applied sciences do offer study guidance and tutoring services but otherwise students themselves are responsible for social well-being, financial questions, working placements, and free-time activities with their clubs and unions.

Student union membership is optional. As a member of the student union you may buy a SAMOK student card of 20 euros. With the student card you will get meals and other services at a student price. You will also get other reductions, for example, for transport, museums and various cultural events and recreational activities. Only with the SAMOK student card you can prove everywhere in Finland that you are a student.