The University of Helsinki (UH), founded in 1640, is Finland’s oldest and most prestigious academic institution. As a leading research university in Europe, UH consistently ranks among the top 100 globally. It offers a broad range of disciplines and fosters innovation, critical thinking, and global collaboration. Located in the capital city of Helsinki, UH attracts a diverse and dynamic community of scholars and students.
University Overview
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Location: Helsinki, Finland
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Established: 1640
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Student Population: Approximately 31,000
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International Students: Around 4,000
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Global Rankings: Top 100 (QS, THE, ARWU)
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Language of Instruction: Finnish and Swedish (Bachelor’s), English (many Master’s and Doctoral programs)
Faculties & Departments
UH consists of 11 faculties:
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Faculty of Theology
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Faculty of Law
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Faculty of Medicine
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Faculty of Arts
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Faculty of Science
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Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences
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Faculty of Educational Sciences
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Faculty of Social Sciences
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Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry
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Faculty of Pharmacy
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Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
It also includes several independent institutes, research centers, and doctoral schools.
Intakes
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Main Intake: August (Autumn Semester)
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Application Deadline for International Programs: Early to mid-January
Note: Specific deadlines vary by program. Applicants should consult the university website for accurate dates.
Admission Requirements
| Program Level | Academic Requirements | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | PTE Academic |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | High school diploma + Finnish/Swedish language proficiency | N/A (programs mostly not in English) | N/A | N/A |
| Postgraduate | Bachelor’s degree in a related field | 6.5 (no band below 6.0) | 92 (min 20 per section) | 62 (no skill below 58) |
Note: Some programs require motivation letters, CVs, writing samples, or other documentation.
Top Programs at the University of Helsinki
Undergraduate Programs (mostly Finnish/Swedish-taught)
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Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences
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Bachelor of Arts in Humanities
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Bachelor of Social Sciences
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Bachelor of Laws
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Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine
Postgraduate Programs (English-taught Master’s)
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Master’s in Data Science
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Master’s in Environmental Change and Global Sustainability
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Master’s in Translational Medicine
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Master’s in Neuroscience
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Master’s in Agricultural Sciences
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Master’s in International Business Law
Tuition Fees
| Program Level | Tuition Fee (USD/year) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | Approx. $13,000 – $18,000 |
| Postgraduate | Approx. $13,000 – $18,000 |
Note: EU/EEA students are exempt from tuition. All students pay a student union fee (approx. €80/year).
Scholarships for International Students
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University of Helsinki Scholarship Program
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Eligibility: High-achieving non-EU/EEA Master’s applicants
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Amount: 50% or 100% tuition waiver, with some including €5,000 living cost grant
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Renewable: Yes, based on academic performance
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Finland Scholarship
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Eligibility: Best-performing international applicants
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Amount: Full tuition + €5,000 relocation grant
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Funded by: Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture
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Note: Applications for scholarships are submitted alongside the degree application.
Why Choose the University of Helsinki?
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Academic Prestige: UH is consistently ranked among the world’s top 100 universities.
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Research-Driven: Known for groundbreaking research in science, humanities, health, and law.
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Global Networks: Strong partnerships with universities and research institutes worldwide.
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Lively Capital: Study in Helsinki, a modern Nordic city with excellent infrastructure and vibrant student life.
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Multicultural Community: Thousands of international students and researchers contribute to a diverse academic environment.