Heffring University
International students at Heffring University Helsinki

International Students

Practical guidance for your journey to Helsinki, Finland and Heffring University.

Purpose of This Guide

This section provides international degree and exchange students with practical guidance on what to do after admission and after arrival in Helsinki, Finland. It covers study permits, housing, transportation, health coverage, and settling into your new community.

Why Study in Helsinki, Finland?

Helsinki is Finland's capital — a bilingual, safe, and cosmopolitan city that consistently ranks among the best places in the world to live and study. With a thriving tech sector, world-class research institutions, and a welcoming multicultural community, Helsinki offers international students an unparalleled experience.

The Finnish education system is internationally recognized for its high quality, student-centered approach, and strong focus on research and innovation.

Heffring University operates in the heart of Helsinki with strong ties to Finland's public service, tech industry, and research community.

Finland.fi →Visit Helsinki →Invest Helsinki →
Helsinki Market Square
"The mix of innovation, nature, and culture in Helsinki is something special. I felt welcome from day one — the city and college community really made this an amazing experience."
Marco Rossi, International Student

Practical Things to Do After Admission

Residence Permit

Apply for your Finnish residence permit for studies through Enter Finland as soon as you receive your acceptance letter. Processing times vary but typically take 1-3 months.
Apply via Enter Finland

Housing

Arrange accommodation before arrival. Helsinki student housing providers and private rentals should be booked early, especially for August/September intake.
Housing Guide

Health Insurance

All residents in Finland are entitled to public healthcare through Kela (Social Insurance Institution). EU/EEA students can use their European Health Insurance Card. Non-EU students must have private insurance for the first 3 months until registered with Kela.
Kela Info

Tuition & Scholarships

International tuition fees apply. Check our merit scholarship opportunities — awards of up to 50% tuition waiver are available.
Tuition Info

After Moving to Helsinki

Getting Around

Helsinki's public transport is operated by HSL (Helsinki Region Transport), offering bus, tram, metro, commuter train, and ferry services. Students qualify for discounted fares with a student card.

HSL →Student Tickets →

Registering with Authorities

All international students must register their address at the Digital and Population Data Services Agency (Digi- ja väestötietovirasto) after arrival.

EU/EEA citizens register their right of residence; non-EU/EEA citizens apply for a residence permit card through the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri).

Open a Finnish bank account early — Nordea, OP, Danske Bank, and others offer student accounts with low fees.

Full Arrival Guide

Post-Arrival Checklist

  • 1Collect keys and move into your accommodation
  • 2Register at college and activate your student card (Frank)
  • 3Register your address at the Digital and Population Data Services Agency
  • 4Apply for a residence permit card at Migri (if non-EU/EEA)
  • 5Get your HSL student card for public transport discounts
  • 6Open a Finnish bank account
  • 7Attend mandatory orientation week
  • 8Join the Heffring student community platform

Living in Helsinki

Students enjoying life in Helsinki, Finland

Student Health Care

Once registered as a resident with a Finnish personal identity code, you can access public healthcare through Kela. In the interim, ensure you have private coverage. Heffring partners with local clinics for walk-in care.

Local Culture

Helsinki is bilingual (Finnish & Swedish), diverse, and welcoming. It's one of the world's safest cities with a vibrant arts scene, national museums, and four distinct seasons.

Working While Studying

Your Finnish residence permit allows you to work up to 30 hours/week during term time (full-time during holidays). Many local employers actively recruit Heffring students.

Language & Careers

Heffring's Career Centre offers job boards, resume workshops, internships, and networking events with Helsinki's tech, government, and business sectors.
Career Centre

Support Services

Peer Advice

Connect with current international students for practical tips on student life, housing, and finding your feet in Helsinki.

International Student Office

Guidance on study permits, enrollment, academic procedures, and immigration compliance throughout your studies.

Career & Settlement

Dedicated career support to help you plan your professional future and integrate into Helsinki's vibrant job market.

Updated: June 2026 | Heffring University International Student Services