Study at Aalto

Student benefits and services

Living in a student-friendly culture has its perks! Students in Finland are offered a wide selection of benefits from discounted public transport to low-cost housing and healthcare.
Two Aalto University students sitting under a big oak, drinking coffee and talking.

Finland’s student-friendly culture aims to support the well-being and financial stability of its students. There is a wide range of benefits and services for students, including discounts for public transport, affordable housing options, and health care at a very low cost. Additionally, numerous stores and service providers have exclusive discounts offering ways to save money as a student. 

Most of the student perks are available through the student card, which is proof of your student status. The student ID is the simplest way to get discounts, for example in university restaurants and public transportation, and it offers you plenty of other benefits nationwide and online.

People in student overalls and white student caps in the rope pulling competition

Student union

Aalto University Student Union (AYY) is an organisation representing around 17 000 students. AYY promotes the rights and interests of its members.

As a member of the student union you can, for instance, get a student card, apply for AYY housing, and rent AYY facilities. All students pursuing degree studies at Aalto University are members of the union. Doctoral students and exchange students may also join if they wish to do so.

There are more than 200 sub-organisations and communities, such as subject associations, sections, guilds and recreational clubs, operating within AYY.

Read more about AYY

Student housing

There are student apartments available throughout the Helsinki metropolitan area. Due to the great public transportation services, accommodation options can be sought in the whole capital region. With some student accommodation options at Otaniemi campus, you have an opportunity to live in a full-service campus setting, unique to Aalto University.

The main student housing providers for Aalto students are AYY and HOAS in the capital area, and MOAS for students living in Mikkeli.

Read more about student housing hereTake a virtual campus tour

Aalto University students enjoying coffee on campus

Student discounts for meals and public transportation

Aalto University students are entitled to a discounted meal at student canteens. Only on the Otaniemi campus, there are more than 20 restaurants that offer diverse meal options daily. You can also use the meal benefit in other university campuses’ restaurants around Finland.

Aalto Campus restaurants

Students are allowed a discount for seasonal tickets for public transport in the Helsinki capital region. You can also find lowered student prices for other public transport such as long-distance buses, trains, and even flights.

Student discount for public transportation in the Helsinki capital region

Health Care

Student healthcare

Finnish Student Health Service (FSHS) provides general, mental and dental health care to university students. Aalto University students are entitled to use the FSHS services after paying the AYY membership fee and the student healthcare fee to Kela. All general and mental health appointments, including appointments with specialists and physiotherapists as well as group activities, are free of charge for students. Appointments with a dental hygienist are also free but students are charged a fee for dentists’ appointments.

The FSHS health centres are located in Töölö, Otaniemi and Viikki. During evenings, nights and weekends, students can use the health care services provided by their own municipality.

Learn more about FSHS services

Sports track on Aalto University campus in Otaniemi, Espoo.

Students' sports and wellness services

UniSport is the provider of the Aalto University sports services. Operating on six campuses in Helsinki and Espoo, UniSport is a sports centre for the whole university community.

The sports centres offer a wide range of sports to choose from, facilities for training on your own as well as in a group, and other wellness services. The best training buddy for anyone wanting to stay fit is the UniSport Training Card, which students can purchase at an affordable student price.

The Aalto University Student Union AYY also organises various sports events and has approximately 60 clubs specialising in different sports and general wellbeing.

Learn more about UniSport

Read more about personal finances and budgeting tips for students

Student guide illustration, international students

Moving to Finland and financial matters

This page gives you further information for planning your move to Finland.

International students
Student guide illustration, international students

Living in Finland

What is everyday-life in Finland like? How should one prepare themselves for seasonal weather? Read what it is like living in Finland!

International students
Three university students on Aalto University campus outside laughing.

Living in Otaniemi: A Key to an Easy Student Life (external link)

In this blog post, Olia shares her experience of living on campus and provide insights into the various housing options available.

Two Aalto University students laughing while experimenting or cooking on campus.

Tips and tricks on saving money as a student (external link)

Being a student on the budget is certainly one kind of a quest! Aalto student ambassador Anastasiia gathered a few tips that she has used to cut her costs.

A photo of student room with a bed, mirror and closet.

How to furnish your student apartment low budget (external link)

Student ambassador Francesco gives you all the necessary tips on how to get a cozy and well-furnished room on a budget and without stressing too much!

Student support networks

In addition to the financial and health-related perks, there are additional services that support students’ mental wellbeing. You can get counselling, for instance, for study skills or coping with stress, or find supportive network from the student community. 

Read student stories

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