Abo Akademi University

Turku, Finland

Abo Akademi University is a Finnish higher education institution located in the city of Turku. The university was established by substantial private donations in year 1918 and is the only university outside Sweden to use Swedish as the teaching language. The university currently enrols over 5500 students.
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Åbo Akademi University is the only Swedish-language, multi-faculty university outside Sweden. Founded in 1918, it plays a vital role in serving Finland’s Swedish-speaking minority and contributes significantly to Swedish-language higher education and research.
Founded to preserve Turku’s status as a university city and to provide education in Swedish, Åbo Akademi has grown from 47 students in 1919 to a key institution in Finnish higher education. It received its first state support in 1956 and has since become a national center for Swedish-language academic life.
Yes. While it was originally established as a private university in 1918, Åbo Akademi became a public institution in 1981. This change involved separating the university’s legal and financial ties from the Åbo Akademi Foundation.
You must submit your application through the Studyinfo.fi portal during the application period, which runs from January 8 to January 22, 2025. The process includes choosing a program, checking eligibility, submitting documents like transcripts, a motivation letter, and language test scores, and possibly attending an interview.
Yes. Starting January 1, 2025, a non-refundable application fee will apply for applicants from outside the EU/EEA. However, you can apply for scholarships within the same application form. Scholarships may cover tuition fees and/or offer living cost allowances, depending on the program.
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency, usually through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent. Specific score requirements vary by program, so it's important to check the individual program.
Åbo Akademi University ensures campus safety through several measures, including radiation safety protocols, building hazard response procedures, and accessible facilities for students and staff. Designated safety officers and emergency contacts are in place to handle incidents like power outages or water damage.
International students benefit from guidance on public transport (FÖLI), housing options, and student union (ÅAS) services. ÅAS also offers legal consultations, organizes activities, and helps new students adjust to life in Turku, which is widely regarded as a safe and student-friendly city.
Yes. While occupational health care (via Terveystalo) is available for employees, students can access general health and wellness services through Finnish student health systems. Additionally, the university supports mental well-being through student unions and local resources.
Åbo Akademi University offers a range of English-taught Master’s programs, especially in fields such as: Computer Science & IT (e.g., Master’s in Computer Science, Information Technology) Engineering & Technology Medicine & Health (e.g., Biomedical Imaging, in collaboration with other institutions) Social Sciences (e.g., International Law and Human Rights)
Graduates are well-prepared for both academic and professional careers. Many pursue PhD studies, while others work in international organizations, technology companies, healthcare, research institutions, or the legal and policy sectors, depending on their field of study.
Yes. These programs are specifically designed to welcome international students. All courses within the selected Master’s program are taught entirely in English, and applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through accepted test scores (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
Åbo Akademi University offers 100% and 80% tuition fee waivers for international students: The 100% scholarship covers tuition for up to two years, with the second year conditional on meeting academic progress (such as earning a required number of ECTS credits). The 80% scholarship applies to all eligible applicants who are not awarded the 100% scholarship.
Yes. Åbo Akademi students can apply for: Grants and scholarships from the Åbo Akademi University Foundation based on merit, study field, or language skills Travel grants for study-related trips or conferences Part-time work opportunities in areas like restaurants, cleaning, personal assistance, or within their study field
The Finland Scholarship is a national program for non-EU/EEA master’s students. It provides: A 100% tuition fee waiver for the first year of study A €5,000 relocation grant to support moving and settling in Finland Applicants for Åbo Akademi’s English-taught master’s programs can apply for this within the same application process.
Campus life at Åbo Akademi is vibrant and community-driven. Students benefit from modern classrooms, labs, libraries, and recreational spaces. While the university doesn’t operate its own dormitories, it partners with TYS (Turku Student Village Foundation) to provide affordable student housing close to campus.
Students can get involved in over 80 student associations under the Student Union, offering everything from academic societies to sports and cultural clubs. Popular traditions include: Sitsit (formal dinner parties with singing and speeches) Vappu (a major student festival celebrated every April 30th with music, caps, and public gatherings)
Absolutely! Turku is a student-friendly city offering: Discounts on food, transport, and events Access to Finland’s Everyman’s Rights, allowing students to freely enjoy nature (hiking, berry picking, and lakes) An overall safe and welcoming environment ideal for both study and recreation
No, Åbo Akademi University does not offer on-campus housing. Students are responsible for arranging their own accommodation and are strongly encouraged to start looking for housing as soon as they receive their admission letter.
Start early: Housing is in high demand, especially before fall semester starts. Use trusted sources like TYS, student housing associations, or rental platforms. Consider nearby towns for more availability and possibly lower prices. Be flexible with temporary options like hostels or serviced apartments while searching for long-term housing.
Exchange students can apply for housing through TYS (Turku Student Village Foundation) or opt for short-term stays at places like West Side Hotel or Forenom. Degree students may explore options like Tavasthem, a student housing facility owned by the Student Union, or look for private rental apartments in Turku or nearby towns like Raisio, Kaarina, and Naantali.
Åbo Akademi University does not directly issue post-study work permits. However, international students who graduate from the university are eligible to apply for a 2-year post-study work permit in Finland. This permit allows graduates to stay in the country to seek employment or start a business.
Any international student who completes a degree at Åbo Akademi University can apply for the post-study work permit, provided they meet the general requirements set by Finnish immigration authorities, such as valid residence status and completion of a recognized degree.
After graduating, students must submit an application to the Finnish Immigration Service for the post-study work permit. The process typically includes providing proof of graduation, identity documents, and evidence of sufficient financial resources. It's important to apply before your student residence permit expires.

University Of Abo Akademi University Application Statistics

7000
1300
17:1
10 %
€ 10000
€ 15000
2.7
30
65 %
6.5

Learn About -

* All cost are in EUR

University Of Abo Akademi University Application Statistics

7000
1300
17:1
10 %
€ 10000
€ 15000
2.7
30
65 %
6.5

Learn About -

* All cost are in EUR

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