Karelia University of Applied Sciences operates across two modern campuses Wärtsilä Campus and Tikkarinne Campus located in Joensuu, both close to the city centre and easily accessible by public transport and cycling. The Wärtsilä Campus primarily hosts programs in business, engineering, tourism, forestry, and international studies.

There are around 4560 students in the university.

The postgraduate (Master’s) application requirements for international students at Karelia University of Applied Sciences are designed to ensure applicants have both academic qualifications and relevant work experience. To apply, candidates must hold a recognized Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field, which makes them eligible for higher education in their home country. In addition, Karelia requires applicants to have at least two years of relevant work experience after completing their bachelor’s degree, which is a standard requirement for Universities of Applied Sciences in Finland. Applicants must submit their application through the national portal Studyinfo during official admission periods and, for non-EU/EEA students, pay a €100 application fee. Students are also required to provide proof of English language proficiency, which is mandatory for admission consideration and for participating in the selection process. Admission to master’s programmes (such as Sustainability Management) is typically based on a selection method that may include a pre-assignment and an interview, rather than a written entrance exam. Applicants must upload all necessary documents, including degree certificates, transcripts, proof of work experience, and language test results, and final certificates must be verified before enrollment.

Karelia University of Applied Sciences requires international undergraduate applicants to have successfully completed a recognized upper secondary (high school) qualification equivalent to Finnish matriculation, making them eligible for higher education in their home country. Students must apply through the national portal (Studyinfo) during the official application periods and, from 2025 onwards, non-EU/EEA applicants must pay a €100 application fee. Applicants are also required to demonstrate English language proficiency, which is mandatory for being invited to the entrance process. Admission is typically based on either certificate-based selection (for qualifications like IB, EB, or equivalent) or by passing the International UAS Exam, which is conducted online. In some cases, applicants may also submit SAT scores as an alternative. Academically, students are generally expected to have around 60–70% or higher in high school (especially in mathematics-related subjects for technical programs) depending on the programme and admission route. Applicants must submit all required educational documents and, if selected, provide final certificates before enrollment. Overall, the process emphasizes academic eligibility, English proficiency, and performance in entrance examinations or prior qualifications.

Student safety at Karelia University of Applied Sciences is a key priority, with a strong focus on prevention, preparedness, and community responsibility to ensure a secure learning environment. Karelia maintains a proactive safety system based on risk assessment, continuous monitoring, and cooperation among students, staff, and administration.

Student life at Karelia University of Applied Sciences is vibrant, inclusive, and strongly community-oriented, offering a balanced mix of academics, social engagement, and personal well-being. Located in the student-friendly city of Joensuu, the university provides an environment where students can easily connect, participate in activities, and enjoy a high quality of life.

Housing and accommodation at Karelia University of Applied Sciences are not provided directly on campus, but the university works closely with a dedicated student housing provider in Joensuu to ensure students have access to affordable and convenient living options.

Karelia University of Applied Sciences follows a practical, industry-linked approach to campus recruitment, focusing more on internships, projects, and employer collaboration rather than traditional on-campus placement drives seen in countries like India.