Affordability and quality of accommodation are 2 of the most important factors when deciding on any foreign study destination. As demand for the limited supply of houses keeps soaring day by day, it can affect the international student experience and in turn, also affect the study destination’s attractiveness. However, students generally prefer to live in share houses instead of spending large sums of money renting out their own houses or apartments. Let us have a look at what type of housing facilities are available in Finland.
Types of Student Accommodation in Finland
There are numerous types of student housing in Finland. This allows for room for flexibility in case one’s lifestyle changes during the time period of their foreign studies and they can change their living arrangements for a different one.
Shared Room
Price: ~ 250-500 Euros/month (including utility bills)
The most budget-friendly format of living is sharing a room with others. Although it is quite cheap in comparison to the other options presented, this comes at the cost of losing a large percentage of privacy. However, if that does not bother you, then this will be the right fit for you. Of course, you share the common rooms and facilities of the residence with everyone living under the roof.
Private Room
Price: ~ 400-800 Euros/month (including utility bills)
Living in a shared house but having a private room is the most popular choice for international students. This is primarily because you can enjoy the benefits of living in a “not so congested” apartment/ house and also not pay the full price of the entire place. It is a bit more expensive than the rent of the shared rooms, but not so much as to make you reconsider.
Studio Apartment
Price: ~ 900 – 2000 Euros/month (including utility bills)
A studio apartment is a combined space meaning you have one big room available to you that has a kitchen, bedroom, and a living area with a separate bathroom. Studio apartments are usually lived by one person, although some places can have living arrangements for 2 or 3 people and it is the cheaper alternative to owning your own multi-roomed apartment.
Apartment
Price: ~ 1300 – 300 Euros/month (including utility bills)
Living in an apartment means you are the boss of your residential space. You will have a luxurious lifestyle if you have the means to pay the high costs of rent and daily maintenance. This is not suitable for every student, but if you can afford it, you will live most comfortably here than any of the other options.
How to Find and Apply for a Student Accommodation in Finland
There are various mediums that can help a foreign student in looking for a suitable living arrangement. Most universities have their own dedicated residential services, like will they have an online page and website where the university community shares their need for tenants. Candidates can easily access this service just by talking to the counselors of the university. Another way to find accommodation is through various online space renting websites. Some examples are listed below:
- housinganywhere.com
- das.fi/en/Apartments
- hoas.fi/en/
- psoas.fi/en/
Remember to keep your documents such as passports, university enrolment papers, visa papers, and bank statements when applying for your housing.
There are 3 important aspects to consider when deciding on your accommodation: distance from your university, travel arrangement, and popularity of the area you choose to live in. All of the said qualities will determine your living cost and ease of daily life. For example, if you choose to save money and live in a secluded area with no modes of transport available around you, it will only make your university experience terrible as you struggle to commute there. Then again, if you decide to live right in the center of the city or near your campus, you might save time on the commute but your bank account might take a hit for that.
Be smart when you decide where to live and find the balance to have a positive study-abroad experience.
FAQs on Accommodation in Finland for Students
What are the most popular types of housing systems for international students in Finland?
The most popular type of accommodation for international students in Finland is student housing provided by universities or other educational institutions. Other popular options include private apartments and hostels.
What is the average cost of accommodation in Finland for international students?
The average cost of accommodation in Finland for international students is €250-300 per month. This includes rent, utilities, and internet.
What are the benefits of living in student housing?
There are many benefits to living in student housing, including socializing with other students, convenience, and security. Student housing is also often more affordable than private apartments.
What are the drawbacks of living in student housing?
The main drawback of living in student housing is that you may have to share a room with another person. This can be challenging if you are not used to living in close quarters with someone else. Additionally, student housing is often located far from the city center
What are the benefits of living in a private apartment?
Living in a private apartment gives you more privacy and space than in student housing. You will also have your own kitchen and bathroom, which can be a great perk. Private apartments are typically located closer to the city center than student housing, making them more convenient for exploring Finland’s cities.
What are the drawbacks of living in a private apartment?
Private apartments are typically more expensive than student housing, and they may not offer the same social opportunities as student housing. Additionally, private apartments may not be as secure as student housing, as they are not usually located in gated communities.
What are the benefits of living in a hostel?
Hostels are often the most affordable housing for international students in Finland. They are also a great way to meet other travelers and learn about new cultures. Hostels are typically located in central areas, making them convenient for exploring Finland’s cities.
What are the drawbacks of living in a hostel?
The main drawback of living in a hostel is that you will have to share a room with other people. This can be challenging if you are not used to living in close quarters with other people. Additionally, hostels typically have stricter rules than student housing or private apartments, so you will need to be prepared to follow these rules.
