University of the Arts, Helsinki

About: 

The University of the Arts, Helsinki is a Finnish arts university that was launched at the beginning of 2013. According to the university, it is the most sought after place to study in Finland as about 7 percent of applicants are admitted as students. The university has also received recognition for its exchange student practices. The university aims to represent the highest global standard and to be one of the most internationally appealing centres of arts education and research.

Highlights: 

The university has three different academies which cover a multitude of disciplines. Sibelius Academy is one of the largest music academies in Europe, the Academy of Fine Arts is an international academy with a focus on fine arts and the Theatre academy is a reformer of the performing arts and offers the highest education in theatre, dance and writing in Finland. Helsinki, the city itself, is also a highlight of the experience. The capital city of Finland is a safe and modern seaside city that has a rich urban culture as well as its scenic nature and clean air, which is an ideal location for students.

Location: 

Helsinki, Finland

Courses / Modules: 

Check out the study options webpage  for information about specific courses.

Credit (Full-time Load per semester): 

You must take a full credit load while on exchange. The University of the Arts, Helsinki uses the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) to show credit values.  30 ECTS is the equivalent to 60 York credits, and 60 ECTS is the equivalent to 120 York credits.

Teaching Periods: 

Semester 1: August- December

Semester 2: January- May

Language: 

English

Entry Requirements:

University of the Arts, Helsinki have strict entry requirements and nomination does not guarantee acceptance. University of the Arts, Helsinki will offer places based on their evaluation of the application and availability of teachers for the specific instrument/study area.

Accommodation:

University of the Arts Helsinki recommends that as soon as you are accepted by them, you should start applying for accommodation as there is high demand for student housing, particularly in September. The university recommends that you apply simultaneously for housing through various channels. It is easier to find an apartment if you are willing to live outside the city centre and campus areas. Consult the Housing in Helsinki for International students webpage or the Practical Guide for International Students at the Sibelius Academy for the specific accommodation available.

Orientation / Welcome week:  

Check the Orientation period webpage for information on Orientation.

Support Services: 

The University of the Arts Helsinki outlines their teaching practices and facilities available on the What is it like to study at Uniarts Helsinki? page.  Also check out the university's Health and Wellbeing webpage for more information on support during your studies at the University of the Arts, Helsinki.

Visas: 

You may need a visa to study in Finland.  If you are a UK National you must refer to the Gov.UK Travel Advice Page and its Living in Finland guide to check on any visa requirements, and raise any queries directly with the relevant embassy/consulate.  If you are not a UK national you should check equivalent advice for your home country.

Travel insurance:  

If you complete the Travel Authorisation process and are approved by the University of York to participate in this programme, you will be covered by the University's Travel Insurance Policy. This is a complimentary policy to cover you for the duration of your University of York mobility experience. Please refer to the Insurance website for all travel insurance queries.  You may be required to obtain health insurance valid during your exchange. 

Health insurance: 

Students travelling to Europe may be able to apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or in some circumstances a new UK-issued European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which gives the right to access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in the EU. You are strongly recommended to obtain a GHIC / EHIC if eligible. To check your eligibility and find out how to apply if you are eligible, go to the NHS page on Applying for healthcare cover abroad (GHIC and EHIC).

You can be the first to share your experience of studying at the University of the Arts, Helsinki!

Have a look at some more student stories on the Global Opportunities website!

• University of the Arts, Helsinki Website

• University of the Arts, Helsinki Exchange Students Webpage

• Finland Travel Advice

• Global Graduates

• Numbeo - cost of living comparison site

• Expatistan - cost of living comparison site

If you find any broken links, please email us at global-opportunities@york.ac.uk

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