Are you looking to study in Finland at a university where technology, business, and arts meet in harmony? Look no further than Aalto University — one of the most prestigious, modern, and innovative universities in Europe.
Situated in the heart of the Helsinki-Espoo tech hub, Aalto offers an inspiring and interdisciplinary learning environment that attracts thousands of international students every year. In this complete guide by My Unigate, we explore Aalto University’s history, academic programs, faculty, scholarships, campus life, and how to apply.
Aalto University – Background and History
Aalto University was founded in 2010 through the merger of three leading Finnish institutions:
- Helsinki University of Technology (1849)
- Helsinki School of Economics (1904)
- University of Art and Design Helsinki (1871)
The university was named after the famous Finnish architect Alvar Aalto, reflecting its commitment to creativity, functionality, and innovation.
Fast Facts:
📍 Location: Espoo & Helsinki
👨🎓 Students: ~12,000
🌍 International Students: ~4,000
🧑🏫 Staff: ~4,000 (including 400+ professors)
Academic Programs at Aalto University
Aalto offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programs across six schools, many of which are taught in English.
Popular English-Taught Master’s Programs
School of Science
- Computer Science
- Engineering Physics
- Mathematics & Operations Research
School of Engineering
- Water and Environmental Engineering
- Geoengineering
- Building Technology
School of Electrical Engineering
- Automation & Electrical Engineering
- Signal Processing & Data Science
School of Business
- International Design Business Management (IDBM)
- Global Management
- Economics
School of Arts, Design and Architecture
- Visual Communication Design
- Collaborative and Industrial Design
- Creative Sustainability
Doctoral Programs
Aalto provides structured PhD programs across all disciplines. Doctoral students benefit from:
- Expert faculty guidance
- International research collaboration
- Funding & paid research positions
Faculties and Research Excellence
Aalto’s six schools are internationally recognized for combining academic theory with practical innovation:
- School of Arts, Design and Architecture
- School of Business
- School of Chemical Engineering
- School of Electrical Engineering
- School of Engineering
- School of Science
Notable Centers:
- Aalto Startup Center
- A Grid – One of Europe’s largest startup hubs
Aalto collaborates with top global universities like MIT, Stanford, and ETH Zurich, offering students global exposure and career networks.
Campus Location – Otaniemi, Espoo
Aalto University’s main campus is located in Otaniemi, just 15 minutes from Helsinki city center. It’s a hub of technology and innovation, known as Finland’s Silicon Valley.
🌿 The campus features:
- Modern architecture and labs
- Design studios and co-working spaces
- Green areas and seaside views
- Proximity to leading companies and startups
Scholarships for International Students
🔹 Aalto University Scholarship Program
For non-EU/EEA students, Aalto offers:
- Category A: 100% tuition fee waiver
- Category B: 50% tuition fee waiver
📌 No separate application required – awarded during admission evaluation.
🔹 Finland Scholarship (Master’s Level)
- 100% tuition waiver
- €5,000 relocation grant
- Option for second-year scholarship (performance-based)
🔹 Doctoral Program Funding
- Monthly salary
- Research travel grants
- Access to project-based funding
Admission Requirements
Master’s Degree:
- Bachelor’s in a relevant field
- English proficiency: IELTS, TOEFL, etc.
- Motivation letter
- CV / Resume
- Letters of recommendation (optional, but encouraged)
- Portfolio for design/art applicants
Bachelor’s Degree (English-Taught):
- International Business (offered at Mikkeli Campus)
- General Finnish requirements with English proficiency
Contact Information
Aalto University – Admissions Office
📍 Otakaari 1, 02150 Espoo, Finland
📧 Email: admissions@aalto.fi
📞 Phone: +358 9 47001
For more global university insights and scholarship tips, visit My Unigate.
Why Choose Aalto University?
- Ranked among the top 100 universities globally
- Leader in entrepreneurship and tech innovation
- Diverse academic community from over 100 countries
- Excellent scholarships for international students
- Combines art, design, business, and technology
- Sustainable, beautiful campus close to Helsinki
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re interested in engineering, entrepreneurship, design, or economics, Aalto University delivers a world-class education in one of Europe’s most innovative ecosystems.
Thinking of applying? Start your journey today at Aalto University’s official website and explore more academic opportunities at My Unigate.
