The University of Turku (UTU), located in the historic city of Turku, Finland, is one of the country’s most prestigious research universities. Established in 1920 as the first Finnish-language university, UTU has evolved into a multidisciplinary institution with over 25,000 students and staff, offering a wide array of programs and top-tier research opportunities.
History of the University of Turku
Founded on February 28, 1920, UTU was created through a grassroots fundraising campaign involving 22,040 individual donors—a remarkable symbol of Finnish national pride. Its motto, “A gift from a free people to free science,” reflects this unique origin.
Today, UTU stands as a beacon of education, innovation, and global cooperation, attracting students from across the world.
Academic Programs and Faculties at UTU
UTU offers a broad selection of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs across eight dynamic faculties. The curriculum promotes interdisciplinary learning, research-based teaching, and practical applications.
Faculties:
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Humanities
- Faculty of Law
- Faculty of Medicine
- Faculty of Science
- Faculty of Social Sciences
- Faculty of Technology
- Turku School of Economics
English-Taught Master’s Programs
International students can apply for a variety of two-year (120 ECTS) master’s programs taught in English. Popular options include:
- Biomedical Imaging
- Drug Discovery and Development
- Food Development
- Futures Studies
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- East Asian Studies
- Mechanical Engineering
- Education and Learning
These programs combine academic rigor with industry engagement, preparing students for global careers and doctoral research.
🔗 Need help applying? Visit MyUniGate for guidance on your UTU admission journey!
Faculty and Academic Staff
UTU employs over 3,500 professionals, including more than 2,200 academic staff—professors, researchers, and lecturers. The university fosters a collaborative, innovative, and interdisciplinary environment where international students can join live research projects and benefit from small group instruction.
Scholarships for International Students at UTU
The University of Turku is committed to making quality education accessible to talented international students through its competitive scholarship programs.
1. Tuition Fee Scholarships
- Available for both Bachelor’s and Master’s level programs
- Awarded on the basis of academic excellence
- Covers partial or full tuition fees for the program duration
2. Finland Scholarship
Offered to top-tier non-EU/EEA students entering a master’s program:
- ✅ Full tuition fee waiver (first year only)
- ✅ €5,000 relocation grant for living expenses
- 📝 Scholarships for the second year can be renewed based on academic performance
📌 You can apply for scholarships within the same online application form as your degree program.
Student Life at UTU
UTU is not just about academics—it offers a vibrant, supportive, and multicultural environment for international students.
Campus Amenities & Activities:
- 🏠 Student Housing: Budget-friendly accommodation via local student housing services
- 📚 Libraries & Labs: State-of-the-art research facilities and comfortable study spaces
- 🎭 Student Societies: Clubs for every interest—cultural, academic, political, and recreational
- 🏋️ Fitness & Sports: Indoor gyms, sports halls, and recreational clubs available at student prices
🧭 The campus is conveniently located near the city center of Turku—a student-friendly, safe, and historical city with an active social and cultural scene.
Contact Information
Postal Address:
University of Turku
FI-20014 Turun yliopisto
Turku, Finland
📞 Phone: +358 29 450 5000
📧 Admissions Email: admissions@utu.fi
Why Choose the University of Turku?
✔️ Finland’s first Finnish-language university with deep historical roots
✔️ Wide range of English-taught programs designed for global careers
✔️ Generous scholarships for non-EU/EEA students
✔️ Cutting-edge research environment with interdisciplinary collaborations
✔️ Located in Turku, one of Finland’s top cities for international students
Begin Your Study Abroad Journey with MyUniGate
If you’re looking to pursue world-class higher education in Finland, MyUniGate is here to guide you every step of the way—from program selection and application to scholarships and relocation.
🔗 Apply to UTU now with MyUniGate and unlock a future of academic success in the heart of Scandinavia.
