This is why you should choose Oulu

Why Oulu? Let us and our former exchange students tell you
exactly why.

Student experiences

Studying a semester or two in the University of Oulu has been an unforgettable experience for many students from all around the world! For some of them the exchange lead into applying as a degree student in Oulu.

Read comments and stories from our previous exchange students and UniOulu ambassadors:

Coming from a bustling tropical country, Oulu is the complete opposite. The abundance of greenery made me fall in love with the city at once. Though cold, the weather was a refreshing change. Being sparsely populated, Oulu is perfect for long walks that will unarguably make you come back for more.

- Lawanya, former exchange student, Singapore

We were able to face winter in a very beautiful way, which allowed me to enjoy this incredible and magical season. I never appreciated the cold before coming to Oulu, but there, I loved it. Winter is so different from my home and offers us so many beautiful things to see, such as light pillars, northern lights or simply these whitish expanses.

- Manon, former exchange student, France

My experience in Oulu was wonderful. People were responsible, kind and they respect your nationality and culture. Educational system was interesting. It was a good opportunity to know about different countries' education, culture and improve our knowledge. I really like and miss my Oulu. I decided to continue my Master degree there.

- Gohar, Former exchange student, Armenia

Why studying in Finland? I thought that’s it. That is the one thing not everyone has in his CV or can mention as an experience he or she made. That is the thing which sets you apart from others in the international competition.

- Sebastian Frey, UniOulu ambassador, Germany

Studying at the University of Oulu has helped me to further develop a scientific attitude. My courses have enhanced my ability to communicate within a team. Through discussions with fellow students, I have started to pay attention to environmental issues.

- Zhaohui Xu, UniOulu ambassador, China

10 reasons for choosing Oulu

1. Location.

How cool is north? Oulu has a perfect location in the north with close distances to all Arctic destinations and good connections to the rest of Finland. Despite its northern location, Oulu still isn’t remote; the city is vibrant and has an active student life!

2. Excellent university rankings.

The University of Oulu is one of the world’s leading universities ranked in the top 3 percent of all the 17,000 universities of the world. Here you will get world class education.

3. High-quality research.

Studying here puts you in the center of groundbreaking research: all our eight faculties and award-winning research units provide our students an exceptional environment for learning and innovating. Read more about our Flagships and Centres of Excellence below!

4. Safety and Reliability.

Finland is a very safe country. Students here feel safe riding a bike, walking or travelling by bus during day and night, but it’s always good to remember general cautiousness.

5. Finnish people.

Typically Finnish people are known to be honest, punctual, hard-working and reliable, but they sure know how to relax also! At first, Finns might seem shy or introverted but when you get to know them, you will gain a true friend for a lifetime.

6. The Nature, Peace and Cleanliness.

Finland in known for its pure nature, peace and space. The environment here is stress-free and calm. The transfer from urban spaces to nature in Oulu is amazingly short. You can get from your home to and from the University to the forests and by the waters in 5-15 minutes and relax after a busy day!

7. Bullying and Harassment free university.

University of Oulu does not tolerate bullying or harassment. Study in an environment that supports equality and non-discrimination.

8. Ecological commuting.

Oulu has the widest biking network in Finland. Around 20 percent of all trips in Oulu are made by bicycle. It’s eco-friendly, cost-effective and good for your health. Many of our students even bike throughout the year!

9. It looks good on your CV.

Not everyone has been here and not everyone knows what life is like in the north. Being a forerunner makes you interesting! Use your experience here as an asset to set you apart from others in the international competition.

10. Arctic Attitude.

Our northern location requires Arctic Attitude - a state of mind for never giving up and working together. Here you will learn to seize opportunities and go through challenges with positive and determined mind! Are you up for the challenge?