Opiskelijaliitto: student union

Detailed explanation

Finnish student unions come in two types depending on the institution. At research universities, the student union is called ylioppilaskunta (abbreviated ylioppilask. or yo-kunta), and membership is legally mandatory for all degree students under the Universities Act. At universities of applied sciences, the student union is called opiskelijakunta, where membership has been voluntary since 2014 (Act 932/2014) but is still strongly encouraged.

Student unions provide a wide range of services. They issue student cards (which provide access to meal discounts, transportation discounts, and other benefits), offer legal advice, run tutoring programs for new students, and manage student culture activities. Many unions also operate advocacy work at local and national levels, participating in education policy discussions and representing student interests to university administration.

The membership fee is typically 60-120 EUR per academic year, which covers the student card and union services. Student healthcare (YTHS/FSHS) is paid separately to Kela as the student healthcare fee (35.35 EUR per semester in 2026), covers both university and UAS degree students, and is not part of union membership. Given the value of student discounts alone (meal subsidies, transport discounts), the fee pays for itself quickly.

How it affects expats

• Mandatory at universities: At research universities, you cannot opt out; the fee is part of enrollment costs
• Student card: Your union membership provides the student card that unlocks all student discounts in Finland
• Health services: Student healthcare (YTHS/FSHS) is paid separately to Kela (35.35 EUR per semester in 2026) and is not part of union membership
• Social integration: Student unions organize orientation events, international student activities, and cultural events that are excellent for meeting people
• Tutoring: International student tutoring programs, often organized through student unions, help newcomers navigate Finnish university life

What student unions provide

Practical services:

• Student card issuance and meal discount stickers
• Legal counseling for housing and employment issues
• Tutoring programs for new students
• Study counseling and advocacy

Community and culture:

• Welcome events and orientation activities
• Student clubs and hobby organizations (ainejärjestö, kerho)
• Parties, sitsit (academic dinner parties), and annual balls
• Student magazine publications

Related terms

• Opiskelija (Student): Student status in Finland and the benefits, rights, and working permissions it provides for internationals
• Opiskelijaravintola (Student Restaurant): Kela-subsidized cafeterias at Finnish universities offering affordable meals for students
• Yliopisto (University): Research university in Finland offering academic degrees and conducting scientific research
• Ammattikorkeakoulu (University of Applied Sciences): Professionally-oriented higher education institution offering practical degrees with strong industry connections