Welcome to Kestora College!
Completing an exchange at Kestora College is a unique opportunity to experience Finnish education, culture, and student life. This guide will help you navigate the practical steps of your exchange.
International Office
Our exchange coordinators are here to support you with learning agreements, official signatures, and general advice.
Student Tutors
Every exchange student is assigned a local "buddy" or peer tutor to help you settle in and meet new friends.
Orientation Week
Orientation is mandatory for all incoming exchange students.
Orientation week usually takes place during the last week of August (for Autumn semester) and first week of January (for Spring semester).
What happens during Orientation?
- Campus tours
- IT system training
- Course registration help
- Social events & parties
- Survival Finnish session
- Meet your tutors
Course Selection
As an exchange student, you are primarily expected to take courses from the department that nominates you. However, interdisciplinary study is often possible.
Learning Agreement (LA)
- Initial LA: Should be signed by your home university and Kestora before arrival.
- Changes to LA: If courses are full or cancelled, you can update your LA during the first 2 weeks of the semester.
- Credits: Most courses are 5 ECTS. A full-time workload is 30 ECTS per semester.
Registration & Enrollment
Academic Enrollment
Once your IT account is active, you must enroll for the semester as "Attending". This enables your study right and access to the course catalog.
Individual Course Registration
Registering for the semester is NOT the same as registering for courses. You must sign up for each course separately in the student portal.
Housing & Arrival
Student Housing
Accommodation in Finland is highly sought after. Apply for housing through local student housing foundations (HOAS/AYY) as soon as you receive your acceptance letter.
Kestora College does not provide on-campus housing directly, but we assist with the application process.
Travel to Campus
The closest airport is Helsinki-Vantaa (HEL). From there, you can take a commuter train or shuttle to the campus area.
When to Arrive?
We recommend arriving 2-3 days before Orientation Week to move into your apartment and settle in.
Student Life & Benefits
Finland offers an incredible student experience. As an exchange student, you are eligible for many of the same benefits as degree students.
Student Card
Access massive discounts on trains, buses, and campus meals (€2.95 per lunch!).
Student Union
Join clubs, attend the grand annual balls, and participate in "sitsit" (traditional dinner parties).
Sauna Culture
Most student housing buildings have shared saunas. It's the best way to relax and socialize!
Departure Checklist
Before you leave your home country, make sure you have:
- Valid Passport / ID card
- Acceptance Letter from Kestora College
- Signed Learning Agreement
- Health Insurance (EHIC for EU, private for non-EU)
- Housing contract and first month's rent receipt
- Warm clothing (if arriving for Autumn/Winter!)
Questions? Contact exchange@kestora.online