Why should you study in Lapland?

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Located in Finnish Lapland in the northernmost part of Finland, Rovaniemi is a growing student city with over 65,000 residents and more than 11,000 higher education students. Student life here is vibrant and inclusive, offering something for everyone. Northern culture thrives in Rovaniemi, and there are plenty of opportunities whether you’re into nature, academics, sports, culture, or nightlife.

As the northernmost university city in Finland, Rovaniemi is defined by its distinct seasons, close connection to nature, and wide range of activities available all year round. From snowy winters and the Northern Lights to bright summer nights under the midnight sun, the environment creates a unique backdrop for student life.

For international students, Rovaniemi offers a safe, welcoming, and easy-to-navigate study environment. The city is compact and bike-friendly, with an active international student community and strong support services, including tutoring and student organisations. Many everyday services are available in English, making it easy to adapt to student life in Finland.

University campus

The University of Lapland campus is situated about 2.5 kilometres south of the Rovaniemi city centre. The campus hosts all of our faculties, the Lapland University Consortium Library, eight art galleries and two restaurants under the same roof.

The campus is open 24/7 for student use, offering wide array of meet up spaces, laboratories and study places.

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Read more about the university facilities, galleries and other properties owned by the university.

Student housing in Rovaniemi

The University of Lapland does not provide student housing directly. As a popular travel destination, Rovaniemi has less rental apartments available during the busy winter season.

Check out these tips to help you find your future home!

  • Please check the length of your rental agreement carefully. Some contracts are permanent, while others are fixed-term. If your contract ends during the winter season, finding a new apartment may be more challenging due to the busy travel period.
  • Apply for housing as soon as you accept your study place. In Rovaniemi, student housing is provided by Domus Arctica Foundation (DAS), which offers a range of affordable options from shared apartments and studios to family housing. Also remember to check private rentals and housing groups on social media.
  • Choose a neighbourhood that suits you. Rantavitikka, Viirinkangas, Asemarinne, and the city centre are popular among students, but other areas of the city also offer good options, especially for families. Rovaniemi is compa — especially when getting around by bike.
  • Consider whether shared living could be a good option for you. DAS also offers individual rooms in shared apartments where only the kitchen is shared. In addition, there are communes and other forms of shared living in Rovaniemi.

Domus Arctica Foundation

  • Student apartments across the city

LYY Student Housing Services

  • Rental housing brokerage for university students

KAS: rental apartments

Lumo: rental apartments

Colliers International Finland Apartments

Also remember to check rental listings through housing agencies, local newspapers, and social media housing groups.

Getting around

An aerial photo of the University of Lapland student campus in winter.
The University of Lapland campus in Rovaniemi houses all faculties under the same roof.

Rovaniemi is a compact and student-friendly city, making it easy for international students to get around. The University of Lapland campus is conveniently located just 2.5 km from the railway station and 2 km from the city centre, while the airport is located in 11 km from the city centre. Short distances in the city are ideal for walking or cycling, and local buses offer affordable student fares, connecting the campus, housing areas, and main city destinations.

As a well-connected northern city, Rovaniemi allows students to travel easily within Finland by train, bus, or car. International students also benefit from direct flights to over 20 European cities from Rovaniemi Airport, making it simple to explore both Finland and neighboring countries. The city’s accessibility, compact size, and reliable transport options ensure that daily life and student commuting are convenient, safe, and efficient.

Linkkari: The public transport of Rovaniemi

University student healthcare

All students who have registered as attending students at a Finnish university to complete a bachelor’s or a master’s degree must pay the healthcare fee for students in higher education to Kela (the Social Insurance Institution of Finland) each semester (twice a year).

Find out more about the healthcare fee and services it provides below!

Registration

Finnish Student Health Services

FSHS provides student health services for those studying for a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree at institution of higher education.

Well-being and guidance

Settling in Rovaniemi

Living in Rovaniemi

Discover what Rovaniemi has to offer beyond student life. Explore the best nature trails, cultural attractions, and local guides created just for you!

A flock of birds flies above the Lumberjack's Candle Bridge (Jätkänkynttilä in Finnish) in winter. Icy Kemijoki River flows beneath the bridge.

Services for residents

Are you planning to work while studying, or moving with your family? Discover the services and support the City of Rovaniemi offers for residents.

Student activities and things to do in Rovaniemi

Student union

The student union LYY is the advocacy and service organization for approximately 4,000 students of the University of Lapland. They offer their members a wide range of services, events, and guidance to support both their studies and the challenges of everyday life. If you’re a registered student, you will automatically have a LYY membership.

Student union LYY

Survival tips for Arctic Student life

Safe Travel Tips for Visiting Lapland

Is it your first time visiting the arctic region? Check out the essential tips for driving, ice safety and dressing for the arctic winter.

Last updated: 7.4.2026