How to get into Aalto University: Steps & Tips

Author: Study.eu Team — Last update: 27 March 2026

Ranked as one of the best universities in the world, Aalto University offers a wide range of Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes in technology, engineering, business, economics, and the arts.

As one of the leading universities in Scandinavia, it also attracts talented students from around the world, making admissions competitive. So, what does it really take to secure a place at this institution? Let’s explore the steps, requirements, and tips for getting into Aalto University.

🤔 Is it hard to get into Aalto University?

Getting into Aalto University can be quite competitive (especially for popular programmes), but it really depends on what you apply for. Some degrees attract a large number of applicants for very limited spots, while others are less oversubscribed and therefore more accessible.

For example, the Bachelor in Economics is highly selective. In 2025, there were 1,184 applications for just 65 study places, which translates to an acceptance rate of roughly 5%. That means only about 1 in 18 applicants were admitted, making it one of the more competitive undergraduate options.

However, not all programmes are this difficult to enter, and you should definitely have a look at their admission statistics. For instance, the Master in Acoustics and Audio Technology had a much higher acceptance rate of around 32%.

Overall, Aalto University is competitive, but not equally hard across all degrees.

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🏆 What rank is Aalto University in Europe?

Aalto University isn’t just Finland’s leading university; it’s also very well-known across Europe and the world. According to QS rankings, it ranks 6th in Scandinavia, 45th in Europe, and 114th globally, placing it among the top 1% of universities worldwide.

Here’s how it compares to other universities in the region:

Rank in Scandinavia	Rank in Europe	University	Country
1	20	Lund University	Lund, Sweden
2	25	KTH Royal Institute of Technology	Stockholm, Sweden
3	32	Uppsala University	Uppsala, Sweden
4	38	University of Copenhagen	Copenhagen, Denmark
5	42	Technical University of Denmark	Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
6	45	Aalto University	Espoo, Finland
7	46	University of Helsinki	Helsinki, Finland
8	49	University of Oslo	Oslo, Norway
9	52	Aarhus University	Aarhus, Denmark
9	59	Stockholm University	Stockholm, Sweden

👀 What kind of students does Aalto University look for?

Aalto University looks for students who combine strong academic ability with creativity and a proactive mindset. As a university known for blending business, technology, and design, it values applicants who are not only good at studying, but also curious and innovative.

Academically, successful applicants typically have excellent grades and solid results in relevant subjects. For competitive programmes, this often means high performance in areas like mathematics, economics, or science, depending on the degree. However, grades alone are not always enough, especially at the Master’s level, where your academic background needs to closely match the programme you are applying to.

Beyond academics, Aalto places strong emphasis on motivation and personality. They are particularly interested in students who show initiative, problem-solving skills, and a genuine interest in their field. This can come through in motivation letters, portfolios (for design-related programmes), or relevant experience such as internships, projects, or extracurricular activities.

Finally, Aalto values students who are internationally minded and collaborative. Since many programmes are taught in English and attract a global student body, being open to teamwork, new perspectives, and different cultures is important.

📚 Aalto University’s entry requirements:

Entry requirements at Aalto University vary depending on the degree and level of study, so it’s important to look into the specifics of the programme of your choice. However, there are some common criteria that all applicants need to meet. In general, the university looks at your academic background, language skills, and (in some cases) test scores or additional materials.

For Bachelor’s programmes in Finland:

Applicants typically need a recognised secondary school qualification (such as IB, EB, or a national high school diploma). Admission is often based on standardised test scores or final school grades.
You will have to prove your English-language proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL (unless you qualify for an exemption).
Some specialised degrees (especially in design) may also require portfolios, assignments, or interviews as part of the selection process.

For Master’s programmes in Finland:

You must hold a relevant Bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record. Many programmes require that your previous studies closely match the field you are applying to.
In business-related degrees, you may also need to submit your scores, while other programmes focus more on your academic performance, motivation, and relevant experience.
Finally, all applicants must meet language requirements.

Aalto University has more than 100 different programmes, so requirements will vary depending on the subject and the applicant’s nationality. If you have any questions, make sure to reach out to the admissions team.

📝 Steps to Apply to Aalto University:

To apply to Aalto University, follow these steps:

Choose a programme of study: Start by selecting the Bachelor’s or Master’s programme that fits your academic background and career goals.
Meet the degree entry requirements: This includes having the right academic qualifications and English language requirements.
Prepare your application documents: Gather all necessary materials in advance. This may include transcripts, test scores, a motivation letter, CV, and a portfolio or additional assignments. Make sure everything is complete and meets the university’s guidelines.
Deadlines:
- Masters: There is one intake per year. For studies starting in autumn 2026, the application period is open from 1 December 2025 to 2 January 2026. The studies and orientation week begin between August and September.
- Bachelors: The application period is from 7 to 22 January 2026.
Submit your application: The official platform is Studyinfo.
Look for scholarships: Consider looking for financial help alongside your application.
Await results: The admission results are published on 8 April 2026 for Master’s and by late May 2026 for Bachelor’s programmes.

💡 Study.eu tip: Consider also submitting an application to the University of Helsinki to increase your chances to study in Finland. Both universities use Finland’s national application portal, so you can apply to up to six different study programmes, which can be across different institutions and disciplines.

📈 How to increase your chances of getting into Aalto University:

There are several ways to strengthen your application and stand out from other candidates.

Show your academic strengths: Focus on excelling in subjects related to your programme and highlight any achievements, like top grades, awards, or relevant projects.
Demonstrate your motivation: Write a clear, personal motivation letter explaining why Aalto’s innovative approach fits your goals and how you plan to contribute to the university community.
Highlight relevant experience: Share internships, projects, or extracurriculars that showcase your skills, creativity, or problem-solving in your field.
Prove your English proficiency: Most programmes are in English, so strong language skills are essential! Make sure your test scores and application demonstrate this.
Follow instructions carefully: Submit all required materials in the correct format to avoid disqualification. If you start early and stay organized, it will be easier to ensure all documents, tests, and application forms are ready well before deadlines.

💸 Tuition fees at Aalto University:

Tuition fees in Finland depend on your citizenship, degree level, and study field. If you’re a citizen of a European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA) country, or Switzerland, you do not pay tuition fees. Certain residence permit holders in Finland may also be exempt.

However, non‑EU/EEA students studying Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees taught in English are required to pay tuition fees. These vary by field and are charged per academic year:

Bachelor’s programmes:

Business and Technology: €12,000 per year
Arts and Architecture: €15,000 per year

Master’s programmes:

Business: €15,000 per year
Technology and multidisciplinary programmes: €17,000 per year
Arts and Architecture: €20,000 per year

In addition to tuition, students must cover living costs, student union fees, healthcare services, and personal expenses. Tuition fees do not include these costs.

If you are eligible to pay tuition fees, consider applying for the Aalto University Excellence Scholarship, which can waive your tuition entirely. Scholarships are competitive, so strong academic results and a solid application strategy can make a big difference.

🏛️ Popular subjects in Finland:

Not sure which programme is right for you? Start your journey to studying in Finland by exploring the wide range of programmes on Study.eu, so you can find the one that best fits your interests and career goals.

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