Get the full Finnish student experience with HYY!

As a member of the Student Union, you are entitled to several benefits. Whether you are a basic degree student, a postgraduate student or an exchange student, you are very welcome as our member. Read more about the membership benefits here.

Our core task is to improve students’ status at the University, in the city and in society. We promote and defend issues that are important to students, for example smoother studies, student housing and access to healthcare. You can also always get in touch with us if you encounter challenges during your time as a student or want to give feedback. Read more about our advocacy work here.

HYY organises some of the biggest events and parties for students in Helsinki. You get to meet other students from all campuses, learn about organisations over disciplinary boundaries and enjoy communality all over the city. For example, you can meet student organisations at the Opening Carnival, put a team together to complete the Fresher Adventure or celebrate spring traditions during May Day and Flora!

There are around 240 different student organisations operating within HYY – whatever you want to do, there is sure to be likeminded people you can join. From sports clubs and photography associations to faculty and study area related organisations, there is something for everyone! There are events and parties organised throughout the year, almost on a daily basis. You can also form a new student organisation and apply to operate under HYY which gives your organisation access to HYY’s facilities and support services.

The organisations are the key in the university life in Finland. Through them, you get to meet other students, network for the future and develop skills outside the classroom. Participating in student activities helps you to build a life in Helsinki.

Our committees focus on brainstorming and developing activities for the Student Union related to different areas. This translates into organising events, conducting advocacy work and developing the University community. The committees are open to all our members, and you can join their activities at any point during the year.

For example, our International Committee is run by and for international and internationally-minded students. Its aim is to create a thriving student community at the University of Helsinki by advocating for the interests and inclusion of international students.

Are you interested in making studies run smoother or having a say in the University’s major policies? Would you like to act as the voice of your fellow students in the University’s decision-making processes? If you answered yes, you have what it takes to become a student representative! We students have our own positions in the University’s arenas of power – from the steering groups of degree programmes to the University’s highest decision-making bodies. All students completing a degree at the University of Helsinki who have registered for attendance may apply to become a student representative. Read more here.

Representative Council
The Representative Council is in charge of decision-making in our Student Union. The Council consists of 60 students who are elected every two years. All our members are entitled to vote and run as a candidate in the elections. The Representative Council makes decisions on issues such as HYY’s Constitution and budget as well as appoints the Board.

Committees
Our committees focus on brainstorming and developing activities for the Student Union related to different areas. For instance, the International Committee works to improve international students’ status in the Student Union and the University and the Environmental Committee promotes sustainability and environmental issues. The committees are open to all our members, and you can join their activities at any point during the year.