Student housing

Helsinki student housing

Student housing in Helsinki: HOAS and AYY applications

Compare HOAS for full-time degree students whose programme qualifies for Finnish student financial aid in Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa or Kauniainen with AYY housing for Aalto students, then open the relevant official application service.

Direct answer

Should I start with HOAS or AYY?

Use your study programme, location and AYY membership to identify which official guidance to check first. HOAS and AYY make the final eligibility and housing decisions.
  • Start with HOAS if you study full time in a degree programme that qualifies for Finnish student financial aid in Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa or Kauniainen. Otherwise, check HOAS’s full applicant guidance before ruling it out.
  • Start with AYY if you are an Aalto University degree student, belong to AYY, and have a valid housing period under AYY’s current guidance.
  • If both descriptions apply, review each provider’s current application terms before deciding where to apply.
  • If neither description applies, check your institution’s housing guidance, municipal housing services, and general rental providers.
Sources: HOAS: who can apply, AYY application instructions

Application journey

Student-housing application timeline in Helsinki

The steps below summarize official guidance reviewed July 26, 2026. HOAS and AYY determine eligibility, process applications and make housing offers.

  1. Prepare the requested documents

    Gather the identity documents HOAS requests and any applicable consent documents, or the study-place evidence AYY requests.
    • HOASIdentity and consent
      • Official identity documents for adults.
      • Applicable consent documents.
    • AYYProof of your study place
      • Prepare proof of your study place.
      • If you are an international degree student or exchange student, prepare the Aalto admission or placement letter requested in AYY’s current guidance.
    Sources: HOAS: who can apply, HOAS: how to apply, AYY application instructions

  2. Apply through the official provider service

    Use the official service for the provider you choose.
    Open the official HOAS applicationOpen the official AYY application
    Sources: HOAS: how to apply, AYY application instructions

  3. Follow application guidance

    After submitting, follow the provider’s current guidance about application status and any permitted changes. OmaAvain does not manage applications.
    Sources: HOAS: how to apply, AYY application instructions

  4. Check apartment-type timing guidance

    OmaAvain does not predict waiting times or whether you will receive an offer.
    • HOAS shared roomUsually faster than other HOAS apartment types
      • HOAS says shared rooms become available significantly faster.
      • This does not guarantee timing or an offer.
    • HOAS other apartment typesTiming varies
      • HOAS says overall waiting time can vary from days to a few months depending on your choices; central Helsinki can take longer.
      • This is not a studio-specific estimate.
    • AYY apartment typesNo published timing estimate
      • AYY says it cannot estimate the waiting time or likelihood of receiving an offer.
      • Selection uses need and urgency rather than queue order.
    Sources: HOAS: how to apply, AYY application instructions

  5. Review any housing offer

    If you receive an offer, follow the provider’s current instructions before responding.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions

When can I apply for HOAS or AYY student housing?
For the standard HOAS route, apply after admission to an eligible study programme. AYY says new degree students can apply after confirming their study place; international degree students can apply after receiving their Aalto admission letter. Exchange students should check the separate HOAS and AYY conditions below.Sources: HOAS: how to apply, AYY application instructions, HOAS exchange application guidance
How long does a HOAS or AYY application remain valid?
Standard HOAS and AYY applications are each valid for three months from submission. A HOAS exchange application is valid for four months.Sources: HOAS: how to apply, AYY application instructions, HOAS exchange application guidance
Can exchange students apply for HOAS or AYY housing?
HOAS: the furnished exchange route is for students from cooperating schools whose campus is in Helsinki, Espoo or Vantaa; applications open April 1 for autumn and October 1 for spring. AYY: Aalto exchange students can apply once they have proof of placement, must join AYY before receiving an offer, and can apply no earlier than three months before their desired move-in date.Sources: HOAS exchange eligibility guidance, HOAS exchange application guidance, AYY application instructions

Sources

Sources and limitations

Current as of: Official guidance reviewed July 26–27, 2026.

Limitations: OmaAvain is an independent tenant guide. Applications are opened and completed in the linked provider services, not in OmaAvain. If neither option fits, check your institution's housing guidance, municipal housing information and general rental providers. Use the current official source for each provider before making a decision.

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