Aalto University is one of Finland's most emblematic institutes of innovation. Designed by the renowned architect Alvar Aalto, the campus boasts a distinctive architectural style, providing an inspiring environment for students aspiring to excel in design, engineering, or the creative industries. This article, presented by Grove Education, outlines the university's background, QS rankings, and academic programmes, and offers insights into the application process and fee structure to assist in evaluating whether this prestigious Finnish institution aligns with your study plans.
Background of Aalto University
Aalto University, located in Helsinki, Finland, was founded not from scratch but by merging three century-old institutions: the Helsinki School of Economics, the Helsinki University of Technology, and the University of Art and Design Helsinki. Officially established on 1st January 2010, Aalto University has played a pivotal role in Finland's higher education reform with its interdisciplinary focus on technology, business, and art and design. Such academic advantages and diverse programme offerings attract a large number of applicants each year, resulting in highly competitive admission processes [1].
QS Ranking of Aalto University
Aalto University has demonstrated remarkable international performance, achieving an excellent standing in global rankings that reflect its recognition and competitiveness in higher education. In the QS World University Rankings for 2026, Aalto University is positioned 114th globally [2]. Multiple faculties rank in the top 100 worldwide, including the Department of Art and Design at 8th place [3], the Marketing Department at 44th [4], and the Department of Architecture and Built Environment at 49th [5]. Additionally, Aalto University ranks 61st in the QS Sustainability Rankings [6], indicating the institution's strength not only in teaching and research but also in sustainability, social responsibility, and governance.
Source: Aalto University
Academic Programmes at Aalto University
Aalto University comprises six schools: the School of Arts, Design and Architecture; the School of Business; the School of Engineering; the School of Chemical Engineering; the School of Electrical Engineering; and the School of Science [7]. Most bachelor's programmes are conducted in Finnish or Swedish [8], though numerous English-taught courses are available for international students. Below is an overview of the fields open to international enrolment:
Arts and Design
Relevant Popular Programme: Design and Media
Aalto University's Department of Art consistently ranks highly in global QS rankings, benefiting from its well-structured curriculum. Students engage in various areas, including visual communication design, industrial design, and digital design. Through project-based creation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and process-oriented workshops, students develop skills in ideation, critical thinking, and problem-solving, learning to address societal issues with innovative design solutions and artistic media practices. This human-centred approach, with a focus on societal challenges and sustainability, attracts students from around the world to Aalto University [9].
Business
Relevant Popular Programmes: Economics, International Business
The Aalto School of Business is the first in the Nordic region to achieve triple accreditation from AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS [10]. The Economics programme emphasizes training in formal modelling, empirical methods, and institutional analysis, fostering robust quantitative capabilities, which positions Aalto University’s business school among the top in the Nordic region. The International Business programme focuses on cultivating students' abilities to lead companies, covering topics such as international marketing, cross-cultural management, global operations, and strategy [11].
Science and Technology
Relevant Popular Programmes: Chemical Engineering, Computational Engineering, Computer Engineering, Data Science, Quantum Technology
Science and technology programmes are designed primarily for international students, focusing on the foundational areas of engineering, science, and mathematics, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary and hands-on skills. The aim is to equip students to tackle emerging technological and industrial challenges using systematic approaches and analytical thinking. These specialised programmes and research projects attract many students interested in data-driven decision-making, engineering development, and technological applications [12].
Source: Aalto University
Application Requirements for Aalto University
Given the diversity of English-taught bachelor's programmes at Aalto, the university offers various educational standards for applicants. Those who meet recognised qualification criteria and submit the required documentation comply with the basic application eligibility. The qualification criteria for Aalto University applicants include [13][14][15][16]:
- Completion of the Finnish Matriculation Examination
- IB Diploma (must be completed at an accredited IB school)
- EB Diploma (must be completed at an accredited institution)
- DIA (Deutsches Internationales Abitur) or RP (Reifeprüfung) diploma obtained in Finland
- An equivalent secondary education qualification from outside Finland that meets local higher education admission criteria (e.g., High School Diploma)
- Vocational high school qualifications recognised under Finnish occupational education law, advanced vocational qualifications, or professional vocational qualifications
- AICE (Advanced International Certificate of Education) diploma completed in Finland.
Aalto University Application Grouping Guide
Moreover, for most English-taught bachelor's programmes, Aalto University categorises applicants into three groups (Group I, II, III) based on their application method. The grouping criteria are as follows [18][19][20]:
- Group I: SAT/ACT scores only applicable for those who have not taken the Finnish Matriculation Examination and do not possess an IB/EB diploma or a DIA/RP diploma from Finland.
- Group II: SAT/ACT scores required, applicable to those who possess or will pass the Finnish Matriculation Examination, IB, EB, or DIP/RP diploma in the application year.
- Group III: Admissions based solely on Finnish examination results, IB/EB diplomas, or a DIA/RP diploma. Applicants with other qualifications may only apply via SAT or ACT scores.
For Group III applicants, Aalto University will convert diploma scores into points according to the specific programme's requirements and select candidates based on their total scores. If candidates achieve identical scores, they will be prioritised according to the subject order outlined by the schools. Specific conversion methods can be queried with the respective departments.
Design and Media Programme Group Exemption
Due to Aalto University's high QS ranking in the arts, the institution does not use the Group I/II/III selection method for Design and Media course applicants; instead, evaluation is based on practical work and interview performance. Core assessment criteria include creative thinking, learning ability, perspective, visual expression (vision), English proficiency, preliminary assignments, intake assignments, and interview performance. Applicants can access detailed application information on the programme page.
Standardised Test Scores
When applying to Aalto University via Group I or Group II, submission of SAT or ACT standardised test scores is necessary as the primary assessment criterion. Only results from tests completed after 1st January 2024 are accepted, and candidates will be ranked based on the total SAT or equivalent ACT score; if scores are identical, preference will go to candidates with higher mathematics scores. Additionally, different programmes have specific subject and score requirements for standardised tests [17]:
- ACT Required Subjects: English, Mathematics, Reading, Science (with optional Essay not included in total scoring)
- SAT Required Subjects: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, Mathematics
| Programme | SAT Score Requirements | ACT Score Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Economics, International Business | total must reach 1200 | total must reach 25 [18][19] |
| Science and Technology | total must reach 1350, Mathematics must reach 700 | total must reach 29, Mathematics must reach 30 [20] |
Overview of Tuition Fees at Aalto University
Under Finnish law, citizens of the EU, the EEA, or Switzerland, as well as holders of Finnish residence permits (such as P permanent residence, P-EU long-term residence, EU Blue Card, or Brexit-related permits), are exempt from tuition fees. However, non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens enrolling in English-taught programmes are required to pay tuition fees [21]. The tuition fees are as follows:
| Programme | Annual Tuition Fee (€) |
|---|---|
| Field of Business | €12,000 / year |
| Fields of Art and Architecture | €15,000 / year |
| Field of Technology | €12,000 / year |
Additional Costs
The aforementioned fees cover only Aalto University's tuition; students must also budget for the following expenses [22]:
- Living Expenses: Costs for living, accommodation, meals, and transportation.
- Student Union Fee: The student union fee for 2025–2026 is €65.
- Health Insurance and Medical Costs: Students must pay for medical insurance at €36 per semester. Basic health insurance covers only essential medical services; students should be prepared for potential additional costs.
Source: Aalto University
Consult Professional Advisor to Reach Nordic Academic Excellence
In summary, Aalto University combines art and design, business management, and science and technology, showcasing robust strengths in teaching and research, alongside impressive international rankings. In recent years, Aalto University’s QS ranking has consistently remained among the world’s top institutions, making it a leading choice for many students and parents to plan higher education in Europe. If you are considering applying to Aalto University and wish to understand fee structures and preparation strategies, please consult Grove Education for guidance. Our professional advisors are here to assist you in your pursuit of attending Finland's premier educational institution.
References：
1. Aalto University - History
2. QS Top Universities - World University Rankings: Aalto University
3. QS Top Universities - Art & Design - University Subject Rankings
4. QS Top Universities - Marketing - University Subject Rankings
5. QS Top Universities - Architecture & Built Environment - University Subject Rankings
6. QS Top Universities - Sustainability Rankings
7. Aalto University - Explore Our Six Schools
8. Aalto University - Guidelines on the Languages of the Degrees and Instruction
9. Aalto University - Design and Media (Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in Art and Design)
10. Aalto University - Aalto BIZ Fact Sheet 2025–2026
11. Aalto University - Bachelor’s Programmes in Economics and International Business
12. Aalto University - Bachelor’s Programme in Science and Technology
13. Aalto University - Admission to the Bachelor’s Programme in Design and Media (Who Can Apply)
14. Aalto University - Admission to the Bachelor’s Programme in Economics (Who Can Apply)
15. Aalto University - Admission to the Bachelor’s Programme in International Business (Who Can Apply)
16. Aalto University - Admission to Aalto Bachelor’s Programme in Science and Technology (Who Can Apply)
17. Aalto University - Delivering SAT and ACT Test Scores
18. Aalto University - Admission Group II – Admission Based on SAT or ACT (Economics Programme)
19. Aalto University - Admission Group I – Admission Based on SAT or ACT (International Business Programme)
20. Aalto University - Admission Group I – Admission Based on SAT or ACT (Science and Technology Programme)
21. Aalto University - Scholarships and Tuition Fees
22. Aalto University - What Other Costs Are There in Addition to the Tuition Fee?