The International Friendship Program brings together international students from higher education institutions in Turku and residents of the Turku region. The aim of the program is to promote intercultural encounters, increase understanding of different cultures, and provide an easy and accessible way to meet new people.
What do participants gain from the program?
For international students, the program offers an opportunity to learn about the Finnish way of life, local customs, and everyday life in Turku. At the same time, they can practice their language skills and gain experiences outside the student community.
For local participants, the program offers a chance to get acquainted with different cultures, hear experiences from around the world, and build international connections. Participants can also improve their language skills and see their hometown and Finnish everyday life from a new perspective.
How does the program work?
Register for the program during the application period. Please note that no automatic email confirmation is sent upon registration. We will contact all participants after the registration period has ended and friendship pairs or groups have been formed.
The program begins with a joint meeting organized by the coordinators, where international and local friends meet each other for the first time. After this meeting, participants decide themselves how often they meet and what activities they would like to do together.
During the friendship period, another joint gathering will also be organized, giving participants an opportunity to meet other friendship pairs or groups and share their experiences.
What can you do together?
Activities can be as simple as everyday life together. For example, you can:
- go for a walk or exercise together
- cook together
- explore Turku and its sights
- have coffee or visit museums
- participate in local events
Decide together with your pair or group what you would like to do.
Who can participate?
Anyone living in the Turku region can join as a local friend. You can participate alone, with your spouse or family, or together with a friend. Every year, participants include students, working-age adults, retirees, and families with children.
A reasonable level of English is sufficient to participate. The program provides an excellent opportunity to learn and practice languages together.
International friends are exchange, degree, or doctoral students at higher education institutions in Turku. They may stay in Turku for a few months or several years.
How long does the program last?
The program lasts for one academic semester, approximately 4 to 6 months. We hope that friends will commit to meeting at least once a month, but meeting schedules are agreed upon together according to participants' availability.
Many friendships continue even after the program ends, and participants are welcome to join again in future semesters.
Who organizes the program?
The International Friendship Program is coordinated by the Study in Turku network. The program is supported by the City of Turku and the higher education institutions in Turku.
Welcome to help build an international Turku, one friendship at a time!
Application for the Friendship Program
Registration for the Autumn 2026 Friendship Program has ended. Information about the next application round will be announced later.