The International Friendship Programme connects international students with Turku region residents. It offers opportunities for cultural exchange and new international friendships.
International students often have limited connections to local residents and everyday life in Turku. Through the programme, students experience ordinary Finnish life. At the same time, Turku residents learn about new cultures and broaden their horizons – without leaving home!
Activities with your international friend might include cooking, jogging, going to the gym, or visiting museums. You can introduce your friend to your family or home, or explore Turku and the region's beautiful nature together. You don't need to plan anything special – ordinary Finnish everyday life can be an amazing experience for an international student!
Who can participate?
Local friends can be anyone: singles, couples, families with children, students, retirees – anyone in the Turku region interested in international friendships. International friends are exchange, degree, or doctoral students at Turku universities. They may live in Turku for a few months or throughout their studies.
Participating requires only reasonable English skills. Your English doesn't need to be perfect, and spending time with your friend is a great way to improve your English (or other languages!).
Starting the friendship period
The friendship period begins with a meeting where friends meet for the first time. After that, friends arrange how and when to meet and what to do together. During each period, a second meeting is organized where friends can meet other pairs and share their experiences.
The programme is mutual and voluntary. Friends can meet as often as they like. One period lasts one semester – about 4–6 months. We hope local friends commit to meeting at least once a month.
Who organizes the programme?
The International Friendship Programme is organized by the Study in Turku network, supported by the City of Turku and all Turku universities.
Applications for the Autumn International Friendship Program Are Now Open
- Sign up for the International Friendship Program by completing the registration form.
- Please fill out the form carefully so that we can match you with the most suitable friend. Your responses will be used solely for the purpose of creating friendship matches and organizing the program.
- The application period closes on 15 September 2026 at 16:00.
For more information:
katri.lehtinen@turku.fi