About

The student nations are student organisations for students of the University of Helsinki as well as students in higher education in the Capital Region (Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa and Kauniainen). Previously, membership of the student nations was determined by the geographical area of Finland that a student was from. Today, all students, including international and exchange degree students, are free to choose whichever student nation they wish. The University of Helsinki has 15 student nations, 11 Finnish and 4 Swedish speaking ones. The student nations consist of students from various backgrounds and ages across all faculties and campuses of the University.

The student nations, some of the oldest student organisations in Finland, host a wide range of activities and facilities including sports, clubs and associations. Weekly activities for each student nation include so-called “nation-nights” where student nation members gather around a chosen theme for a friendly chat over a cup of coffee. The student nations are also a social gathering place where one can read newspapers, play games, meet up with friends or just hang out. In addition, the student nations organise many parties, balls and trips throughout the academic year. The student nations' year culminates with the student nations’ Independence Day Parade to the Presidential Palace held on 6th December.

The University of Helsinki Co-delegation of Student Nations (CDSN) is an umbrella organisation of the 15 student nations in Helsinki. The CDSN organises activities and events for all student nations' members.