Welcome Week introduces new international students to Tampere University
Welcome Week is the first opportunity for new international degree and exchange students to familiarise themselves with Finland, Tampere and Tampere University. The programme is designed to help them settle into their new surroundings and make a successful start to their studies.
Throughout the week, students receive practical information to help them adjust to student life in Finland. They also have the chance to connect with other students and learn about the services and resources available to them.
Welcome Week offers support and information
International Student Guidance Specialist Yuritzi Becerra Zamora says that Welcome Week provides a foundation that enables international students to become independent and comfortable in their new environment.
“Welcome Week is a very exciting time, but it can also be stressful. We hope to make students feel welcome and confident as they take this new step in their lives,” Becerra Zamora says.
New students receive support from student tutors, academic tutors and degree programme staff. During the first week, they are introduced to their studies as well as to the information systems and teaching practices at Tampere University. Students also receive information about well-being services and a range of resources, such as the University Library, career services and IT support.
Welcome Week aims to provide new students with the tools they need to make the most of their time at Tampere University. Support continues beyond the first week, and help is always available.
“My advice is to participate actively in the orientation activities and not be afraid to ask questions and make new connections. It is normal to feel confused or stressed. After all, this is a significant step and a new environment to adapt to. I hope new students can trust that the orientation programme is specifically designed to help them navigate this transition,” Becerra Zamora says.
Tutors are guides to student life
During Welcome Week, new students will meet their student tutors, who are student volunteers who help them adjust to university life in Tampere.
Student tutoring is coordinated by the Student Union of Tampere University (TREY). This year, a total of 99 international degree student tutors and 147 exchange student tutors are ready to help new students make a smooth start to this new chapter in lives.
Sumu Sirén, who is responsible for tutoring on the Board of TREY, says that student tutors provide peer support to new students. They introduce new students to student culture, the University’s campuses and the city of Tampere.
“The most important task of tutors is to introduce new students to our diverse student community. There is a wide range of organisations and activities to suit all interests, so everyone can find their place,” Sirén says.
Tutors also help new students get to know one another and make new friends by organising events and social gatherings. Another way to meet new people is to join student clubs.
“There will be many new things to experience at the beginning, and I encourage students to try them all and participate even if they do not know anyone yet. Every event is an opportunity to meet like-minded people and make new friends!” Sirén says.
New international degree student: Check your Welcome Week schedule here.
New exchange student: Check your Welcome Week schedule here.
Other useful links for new students:
Welcome Week 2026 Moodle for degree students
Tampere University's page for new students
Information for students on the website of the City of Tampere
Fresher's Guide 2026-2027 by TREY
