Hanken School of Economics
Hanken School of Economics-Complete Admission, Ranking, Scholarships & Study Guide 2026
The Hanken School of Economics is one of the most prestigious business schools in Northern Europe and Finland's oldest independent business school, established in 1909. The university specializes exclusively in business, economics, finance, accounting, marketing, management, entrepreneurship, supply chain management, and international business, making it one of the best choices for students pursuing business education in Europe.
Hanken is internationally recognized for its Triple Crown Accreditation (AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS) a distinction held by less than 1% of business schools worldwide. This accreditation reflects the university's commitment to academic excellence, high-quality teaching, impactful research, and strong connections with the global business community.
With campuses in Helsinki and Vaasa, Hanken offers a highly international learning environment, attracting students and faculty from more than 70 countries. The university maintains strong partnerships with multinational companies, financial institutions, and over 120 partner universities worldwide, providing excellent opportunities for exchange studies, internships, and global careers.
For students planning to study in Finland, Hanken School of Economics offers internationally recognized degrees, merit-based scholarships, modern business education, extensive corporate networks, and outstanding graduate employability.
➜Quick Overview:
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| University Name | Hanken School of Economics |
| Short Name | Hanken |
| Established | 1909 |
| University Type | Public Business University |
| Location | Helsinki & Vaasa, Finland |
| Country | Finland |
| Campuses | Helsinki Campus & Vaasa Campus |
| Students | 2,600+ |
| International Students | 500+ |
| Academic & Research Staff | 250+ |
| Degree Levels | Bachelor's, Master's & Doctoral |
| Teaching Language | English & Swedish |
| Specialization | Business & Economics |
| Official Website | Hanken School of Economics |
➜ University History:
Hanken School of Economics has more than a century of academic excellence.
Major Milestones
- 1909 – Established in Helsinki as the Swedish School of Economics and Business Administration.
- 1927 – Vaasa campus established.
- 1970s–1990s – Expanded international research and business partnerships.
- 2000s – Introduced more English-taught Master's programs.
- 2015 – Achieved Triple Crown Accreditation (AACSB, AMBA & EQUIS).
- 2026 – Continues to rank among Europe's leading specialized business schools.
Today, Hanken is internationally respected for producing business leaders, entrepreneurs, economists, researchers, and executives working across Europe and the world.
➜ Why Choose Hanken School of Economics?
Thousands of international students choose Hanken every year because of its globally recognized business education and excellent career opportunities.
➜ Top Reasons to Study at Hanken:
- Finland's Oldest Business School
- Triple Crown Accredited Business School
- One of Europe's Top Specialized Business Universities
- Strong Corporate Partnerships
- Excellent Graduate Employability
- International Learning Environment
- Merit-Based Scholarships
- Modern Business Curriculum
- Small Class Sizes
- International Exchange Opportunities
- Strong Alumni Network
- Entrepreneurship Support
- Research-Based Teaching
➜ Hanken School of Economics World Rankings:
Hanken consistently performs well in international business school rankings.
| Ranking Organization | Latest Ranking |
|---|---|
| Financial Times Masters in Management | Among Europe's Top Business Schools |
| Financial Times Executive Education | Internationally Ranked |
| QS Business & Management Studies | Globally Recognized |
| Triple Crown Accreditation | AACSB + AMBA + EQUIS |
| Finland Business School Ranking | Among the Top Business Schools |
Unlike comprehensive universities, Hanken is a specialized business school, so its reputation is primarily reflected in business education rankings rather than overall university rankings.
➜ International Accreditations:
Hanken belongs to an elite group of business schools worldwide.
➜ Triple Crown Accreditation:
- AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business)
- AMBA (Association of MBAs)
- EQUIS (EFMD Quality Improvement System)
Fewer than 1% of business schools globally have achieved all three accreditations.
➜ Subject Rankings & Academic Strengths:
Hanken is internationally recognized for excellence in:
| Subject | Reputation |
|---|---|
| Finance | World-Class |
| Economics | Excellent |
| Accounting | Excellent |
| Marketing | Highly Ranked |
| International Business | Excellent |
| Supply Chain Management | Excellent |
| Management | World-Class |
| Entrepreneurship | Strong |
| Business Analytics | Excellent |
| Corporate Governance | Highly Regarded |
The university is especially respected for combining academic research with practical business experience.
➜ Helsinki Campus:
The main campus is located in Helsinki, Finland's capital and largest economic center.
Advantages include:
- Headquarters of multinational companies
- Financial institutions
- Startup ecosystem
- International business environment
- Excellent public transportation
➜ Vaasa Campus:
The Vaasa campus is located in one of Finland's strongest industrial and energy regions.
Students benefit from:
- Close industry collaboration
- Modern learning facilities
- Affordable living costs
- Strong regional business network
➜Campus Facilities:
Students enjoy access to:
- Modern Business Library
- Bloomberg Financial Laboratory
- Computer Labs
- Innovation Spaces
- Group Study Rooms
- Career Services
- Student Restaurants
- International Office
- Entrepreneurship Hub
- Student Wellbeing Services
➜Academic Departments:
Hanken's education and research focus on business and economics through departments including:
- Accounting and Commercial Law
- Economics
- Finance and Statistics
- Management and Organization
- Marketing
- Supply Chain Management and Social Responsibility
These departments offer internationally recognized Bachelor's, Master's, MBA (executive education), and Doctoral programs.
➜ Research Excellence:
Hanken is internationally recognized for research in:
- Sustainable Finance
- International Business
- Corporate Governance
- Supply Chain Management
- Responsible Business
- Entrepreneurship
- Financial Markets
- Digital Business
- Consumer Behavior
- Strategic Management
- Economics
- Data Analytics
The university collaborates closely with multinational companies, European research organizations, and international business schools.
➜ International Collaboration:
Hanken has partnerships with 120+ universities across Europe, North America, Asia, Australia, and Latin America.
Students can benefit from:
- Erasmus+
- Nordic Exchange Programes
- Double Degree Opportunities
- International Summer Schools
- Student Exchange Programes
- Corporate Internship Opportunities
- Global Research Collaborations
These partnerships provide students with valuable international experience and significantly improve global career prospects.
➜ Graduate Employability:
Hanken graduates are among the most employable business graduates in Finland.
Graduates work in:
- Banking
- Consulting
- Investment Firms
- Technology Companies
- International Organizations
- Government Agencies
- Startups
- Multinational Corporations
Many graduates secure employment shortly after graduation through Hanken's strong corporate network.
➜ English-Taught Bachelor's Programs:
Hanken School of Economics offers English-taught Bachelor's education through its Bachelor in Business program. The program is designed for international students and provides a strong foundation in business, economics, and analytical thinking.
➜ Bachelor in Business
Duration: 3 Years (180 ECTS)
➜ Core Study Areas
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Marketing
- Accounting
- Finance
- Management
- Business Communication
- Statistics
- Data Analytics
- Sustainable Business
➜ Career Opportunities:
- Business Analyst
- Marketing Executive
- Financial Analyst
- Management Trainee
- Sales Manager
- Entrepreneur
➜ English Taught Master's Programs:
Hanken offers internationally recognized 2-year Master's degree programs (120 ECTS) in English. Students can study in Helsinki or Vaasa depending on the program.
1. Master's Degree in Economics:
Students study:
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- Public Economics
- Development Economics
- Econometrics
Career Opportunities:
- Economist
- Economic Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Financial Consultant
2. Master's Degree in Finance:
Core Subjects:
- Corporate Finance
- Investment Analysis
- Asset Management
- Financial Markets
- Risk Management
- FinTech
Career Opportunities:
- Investment Banker
- Financial Analyst
- Portfolio Manager
- Risk Analyst
3. Master's Degree in Accounting:
Students learn:
- Financial Reporting
- Auditing
- Taxation
- Corporate Governance
- Sustainability Reporting
Career Opportunities:
- Chartered Accountant
- Auditor
- Tax Consultant
- Financial Controller
4. Master's Degree in Marketing:
Study Areas:
- Digital Marketing
- Consumer Behavior
- Brand Management
- International Marketing
- Marketing Analytics
Career Opportunities:
- Marketing Manager
- Brand Strategist
- Digital Marketing Specialist
- Market Research Analyst
5. Master's Degree in International Strategy and Sustainability:
Students study:
- Global Business Strategy
- Sustainable Business
- ESG Management
- Innovation
- Corporate Responsibility
Career Opportunities:
- Strategy Consultant
- Sustainability Manager
- Business Development Manager
6. Master's Degree in Supply Chain Management:
Core Subjects:
- Logistics
- Procurement
- Supply Chain Analytics
- Operations Management
- Sustainable Supply Chains
Career Opportunities:
- Supply Chain Manager
- Logistics Consultant
- Procurement Specialist
7. Master's Degree in Intellectual Property Law:
Topics include:
- International IP Law
- Copyright
- Trademark Law
- Patent Law
- Commercial Law
Career Opportunities:
- IP Consultant
- Legal Advisor
- Corporate Legal Specialist
8. Master's Degree in Marketing and Management:
Students learn:
- Strategic Management
- International Marketing
- Leadership
- Innovation
- Business Development
Career Opportunities:
- Business Consultant
- Marketing Director
- Project Manager
➜ Double Degree Program:
Hanken also offers selected international double degree programs with partner universities, allowing students to earn degrees from both Hanken and the partner institution.
➜ MBA & Executive Education:
Hanken Executive Education provides internationally recognized executive programes including:
- Executive MBA
- Leadership Development
- Digital Transformation
- Corporate Governance
- Sustainable Business Leadershi
- Executive Finance Programs
These programs are primarily designed for experienced professionals.
➜ Doctoral Programs:
Hanken offers PhD programs in:
- Finance
- Economics
- Accounting
- Marketing
- Management
- Supply Chain Management
- Commercial Law
Doctoral students work with internationally recognized researchers and participate in global research collaborations.
➜ Most Famous Subjects:
Hanken is internationally famous for:
- Finance
- Economics
- Accounting
- Marketing
- International Business
- Supply Chain Management
- Management
- Business Analytics
- Corporate Governance
- Sustainable Business
- Entrepreneurship
- Commercial Law
➜ Admission Requirements:
➜ Bachelor's Admission:
Applicants generally require:
- Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) / A-Level / IB Diploma or equivalent
- Official Academic Transcripts
- English Language Proficiency
- Valid Passport
- Program-specific eligibility
Master's Admission:
Applicants generally require:
- Recognized Bachelor's Degree (minimum 180 ECTS or equivalent)
- Official Degree Certificate
- Academic Transcript
- Proof of English Proficiency
- Valid Passport
- CV (for selected programs)
- Motivation Letter (program dependent)
Applicants must have completed sufficient prior studies in Business Administration and/or Economics depending on the program.
➜ GPA Requirements:
Hanken does not publish a fixed minimum GPA for all programs.
Competitive applicants generally have:
| Degree | Recommended GPA |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's | 4.30+/5.00 |
| Master's | 3.30+/4.00 |
| Highly Competitive Programes | 3.60+/4.00 or above |
Admission is competitive and based on:
- Academic Performance
- Previous Business Studies
- GPA
- Supporting Documents
- Program Competition
➜ English Language Requirements:
Accepted English language qualifications include:
| Test | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| IELTS | Overall 6.5 |
| TOEFL | 92 |
| PTE | 62 |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced / C2 Proficiency | Accepted |
Applicants should always verify program-specific language requirements before applying.
➜ Tuition Fees:
International students from outside the EU/EEA and Switzerland are generally required to pay tuition fees for English-taught programs.
| Program | Annual Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's (English) | €12,000 |
| Master's (English) | €15,000 |
Doctoral (PhD) programs are generally tuition-free.
➜ Scholarships:
Hanken offers several funding opportunities for international students.
➜ Early Commitment Offer:
Students who accept their admission offer and pay the tuition fee by the specified deadline receive an Early Commitment discount on the tuition fee.
➜ GBSN Honor Scholarship:
Available for a limited number of eligible Master's applicants from specific GBSN member institutions.
Benefits include:
- 100% Tuition Fee Waiver
- Valid for the duration of the Master's degree (subject to scholarship conditions)
This scholarship is highly competitive and available only to eligible applicants.
➜ Hanken Honor Waiver:
Continuing students who achieve excellent academic performance may receive a 25% tuition fee waiver for subsequent academic years, subject to scholarship requirements.
➜ Bangladesh Students Eligibility:
Students from Bangladesh are eligible to apply.
Bachelor's Applicants:
Accepted qualifications include:
- HSC
- A-Level
- International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Other internationally recognized secondary qualifications
Master's Applicants:
Applicants require:
- Recognized Bachelor's Degree
- Good Academic Record
- English Language Proficiency
- Relevant Business or Economics Background
➜ Required Documents Checklist:
- Prepare the following documents:
- Valid Passport
- Academic Certificates
- Official Academic Transcripts
- Degree Certificate (Master's Applicants)
- IELTS / TOEFL / PTE Score Report
- Curriculum Vitae (if required)
- Motivation Letter
- Recommendation Letters (if required)
- Passport-size Photograph
- Completed Online Application Form
➜ Acceptance Rate:
Hanken School of Economics does not officially publish its acceptance rate.
Admission is particularly competitive for:
- Finance
- International Strategy and Sustainability
- Supply Chain Management
- Marketing
- Economics
Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission because places are limited and selection is merit-based.
➜ Application Process Step-by-Step
Step 1: Choose your preferred Bachelor's or Master's program.
Step 2: Review the program-specific admission requirements.
Step 3: Prepare all required documents.
Step 4: Submit your application through Studyinfo.fi during the official application period.
Step 5: Upload all required supporting documents before the deadline.
Step 6: Wait for the admission decision.
Step 7: Accept your study place.
Step 8: Pay the tuition fee (if applicable) and complete scholarship requirements.
Step 9: Apply for your Finnish student residence permit.
Step 10: Arrange accommodation and prepare to begin your studies in Finland.
➜ Application Deadlines:
| Stage | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|
| Main Application Opens | 7 January 2026 |
| Main Application Deadline | 21 January 2026 |
| Supporting Documents Deadline | 28 January 2026 |
| Admission Results | 8 April 2026 |
| Accept Study Place | 9 July 2026 |
| Studies Begin | August–September 2026 |
Hanken also offers a Rolling Admission for selected Master's programes with applications typically accepted until 15 April 2026, subject to programe availability.Living Cost in Helsinki & Vaasa
Hanken School of Economics has campuses in Helsinki and Vaasa, two of Finland's most popular student cities. Helsinki has a higher cost of living, while Vaasa is generally more affordable. Hanken recommends that international students plan their finances carefully before arriving in Finland.
➜ Estimated Monthly Living Expenses:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Student Accommodation | €350–€700 |
| Private Apartment | €700–€1,300 |
| Food & Groceries | €280–€380 |
| Public Transport | €35–€70 |
| Internet & Mobile | €20–€35 |
| Health Insurance | €25–€50 |
| Study Materials | €30–€80 |
| Personal Expenses | €150–€250 |
➜ Estimated Monthly Budget:
- Helsinki: €1,000–€1,500
- Vaasa: €850–€1,200
➜ Student Accommodation:
Hanken School of Economics does not own student dormitories, but students can apply for accommodation through official student housing organizations.
➜ HOAS Foundation for Student Housing in the Helsinki Region:
Accommodation Types
- Shared Apartments
- Studio Apartments
- Family Apartments
- Furnished Apartments
➜ VOAS Vaasa Student Housing Foundation:
Accommodation Types:
- Student Studios
- Shared Apartments
- Family Housing
Accommodation Facilities:
- High-Speed Internet
- Laundry Rooms
- Shared Sauna
- Bicycle Storage
- Common Study Rooms
- Student Community Spaces
➜ Average Monthly Rent:
| Accommodation | Monthly Rent |
|---|---|
| Shared Apartment | €350–€500 |
| Student Studio | €450–€700 |
| Private Apartment | €700–€1,300 |
Students should apply for accommodation immediately after accepting their admission offer, as housing is in high demand before the autumn semester.
➜ Finland Student Residence Permit:
Students from Bangladesh and other non-EU/EEA countries must obtain a Finnish Residence Permit for Studies before travelling to Finland.
Required Documents:
- Valid Passport
- Official Admission Letter
- Tuition Fee Payment Confirmation
- Proof of Financial Resources
- Valid Health Insurance
- Passport Photograph
- Residence Permit Application
➜ Financial Requirement:
Students normally need to demonstrate at least €9,600 per year (€800 per month) to cover living expenses, in accordance with Finnish immigration requirements.
➜ Health Insurance:
Health insurance is mandatory for international students applying for a Finnish residence permit.
Insurance should cover:
- Emergency Medical Treatment
- Hospital Care
- Doctor Consultations
- Prescription Medicines
- Accident Coverage
Degree students are also entitled to use the Finnish Student Health Service (FSHS/YTHS) after paying the required student healthcare fee.
➜ Part-Time Job Opportunities:
International students can work while studying under Finland's student residence permit regulations.
Popular student jobs include:
- Retail Sales Assistant
- Customer Service Representative
- Café & Restaurant Staff
- Office Assistant
- Research Assistant
- Teaching Assistant
- Data Analyst
- Marketing Assistant
- Finance Assistant
- Business Development Intern
- Software Developer
- Administrative Assistant
Students with Finnish or Swedish language skills generally have access to a wider range of job opportunities.
➜ Average Student Salary:
| Job Type | Average Hourly Wage |
|---|---|
| Restaurant & Café | €11–€15 |
| Retail | €12–€16 |
| Office Assistant | €13–€18 |
| Customer Service | €13–€18 |
| Marketing Intern | €15–€22 |
| Finance Intern | €18–€28 |
| Business Analyst | €20–€35 |
| IT & Software | €20–€35 |
➜ Career Opportunities:
Hanken has one of the strongest corporate networks among business schools in the Nordic region.
Top Recruiters:
- KPMG
- Deloitte
- EY
- PwC
- Accenture
- McKinsey & Company
- Boston Consulting Group (BCG)
- Bain & Company
- Nordea
- OP Financial Group
- Danske Bank
- Nokia
- Wärtsilä
- Microsoft
- Amazon
- IBM
- Coca-Cola
- Unilever
Graduates are employed across consulting, banking, investment, technology, FMCG, logistics, and entrepreneurship.
➜ Graduate Employability:
Hanken graduates enjoy excellent employment outcomes because of:
- Triple Crown Accreditation
- Strong Corporate Partnerships
- Internship Opportunities
- Career Development Services
- International Exchange Programs
- Global Alumni Network
- Practical Business Projects
- Case-Based Learning
Many graduates receive job offers before completing their degrees due to Hanken's close collaboration with employers.
➜ Post-Study Work Opportunities:
After graduation, eligible international students can apply for a Finnish residence permit to:
- Search for Employment
- Start a Business
- Convert to a Work-Based Residence Permit
- Continue Doctoral Studies
Finland provides excellent opportunities for graduates in finance, consulting, digital business, technology, and international management.
➜ Research Excellence:
Hanken School of Economics is internationally recognized for research in:
- Finance
- Economics
- Accounting
- Marketing
- International Business
- Supply Chain Management
- Corporate Governance
- Sustainable Business
- Entrepreneurship
- Consumer Behaviour
- Digital Business
- Business Analytics
Its research has a strong practical focus and is closely connected with industry and policymaking.
➜ Innovation & Entrepreneurship:
Hanken actively promotes innovation and entrepreneurship through:
- Startup Support
- Business Incubation
- Entrepreneurship Courses
- Innovation Projects
- Corporate Partnerships
- International Business Competitions
- Business Mentorship
Students gain practical experience by working on real business challenges with partner companies.
➜ International Exchange Programes:
Hanken has partnerships with 120+ universities around the world.
Students can participate in:
- Erasmus+
- Nordic Exchange
- Double Degree Programs
- International Summer Schools
- Semester Exchange
- Global Business Projects
- International Internships
These opportunities help students develop international business skills and global professional networks.
➜ Student Life:
Hanken offers a vibrant and multicultural student experience.
Students can participate in:
- Student Associations
- Business Competitions
- Networking Events
- Company Visits
- Leadership Workshops
- Sports Clubs
- Cultural Activities
- International Student Events
- Entrepreneurship Competitions
The university is well known for its strong sense of community and active student organizations.
➜ Campus Facilities:
Students have access to:
- Modern Business Library
- Bloomberg Financial Lab
- Computer Laboratories
- Innovation Hub
- Group Study Rooms
- Student Restaurants
- Career Centre
- International Office
- Student Wellness Services
- Modern Classrooms
➜ Student Organizations:
The Student Union of Hanken School of Economics (SHS) is one of Finland's oldest student unions.
Students can join organizations related to:
- Finance
- Marketing
- Entrepreneurship
- Consulting
- International Students
- Sustainability
- Sports
- Music
- Culture
- Volunteering
These organizations provide leadership opportunities, networking, and professional development.
➜ Notable Alumni:
Hanken has produced many influential leaders in business and public life, including:
- Bjorn Wahlroos – Finnish banker, economist, and former Chairman of Nordea and Sampo
- Harry "Hjallis" Harkimo – Entrepreneur, investor, and politician
- Mika Anttonen – Founder and Chairman of ST1
- Senior executives working at KPMG, Deloitte, EY, PwC, Nokia, Nordea, and multinational corporations worldwide
➜ Advantages:
- Triple Crown Accredited Business School
- One of Europe's Best Specialized Business Schools
- Excellent Finance & Economics Programes
- Strong Corporate Partnerships
- Outstanding Graduate Employability
- International Learning Environment
- Small Class Sizes
- Global Exchange Opportunities
- Strong Alumni Network
- High Graduate Salaries
➜ Final Thoughts:
Hanken School of Economics is one of the most prestigious business schools in Northern Europe and an excellent choice for students pursuing careers in Finance, Economics, Accounting, Marketing, International Business, Management, Supply Chain Management, and Entrepreneurship. With Triple Crown accreditation, internationally respected degrees, outstanding corporate partnerships, a strong global alumni network, and excellent graduate employability, Hanken offers a world-class business education and exceptional career opportunities in Finland, Europe, and around the world.
➜ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
➜ Is Hanken School of Economics a good university?
Yes. Hanken is one of Europe's leading specialized business schools and holds the prestigious Triple Crown accreditation.
➜ Is Hanken internationally recognized?
Yes. Its degrees are internationally respected, particularly in finance, economics, management, accounting, and marketing.
➜ Does Hanken offer scholarships?
Yes. Hanken offers the Early Commitment discount, the GBSN Honor Scholarship for eligible applicants, and the Hanken Honor Waiver for continuing students who meet academic requirements.
➜ What IELTS score is required?
Most English-taught programmes require an IELTS Academic overall score of 6.5 or an equivalent qualification.
➜ Can Bangladeshi students apply?
Yes. Students from Bangladesh are eligible to apply if they meet the academic and English language requirements.
➜ Can international students work while studying?
Yes. International students may work while studying according to Finnish residence permit regulations.
➜ Is Hanken good for Finance?
Absolutely. Hanken is considered one of the strongest universities in Finland and the Nordic region for Finance, Accounting, Economics, and International Business.