Finnish as a second language courses

Description of the training

In the Finnish as a second language courses, you can study Finnish on different levels:

• Beginner (A1),
• Elementary (A2), and
• Intermediate (B1−B2).  

Intensive courses are taught 12 hours a week in daytime. Part-time courses are taught 2–8 hours a week, and they are usually held in the evening.

You can also take part in preparatory courses for the national certificate of language proficiency (YKI) or stay-at-home parent courses, which children can also attend. 

Courses are available both as contact teaching and online. The courses are subject to a charge.

Who is Finnish as a second language for?

Finnish as a second language courses are for anyone who wants to learn Finnish. You must be able to read and write in the Latin alphabet in order to attend courses.

Content of the training

In the Finnish as a second language courses, you will study Finnish in a variety of ways. In the courses, you practise

• speaking
• writing
• reading and
• listening comprehension. 

You can also take special courses, such as courses on speaking and writing Finnish and Finnish in working life.

If you find it difficult to study Finnish and need more time to study, come to a slowly progressing group. Slowly progressing groups have more hours and the pace is unhurried. However, if you want to study and progress quickly, you can choose a fast-track course. 

Intensive courses also include the final testing of language skills, and you will receive a certificate for the course.

Enrol for the training

Enrol on courses in Ilmonet (ilmonet.fi) or by telephoning +358 20 692 444 (Mon–Thu 12:30–15:30). 

The courses are subject to a charge. If you are unemployed, you can receive a 50% discount on the course price. Further information on the discount can be obtained from the adult education centre customer service.