Language requirements
Proficiency in English
Before you can be accepted onto an English-language degree programme, the higher education institutions need to ensure that your English language skills are up to the level demanded by higher education studies.
You will need to follow lectures, write exam answers and essays, take part in discussion groups and seminars, etc. Therefore, you may need to provide official proof of your English language proficiency.
- a valid TOEFL or IELTS test score is often required (some other official tests may also be accepted, like PTE - Pearson Test of English or Cambridge ESOL CPE/CAE) - see links in the right-hand margin.
- the minimum test score required may vary from one programme to another.
- some institutions may also offer alternative ways of checking their applicants’ language skills, e.g. in connection with the entrance examination.
If you have completed your previous education in English, you may –depending on your nationality- be exempt from the language test requirement. Citizens of EU/EEA countries may also fall under this category.
Note however that you need to have the required language proficiency level already at the time of applying. It is not possible to apply to Finnish higher education "first to brush up your language skills and then moving on to the actual degree studies". In other words, Finnish higher education institutions do not offer any language preparation year options.
If you do not know English well enough...
In case your English language skills are not quite up to the level as required, we recommend that you search for English prep course providers in your home country and brush up on your language skills that way, before applying to English-language programmes in Finland. For example, you could contact your nearest British Council office or TOEFL / IELTS examination centre and inquire if they offer any English prep course options suitable for your needs.
Where can take a TOEFL or IELTS test?
If you are currently living abroad, then it is recommended that you turn to the respective test centres in your home country. You can find the nearest test centres by visiting the TOEFL / IELTS home pages (see links on the right-hand margin)
If you already live in Finland and need to take a TOEFL or IELTS test
Those applicants who already are already residing in Finland can find information on the language test opportunities in Finland through the following organisations:
Are Finnish skills required?
You do not need to know any Finnish if you apply to degree programmes taught completely in English.
However, studying Finnish before and during your studies not only helps you to feel more at home in Finland, it can also be an asset if you wish to find employment either during or after your studies. Please see the ‘studying Finnish’ and ‘languages’ sections for information on Finnish language study opportunities.
Can I apply to degree programmes taught in Finnish or Swedish?
Yes you can, if you are reasonably fluent in either Finnish or Swedish. Again, please note that you need to be fluent in the language of instruction already at the time of applying. The Finnish higher education institutions do not offer any language preparation year options. See also: 'FAQ on languages'