Finnish  as a Second language (S2) 

The training for academic year 2026–2027 will begin on 24 August 2026 and end on 19 May 2027.

The training follows, where applicable, the principles of the curriculum for integration training, adjusted to fit the duration of the course. The full-year training scope is 45 credits (35 weeks).

Students may begin their studies at a level appropriate to their language skills. At the beginning of the term, students are placed into groups based on their language proficiency (beginner group, intermediate groups). Starting levels of study groups: below A1 and A1.3; learning objective: B1.2. Language proficiency will be assessed in a test session held in August before the training begins.

During the academic year, students will study Finnish language and communication skills, as well as working life and civic skills. Studies also include information and communication technology, knowledge of Finnish culture, environmental awareness, study visits, and study guidance. As their language skills improve, students will have the opportunity to complete a practical training period in a workplace, volunteer work, a study circle, or in an organisation.

Classes are held on weekdays from 9:00 to 14:00. At the beginning of the studies, all lessons take place on-site at the institute. In addition to classroom instruction, students are expected to complete approximately 10 hours of independent language study per week. The training uses materials provided by the teacher. Students do not need to purchase their own textbook.

At the end of the academic year, the student’s language proficiency will be assessed according to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), and a certificate of completion will be issued.

Courses that started in autumn 2025 will end on 20 May 2026.

There are available places in the courses, and new students may still be accepted during the spring. A student may be admitted to the training if their language proficiency is sufficient:

• Beginner group: language level A1.1
• Upper beginner group: language level at least A1.3
• Advanced intermediate group: language level at least A2

For more information, please contact the institute office p. 045 844 2993.
The study start date will be agreed upon with the student.

PAYMENTS ACADEMIC YEAR 2026-2027 / 2025-2026

A student who
- has a valid integration plan OR
- has an employment plan for which the education has been approved in the employment area OR
- the student is a client of the reception centre

PRICE 1: includes lessons
Instalment 75 € / month (9 instalments during the academic year = 675 € / academic year)

PRICE 2: includes lessons and lunch on teaching days
Instalment 120 € / month (9 instalments during the academic year = 1080 € / academic year)

PRICE 3: includes lessons and accommodation with full board in a single room or a shared twin room.
Instalment 220 € / month (9 instalments during the academic year = 1980 € / academic year)

Other students who do not belong to the previous groups

PRICE 1: includes lessons, lunch and afternoon coffee on teaching days
Instalment 215 € (9 instalments during the academic year = 1935 € / school year)

PRICE 2: includes lessons and accommodation with full board board in a single room or a shared twin room.
Instalment 345 € (9 instalments during the academic year = 3105 € / academic year)

Financial aid

A student who is not a Finnish citizen is not eligible for financial aid from Finnish government. However, financial aid can be granted in some cases, if certain terms are met. The college does not editorialise about student financial aid granted by the government. For more information on student financial aid for  foreigners, see Kela's website.

Permits

Because the studies at Joutseno College are non-degree education, students coming from abroad cannot get a student visa or residence permit to Finland on the basis of these studies. Students from outside the EU are not accepted to the education (except students who already are clients of the reception centre as asylum seeker or a temporary protection beneficiary).