Finnish as a Second Language (S2) basics - work-oriented Finnish

The spring semester training (20 credits) starts on 11.1.2027 and ends on 19.5.2027.

The training is aimed at immigrants, and it studies the basics of the Finnish language. The training is suitable for students who have no previous Finnish language skills or who only have little Finnish language skills.  

• Baseline 0-, Target Level A1.2- A1.3

The aim of the studies is to achieve a good foundation in the basics of the Finnish language and to strengthen the ability to function in Finnish everyday life, studies and working life. The programme teaches the basic structures, vocabulary and communication skills of the Finnish language. The studies emphasise the language skills needed in working life, job search skills, digital skills and knowledge of Finnish working life.

Classes are held on from Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. Fridays are a day of independent study. In addition, there are about 5 hours of independent language learning outside of lessons per week. During the studies, students receive personal guidance in matters related to further studies and working life.

The training uses materials provided by the teacher. Students do not need to purchase their own textbook.  

At the end of the studies, 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.

PAYMENTS ACADEMIC YEAR 2026-2027 

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 (5 instalments during the academic year = 375 € / spring semester)

PRICE 2: includes lessons and lunch on teaching days
Instalment 120 € / month (5 instalments during the academic year = 600 € / spring semester)

PRICE 3: includes lessons and accommodation with full board in a single room or a shared twin room.
Instalment 220 € / month (5 instalments during the academic year = 1100 € / spring semester)

Other students who do not belong to the previous groups

PRICE 1: includes lessons, lunch and afternoon coffee on teaching days
Instalment 215 € (5 instalments during the academic year = 1075 € / spring semester)

PRICE 2: includes lessons and accommodation with full board board in a single room or a shared twin room.
Instalment 345 € (5 instalments during the academic year = 1725 € / spring semester)

Study voucher grant

Opisto offers a study voucher grant that you can apply for to cover part of the course fees.

You are eligible to apply for the study voucher grant

• if you have a municipality of residence
• if you are not an asylum seeker
• if you do not have a valid integration plan

You can apply for the study voucher with a free-form application, which is addressed to the principal of Joutsenon Opisto and sent by email to: tarja.kahara(at)joutsenonopisto.fi. The applicant will be notified of the grant by email.

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).