Finnish language study opportunities for students with intermediate or higher level of Finnish (B1+)

Do you know Finnish at least at intermediate level (level B1+ of the European Framework)? Is your first language other than Finnish, have you completed a basic or secondary level degree in Finland in Finnish, but need additional support, for example, in writing academic texts? Have you studied Finnish abroad, for example in a BA degree?

The University of Turku offers high-quality and inspiring Finnish language study opportunities to develop your language skills from level B1 onwards!

Language Proficiency Levels Basic User Level A1, YKI Level 1: Understands and uses familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases. Can introduce themselves and others, and can ask and answer questions about personal details. Can engage in simple conversations if the other person speaks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help. Level A2, YKI Level 2: Understands sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g., very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar topics. Independent User Level B1, YKI Level 3:Understands the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. Can produce simple connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest. Can describe experiences and events, dreams, hopes, and ambitions, and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans. Level B2, YKI Level 4: Understands the main ideas of complex texts on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. Proficient User Level C1, YKI Level 5: Understands a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognizes implicit meaning. Can express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. Uses language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes. Level C2, YKI Level 6: Understands with ease virtually everything heard or read. Can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. Can express themselves spontaneously, very fluently, and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.
YKI is an abbreviation for the Finnish words Yleinen kielitutkinto, which means General Language Examination. It is a standardized language proficiency test in Finland designed to assess and certify the language skills of adults in various languages, including Finnish and Swedish. B1 corresponds to level 3 in the YKI test. This level is often required when applying for certain jobs or citizenship in Finland.

You can test your Finnish language skills by taking a proficiency test on the Kielibuusti website. The Kielibuusti website also has more information about the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages and language proficiency levels, CEFR on Kielibuusti website.

In Finnish language and culture minor studies, you can practice oral interaction and writing academic texts, as well as get support in writing your thesis in Finnish.

In the Master's Program in Finnish and Other Finno-Ugric Languages (site in Finnish), you will deepen your theoretical and practical knowledge of the Finnish language. The target group for the Master's programme consists of non-native speakers who have completed a Bachelor's degree in Finnish or other Finno-Ugric languages, either abroad or in Finland. The primary language of instruction in the programme is Finnish.

University of Turku is also one of the higher education institutions in Finland that participates in SIMHE, Supporting Immigrants in Higher Education in Finland. While the study and career guidance of SIMHE at the University of Turku is suspended for the time being, you can contact another SIMHE-affiliated higher education institute. Please find more information on the National Board of Education's SIMHE site.

Also, check out the leisure-time Finnish learning opportunities offered by the University and the City of Turku found further down the page! Perhaps you want to practice Finnish at Language Circles or find a friend from Turku?

Finnish language study opportunities at the University of Turku for intermediate or higher level

Finnish language and culture studies (non-native-speakers), B1+

The Master's Program in Finnish and Other Finno-Ugric Languages (site in Finnish), B2

Free time opportunities for studying Finnish language at UTU and in the city of Turku

Language and Culture Tandem

In tandem studies, you will be paired with a native Finnish speaker. Read more about the Language and Culture Tandem in the study guide.

Language Circles

Language Circles provides an opportunity to get to know international students and staff at the University of Turku, as well as new languages and cultures. The introductory meetings for new language groups are always held at the beginning of the semesters in September and January. You can find more information on the Moodle page of Language Circles (login required).

Language Partner

Submit an informal application on the Language Partners Moodle page and find yourself a language partner for studying Finnish (or another language)!

The Friendship Programme of the city of Turku

The City of Turku has an International Friendship Programme through which you can meet a new local friend. New applications are accepted at the beginning of the semesters in December-January and August-September.

Supplementary studies after graduating at the University of Turku

After graduating, you can continue your Finnish (and other studies) at the University of Turku for two more years. Read more about supplementary studies after graduation here and apply after graduation!