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The role of the school among other authorities is to aid the parents in educational tasks. The schooling starts usually at the age of 7 and ordinarily lasts 9 years. School starts in autumn and finishes the spring. The summer holiday lasts for a duration of two and a half months. There is also a one-week break in autumn and again in spring. During the holidays all schools are closed.
On the grades from 1 until 6 the pupils have their own teacher who teaches most of the subjects. After this, until the 9th grade, different subjects are taught each by specialised teachers. Immigrant pupils who live in Finland, less than three years are entitled to remedial education. An effort is made to organise education for immigrants in their own language. Immigrant students who have lived in Finland less than three years are entitled to receive remedial instruction, which means a possibility of for example private lessons to help the student in possible problems.
Although compulsory education ends after comprehensive school, the majority of students continue their education for instance in a High School or a Vocational School. High School provides all-round education while Vocational Schools provide the knowledge and skills required for a certain profession. Vocational College and High School can also be attended at the same time in Vocational High School.
After completing the studies at either a High School or
Vocational School the student can continue the education at a
University or a
Polytechnic School by applying and passing an entrance examination. It is good to know that a young person who is between the ages 18 and 24 and without work or a vocational education is required to apply to at least three study places by law.
The joint application system is a nation-wide application
process, which takes place during spring and again in autumn. By filling an application the students can apply to either High Schools and Vocational Schools (further education) or Polytechnic Schools (higher education).
Apply now.
It is possible to receive money for the education after the basic school if the education is full-time and will last continuously for at least eight weeks. This study allowance consists of monthly education money, housing allowance and a study loan guaranteed by the State. Applications forms for this study grant can be obtained at the
Social Insurance Institution of Finland (KELA). The study grant or loan should be repaid once the individual receives a regular income. Usually the repayment starts two years after graduating. The monthly education money and housing allowance do not need to be paid back.
It is also possible to study in various
institutes, the Open University and the Open Polytechnic Schools. These schools usually require some fee for their education. Many attend these schools when they have not passed the entrance examinations and have to wait for a year to apply
again.
Opintoluotsi
Guide for International Exchange Students |
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