Finnish as a Foreign Language

There is a wide variety of Finnish as a Foreign Language courses on offer, ranging from beginners’ courses to higher level courses. There are no entrance exams. Simply assess your own level of language skill (for example, using the European Language Level Self-Assessment Grid). Not all courses are organized each term: please check Peppi for availability first, then register for the courses of your choice through Peppi.

Finnish as a Foreign Language courses during the academic year 2024–2025

Contact

Maija Paatero

University teacher
Tel +358 (0)40 484 4449
Paatero´s office hours
Paatero´s research profile >

Hannu Paloniemi

University lecturer
Tel +358 (0)40 484 4447
Paloniemi's office hours
Paloniemi´s research profile >

Basic Courses

Finnish courses 1–4

The four basic courses Finnish 1–4 are designed to take a complete beginner to good basic language skills within one academic year. Each course builds on the former one. If you already have some language skills, you may simply register for the course you feel is most useful to you.

Read more about the basic courses >

Finnish Culture

The course Finnish Culture is for you who want to acquire a basic understanding of the special features of Finnish culture and history. This lecture series in English is arranged every autumn term. You can take this course at any point of your studies, even if you don’t study Finnish at all.

Finnish as a Minor Subject (25 ECTS)

The study module Finnish: Language Use and Culture is aimed at foreign students who have completed basic studies in Finnish or possess the corresponding skills. You may complete the whole 25-credit module in 1.5 years. You may also take some individual courses, if you just want to develop your skills in grammar, text comprehension, writing or oral presentation and conversation. Notice that all courses are not arranged every academic year.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I register for my courses?

If you are an exchange student, you can register upon arrival at the University of Lapland. It is not possible to register at your home university. Registration will be possible during the time indicated for each course on Peppi.

I am not a student of the University of Lapland. Can I participate in courses?

Yes. But you need to apply through the Open University. There will be a course fee.

You can study Finnish for Foreigners 1-4 (evening courses) at the Open university. You can also apply for the Finnish: Language Use and Culture courses (Suomi: Kielen käyttö ja kulttuuri) by filling in the Non-degree studies application form. You can be accepted for the course if there is room in the group.

How do I get a hold of my teacher?

Send them an email: any teacher has an email address using their firstname.lastname@ulapland.fi address. You may also see them, or call them, during their office hours.

How do I know which course to take?

Read the individual course descriptions on Peppi. If you are still uncertain, please contact the teacher.

How do I know if my language skills are good enough to participate in a certain course?

You can use the European Language Level Self-Assessment Grid to assess your level of skill. The level of each course is indicated in the course description on Peppi. If you are still not certain, please contact the teacher.

The course I would like to take appears to be full. Can I still fit in?

Teachers reserve a few seats on each course for non-regular students. Please send the teacher an email and find out, if you still fit in.

Do I have to attend class?

As a rule, courses arranged by the Language Centre require 80% attendance. Online courses, and self-study courses are clearly marked as such on Peppi.

Useful Links for Students of Finnish