Open university: Finnish for foreigners

Open University studies from the Bachelor’s Programme in the Languages and Literatures of Finland. You can study individual courses.

At the Open University, you can study Beginner and Intermediate Level Courses (A1.1 – B2.1).
Courses are taught in Finnish.

 

Persons who have fled to Finland due to war in Ukraine and who who are receiving temporary protection can register for Open University studies at the University of Helsinki free of charge in 2026 and academic year 2026-2027.
Check here for more information:

Finnish for foreigners courses

There is a separate enrollment for each course. You can find more detailed information on the course page.
Courses are filled in order of enrollment.



Which course is ap­pro­pri­ate for your needs?
You can assess which course to take with the .
 

The following courses will be offered in summer 2026:
SUO-111 Finnish 1A (3  cr) (May)
SUO-112 Finnish 1B (2 cr) (July)
SUO-121 Finnish 2A (3 cr) (May)
SUO-140 Finnish 4 (5 cr) (May)

Studies for the academic year 2026-2027:
The course selection for the upcoming academic year will be published on this page at the beginning of August.
You can explore the full range of available studies here:
Courses will be available for preview starting in early July.

Courses for the 2025–2026 academic year and for summer 2026

When choosing a suitable course, take a look at the course page where you will find information on the prerequisities and starting skill level.

Students who already have an advanced level of language proficiency (at least Level B2.1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) can enhance their written or spoken skills in the Finnish language by participating in courses offered in the (Suomen kieli ja kulttuuri) study track.

Courses for the 2026–2027 academic year

The course selection for the upcoming academic year will be published on this page at the beginning of August.
You can explore the full range of available studies here:
Courses will be available for preview starting in early July.

There will be changes to course codes and course titles.
 

Instructions and guidance for your studies

You can find important information regarding your studies on the Instructions for Students website.

For new students: Familiarize yourself with the student checklist, where you can find a collection of practical information and instructions.

In case you cannot find an answer to your question, please get in touch!

Become a degree student

Get familiar with the University of Helsinki degree programmes and application process.