5 Key Takeaways
- Finland will offer upper secondary education in English starting August 2026 under a new law.
- The move aims to attract skilled foreign workers and make relocation easier for families with children.
- Schools can provide a full Finnish curriculum in English, expanding options for internationally mobile families.
- Matriculation exams will be available in English from autumn 2028, in addition to Finnish and Swedish.
- The new English-language track is separate from the IB programme and aligns with Finland’s national academic standards.
Finland Opens Doors for Indian Students: English-Medium Schooling Coming Soon!
Are you an Indian family thinking about moving abroad for work or study? Here’s some exciting news from Finland that could make your decision a lot easier!
Starting in August 2026, Finland will allow students to complete their upper secondary education (equivalent to classes 11 and 12 in India) entirely in English. This is a big change, thanks to a new law passed in December 2024, which aims to make Finland more attractive to skilled professionals from around the world—especially those with school-going children.
Why is Finland Making This Change?
Finland, known for its high-quality education system, is facing a shortage of skilled workers. To tackle this, the country wants to welcome more international talent. One major challenge for families moving to Finland has been the language barrier, since most schools teach in Finnish or Swedish (the country’s official languages). With this new law, families who don’t speak Finnish or Swedish can now choose an English-language pathway for their children, making the transition much smoother.
What Does This Mean for Students?
From August 2026, schools in Finland can offer the full Finnish curriculum in English. This means students will study all the regular subjects—maths, science, history, and more—just like their Finnish peers, but in English. Schools need to get approval for their English-language programs, but once that’s done, international families will have more options than ever before.
Matriculation Exams in English
Currently, the final exams at the end of upper secondary school (called matriculation exams) are only available in Finnish and Swedish. But starting in autumn 2028, students will also be able to take these important exams in English. This is especially helpful for those who aren’t fluent in the local languages but still want to earn a Finnish school-leaving certificate.
How Is This Different from IB Schools?
Some Finnish schools already offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, which is popular worldwide. However, the new English-medium track will follow Finland’s own national curriculum, not the IB’s global curriculum. This means students will be fully integrated into the Finnish education system and have access to all the same opportunities as local students.
A Great Opportunity for Indian Families
If you’re considering a move to Finland for work or study, this new policy could make life much easier for your children. They’ll be able to study in English, follow a respected curriculum, and take exams in a language they’re comfortable with. Finland’s welcoming approach is a win-win for skilled professionals and their families!
So, if you’re dreaming of a new life in Europe, keep an eye on Finland—it might just be the perfect destination for your family’s future!
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