Education for immigrants 

As an immigrant, you can study the same vocational courses and qualifications as Finnish citizens. Prior to the vocational education, you have the opportunity to participate in Finnish language training or preparatory training for vocational education (TUVA). The purpose of the Finnish language training is to bring your Finnish language skills to a sufficient level so you can manage in working life or apply to further education.  

STEP Education offers Finnish language training on several campuses in different parts of Finland.  Below you will find more information about the education available for immigrants on different campuses. 

Finnish language training for immigrants

The aim of the training is to promote successful integration of immigrants into the Finnish society. The training includes studies on the Finnish language and culture as well as skills needed in working life and society. The training provides immigrants with capabilities to continue either to working life or to suitable further education. The training also includes a literacy group for students who need to reinforce their knowledge of the Latin alphabet.

Finnish language training for immigrants is offered on the Järvenpää, Pieksämäki and Lapua campuses. 

Basic education for adults

As an immigrant, you can also participate in the basic education for adults in case you are over 17 years of age and have not obtained sufficient basic education in your home country. If you cannot read or write, you can participate in the basic education for adults in the literacy group. 

 During basic education for adults, you can study the entire syllabus of basic education or a part of it. Additionally, you can complete your basic education or improve the grades in your basic education certificate.   

Basic education for adults is offered on the Järvenpää and Ruokolahti campuses. 

Preparatory training for vocational education (TUVA)

The training is suitable for immigrants who wish to improve their Finnish language skills and who plan to apply to vocational education or general upper secondary school education in Finland. Sufficient skills in Finnish are required for this training. 

Preparatory training for vocational education is offered on the Järvenpää and Pieksämäki campuses. 

Practical nurse education for immigrants 

As a practical nurse, you will be working with people of different ages and characteristics. You will learn to support their growth and development and help them with their rehabilitation. A practical nurse can work in, for example, day-care centres, nursing homes for the elderly or group homes for the disabled. The education is suitable for you if Finnish is not your native language and you still need support with your Finnish language skills. You are, however, required to have adequate Finnish language skills. 

Practical nurse education for immigrants is offered on the Järvenpää and Pieksämäki campus. 

Read more about Finnish VET in a nutshell.