Guides

What vaccinations are recommended or required in Finland?

Finland has a national vaccination programme. Children receive vaccinations free of charge covering DTaP, MMR, polio, Hib, rotavirus, pneumococcal, HPV, and others through neuvola and school health services.

The Finnish Education System: A Guide for Immigrant Families

Finnish education is world-renowned and completely free. Here is how the system works from daycare to upper secondary, and what your children are entitled to.

How does the Finnish school system work?

Finnish comprehensive school (peruskoulu) is free and compulsory for ages 7-16, covering grades 1-9.

What is the neuvola and do I have to go?

Neuvola is the Finnish child health clinic system. It is free and provides regular check-ups, vaccinations, developmental assessments, and parenting support for children from pregnancy to school age.

Is preschool (esiopetus) compulsory in Finland?

Yes, since 2015 preschool (esiopetus) is compulsory for all 6-year-olds in Finland. It is free and runs for one year before primary school starts at age 7.

Can my child attend a Finnish school if we are not permanent residents?

Yes. All children living in Finland have the right to basic education (perusopetus) regardless of their or their parents' residence permit status.

What student benefits am I entitled to in Finland?

Full-time students at Finnish universities or vocational schools are entitled to student financial aid (opintotuki) from Kela, which includes a study grant (opintorahaa) and housing supplement.