Language certificates
National Certificates of Language Proficiency (YKI)
The National Certificates of Language Proficiency (YKI) are language tests intended for adults. The tests assess general language proficiency in practical situations.
After taking the test, you will receive a certificate that officially proves your proficiency of different languages. YKI certificates allow you to apply to educational institutions or for employment and help you prove your language proficiency to your employer. You can also apply for Finnish citizenship with the YKI certificates (Finnish and Swedish tests).
For more information, instructions and tips on the National Certificate of Language Proficiency, visit the InfoFinland website. The site is available in multiple languages.
National Certificates of Language Proficiency (YKI) | InfoFinland
The YKI tests are organised by the Finnish National Agency for Education. Registration, test dates and instructions are available on the website of the Finnish National Agency for Education. The website is available in Finnish, Swedish and English.
National Certificates of Language Proficiency (YKI) | Finnish National Agency for Education
Several educational institutions organise shorter or longer preparatory courses for the YKI test. You can search for suitable preparatory courses in the Course location search.
You can also use the following websites to learn more about the YKI test and practise for it.
University of Jyväskylä practice site
- all levels and topics
- instructions for participants, test days and places
Yle Oppiminen
- language of instruction: Finnish
- all levels and topics
- instructions for participants, test days and places
- the website also includes practice for the Swedish YKI test
Kotisuomessa.fi
- three levels, test materials and many sub-areas
- broader range range than the YKI exam
- you can start from the alphabet
Civil Service Language Proficiency Certificates (VKT)
The Civil Service Language Proficiency Certificate system is intended for public administration staff to demonstrate their proficiency of Finnish or Swedish, the official languages in Finland. These certificates can be used to officially demonstrate Finnish or Swedish proficiency to an employer, and they can also be used to apply for Finnish citizenship.
For more information, instructions and tips on the Civil Service Language Proficiency Certificates, visit the InfoFinland website. The site is available in multiple languages.
Civil Service Language Proficiency Certificates (VKT) | InfoFinland
The Civil Service Language Proficiency Certificates are organised by the Finnish National Agency for Education. Registration, test dates and instructions are available on the website of the Finnish National Agency for Education. The website is available in Finnish, Swedish and English.