English Medium Schools in Finland: Fees and Admission Procedures

Finland, known for its high-quality education system, offers a range of English-medium schools for those seeking international education. However, the availability and fee structures can differ between cities and schools. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the fees and admission procedures for English medium schools in Finland.

Overview of English Education in Finland

Finland's education system is renowned for its quality and focus on the well-being of students. The country offers a variety of English-medium schools, catering to students from different backgrounds and needs.

English Education in Tampere

Funtasian International School of Tampere (FISTA): This school is integrated into the local Finnish-language education system. It does not require fees and admission is based on the student's existing English language proficiency or a need for English education. The school welcomes students who have shown consistent success in English language learning or who are in need of additional English support.

Pori: Pori also follows a similar model to that of Tampere, offering English-medium education without fees. Admission criteria are based on English language proficiency and the need for English education.

English Education in Turku

Turku, like Pori, offers English-medium education but it is not entirely integrated into the Finnish Government curriculum. The admission process for these schools is also based on English language proficiency and the need for additional English education.

English Education in Helsinki

Helsinki: Helsinki offers a municipal free option where English-medium education is integrated into the school's programme, alongside a higher percentage of Finnish language instruction. This option provides up to 80% English and 20% Finnish content. For students seeking a more comprehensive English education, the English School Helsinki offers a private bilingual programme for approximately 900€ per year.

In addition to the municipal free option, the English School Helsinki also provides a full-English tuition option. This programme follows an American curriculum and is designed for students requiring a fully English education experience. Middle-school tuition for this option is approximately 15,000€ per year.

Espoo: Espoo has similar offerings to Helsinki, providing a mix of free and private English-medium school options. The fee structure and admission criteria are similar to those in Helsinki.

Summary of Availability

The table below provides a summary of the available English medium schools in the major cities of Finland:

City Free Option Private Bilingual Full-English Private Middle School Fee (€) Tampere FISTA School N/A N/A N/A Pori English-medium school N/A N/A N/A Turku N/A N/A Unknown N/A Helsinki Municipal free option (80% English, 20% Finnish) English School Helsinki (approx. 900€/year) International School Helsinki (approx. 15,000€/year) Approx. 15,000€/year Espoo Municipal free option (80% English, 20% Finnish) Similar to Helsinki English School (approx. 900€/year) Similar to Helsinki International School (approx. 15,000€/year) Approx. 15,000€/year

Conclusion

Finland offers a diverse range of English medium schools catering to different educational needs and budgets. Whether through municipal free options or private programmes, families have various choices to consider. Familiarizing oneself with the admission procedures and fee structures can help in making an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Are there any fees for attending English medium schools in Tampere?

A1: No, Futasian International School of Tampere is integrated into the local Finnish education system and does not require fees. Admission is based on English language proficiency and the need for English education.

Q2: What is the fee for attending private English schools in Helsinki?

A2: Private English schools in Helsinki, such as the English School Helsinki or International School Helsinki, charge approximately 900€ per year for the bilingual programme and 15,000€ per year for the full-English programme.

Q3: Is there any financial aid available for English medium schools in Helsinki?

A3: While there is no specific information on financial aid for English medium schools in Helsinki, some schools might offer scholarships or financial assistance. It is advisable to inquire directly with the schools for any available options.