Studies after basic education

After ninth grade, all pupils must apply for a place in upper secondary education. Options include general upper secondary school, vocational school and preparatory education for upper secondary qualification (TUVA).

In Finland, the mandatory school leaving age is 18. This means that after completing comprehensive school, all young people under the age of 18 must continue their studies in upper secondary level. 

The compulsory education may end earlier if the student completes general upper secondary school or a vocational qualification. The aim is to ensure that all young people complete an upper secondary qualification.  

Students of compulsory school can have their first upper secondary qualification free of charge. Education is free of charge until the end of the year in which the student turns 20.

If a student of compulsory education age does not find a study place or drops out, the obligation to enrol continues.

A joint application is held for upper secondary education each spring

Ninth-graders apply for upper secondary education or preparatory education for upper secondary qualification (TUVA) through the joint application system. The applications are submitted on the studyinfo website(Link leads to external service).

The guidance counsellors and teachers at the students’ schools will guide them through the application process.   

Young people not currently enrolled in a school or educational institution can receive instructions and assistance from Ohjaamo to select their study place.

More information about compulsory education

If you want to learn more about compulsory education, such as what free education includes, read more on the website of the Ministry of Education and Culture: Questions and answers related to compulsory education(Link leads to external service).