General Language Studies (YKI)

National Certificate of Language Proficiency tests are language proficiency examinations for adults. The tests measure language competence in practical situations where an adult has to speak, listen, write or read a foreign language – either in Finland or abroad. At the Turku Vocational Institute, the test can be taken in the following languages: Finnish, English and Swedish (basic, middle and highest levels).

Anyone can take part in National Certificate of Language Proficiency tests. Finnish language tests are intended for immigrants or foreigners. A certificate of an intermediate level test in Finnish is required for a citizenship application. Some institutions may also request a certificate.

As the test assignments and instructions are usually in Finnish or Swedish, completing the qualification requires Finnish or Swedish skills. The tasks and instructions of the intermediate and top level degrees in English are in English and the language of the tests is English.

Demonstration of language proficiency when applying for Finnish citizenship

A precondition for obtaining Finnish citizenship is at least satisfactory oral and written Finnish or Swedish skills. Provisions on the language skills required for granting Finnish citizenship are laid down in the Citizenship Act (359/2003). More information on the requirements can be found on the website of the Finnish Immigration Service.

Price

The maximum prices for degree fees are determined by the Ministry of Education. The prices of qualifications are EUR 135 (baseline), EUR 155 (medium) and EUR 195 (highest). Only one certificate is included in the price of the degree. Copies of certificates can be ordered from yki-info@jyu.fi The price is EUR 15. You will receive an official certificate approximately two months after the date of the examination. Enquiries about certificates: tel. 014 260 3531 or yki-info@jyu.fi.

Registration

You can only register for tests organised by the Turku Vocational Institute using an electronic form. You can find the links at the bottom of the page.

Candidates in need of special arrangements

Candidates may apply for special arrangements if they have, for example, hearing or vision difficulties or dyslexia.
When registering, the person must present a statement on the matter, such as a medical certificate.
Special arrangements can only be applied for in connection with enrolment, not after enrolment or completion of the qualification.
For more information, see the website of the Finnish National Agency for Education.

Note

Taking part in the examination required knowledge of Finnish or Swedish (with the exception of English intermediate and advanced level tests). You have been able to read, write and speak Finnish to take a test in Finnish or Swedish to take a test in Swedish.