Finnish language studies
To support integration, there are a variety of opportunities to learn Finnish and strengthen skills for working life. You can find information on integration training, language courses, language clubs organised by volunteers and general language exams. There are options for both formal studies and more relaxed learning in groups – you can choose the right way to progress towards a smoother everyday life and working life in Finland.
Integration training
If you are unemployed, you can apply for Finnish language and vocational training in various fields through South-Kymenlaakso’s employment services. Go to the nearest service point and register. They will assess whether you can start integration training and learn new skills in Finland.
Language courses
Kotka and Kymenlaakso colleges offer language courses at many levels – from beginners to advanced. You can easily find a course and a time that suits you on their websites.
Language clubs
Volunteers teach the basics of the language in the finnish language groups called Meijän koulu. The groups are open to everyone. You can join them before or after the official courses. The groups meet in different locations in Kotka.
The language café for immigrants is an open and free place to meet other people. The café is a place to speak Finnish and discuss everyday issues.
The multicultural activity centre Mylly has a Finnish language club. The club is a place where people can talk freely. The topics are different things related to everyday life and living.
The Hamina branch of the Finnish Red Cross organizes weekly a language club and also runs a “Juttutupa” (chat place), where immigrants and volunteers meet at Kumppanuustalo Hilma.
At the meeting café organized by the Virolahti–Miehikkälä branch of the Red Cross, it is possible to study Finnish in a relaxed way through conversation. Everyone is welcome to the meeting café. The Virojoki café is open on Saturdays of even-numbered weeks from 1 pm to 3 pm at Nuorisotila Pleissi.
Activities are often on a break during the summer. We recommend that you check the organizers for more detailed information.
General language qualification
At South-Kymenlaakso vocational college Ekami, you can take the basic, intermediate and advanced level tests of the General certificate of language proficiency in Finnish. Kotka college also organises general language examinations throughout Finland on agreed examination days in the autumn and spring semesters.
Self-directed learning
Do you want to practice Finnish independently? Here are some tips on how you can learn the language on your own online.