Extended compulsory education

After completing basic education, those subject to compulsory education must apply for further studies and complete an upper secondary qualification, or continue studying until they turn 18 or obtain an upper secondary degree.

Compulsory education was extended in 2021, with the aim of ensuring that every young person receives sufficient education, skills, and readiness for further studies, working life, and active participation in society.

Free of charge

The extension of compulsory education made upper secondary studies free of charge for young people who have been subject to compulsory education on or after 1 January 2021.

Aiming to secure basic skills for young people

Skill requirements in working life are constantly increasing. The aim of the Compulsory Education Act is to secure the basic skills and education necessary for everyone in life and society.

The legislative reform seeks to promote equal opportunities for students to access education and to develop according to their own abilities and needs. This is of great significance for the well-being and employment prospects of young people.

Responsibility for guidance and supervision

Young people have an obligation to apply for education following basic education and transitional education (Section 10 of the Compulsory Education Act). This obligation also applies to young people who do not have a study place, for example, due to their studies being interrupted.

Further information and contact details

During basic education, further information is provided by the study counsellors at the pupil’s own lower secondary school, and during upper secondary studies, by the student’s own upper secondary institution.

If a young person does not have a study place, further information regarding supervisory responsibility is provided by study counsellor Maarit Mäntynen.