Language tests: YKI and VKT
National Certificates of Language Proficiency (YKI)
The National Certificates of Language Proficiency (YKI) are language tests intended for adults. The tests assess general language proficiency in practical situations.
After taking the test, you will receive a certificate that officially proves your proficiency of different languages. YKI certificates allow you to apply to educational institutions or for employment and help you prove your language proficiency to your employer. You can also apply for Finnish citizenship with the YKI certificates (Finnish and Swedish tests).
For more information, instructions and tips on the National Certificate of Language Proficiency, visit the InfoFinland website. The site is available in multiple languages.
National Certificates of Language Proficiency (YKI) | InfoFinland
The YKI tests are organised by the Finnish National Agency for Education. Registration, test dates and instructions are available on the website of the Finnish National Agency for Education. The website is available in Finnish, Swedish and English.
National Certificates of Language Proficiency (YKI) | Finnish National Agency for Education
Several educational institutions organise shorter or longer preparatory courses for the YKI test. You can search for suitable preparatory courses in the Course location search.
You can also use the following websites to learn more about the YKI test and practise for it.
University of Jyväskylä practice site
- all levels and topics
- instructions for participants, test days and places
Yle practice site
- all levels and topics
- instructions for participants, test days and places
- the website also includes practice for the Swedish YKI test
Yle B1 level practice site
- B1-tasolle eli YKIn keskitason testiin harjoituksia
- Tekstin ja puheen ymmärtämisen tehtäviä yhdeksästä aiheesta
Osaamisen paikka
- intermediate (B) and advanced (C) exercises,
- instructions for participants, test days and places
- a summary of sites with YKI exercises
Helsingin aikuisopisto practice site
- vocabulary and grammar exercises
- on this website you can test whether your language skills are sufficient for the YKI test
Practise with videos
- video links
- tips for the YKI test
- speaking and writing exercises
A guidebook for passing the YKI test
- an e-book in English: A Step-By-Step Guide To Passing The YKI Test
- fee-based
Civil Service Language Proficiency Certificates (VKT)
The Civil Service Language Proficiency Certificate system is intended for public administration staff to demonstrate their proficiency of Finnish or Swedish, the official languages in Finland. These certificates can be used to officially demonstrate Finnish or Swedish proficiency to an employer, and they can also be used to apply for Finnish citizenship.
For more information, instructions and tips on the Civil Service Language Proficiency Certificates, visit the InfoFinland website. The site is available in multiple languages.
Civil Service Language Proficiency Certificates (VKT) | InfoFinland
The Civil Service Language Proficiency Certificates are organised by the Finnish National Agency for Education. Registration, test dates and instructions are available on the website of the Finnish National Agency for Education. The website is available in Finnish, Swedish and English.
Check also these
Language skill levels A1–C2
European language proficiency scale CERF
Language proficiency requirements for different professions
List of regulated professions and qualification and language proficiency requirements.
Find online learning materials
Explore self study websites and apps for independent study of Finnish.
