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I thought maybe you would be interested in learning about how kids start their schooling in Finland

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How Kids Start Their School Life in Finland?

Kids in Finland typically start kindergarten or home nursing as early as the age of three. The final stage of kindergarten, known as esikoulu or pre-school, is undertaken when children reach six years old. Esikoulu focuses on imparting fundamental skills in mathematics and writing.

At the age of 7, children transition to peruskoulu, or primary school. Primary education spans years 1-6 (alakoulu) and 7-9 (yläkoulu), and it is both mandatory and free. Following primary school, students decide between lukio (high school or gymnasium) and ammattiopisto (vocational school or technical college). 

Lukio provides a general education in natural and humanistic sciences and languages, whereas ammattiopisto equips students with a specific profession, such as designing, building, or mechanics, along with practical experience in their chosen field. Both paths last 3-4 years and are tuition-free but not compulsory. The application process for these schools is conducted online.

Secondary Education

Those who opt for secondary education can subsequently apply to universities/colleges (yliopisto) and polytechnic universities/colleges (ammattikorkeakoulu). This involves an online application and often requires participation in entrance exams. Admission depends on performance in the entrance exam and matriculation examination (ylioppilaskirjoitukset) scores, which are similar to international baccalaureate scores.

University-level education is free for Finns and citizens of EU and EEA countries. Individuals outside these regions must pay a minimum of 1500€ per year, a regulation that is relatively recent. Students receive a subsidy of up to 500€ per month for accommodation and food. There is also a possibility to apply to study loan, that can be up to 660 euros a month.