Frequently asked questions
Why choose Ihana suomi?
It is true that they are cheaper. They are also based on mass teaching, where many different proficiency levels have to be taken into account in a large group, which does not necessarily guarantee you the most effective way to learn. You also have no control over the schedules and may not be able to attend lessons remotely – which takes up valuable time.
Language learning is based on collaboration. It’s like working with a personal trainer: my job is to explain the logic, grammar and vocabulary of the language to you, but I can’t do the learning for you. Results come from practice!
Choosing the right course
This language training is tailored according to the student’s starting level. There is no rigid compartmentalisation, the teaching starts at the level that is best for the client.
At the beginning, we will discuss your language skills to determine your proficiency level and build a more detailed study plan based on the assessment.
Private lessons are always more expensive than mass teaching. However, they are also more efficient. Private lessons allow you to work at a pace that suits you. They also save you time and effort, as we can make lessons work around your schedule.
Yes, I also offer Finnish lessons for groups. Please contact me for details to tailor the lessons to your needs.
Study materials and course platform
The textbooks used in the courses are Suomen mestari 1 and 2. Other material will be provided by the teacher.
There are no exams like in school. I will regularly assess your progress by listening and picking up things from assignments and discussions and give you feedback based on them.
Either Suomen mestari 1 or 2, depending on your proficiency level. The price of the book is between EUR 45 and EUR 60 in most bookshops.
The lessons are held on Google Meet and the materials are available on Google Classroom. Both platforms are user-friendly and easily accessible to everyone.
Time and effort
I usually give 2–3 assignments from the Suomen mestari textbook or a writing exercise as homework. It is better to study a little regularly rather than a lot at once. The lessons focus on grammar and vocabulary, but in your free time, the most important thing is to be exposed to the language. For example, watching children’s TV programmes with your child is a great way to learn the language from the comfort of your home!
To become a citizen, you must pass the National Certificates of Language Proficiency (YKI) test with a grade of three or higher. This usually means at least around 700 hours of language learning. You can read more about the YKI test here.
You can take a look at the attached picture of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Each level is estimated to require the following amount of study:
0 > A1: 90 h
A1 > A2: 180-200 h
A2 > B1: 375-400 h
B1 > B2: 750 h
B2 > C1: 1500 h
C1 > C2: 3000 h
However, when learning a language, students shouldn’t focus too much on charts and tables. The main thing is that learning is fun!
No, it does not. Online learning will save you from all the time and hassle of travelling. Of course, it is more intense, because you cannot hide in the back row behind a big group.
My teaching is more flexible than in educational institutions. As a mother of three, I also understand that there may be more important things in your life than learning Finnish. We can plan the lessons flexibly according to your schedule.
Lessons are held on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 8p.m.
Residence permit and citizenship
You should check the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for all relevant information.
To be eligible for Finnish citizenship, you must show that you have sufficient proficiency in Finnish.
One way of demonstrating sufficient Finnish language skills is to take the National Certificates of Language Proficiency (YKI) test, which requires a grade of at least three in two different subtests:
- Writing and speaking
- Reading comprehension and speaking
- Listening comprehension and writing
Reaching this level usually requires at least 650 to 700 hours of language training. You can read more about the YKI test here.