No. You can reach YKI test readiness fully online before you arrive. Go Suomi Pro offers Finnish language courses that prepare you for the national YKI language - saving you the cost of university tuition in Finland, which averages €8,000–€20,000 per year for non-EU students.

The YKI (Yleinen kielitutkinto) is Finland's national language proficiency test. Passing it at intermediate level (B1–B2) is required for Finnish permanent residency and citizenship, and significantly improves your chances of employment with Finnish employers. Many skilled worker roles in healthcare, construction, and services require at least basic Finnish proficiency.

Some international companies operate in English, but the majority of Finnish employers - especially in healthcare, logistics, retail, and public sector - require at least conversational Finnish. Also a lot of companies will hire Finnish speaking candidates over non-Finnish speaking - even if it’s not formally required. Passing the YKI test at B2 level makes you eligible for a significantly wider range of jobs and faster integration into Finnish working life.

University language programmes in Finland cost €8,000–€20,000 per year in tuition alone, plus living costs of approximately €900–€1,200 per month. Online Finnish courses with Go Suomi Pro cost a fraction of that — letting you reach the same language level from home before relocating, saving tens of thousands of euros.

Reaching conversational Finnish (B2 level) typically takes 600–800 hours of study for English speakers. With structured online courses and consistent daily practice, most Go Suomi Pro students reach YKI readiness within 12 months. Starting before you move to Finland gives you a significant head start on integration and employment.