Finland
Discover the home of Santa Claus - with spectacular nature and a relaxed lifestyle
Enquire about FinlandEligibility Requirements
- Age: You must be between 15.8 and 18.8 years old
- Language: Basic Finnish/Swedish recommended
- School Enrolment Status: Enrolled students and graduates are eligible
- Vaccinations: Covid and Tetanus required
- Other: Visa completed in Finland or Canberra (Aus)
What's included in your experience
- Airfare
- Airport Pick-up
- Host Family Placement
- Housing
- Meals
- School Placement
- Individual Contact Person
- Medical Insurance
- 24/7 Emergency Support
- School Transport
- Assistance with Application Process
- Visa Application Assistance
- Pre-Departure Orientation
- Orientations during your time abroad
- Continuous Support
- Worldwide Presence
- 70 Years Experience
What you are responsible for
- Vaccinations
- Cultural Tours
- Visa and Passport Fees
- Stipend
- School Uniform
Instagram Takeovers!
Check out our Instagram Highlights to see James’ experience in Finland. He has answered heaps of questions and shared lots of photos (including some reindeer & northern lights!) 📸
Host Family
AFSers have lived in communities all throughout Finland, but you’ll most likely find yourself in a small town or rural area in the southern half of the country. Families are usually small, with only one or two children. Punctuality, good manners and practically are expected of everyone and equality is very important. It’s common for everyone to share the chores.
Finns are generally kind and open-minded, even though they can be a bit reserved at first. Your host family will expect you to be honest with them, and it’s important that you communicate openly about how you are doing.
There’s a good chance your host family’s home has a sauna. In fact, there are more saunas than cars in Finland! The sauna is a place to relax, leave your phone behind and bond with family and friends.
Language
Finnish is the main language in Finland, but Swedish is also an official language. Beyond the official languages, Finland is home to the Sámi, the only recognised Indigenous people in the European Union. The Sámi languages are a vital part of the country’s cultural heritage, particularly in the northern region of Lapland, where they hold official status in several municipalities. You’ll also find that almost everyone speaks good English. Most schools offer ‘Finnish as a second language’ classes specifically for exchange students, providing a relaxed, no-pressure environment to improve your language skills. Being proactive is key – here are some key words to start with right now:
- Kiitos = Thank you   –   Kyllä / Joo = Yes/Yeah
- Oikeesti? = Really?   –   Vitsi: Oh man!/No way!
- Sori = Sorry
People & Culture
At first glance, Finns might seem reserved, but beneath the quiet exterior lies a culture of deep trust, unique traditions, and a legendary inner strength that makes them incredible friends and hosts. In Finland, honesty is standard. People believe what others say, and they will trust in your ability to manage things on your own, unless you ask for help.
As a whole, Finland is a highly efficient society with punctual public transport, seamless digital services and unrivalled safety.
On top of all that, the country regularly tops the UN’s World Happiness rankings!
School
Finland has one of the best education systems in the world, so you can expect classes that are both engaging and challenging. You’ll most likely be enrolled in a public high school (lukio) where the year is divided into five or six terms. You’ll study a few subjects intensively each term, including Finnish, Swedish, maths, science, psychology, art, music, history, and geography. Most days kick off between 8am and 9am and finish by 2pm or 4pm.
Every student in a Finnish school is entitled to a free, healthy hot meal every day, typically incluidng a main dish, fresh salad bar, and vegetarian options.
And don’t be surprised if your Finnish classmates are more direct than what you’re used to; they might even refer to teachers by their first names.
Food
While it is said of the French that they live to eat, it has been said that Finns eat to live. Everyday food tends to be simple but nutritious, and mealtimes are less formal than in some other countries. During the weekdays you may prepare and eat food on your own. On weekends, many families dine together and catch up on their activities for that week. Meals may include meat, fish, potatoes, pasta, bread and dairy products. Coffee is a favorite beverage, even among teenagers, often with a sweet wheat bread called pulla.
Climate & Geography
In Finland, nature isn’t just something you look at – it’s where life happens. With over 188,000 lats and forests covering nearly 75% of the country, the outdoors is essentially a giant backyard. Finns love to spend time outdoors, and connecting with the wilderness is a core part of the national identity.
One third of Finland is north the polar circle, and in winter the weather can be very cold up there, with the lowest temperature reaching -40°C. Most of the population lives in the south with the average winter temperature in Helsinki sitting around -10°C, and summers are warm.
Ready to Start your Finnish Adventure?
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Let AFS guide your intercultural adventure
With over 75 years of experience in student exchanges, we know what we’re doing when it comes to support and education! AFS provides comprehensive orientation for all students and families before, during and after your exchange – AFS volunteers and staff will be there to support and guide you the whole way through. In-person orientation camps in New Zealand and your host country are supplemented by our world-leading online Student Learning Journey, an interactive course that brings AFSers from around the world together to develop essential global skills, learn intercultural communication techniques, and practice social impact.