Oppivelvollisuusikäisille

Oppivelvollisuusikäisille refers to children and young people who are of compulsory school age. In Finland, this period generally begins at age 7 and lasts until age 18. This means that all individuals within this age range are legally obligated to receive education. The primary goal of compulsory education is to ensure that every child has access to basic education, regardless of their background or circumstances.

The educational path for oppivelvollisuusikäisille typically starts with comprehensive school (peruskoulu), which covers grades 1 through 9. After completing comprehensive school, young people can continue their education in either general upper secondary education (lukio) or vocational education and training (ammatillinen koulutus). Both pathways are designed to provide the necessary knowledge and skills for further studies or entry into the workforce. The extended compulsory education reform in Finland has further strengthened this commitment, extending the obligation to complete at least one upper secondary qualification. This ensures a higher level of education for all young people. The system aims to support each individual’s development and future opportunities.