Ylioppilastutkinnon

Ylioppilastutkinnon, commonly referred to as the matriculation examination, is Finland’s national assessment that marks the completion of upper secondary education and serves as the primary pathway to university admission. It is administered by the Matriculation Examination Board (Ylioppilastutkintolautakunta, YTL). The examination functions as a nationwide, standardized credential that complements the upper secondary school grades.

The exam comprises written tests in several subjects, including tests in the national mother tongue (Finnish or Swedish) and the second national language. In addition to compulsory language exams, students choose from a range of optional subjects such as mathematics, sciences, and foreign languages. Some language subjects include an oral component. Each subject is graded, and the results are compiled into the matriculation certificate, which may be used alongside school grades for higher education admissions.

Administration and use: Examinations are held annually, primarily in the spring, with provisions for retakes in some subjects. The resulting credentials are widely used in Finnish university admissions, where performance in specific subjects and overall scores can influence eligibility and program placement. The Yo certificate is also recognized, to varying extents, by educational institutions abroad.

History: The Finnish matriculation examination has a long history in the country’s education system, evolving through reforms since the 19th century to its current form as the central national examination for university entrance.

See also: Finnish education system; Upper secondary education; University admissions in Finland.