koulutustuen

Koulutustuen is a Finnish term referring to financial support aimed at promoting participation in education and training. It covers various forms of assistance provided to learners, including those in vocational and adult education, as well as jobseekers enrolled in approved training programs. The overarching goal is to reduce the financial barriers to studying and to support the development of skills needed in the labor market.

In Finland, the administration and financing of koulutustuki are handled by different authorities depending on the form of support. Much of education-related financial aid is provided by the Social Insurance Institution of Finland (Kela). For labour market training and related education, funding and administration may involve the TE Services (the public employment and business services) and state institutions, with program rules determined annually.

Koulutustuki can take several forms, including allowances to cover education costs, reimbursements for travel and study materials, and, in some cases, support related to dependent care or housing while studying. The exact eligibility criteria, payment levels, and available benefits vary by program and year, and are typically contingent on enrollment in an approved course or training and on meeting residence and other program-specific requirements.

The concept complements other education benefits in Finland, such as opintotuki (student financial aid) and related loans, and it is part of the broader policy to encourage lifelong learning and improve employability. Related terms include opintotuki, opintoraha, and various forms of educational support offered through national and local channels.