Education and training voucher pilot to offer young people new pathways into higher education – consultation now open
A new pilot scheme will offer free open university studies to young people who have not been admitted to a higher education institution. The aim of the scheme is to give young people the opportunity to explore different fields of study and to support a faster transition into higher education.
The pilot requires temporary amendments to the Universities Act and the Universities of Applied Sciences Act. The Ministry of Education and Culture is now requesting comments on the draft proposal. The consultation period ends on 10 April 2026.
“Our goal is to open the doors to higher education to as many young people as possible. Studying, social inclusion and belonging to a community that matters to them helps young people build confidence in their future,” says Minister of Science and Culture Mari‑Leena Talvitie.
Under the Government’s draft proposal, a 30‑credit education and training voucher would be available to young people who completed their first upper secondary qualification in Finland before the age of 29 between 1 December 2025 and 30 June 2028 and who have not been offered or accepted a student place in higher education.
The first vouchers would be granted to young people who take part in the second joint application procedure in spring 2026 but are not admitted to a higher education institution. The voucher would function as a means of payment in the Opin.fi service. It would be valid for two years. In addition to study rights, the voucher would entitle the holder to guidance supporting screening of application opportunities and completion of studies, as well as their application to a degree programme.
“In the spring joint application procedure there will be more than 1,000 additional student places on offer. If a young person is not admitted to higher education, they will receive an education and training voucher in the autumn. There has never been a better time to apply,” Minister of Science and Culture Mari-Leena Talvitie says.
The education and training voucher pilot is part of the package of measures set out in the Programme of Prime Minister Petteri Orpo's Government to raise the level of education in Finland.
Inquiries:
- Jonna Korhonen, Director, tel. +358 295 330 008
- Emma Hannonen, Special Adviser to the Minister of Science and Culture, tel. +358 295 330 077