Extension of compulsory education

The aim is that, having completed their comprehensive school education, all students gain an upper secondary qualification. The minimum school leaving age raised to 18 years. In addition, student guidance and student welfare services will be improved, along with the capacity of comprehensive schools to provide everyone with the skills to complete upper secondary education.

NB: This project has ended and the webpage will no longer be updated.

In addition, student guidance and student welfare services will be improved, along with the capacity of comprehensive schools to provide everyone with the skills to complete upper secondary education.

The extension in compulsory education became effective in 2021. The related new Act was applied for the first time to those subject to compulsory education whose compulsory education under the current Act terminated in 2021.

Raising the age of compulsory education to 18 years and extending compulsory education to upper secondary education requires ensuring that all those who complete compulsory school education have the knowledge, skills and competence required for upper secondary education.

Contact information

Issues related to basic education

Marja Penttilä, Senior Ministerial Adviser 
Ministry of Education and Culture, Varhaiskasvatuksen, perusopetuksen ja vapaan sivistystyön osasto ( VAPOS ) Telephone:0295330400   Email Address:

Issues related to school transport in compulsory education