Finnish for Adult Learners

The Scandinavian School offers Finnish courses at several different skill levels.  One course consist of 8 weekly lessons. Each year, we offer four courses: two in the spring and two in the fall. Students may only sign up for one course (8 lessons) at a time. 

Each class level (Beginner to Advanced) lasts 1 year. Students always start at course level 1a, and follow the four course parts (1a+b / 2a+b). For example, all beginners start from level Beginner 1a, and can complete beginner 1a & 1b during the first term and next term move to beginner 2a & b.

Course cost for 8 x 60-minute lessons: $345
Course cost for 8 x 90-minute lessons: $430

Levels

Beginner → A1
For those with little or no prior knowledge of Danish. Focuses on pronunciation, grammar, and basic communication in everyday situations, along with cultural insights. After completion, students can introduce themselves, ask and answer simple questions, and understand basic written texts. Textbook: Suomen Mestari 1.

Intermediate A1 → A2
For students who have completed Beginner courses or have equivalent knowledge. Expands vocabulary and conversational skills for routine interactions. By the end, students can handle everyday tasks, understand common expressions, and engage in short conversations. Textbook: Suomen Mestari 2

Upper Intermediate A2 → B1
For students with two years of study or equivalent experience. Focuses on conversation, grammar review, and discussing diverse topics. Upon completion, students can manage social and professional interactions, understand main ideas in clear speech, and write connected texts. Textbook: Suomen Mestari 2

Advanced B1 → B2
For those with three years of study or strong prior knowledge. Develops fluency, complex sentence structures, and listening skills through discussions, articles, and podcasts. Graduates can interact fluently, understand detailed speech, and write structured arguments. Textbook: Suomen Mestari 2

Conversational B2 → C1
For near-fluent speakers looking to refine their skills. Discussions center on news, TV shows, and podcasts to enhance fluency and accuracy. By the end, students can engage in debates, express nuanced opinions, and understand complex texts. Course material: News articles, TV-shows, podcasts

Our teachers

Ed Kamrin completed his graduate work in Finnish Language and Culture at the University of Helsinki. He is a communications and corporate responsibility consultant who has worked in both Finland and the U.S. In his free time, he loves hiking, cooking, and all things Nordic.

Reetta Kemppi is a native Finn and holds a Master's Degree in Political Science from the University of Helsinki and a Bachelor’s Degree in Media and Arts. She is a published author and works as a freelance journalist. In her free time she enjoys hiking and cultural activities.

Our next session of courses starts in August 2025. Welcome back!

Classes March 2025

Beginner 1 (virtual), Reetta, Tuesday 5pm-6pm, start: March 18

Beginner 2 (virtual), Reetta, Wednesday 6pm-7pm, start: March 19

Intermediate (virtual), Reetta, Tuesday 6.15pm-7.15pm, start: March 18

Advanced (virtual), Ed, Wednesday 7.30pm-8.30pm, start: March 19

All sales are final. Students can be transferred between different levels, but refunds are not offered.