Language requirements

Open University teaching corresponds to university teaching in quality and standard. Therefore, all students entering the Open University’s study programmes taught in English should have a good knowledge of the language. You must also be able to read and write academic texts.

The language of instruction at the Open University is mostly Finnish, except for the English-medium study programmes. Although there are basically no requirements regarding previous education for studying at the Open University, all students entering the Open University’s study programmes taught in English should have a good knowledge of English. However, you do not need to know any Finnish to study in these English-medium programmes at the Open University.

The entry level required corresponds to the Council of Europe’s level B2 in the Common European Framework of Reference.

The required competences can be described as follows:

  • can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in his/her field of specialisation
  • can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party
  • can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue, giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options

International students may have very different linguistic backgrounds, and it is recommended that they consult the teachers of the Open University before registering as students. The British Council’s Learn English Central offers tests on English vocabulary, grammar, listening and reading. Online English tests can give an indication of your ability.