How to Choose the Right Finnish Language Course Level and Progress at the Right Pace
- Siiri Heiskanen
- Sep 10
- 3 min read
Starting a new language course is exciting — but it can also feel overwhelming. With so many levels, methods, and study options available, it’s easy to wonder: Where should I begin? Choosing the right starting point and finding the right pace are key to building confidence and making steady progress. Here’s how to do it!
Assess Your Current Level Honestly
Before jumping into a course, take some time to reflect on your skills. Ask yourself:
Can I introduce myself and handle basic greetings in Finnish?
Am I comfortable with everyday conversations, or do I get stuck quickly?
Can I read short texts or understand simple audio?
Assessing your language level can help you avoid frustration: starting too low may feel boring, while starting too high may leave you discouraged.
If you want to think about these questions with a professional, MOIKKA offers a free 10-minute assessment. You can also test yourself independently with a free YKI mock exam.
Match the Course Level to Your Goals
Think about why you are learning the language. Are you preparing for travel, work, or academic study? For example:
Travelers may benefit from beginner courses that focus on survival phrases and practical vocabulary.
Professionals might need intermediate courses that include business language or industry-specific terms.
Students aiming for exams should consider structured, grammar-focused programs.
When your goals are clear, it’s easier to choose a course level that supports them.
MOIKKA has different courses to choose from to match your language level:
MOIKKA’s YKI Preparation Group prepares you from A1 to the intermediate (B1/B2) level targeting the intermediate language proficiency test. For example, the intermediate language proficiency test is required to apply for Finnish citizenship.
YKI Test Video Course is for people on B1 level at least. The course prepares you for all the parts of the intermediate YKI test.
If you are a complete beginner, MOIKKA also offers an A0 video course that can be studied independently before committing further.
Furthermore, MOIKKA also offers private tutoring that can be completely customized for your needs!
Find the Right Pace
Progress is not just about moving “up” levels quickly. It’s about building a solid foundation. Some learners thrive in intensive daily courses, while others prefer slower weekly classes. Ask yourself:
How much time can I realistically dedicate each week?
Do I prefer fast immersion or steady repetition?
Am I learning for fun or with a strict deadline?
Choosing a pace that matches your lifestyle will help you stay consistent — and consistency is more important than speed.
MOIKKA’s video courses (A0 and YKI preparation) can be completed at your own pace.
YKI Preparation Groups are weekly lessons (4 hours per a week) that meet more intensive language learning needs.
Keep in mind that private tutoring lessons can be completely customized for both intensive and slower language learning needs!
Balance, Track and Adjust
The best course is one that challenges you without overwhelming you. If you understand everything effortlessly, you may need a higher level; if you constantly feel lost, it might be time to review the basics before moving forward.
Language learning is not linear — you’ll have times of rapid progress and times when you plateau. That’s normal. The key is to keep track of your progress, whether through a journal, apps, or regular practice tests. By monitoring how you feel and what you can do, you’ll know when to push yourself, when to slow down, and when it’s time to adjust your pace or even switch courses. The “sweet spot” is where you’re learning new things, staying motivated, and still feeling capable of success.
After you have purchased one of MOIKKA’s courses, if you feel like you have chosen a wrong course regarding the language level, please contact us via email info@languageschool.fi, and we’ll see what we can do for you!
Concluding
Choosing the right course level and progressing at the right pace is about self-awareness, clear goals, and flexibility. MOIKKA is here to support you if you ever feel like you need some boost to your Finnish language learning journey.
And remember: progress is progress, no matter how fast or slow!
