Early or postponed school start

It is possible to begin basic education one year before the compulsory school-age if the child has prerequisites to handle studying, based on psychological, and if needed, medical reports. In this case, the child begins school in the year he/she turns six. Investigations required for beginning school are carried out privately, and the guardians are responsible for any costs the investigations may cause.

1. Fill in the form 'Application for exceptional start of basic education'. Submit the form and psychological statement (and possible medical statement) to the Finnish Basic Education Unit. The return address is on the form.
2. Contact the Finnish Education Unit, tel. +358 40 507 0817, to receive a key code to create Your own personal Wilma account.  

3. Fill in the form 'Application for 1st grade of Comprehensive School' through the electronic Wilma(extrernal link). If You are unable to use the Wilma service, You can fill in the paper form. The return address is on the form.  Additional information on school admissions can be found on this page.

• Submit the form 'Application for exceptional start of basic education' between 10 January - 11 February, 2022.

• Submit the form 'Application for 1st grade of Comprehensive School' between 10-21 January, 2022.

• The application forms are not available as the application period has ended.

• Please contact the Superintendent of Schools. Contact information can be found in the end of this page.

It is possible to begin basic education one year later than the compulsory school-age, if there is need for a postponed school start based on psychological or medical investigations. Beginning one's basic education one year later is justifiable when the child needs one extra year to learn the skills of a school newcomer. The necessary investigations are conducted at the City of Espoo's Habilitation Services for Children or in special health care.

1. Fill in the form 'Application for exceptional start of basic education'. Submit the form and psychological statement (and possible medical statement) to the Finnish Basic Education Unit. The return address is on the form.

2. Fill in the form 'Application for 1st grade of Comprehensive School' through the electronic Wilma(extrernal link). Inform that your child is applying for postponed school start. If You are unable to use the Wilma service, You can fill in the paper form. The return address is on the form.  

• Submit the form 'Application for exceptional start of basic education' between 10 January - 11 February, 2022.
• Submit the form 'Application for 1st grade of Comprehensive School' between10-21 January, 2022

• The application forms are not available as the application period has ended.

• Please contact the Superintendent of Schools. Contact information can be found in the end of this page.