Swedish Language Courses at Esbo arbis
Learn Swedish at Esbo arbis at a level that suits you. We offer a wide range of Swedish language courses from beginner to advanced level, with flexible study formats including weekly, intensive and discussion-based courses. Whether you are studying for everyday communication, work, or the YKI language exam, you will find a course that supports your goals.
Description of the courses
Course formats
At Esbo arbis you can study Swedish at different levels: Beginner (A1), Elementary (A2), Intermediate (B1–B2) and Advanced (C1). We offer the following course formats:
- Once-a-week courses
- Semi-intensive courses (four 8-day blocks, 43 hrs each, offered twice a year)
- Intensive courses (offered twice a year)
- Discussion courses (various levels)
- Preparatory courses for the YKI language exam
Some courses are credit courses — this is clearly stated in the course description.
You can find more information about the content of the courses on Ilmonet(external link, opens in a new window).
The course book “Rivstart”
The Swedish courses follow the textbooks Rivstart A1+A2 and Rivstart B1+B2. Students are required to have a course book. Please note that all courses use the 3rd edition. Older editions cannot be used.
Language levels
Each course at Esbo arbis shows the level (A1-C2) in the course name, so you can easily find the right level for you.
CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)
The CEFR describes six levels:
- A1-A2 – Can handle very basic communication, introduce themselves, understand simple phrases
- B1-B2 – Can navigate most everyday situations, understand the main points of complex texts, express themselves with reasonable fluency
- C1-C2 – Can express themselves spontaneously and precisely, understand virtually everything they hear or read
How to find your level
Please read the course descriptions carefully before registering in order to find the right level. You can find your level using the CEFR Self-assessment grid(external link, opens in a new window).
How to register
Registration
You can find detailed course descriptions and register on Ilmonet(external link, opens in a new window).
You can also register by calling the Esbo arbis customer service at 09-81657 890.
We have a 50% unemployment discount. To register for that, you need to e-mail a certificate of unemployment from the TE office to arbis@esbo.fi before the course starts.
Cancellation policy
Please note that the registration to courses is binding. Call Arbis customer service or cancel online on Ilmonet at least 7 days before the course starts. Registration and participation cannot be cancelled by informing the teacher. If you cancel less than 7 days prior to course start, a 10€ cancellation fee applies. The entire course fee will be charged once the course has started. Paid fees will not be refunded.
Contact
If you have questions about the courses or registering for them, please email arbis@esbo.fi.
Information about National Certificates of Language Proficiency (YKI)
Description
All YKI tests consist of four subtests: reading comprehension, writing, listening comprehension, and speaking. You will get a separate assessment for each subtest.
There are no requirements on how or where you have learned the language. Esbo arbis does not facilitate the YKI test, and you are free to take the test at whichever location is most convenient for you.
Registration
You can find more information about YKI test dates, locations and registration on this web page: