A1–A2 Finnish: what you’ll learn
At A1, a beginner can handle everyday basics: greetings, numbers, simple questions, prices, and short messages. You will learn to introduce yourself, order coffee, and understand familiar words when people speak slowly.
At A2, you build on that. You can talk about your routine, family, food, shopping, and travel in short sentences. You will read simple notices, fill forms, and write short messages. It’s all you need to start real-life conversations in the language.
- Core grammar: verb types, cases in context
- Practical topics: time, transport, shopping
- Everyday dialogues for beginners
- High‑frequency vocabulary you actually use
Where to find free online Finnish courses with certificates
Many platforms let you learn Finnish for free, but not all include a certificate. Look for courses that mention certificate included, certificate of completion, or free digital badge. A valid option usually provides a downloadable PDF or a shareable link.
Places to check: public libraries and city education portals in Finland, NGOs supporting newcomers, university open courses, and seasonal MOOC campaigns. If a course says audit free but certificate paid, ask if there is a scholarship or a free completion PDF.
- City or library e-learning portals with basic Finnish
- University open courses with self-tests
- NGO or integration projects for beginners
- MOOC platforms during free-certificate promos
- Teacher-led community classes that email a PDF
A simple A1–A2 study plan (free and flexible)
Use one main online course for structure, then add short daily practice. Keep sessions light but consistent. Aim for 20–30 minutes on weekdays and a longer review on weekends. Beginners progress fastest with small, daily wins.
Mix skills: listen, speak, read, write. Download free PDF wordlists and a grammar cheat sheet to review offline. Track all study time so you can evidence your learning when requesting a certificate.
- Day 1–2: Core lesson + 10 new words
- Day 3: Listening with slow news or dialogues
- Day 4: Speaking drills; record yourself
- Day 5: Writing: 5–8 sentences about your day
- Weekend: Review, mock quiz, print a PDF checklist
How to earn a free certificate and make it count
Before you start, confirm the certificate type: PDF, badge, or letter. Ask what you need to complete (modules, quizzes, attendance). Keep screenshots of progress, quiz scores, and dates. When you finish, request the downloadable certificate right away.
If a course cannot issue a free certificate, create proof of level another way: export a Europass Language Passport, compile a study log with hours and tasks, and link to your audio samples. This makes your learning verifiable for employers or schools.
- Complete 100% of required modules
- Pass end-of-unit quizzes or a final test
- Keep a dated study log (hours and topics)
- Collect PDFs: vocab lists, notes, transcripts
- Export Europass Language Passport as evidence
Free tools, PDFs, and beginner-friendly resources
You do not need expensive books to learn Finnish. Start with free PDFs for basic phrases, numbers, days, and verb forms. Combine them with a spaced-repetition app for vocabulary and a voice recorder for pronunciation.
Use slow audio and short texts aimed at beginners. Print a one-page conjugation PDF, a case endings chart, and a weekly planner. Keep all files in one folder so submitting proof for a certificate is easy.
- Printable PDF phrasebook and mini grammar
- Anki or similar app for daily review
- Slow Finnish audio with transcripts
- Voice recorder to track pronunciation
FAQ
- Can I really get a free Finnish certificate online?
- Yes, but check the fine print. Some courses include a free PDF certificate of completion, others charge. Look for clearly stated certificate included or ask for a sample before you start.
- How long does A1 or A2 usually take?
- A1 often takes 60–80 hours of focused study; A2 around 160–200 hours. With daily 20–30 minute sessions plus weekend reviews, many beginners reach A2 in 3–6 months.
- What do I need to start learning Finnish online?
- A phone or laptop, headphones, a mic, one structured course, and a few free PDFs (phrases, verbs, cases). A notebook or notes app helps you track new words and progress.
- Is a free course certificate the same as YKI?
- No. A free course certificate proves participation or completion. YKI is Finland’s official language proficiency exam and has a fee. Use course proof to prepare, then take YKI if needed.
- Can I learn Finnish as a complete beginner without a tutor?
- Yes. Combine a guided online course, daily listening, short speaking drills, and PDF reviews. If possible, add weekly conversation practice with a partner or language exchange.