National Certificates of Language Proficiency (YKI)

National Certificates of Language Proficiency (YKI) tests are language tests for adults. YKI test measures functional language proficiency in everyday situations at the basic, intermediate, or advanced level.

You can take the YKI test in the following languages: English, Finnish, French, German, Italian, Northern Sámi, Russian, Spanish and Swedish.

All YKI tests consist of four subtests: speaking, listening comprehension, writing and reading comprehension. You will get a separate assesment for each subtest.

You can officially prove your language skills in different languages with a National Certificate of Language Proficiency (YKI). You can use the YKI certificates when you

apply for a job or study place
apply for Finnish citizenship (certificates of Finnish and Swedish skills)
must prove your level of language skills to an employer.

Participating in the YKI Test

1. Selecting the right YKI test, the test days

The National Certificate of Language Proficiency (YKI) is a language test for adults. You can take the YKI test at different proficiency levels. Before registering for the test, find out when and at what level you need the YKI certificate.

2. Registering for the YKI test

You can register for the YKI test using the online registration system.

3. Before the YKI test

When you have registered, you will receive a message telling you how to get to the YKI test centre. Prepare for the test and also get to know the types of questions used in the test.

4. After the YKI test

It takes around two months to grade the YKI tests. When your test has been graded, the certificate will be posted to the address you gave when you registered for the YKI test.