Compare International Schools in Oulu, Finland

Instructs in Finnish, English

Ages 16 - null years

Fees €29,200

Pupils 9500

Type Co-educational

Educational Consortium OSAO is a Finnish vocational college network based in Oulu. It operates eight campuses across six municipalities, including Haukipudas, Kaukovainio, Kontinkangas and the Kempele–Liminka region, with Muhos, Pudasjärvi and Taivalkoski serving local needs. OSAO delivers the Finnish Curriculum alongside the International Baccalaureate Career-related Programme (IBCP) and offers English-language vocational qualifications in Restaurant and Catering Services, Tourism Industry, and Merkonomi (Business). An International IB career-related program in Business and Administration is also available. A flexible, individualized learning path is provided for every student, shaped by prior knowledge, skills and needs. OSAO is one of Finland's largest multidisciplinary vocational colleges, serving about 8,500 students with around 880 staff and roughly 89 million euros in operating revenue (2024). Distinctive activities include participation in events such as Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs, Qstock, and Amistanssit, and a strong culture of external competitions and community engagement. The program emphasizes hands-on learning in real-world settings daily.

Application fees

- There is no separate application fee charged to submit an electronic application for study places; applications are submitted online through OSAO's application process.

Tuition fees (yearly amounts by qualification; charged per academic year)

- For students who are nationals of countries outside the EU/EEA, OSAO charges a tuition fee that is set per qualification and billed per academic year. The tuition fee for vocational qualifications and related further/specialist qualifications is shown as euros per student per academic year as follows:
- Vocational Qualification in the Motor Vehicles Sector: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Food Production (excluding the dairy sector): EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Hairdressing and Beauty Care: EUR 13,100.
- Vocational Qualification in Mining: EUR 18,500.
- Vocational Qualification in Mechanical Engineering and Production Technology: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Laboratory Technology: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Business: EUR 10,000.
- Vocational Qualification in Logistics (other than Transport Services): EUR 13,100.
- Vocational Qualification in Logistics (Transport Services): EUR 17,300.
- Vocational Qualification in Pharmaceutics: EUR 10,800.
- Vocational Qualification in Agriculture: EUR 14,500.
- Vocational Qualification in Tourism Industry: EUR 13,100.
- Vocational Qualification in Media and Visual Expression: EUR 11,500.
- Vocational Qualification in Forestry (other than Forest Machine Operation): EUR 14,500.
- Vocational Qualification in Forestry (Forest Machine Operation): EUR 22,200.
- Vocational Qualification in Surface Treatment Technology: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Process Industry: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Cleaning and Property Services: EUR 13,100.
- Vocational Qualification in Horticulture: EUR 11,600.
- Vocational Qualification in Wood Industry: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Construction (other than Earthmoving Machinery Operator): EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Construction (Earthmoving Machinery Operator): EUR 18,500.
- Vocational Qualification in Restaurant and Catering Services: EUR 13,100.
- Vocational Qualification in Electrical Engineering and Automation Technology: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Social and Health Care: EUR 10,800.
- Vocational Qualification in Arts and Design: EUR 11,500.
- Vocational Qualification in Building Maintenance Technology: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Technical Design: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Textiles and Fashion Industry: EUR 13,400.
- Vocational Qualification in Information and Communications Technology: EUR 11,100.
- Vocational Qualification in Safety and Security: EUR 13,100.
- Vocational Qualification in Equipment Maintenance: EUR 10,800.

- Further vocational and specialist vocational qualifications have separate yearly fees; examples listed include:
- Further Vocational Qualification in Motor Vehicles Sector: EUR 17,700.
- Further Vocational Qualification in Media: EUR 21,500.
- Further Vocational Qualification in Infrastructure Construction: EUR 29,200.
- Specialist Vocational Qualification in Infrastructure Construction: EUR 29,200.
- Specialist Vocational Qualification in Arts and Design: EUR 21,500.

- The stated amounts are expressed as euros per student per academic year (the tuition fee is determined at the start of studies and remains the same for the duration of those studies). Payment is required for participation in instruction for students who are liable to pay.

Other programme-level fees and single-course student fees

- Certain continuing education and qualification programmes require a separate course or student fee (opiskelijamaksu) that is charged in addition to any statutory tuition fee liability for non‑EU/EEA nationals. Examples of programme-level student fees (amounts shown where published):
- Typical opiskelijamaksu examples include EUR 250, EUR 400, EUR 450 and EUR 500 depending on the programme. Individual programme pages state the exact student fee for that programme.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- The tuition fee for liable students is charged after a study place has been offered and must be paid before the student is permitted to begin studies; education-provider invoicing procedures are used to collect the fee.
- For programme-specific student fees (opiskelijamaksu), acceptance of a study place is binding and payment commitments are confirmed at enrolment; several programme pages specify that a student who withdraws after a short introductory period (commonly noted as three weeks from the start) will not receive a refund of a paid programme fee. Examples of these non‑refund rules appear on programme pages.

Boarding / student accommodation fees

- Student accommodation in OSAO student dormitories (asuntolat) is provided without a recurring rent charge for eligible students. A refundable room-and-furniture deposit (huoneisto- ja kalustopantti) of EUR 50 is collected from every incoming dormitory resident; this deposit is paid in advance via OSAO's online store and is returned when the key is returned and the room condition is approved. Occasional service charges (for example, for special services such as door-opening) may apply.

Other expected costs

- Students should budget for course books, personal study supplies and equipment, required work clothing and tools for particular trade programmes, meals, housing and travel. Where a student is liable for a tuition fee, entitlement to free learning materials, equipment and daily free meals in vocational upper secondary education is not provided. IB examination fees and other external exam fees may apply (example: IB exam fees reported around EUR 200 for some programmes).

Refund information

- Programme-specific student fees (opiskelijamaksu) are commonly non‑refundable if the student withdraws after the published short trial period (many pages specify a three‑week rule).
- Procedures for refunds and returns of paid tuition fees for non‑EU/EEA tuition-liable students and related practical collection rules are handled according to OSAO's tuition-fee decision and administrative procedures and are applied in accordance with guidance from the Ministry of Education and Culture and the Finnish Immigration Service; collection and refund procedures are executed by the education provider and are specified in OSAO's tuition‑fee procedures. The tuition fee must be paid before studies begin.

Fee payment options and invoicing details

- OSAO uses standard education-provider invoicing channels. The published invoicing operator and e‑billing identifiers are: Operator CGI Suomi Oy, online billing address 003709924453 (transmit id 003703575029 is shown for the operator). These invoicing channels support electronic invoicing and conventional invoicing practices. Dormitory deposit payments are handled via OSAO's online store. Parent/guardian or employer payment arrangements are managed by agreement with OSAO where applicable.

Summary notes for parents (concise)

- There is no separate application submission charge.
- For non‑EU/EEA nationals accepted to vocational or upper‑secondary programmes, a tuition charge is set per qualification and billed per academic year (listed above as euros per student per academic year). Payment is required before studies may begin.
- Some programmes require additional programme/course fees (examples: EUR 250–500) and these follow their own acceptance and refund conditions (many specify no refund after three weeks).
- Student dormitory accommodation is provided without recurring rent for eligible students, but a refundable EUR 50 room-and-furniture deposit and occasional service charges apply; the deposit is paid online.
- Invoicing is handled through OSAO's billing operator and e‑invoicing identifiers; dormitory deposits are paid via the online store.

Boarding Arrangements

OSAO has student housing (asuntolat) at four locations near campuses. Asuntolat are located at Haukiputaalla, Muhoksella and Taivalkoskella, with housing available to students and applications made for each academic year. Housing is free of charge, but a 50 € apartment and furniture deposit is charged in advance and refunded when the student moves out. Haukiputaan dormitory provides private rooms in four-person apartments with shared living/kitchen areas; Muhoksen dormitories are shared apartments with 3–4 two-person rooms per unit; Taivalkosken dormitory areas consist of four two-person rooms per apartment. The dorms are generally open Sunday 16:30 to Friday 16:30 and are closed on weekends and holidays.

Food Options

OSAO provides on-campus dining through student restaurants; basic vocational or preparatory training includes one free meal per study day, and natural resources students receive free breakfast and dinner. Meals are served in the unit's student restaurant or a designated dining location. Kotkankulma is the on-site teaching restaurant and Oppipuoti offers grab-and-go meals for students.

Governance and Ownership

Educational Consortium OSAO is an IB World School. It operates as a large multidisciplinary vocational college with about 9,500 students and 840 staff. OSAO is an educational consortium (koulutuskuntayhtymä) and is authorized to deliver official diplomas and certificates.

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The school provides student welfare support through a counselor and a psychologist who support students' growth and wellbeing in collaboration with school staff. The focus is on promoting the wellbeing of the entire school community. The counselor and psychologist participate in planning and coordinating student welfare through the units' student welfare groups and OSAO's student welfare group. They support individual students as needed, assisting with learning, coping, housing and financial matters. Services are available face-to-face and by phone or secure online channels (Microsoft Teams), depending on student preference. Contact information for welfare professionals is available across campuses.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Special support is planned by drafting an Individual Support Plan with the homeroom teacher and a special education teacher, and, if needed, a study counselor and other staff. If you are under 18, guardians participate in planning. The plan considers your strengths, goals and support needs and is reviewed regularly. Special support may include part-time teacher support, small-group instruction, individualized schedules and materials, diverse teaching methods, mentor support, work-based learning, and individualized study and career guidance. When moving from basic education to vocational education, study demands increase; instructors collaborate with a special education teacher, and the special educator plays a central role in planning and ensuring early access to support.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

OSAO offers three English-language vocational qualifications: Restaurant and Catering Services, Tourism Industry, and Business (Merkonomi). The Business program also runs a three-year IB Career-related Programme delivered entirely in English. The programs described as English-language study are explicitly labeled as English-language; other qualifications are taught in Finnish. Preparatory Education for Vocational Training (TUVA) helps immigrant students, includes language study and an individual study plan, and covers Finnish as a second language, English and Swedish.

Mental Wellbeing

The school provides mental wellbeing support through psychologist and counselor services that promote students' learning and wellbeing in collaboration with staff. They participate in student welfare planning and provide support to individuals as needed. Services are available in person or via phone or secure channels (e.g., Microsoft Teams) in accordance with student preferences. Students and staff can contact the psychologist and counselor for support.

Safeguarding

A safe learning environment is created by OSAO's collective actions, including internal safety guidelines and unit-specific fire and crisis plans. The safeguarding plan covers student protection from violence, bullying and harassment, and includes: student safety (5.1); equality and non-discrimination (5.4); dignified conduct in the student community (5.3.1); prevention and response to bullying, harassment and violence (5.3.2); monitoring of incidents (5.3.3); the OSAO equality plan, pedagogical support and continuity of learning; dormitory rules and discipline rules; and crisis management structures with safety officers and crisis teams. The plan is reviewed and updated regularly; guardians are involved for underage students and authorities may be contacted if needed. Each unit has up-to-date evacuation plans and safety protocols; staff and students are educated in safety procedures.

History

Educational Consortium OSAO was established when the member municipalities signed the foundational agreement on 15 December 1994. It is owned by eight municipalities: Hailuoto, Ii, Kempele, Liminka, Lumijoki, Muhos, Oulu and Tyrnävä. OSAO's task is to organize vocational education and qualifications for its member municipalities and to maintain the regional sports institute. It also provides vocational education on a contract basis in Pudasjärvi and Taivalkoski. As of 2024, OSAO serves about 8,500 students with around 880 staff and generates about 89 million euros in operating revenues, and it is one of the largest multidisciplinary vocational colleges in Finland.

Community

OSAO is one of the largest multidisciplinary vocational colleges in Finland, with about 9,500 students and 840 staff. It operates eight campuses across the Oulu region, including Haukipudas, Kaukovainio, Kontinkangas, Kempele–Liminka, Muhos, Pudasjärvi, Taivalkoski and others. OSAO is an IB World School and takes part in national and international skills competitions; entrepreneurship is developed as a competition skill at OSAO. The organization works with a broad network of more than 6,600 cooperation partners and offers studies in English in Business and Administration, including an International IB Career-related program taught entirely in English and three English-language vocational qualifications (Restaurant and Catering services, Tourism Industry, Merkonomi).

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

Wilma is the central communication channel between the school and parents. Guardians of minor students can create Wilma accounts after the start of studies, and guardians of students aged 18 and older can obtain Wilma access only with the student's permission. Parents are invited to unit kotiväenilta (parents' evenings) for new students and to unit open days and other events. The unit head is responsible for maintaining active contact with guardians of underage students or guardians of students who arrived in Finland alone. Some units run cooperation groups with school representatives and parents, and parents' associations are welcome to join unit events and open days. Materials from parents' evenings are published for reference.

Facilities Overview

OSAO operates eight campuses across six municipalities in the Oulu region: Kempele, Liminka, Muhos, Oulu, Pudasjärvi and Taivalkoski. The Haukipudas, Kaukovainio, Kontinkangas campuses and the Kempele-Liminka campuses form the core regional network, with Muhos, Pudasjärvi and Taivalkoski campuses also serving local needs. The campuses provide working life based education and training across a wide range of disciplines, and offer vocational and further vocational qualifications. English-language offerings include an International IB career-related program in Business and Administration and three English-taught qualifications: Restaurant and Catering services, Tourism Industry, and Merkonomi (Business).

Academic Facilities

OSAO delivers vocational education in many fields across its campuses. Haukipudas covers Vehicle Technology, Surface Treatment Technology, Construction, Restaurant and Catering Services, Electrical and Automation Engineering, Arts and Design, and Textiles and Fashion. Kaukovainio offers Food Production, Confectionery, Cooking, Hotel and Restaurant Services, Tourism Services, Customer Service and Sales, and Finance and Office Services, plus an International IB career-related program in Business and Administration and three English-language qualifications: Restaurant and Catering, Tourism Industry, and Merkonomi (Business). Kontinkangas includes Hairdressing and Beauty Care, Pharmaceutics, Social and Health Care, and Equipment Maintenance. Kempele and Liminka campuses offer Horticulture, Logistics, Restaurant and Catering, Safety and Security, and Technical Design. Muhos focuses on Vehicle Technology, Agriculture, Forestry and Social and Health Care. Pudasjärvi provides Wood Processing, Electrical Engineering, Social and Health Care, and Business Management. Taivalkoski concentrates on Mining, Forestry, and Infrastructure Construction.

Academic & Intellectual

OSAO is one of the biggest vocational colleges in Finland and provides vocational education in various fields. Students have opportunities to participate in external competitions and events to showcase their skills, including the Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs Competition. Joel Manninen, an OSAO alumnus, won silver at the Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs Competition in Istanbul.

Arts & Creative

Textile and fashion students sew pillows for the students' own space. Cooking students sell their own dishes at cultural events. The metal and wood departments collaborate on cultural artworks: a welder uses surplus metal and a construction student builds a stage for Qstock. Everyday culture deeds include a student organizing community art at Hyvis Stop, students cooking together in the school kitchen, a student pair organizing Halloween for dorm residents, and a casual basketball game in the school yard.

Cultural & Language

International cultural deeds include a student producing a podcast episode with an international guest, and a student on exchange painting a wall mural. Another student participates in an international culture project during work placement. OSAAO participates in Qstock festival by having students plan and create festival artworks and decorations. Amistanssit blends traditional and contemporary culture, with OSAO's first Amistanssit held in 2026.

Social & Hobbies

Everyday culture deeds include a student organizing community art at Hyvis Stop, students cooking together in the school kitchen, a student pair organizing Halloween evening for dorm residents, and a casual basketball game in the school yard.

Community & Service

Foresters chop winter firewood for an elderly person living alone. Automotive students change winter tires at the K-market yard. A practical nurse student takes the elderly to daytime dances. Animal care students visit dog companions at events.

Leadership & Professional

Culture agents plan, organize and inspire others to take part in cultural deeds. To become a culture agent, you select the optional Kulttuuriagenttina toimiminen – tutkinnon osa (Cultural agent operating) as a 3-ECTS module. In 2025–2026, culture agent activities ran across OSAO with unit leaders at Kaukovainion, Kontinkankaan and Haukiputaan campuses. The program includes opportunities to work on major events such as LUMO light festival, the Frozen People winter festival, Oulu2026 events and Qstock, and it awards a diploma for the culture agent work.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Mielenasiat tutuksi -hanke has strengthened OSAO's teaching staff mental-health skills and increased understanding of mental health's impact on learning. Wellbeing and learning capability are built on community, safe encounters and everyday study support. Small actions, such as a teacher greeting in the hallway or timely feedback, help students feel seen and supported, contributing to a safer, more inclusive learning environment.

Language Provision

Finnish is the primary language of instruction in most programs. English language qualifications are available through OSAO Edu, including three English taught qualifications. In those English language programs, all subjects are taught in English, while Swedish and Finnish are used for some subjects. OSAO supports language development and international exposure through domestic language study, international events, hosting international guests, and mobility opportunities abroad.

Bilingual Teaching

OSAO Edu offers English language vocational qualifications: Vocational Qualification in Restaurant and Catering Services, Vocational Qualification in Tourism Industry, and Merkonomi, Vocational Qualification in Business. These programs are taught entirely in English. Swedish and Finnish are used for some subjects.

Immersion Programs

OSAO provides international mobility for study or work placements in Europe. Mobility periods can be completed at partner institutions, with progression recognized through the European mobility framework. Erasmus+ funding partially supports mobility, and OSAO collaborates with international networks such as EfVET, Xarxa FP, and HANAKO. Students may participate in international projects and study trips.

Admissions

1. Language requirement. Applicants must be able to follow lessons in Finnish. Finnish language proficiency is required for admission to study at OSAO. 2. Studies in English. In Business and Administration, a three-year International IB Career-related Programme is taught entirely in English. Completing this program yields a Finnish vocational qualification that enables admission to Finnish universities. OSAO is an IB World School. 3. English-language qualifications. We offer three English-language vocational qualifications: Vocational Qualification in Restaurant and Catering Services; Vocational Qualification in Tourism Industry; Merkonomi, Vocational Qualification in Business. 4. There are two application routes. The joint education application procedure occurs annually in February or March via studyinfo.fi for applicants with no further education beyond comprehensive education. Rolling admissions are available for applicants who have completed upper secondary education or matriculation or possess a vocational qualification or work experience; applications are submitted through the OSAO website. 5. How to apply and documents. An online application form must be filled; the required documents must be attached to the application. Copies of school certificates and an official English translation are required; translations must be done by an authorized translator and include the translator's signature and stamp. A legal guardian is typically the parent for under-18 students. 6. Language testing and admission details. English skills are not required as a separate test; English proficiency is assessed during the entrance examination or interview. 7. Entrance examination. Entrance examinations, learning preparedness tests, and interviews must be attended in person in Oulu; online testing is not available. 8. Non-EU applicants, residence and tuition. Basic entrance criteria for non-EU applicants include basic Finnish language ability, completion of Finnish compulsory education, and good English. A residence permit may be required; as of August 1, 2026, there is a tuition fee for non-EU/EEA citizens. OSAO does not offer scholarships to international students. 9. Rolling admission for foreign graduates and admission restrictions. Upper secondary or higher education graduates from outside Finland can apply via rolling admission; they cannot be admitted in separate admission for the Vocational Qualification in Business including IBCP studies.

Scholarships

OSAO does not have scholarships available for international students.

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Oulu International School

Instructs in English

Ages 7 - 16 years

Pupils 446

Type Co-educational

Oulu International School is a public, city‑owned school in Oulu, Finland, offering Basic Education (grades 1–9) in English. It follows the Finnish National Core Curriculum and combines it with a bespoke English‑language program. Learning is inquiry‑based and phenomenon‑based, with content organized into multidisciplinary units. In Years 1–6, students complete 5–6 units per year; in Years 7–9, modules combine 2–3 subject areas. The school is located at Kasarmintie 4, 90130 Oulu, and is owned by the City of Oulu. It began in August 2001 and opened as an independent school in August 2002. About 446 students are taught by 37 teachers in age‑based classes, with auxiliary staff available. The library is a central resource, and students may pursue a bilingual Reading Diploma adapted from the Oulu City program. Extracurricular clubs include Boardgames, Math, Chess, and Dungeons & Dragons, along with Drama, Animated Film, Cooking and Puuhakerho, plus Erasmus‑driven projects and well‑being activities.

Location

The school is located at Kasarmintie 4, 90130 Oulu, Finland. It is owned by the City of Oulu.

Stages

Basic Education (Grades 1-9).

Type

Public, city-owned international school offering Basic Education in English.

Additional learning support

Student welfare and learning support are provided, including School Health Services (nurse, insurance, dental care, and medical treatment plans) and Student Counselling. A Transition Class supports new arrivals from abroad to develop English skills for up to two years, and Special Education with individual learning plans.

Country affiliation

Finland.

School day structure

The length of the school day varies by grade; class timetables are issued at the start of each term. Afternoon care is provided for grades 1-2.

Application fees
- There is no application fee for applying to Oulu International School. Formal applications and the school's language-proficiency admission test form part of the municipal admissions process; families complete the standard application forms used for Oulu schools.

Tuition fees by year group (Years 1–9)
- Years 1–9: No tuition is charged. Basic education at Oulu International School is provided free of charge and includes access to curriculum teaching and free learning materials. There are no per-term or per-year tuition charges for enrolled pupils.

Billing schedule and payment terms (for chargeable services)
- Afternoon care (paid service): invoiced monthly in arrears; the invoice is normally sent to the home address as a paper invoice unless an e-invoice option is selected. Late payment interest and standard arrears procedures apply. Payment queries for municipal invoicing are handled by the city's billing service.
- Other occasional charges (for example, transport to/from school where applicable, certain optional services supplied by third parties): invoicing and payment schedules vary by service; when the city or a contracted provider charges a fee it is typically billed according to that service's published billing cycle (for afternoon care that cycle is monthly). Guardians living outside Oulu who are admitted should confirm how transport or other costs will be handled with their home municipality.

Boarding fees
- Boarding is not applicable. Oulu International School is a day/basic education school (Grades 1–9) and does not provide boarding or residential accommodation for pupils.

Other costs and routine out-of-pocket items
- School meals: balanced school lunches are provided as part of basic education and are not charged to pupils.
- Afternoon care (optional for eligible years): the municipal standard fee for afternoon care is EUR 120 per calendar month for the first child; sibling discount applies (each additional child in the same family is charged EUR 60 per calendar month). The fee is charged from August to the end of May; the fee is fixed regardless of month length. Sick‑leave and partial‑attendance rules can reduce the charge in certain cases.
- Clubs and extracurricular clubs: after‑school clubs organised by the school are free of charge.
- Class trips and excursions: the city's guidance is that education should not create mandatory costs for pupils. Any extra expenses related to trips may be covered through voluntary fundraising; all students are allowed to participate regardless of whether guardians contributed to fundraising. Guardians should expect occasional voluntary contributions for activities or optional extras (e.g., materials or voluntary trip costs). Supervision and insurance for trips are provided by the school.
- Personal/consumable items: parents normally provide practical items such as clothing for outdoor breaks, P.E. kit and any personally required materials or equipment for hobbies and sports. The school requests suitable P.E. clothing and footwear for lessons and outdoor activity.

Refund and cancellation rules (where fees apply)
- Afternoon care refunds/adjustments: if a child's illness results in attendance of 10 days or fewer in a calendar month, half the monthly fee is charged; if absence due to illness covers the whole calendar month, no fee is charged. If a guardian cancels an afternoon care place they must give notice by the 15th of the current month to avoid charges for the next month; cancellation after the 15th typically incurs a half‑month charge. Start‑date changes and single permitted postponements are covered by the municipal rules.
- Class trip or activity refunds: trips and additional activities organised on a voluntary/fundraising basis follow the published arrangements for that activity; the school provides supervision and insurance but any refunds for voluntary payments or third‑party arrangements are handled according to the organiser's published terms.

Fee payment options and where payments are processed
- Municipal invoicing is handled through the City of Oulu's billing processes; invoices for chargeable services (for example, afternoon care) are issued monthly in arrears and list the payment instructions. The city's billing service contact is used for invoicing queries.
- Payments to city service points: municipal customer service points (Oulu10 and others) accept the most common bank and credit cards and cash for municipal payments. E‑invoice/electronic invoice options are available where supported. For transport benefit or other income‑based allowances, separate application and handling procedures apply.

Curriculum

OIS follows the Finnish National Core Curriculum, and English is taught in accordance with both the national and the school's own curriculum. Learning is inquiry-based and phenomenon-based, with content organized into multidisciplinary units. In Years 1–6 there are 5–6 units per academic year; in Years 7–9 there are one to two modules combining 2–3 subject areas.

Student Teacher Ratio

435 students and 37 teachers; approximately 12:1.

Higher Education Progression

OIS has close links with the IB Diploma Programme of Oulun Lyseo, located in the same building (Kasarmintie 4).

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

Student Welfare encompasses services to promote, maintain and facilitate successful learning, good mental and physical health, and social well-being in the school community. Students feel safe and comfortable studying at school and receive help with problems they may encounter. Individual student welfare includes school health care services, the school nurse, and access to the school psychologist and social worker, coordinated by the pupil welfare working group. The school social worker and the school psychologist promote well-being and mental health, and provide support for learning and development; they may be consulted about questions concerning a child's growth, development, or other school matters. The pupil welfare working group comprises the principal, the deputy heads, the school nurse, the special education teachers, the school social worker, and the school psychologist, with Tiia Seppänen coordinating the group. It meets about every four weeks.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

Special education is given to students who have difficulties related to learning and/or concentration. Teaching takes place individually or in small groups, and a learning plan is drawn up together with guardians for a student who receives regular support. The special education teachers are Saija Laukka (Years 1-5), Janne Heinonen (1-4 C – Individual learning path group) and Tiia Seppänen (Years 5-9).

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school follows the Finnish national curriculum in English. A Transition Class exists to accommodate children who move from abroad but do not have the required English skills to attend OIS mainstream teaching full time; the class is limited to 10 students and may be attended for a maximum of two years. Admission to the Transition Class requires that the student does not have Finnish skills and meets the listed conditions.

Mental Wellbeing

Student welfare encompasses services to promote, maintain and facilitate successful learning, good mental and physical health, as well as social well-being in the school community. The school social worker and the school psychologist promote well-being and mental health, and may be consulted about questions concerning a child's growth, development, or other school matters. A thriving school community is a place of trust and interpersonal openness, and the pupil welfare working group coordinates these services.

Safeguarding

Student welfare is primarily preventative, communal well-being work that supports the entire school community and promotes safety. The pupil welfare working group discusses communal student welfare matters about every four weeks. The school provides access to a School Nurse, School Psychologist, and School Social Worker to support safety and well-being, with coordination through the pupil welfare team.

History

The school is owned by the City of Oulu. It offers Basic Education (Gr 1-9) and follows the Finnish national curriculum in English. It started in Kasarmintie 4 in August 2001 under the administration of Myllytulli Primary and Secondary schools and opened as an independent school in August 2002. The teaching staff is highly qualified and experienced and supports all areas of the curriculum through the first nine years of Basic Education. It currently numbers about 446 children and 37 teachers, with students taught in age-based classes and supported by a team of auxiliary staff.

Community

The school has a Student Council and a range of clubs. Home-School Co-operation is part of school life, and Erasmus is part of the school's international activities. A Parents' Association exists and is linked as OIS Parents' Association, with a presence on Facebook. The school maintains social media channels for community updates, including Facebook and Instagram.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

The school has a Parents' Association. OIS has a Parents' Association named OIS Parents' Association. The association has a presence on Facebook under the name OIS Parents' Association. The school maintains social media channels for community updates, including Facebook and Instagram. Home-School Co-operation involves families as part of school life.

Facilities Overview

Oulu International School is owned by the City of Oulu and offers Basic Education (grades 1–9). It follows the Finnish national curriculum in English. The school is located at Kasarmintie 4, 90130 Oulu. It began in August 2001 and opened as an independent school in August 2002. There are about 446 students and 37 teachers, with classes taught in age-based groups and auxiliary staff available. The library is a central learning resource with a collection of fiction, non-fiction and reference books.

Academic Facilities

Learning at OIS is based on the Finnish national core curriculum and guided by the assessment goals and criteria derived from the curriculum. All students receive support for learning according to their needs. The library supports learning by providing access to fiction, non-fiction and reference materials. Students may participate in a bilingual Reading Diploma adapted from the Oulu City reading diploma.

Extra Curricular Facilities

Clubs are offered at Oulu International School. A club schedule is published for the Spring Term 2025-2026. Harrastamisen aarrearkku is available as an extracurricular activity. The clubs provide opportunities for students to explore interests beyond the classroom.

Academic & Intellectual

After-school clubs include Boardgames Club, Dungeons & Dragons, Math Club and Chess Club. Math Club is for Year 1, Chess Club for Years 3–6, Boardgames Club for Years 2–6, and Dungeons & Dragons for Years 6–9. These clubs meet in spaces such as the Learning Hub and Room 1054, and are led by instructors including Ioana Timperi (Boardgames) and Andrea (D&D). The Spring Semester 2025–2026 schedule lists these offerings and related activities.

Arts & Creative

Drama Club (Year 3–6) meets in the Drama Room, developing performance and collaborative skills. Animated Film Club runs for Year 1–2, Year 3–4, and Year 5–6 in the Drama Room, enabling students to create short films. A Cooking Club (Year 4–6) operates in Home Economics, and Puuhakerho (Fun Club) is available for younger students in the Learning Hub.

Cultural & Language

The school participates in Erasmus projects focused on well-being and culture, including Health is Wealth: enriching EUr Life with partner schools in Scotland, Spain, Italy and Italy. Culture United is an Erasmus project funded by the EU that uses cultural events and heritage festivals as multidisciplinary learning experiences. The school's Erasmus programme includes trips to Scotland, Italy, Finland and Spain and partnerships with several European institutions.

Social & Hobbies

Clubs provide social and hobby experiences after school, including Boardgames Club, Dungeons & Dragons, Drama Club, Animated Film Club, Math Club, Chess Club, Pokemon Club, Table Tennis and Puuhakerho (Fun Club). Sessions take place in Learning Hub, Drama Room, Room 1053 and other spaces, with instructors such as Ioana Timperi (Boardgames) and Henna Korhonen (Pokemon Club) guiding activities. The spring clubs are listed in the Spring Semester 2025–2026 schedule.

Community & Service

Afternoon care is organized by Oulun 4H-yhdistys for children in Grade 1, with afternoon care staff available after school. Forms for afternoon care are provided, and supervision is required unless students are in afternoon care, a club, or at home. The program connects families with a community youth organization and supports after-school care.

Leadership & Professional

Every student is a member of the Oulu International School Student Council, which promotes student wellbeing and involvement in school decisions. The Student Council Board is elected annually and meets at least monthly to plan events and campaigns. Coordinators for the program are Elina Pulkkinen and Janne Heinonen.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Health and well-being are a focus through Erasmus projects such as Health is Wealth: enriching EUr Life, which brings together European partners to share well-being practices. The Culture United project links cultural heritage and well-being activities across partner countries. Afternoon care and student welfare initiatives support safe, healthy after-school routines and the school's broader well-being goals.

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Oulun Lyseon lukio

Instructs in English

Type Co-educational

Located at Kajaaninkatu 3 in Oulu, Oulun Lyseon lukio offers two English‑language upper secondary pathways: the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) and a Finnish general upper secondary track taught in English. The IB DP begins with a preparatory Pre‑DP year and is taught in English. Students choose six subjects from groups covering language and literature, language acquisition, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics and arts, and complete the Theory of Knowledge, the Creativity, Activity and Service course, and the Extended Essay. Finland recognises the IB diploma as equivalent to the national matriculation examination and the diploma supports university study worldwide. From autumn 2026, Lyseo will launch an English‑language Finnish general upper secondary track with the matriculation examination in English planned for autumn 2028. The school has a long history and a main building on Kajaaninkatu, offering opportunities in languages, arts and social learning through its IB programme and forthcoming tracks.

Location

Main school is at Kajaaninkatu 3, 90100 Oulu, Finland. The IB Diploma School is at Kasarmintie 4, 90100 Oulu, Finland. The August Sahlsten unit serves Tyrnävä at Meijeritie 4, 91800 Tyrnävä, Finland.

Stages

Upper secondary education. The school offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme with English as the language of instruction. In autumn 2026, an English-language Finnish general upper secondary education will start at Lyseo.

Additional learning support

Special Education support is provided through Student Welfare services, including a Special Education Teacher, a school health nurse, a school psychologist, and a school social worker.

Country affiliation

Finland

Application fees
- No separate application fee is charged for regular admissions submitted through the national joint application process for students with a Finnish comprehensive school certificate or students resident in the EU/EEA.

Tuition fees (by school year / term / student group)
- Students who are residents of Finland (including EU/EEA citizens) are not charged tuition per term or per academic year for study places at Oulun Lyseon lukio; there is no per‑term or per‑year tuition for these students.
- Students who arrive from countries outside the EU/EEA and whose residence permit in Finland is granted for the purpose of studying (third‑country students) will, from 1 August 2026, generally be subject to an annual tuition fee for upper secondary education; the introduction of these tuition fees applies to general upper secondary (lukio) studies as set out in national guidance. Annual tuition is determined by the education provider and billed according to that provider's schedule (see Billing schedule).
- For students already enrolled and covered by compulsory education rules or permanent residence, no tuition applies; obligations differ for new third‑country entrants whose residence permit is study‑based beginning 1 August 2026.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- For students not charged tuition (Finnish residents and EU/EEA students) there is no tuition billing schedule. Routine school‑related costs that are provided free (see Other costs) are not invoiced as tuition.
- For third‑country students subject to tuition beginning 1 August 2026, the common practice used by several Finnish education providers is to levy an annual tuition fee payable before studies begin; some providers calculate fees per study period (for continuing studies, one fifth of the annual fee per period). Where an annual fee is applied, it is typically invoiced in full for the academic year and must be paid prior to matriculation or the first study period. Specific billing dates and penalties for late payment are set by the education provider. Example municipal practice for 2026 shows fees and the requirement that the annual fee be paid in full before studies start.

Boarding fees (if applicable)
- Oulun Lyseon lukio operates as a municipal day upper secondary school; there is no boarding provision and therefore no boarding fees.

Other costs or fees
- Study materials: For students beginning upper secondary studies at Lyseo in autumn 2025, study materials are provided free of charge. IB final examination fees are paid by the school at the end of studies. Individual students may still choose or be required to obtain personal items (stationery, personal laptop/tablet if desired) or optional course materials when specified. Daily travel costs are covered for distances greater than seven kilometres in the circumstances described for new students.
- Uniforms: Oulun Lyseon lukio does not operate a school uniform system and no uniform fee is levied. Finnish public schools generally do not require school uniforms.
- Meal costs and other school‑day charges: Where applicable, meal fees or optional extracurricular activity fees follow municipal practice; these are separate from tuition and are charged only when the service (for example paid school meals or optional trips) is taken. Municipal meal/ancillary charges are set and invoiced according to city procedures.

Refund information
- For municipal (non‑tuition) students there is no tuition to refund. For third‑country students charged an annual tuition fee, common municipal/provider practice for 2026 is that annual tuition fees are refundable only if studies cannot begin because the student does not receive a required residence permit; otherwise paid tuition is generally non‑refundable if studies are discontinued. Exact refund rules are determined by the education provider and are applied as stated in the provider's fee terms.
- IB examination fees and school‑provided study materials covered by Lyseo are not billed to the student and thus do not require refund handling for those items.

Fee payment options (how invoices are handled)
- Municipal invoicing: When fees or charges are applied (for example a tuition charge for third‑country students, paid optional services, or municipal ancillary charges), billing is handled through the City of Oulu's invoicing procedures. Invoicing and customer payment services are administered via the city's billing channels and associated finance partners; invoices are typically payable by standard methods used for municipal invoices (bank transfer, e‑invoice/e‑lasku or other municipality‑accepted payment methods) in accordance with the invoice details. Contact channels for municipal billing queries are provided through the city's customer invoicing service.

Summary points for parents
- No application or tuition charges apply to students who are residents of Finland or EU/EEA citizens; there is no per‑term or per‑year tuition for these students.
- From 1 August 2026, students arriving from non‑EU/EEA countries on a study‑based residence permit will generally be required to pay an annual tuition fee set by the education provider; amounts and billing terms vary by provider and are charged and administered by the education provider.
- Lyseo covers study materials for the 2025 intake and pays IB final examination fees; parents should still expect incidental personal costs (personal supplies, optional trips, meals when charged) unless otherwise specified.

Curriculum

Offers two English-language programs: International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) and the Finnish general upper secondary track taught in English. The IB Diploma starts with a preparatory preDP year; instruction is in English and the diploma is recognized in Finland as equivalent to the national matriculation examination. The diploma comprises six subjects from groups including language and literature, language acquisition, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, and arts, plus the Theory of Knowledge, Creativity, Activity and Service, and the Extended Essay. It provides preparation for university studies worldwide. In autumn 2026, an English-language Finnish general upper secondary education will start at Lyseo, with the matriculation examination in English for this track; the first examination session is planned for autumn 2028.

Exam Results

The Diploma Programme dropout rate is lower than 5%. The Diploma Programme pass rate is higher than 95%. The mean total points remain above the world average, and subject mean grades remain above the world average.

Higher Education Progression

The IB Diploma is recognized in Finland as equivalent to the national matriculation examination and provides preparation for university studies worldwide. The programme emphasizes research skills and critical thinking to support higher education. Graduates pursue degrees at universities in Finland and internationally.

Academic & Intellectual

Oulun Lyseon lukio offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme alongside the Finnish national high school programme. The Diploma Programme is taught in English. Students study six or seven subjects from Groups 1–6 and complete Theory of Knowledge, the CAS course, and the Extended Essay. The IB diploma is recognized in Finland as equivalent to the national matriculation examination.

Arts & Creative

Group 6 of the IB Diploma Programme at Lyseon lukio includes arts with film. Students study film as part of the Diploma Programme. The curriculum provides opportunities to explore film and other artistic disciplines within the IB framework.

Cultural & Language

Group 1 offers studies in language and literature in English, Finnish, or Chinese. Group 2 offers language acquisition in English, Spanish ab initio, or French ab initio. The language of instruction for the programme is English. The PreDP year develops language proficiency for IB studies.

Social & Hobbies

The Diploma Programme includes collaborative activities such as peer review, math clinic, self-reflection and well-being stations. Lyseo engages in external activities including university visits, excursions in nature and visits to local cultural centers. Students participate in a range of activities designed to support social learning and personal development.

Community & Service

The CAS course includes creative activities, physical education and volunteer work. The programme emphasizes community involvement and service as part of developing responsible global citizens. Our students are balanced, reflective and responsible members of the world community.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The Diploma Programme includes CAS, which covers creative activities, physical education and volunteer work. The school supports student well-being through regular check-up interviews between the coordinator, homeroom teachers, the guidance counsellor and students. The approach promotes well-being through reflective practices and well-being stations, with attention to mental and physical health.

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