Education is one of the cornerstones of Finnish society, and nowhere is this more evident than in Helsinki. Finland has long been celebrated worldwide for its innovative approach to teaching, focus on equality, and consistently high student outcomes. Families moving to Helsinki or already living in the capital city are often surprised by the sheer quality of local schools, many of which are tuition-free and supported by the government. Beyond the strong public system, Helsinki also offers bilingual schools, international schools, and special programs that prepare students for higher education both in Finland and abroad.
Choosing the right school is one of the most important decisions for a family. For some, the priority is integrating into Finnish society by attending a local Finnish-language school. For others, the focus might be continuity in international curricula like the International Baccalaureate (IB), especially if the family moves frequently. There are also families who value bilingualism, seeking schools where instruction is delivered in both Finnish and another language, such as English, German, French, or Swedish.
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This article explores the best schools in Helsinki as of 2025. Each school is profiled in detail, highlighting curriculum, language of instruction, admissions, and special strengths. Whether you are looking for a world-renowned IB program, a strong Finnish upper secondary school, or a bilingual school with a cultural heritage, Helsinki offers excellent options.
Best Schools in Helsinki
Education in Helsinki: An Overview
The Finnish education system is often cited as one of the most equitable and effective in the world. Helsinki’s schools are no exception. Understanding how the system works can help parents choose the best option for their children.
Public vs Private Schools
Most schools in Helsinki are municipal public schools, funded by the city. These schools are free of tuition and provide high-quality education. Materials, meals, and transport are often subsidized or included. There are also a handful of private schools and state schools, some of which operate with partial public funding but may charge modest fees.
Comprehensive and Upper Secondary
Education is divided into two main stages:
- Comprehensive school (peruskoulu): Grades 1–9, for ages 7–16. This is compulsory and free for all students.
- Upper secondary education (lukio): Optional but common for ages 16–19. Students here prepare either for the Finnish matriculation exam (ylioppilastutkinto) or for the IB Diploma, depending on the school.
Bilingual and International Options
Helsinki has invested heavily in bilingual education, where students study subjects in both Finnish and another language. There are also full international schools, offering curricula such as the IB or European Baccalaureate. Languages available include English, Swedish, German, French, Chinese, Russian, Estonian, and Spanish.
Recent Developments
Starting in 2026, Finland will allow the matriculation exam to be taken fully in English for students who are not fluent in Finnish or Swedish. This reform will make upper secondary schooling even more accessible to international families. Admissions for bilingual programs are also being streamlined, ensuring a more transparent and equal process.
The Best Schools in Helsinki
Below are the top schools in Helsinki and the surrounding region, each offering unique strengths. They are listed in no particular order, as the “best” school depends on individual needs.
1. Helsingin Suomalainen Yhteiskoulu (SYK)
Quick Facts
- Type: Private, partly state-funded
- Grades: 3–9 (comprehensive) + upper secondary (IB or Finnish matriculation)
- Location: Etelä-Haaga, Helsinki
- Founded: 1886
Academics and Curriculum
SYK is one of the most prestigious schools in Helsinki, blending tradition with modern educational practices. The school offers both the Finnish national curriculum and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. In its IB section, SYK consistently achieves excellent results, with graduating classes averaging around 37 points out of 45—well above the world average.
Languages of Instruction
The comprehensive school is mainly Finnish-language, but students begin foreign languages early. The IB program is fully in English, making it suitable for international students who meet the entry requirements.
Facilities and Culture
SYK is known for its excellent facilities, including modern science labs, computer labs, music and art rooms, a gym, and even a swimming pool. The school culture emphasizes academic excellence, global citizenship, and extracurricular involvement.
Admissions
Admission to the IB section requires strong grades and an entrance exam in mathematics and English. The process is competitive, with limited spaces available each year.
Why It Stands Out
SYK offers the best of both worlds: integration into Finnish education and access to an internationally recognized IB program. Its strong results and reputation make it a top choice for ambitious students.
2. Ressun Lukio (Ressu Upper Secondary School)
Quick Facts
- Type: Public (municipal)
- Grades: Upper secondary (ages 16–19)
- Location: Central Helsinki
- Students: ~900
Academics and Curriculum
Ressu offers two tracks: the Finnish national program and the IB Diploma Programme. The dual structure makes it versatile, giving students the option to prepare for Finnish universities or international higher education.
Languages of Instruction
The Finnish track is taught in Finnish, while the IB track is taught in English. This makes Ressu one of the best public options for international families.
Facilities and Culture
Located in central Helsinki, Ressu has modern classrooms, science labs, and spaces dedicated to arts and extracurriculars. Its student body is diverse, with both Finnish and international students.
Admissions
The national track admits students through the joint application system. Admission to the IB track is more competitive, requiring strong grades and an entrance exam.
Why It Stands Out
Ressu is one of the most selective and respected upper secondary schools in Helsinki, offering an elite academic environment with no tuition fees for the municipal program.
3. International School of Helsinki (ISH)
Quick Facts
- Type: Private international school
- Grades: Early childhood to Grade 12 (ages 4–18)
- Location: Ruoholahti, Helsinki
- Curriculum: IB World School
Academics and Curriculum
ISH is a fully accredited IB World School, offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and Diploma Programme (DP). Students graduate with an IB diploma recognized worldwide.
Languages of Instruction
English is the main language of instruction. The school is home to more than 50 nationalities, making it one of the most international environments in Helsinki.
Facilities and Culture
ISH boasts modern facilities, including science labs, art studios, theaters, and sports fields. The atmosphere is welcoming and diverse, emphasizing global citizenship and creativity.
Admissions
Admission is based on availability and an assessment of the student’s ability to thrive in an English-language IB environment. Tuition fees apply, making this one of the more expensive options in Helsinki.
Why It Stands Out
For expat families seeking continuity in international education, ISH is one of the best options in Finland.
4. European School of Helsinki (ESH)
Quick Facts
- Type: Accredited European School
- Grades: Pre-primary through secondary
- Curriculum: European Baccalaureate
- Languages: Multiple, including English, Finnish, French, German
Academics and Curriculum
ESH follows the European Schools system, offering a multicultural and multilingual education. Students progress toward the European Baccalaureate, which is widely recognized in Europe and beyond.
Languages of Instruction
Students can study in their mother tongue while learning additional languages. Instruction is offered in English, Finnish, French, and German, with other languages available as subjects.
Facilities and Culture
The school promotes a European identity and international cooperation. Its facilities support a wide range of extracurriculars, from arts to sciences.
Admissions
Priority is often given to children of EU staff, but other students are also admitted based on availability. Tuition applies for families not covered by EU agreements.
Why It Stands Out
For families with a European background or frequent mobility within Europe, ESH provides continuity and strong language education.
5. Mattlidens Gymnasium (Espoo)
Quick Facts
- Type: Public, Swedish-language upper secondary
- Location: Espoo (15 minutes from Helsinki)
- Curriculum: Finnish matriculation (Swedish track) + IB Diploma
Academics and Curriculum
Mattlidens Gymnasium is one of the largest Swedish-language upper secondary schools in Finland. It offers both the Swedish matriculation exam and an IB track. Its IB program is respected and attracts students from across the region.
Languages of Instruction
Instruction is mainly in Swedish, with English for the IB track.
Facilities and Culture
The school is known for its modern facilities, including advanced science labs and multimedia studios. It promotes bilingualism and a supportive community.
Admissions
Admission to the IB track is selective and requires strong academic performance. The Swedish track requires fluency in Swedish.
Why It Stands Out
Mattlidens is ideal for Swedish-speaking families or students seeking a strong IB program in a bilingual environment.
6. Deutsche Schule Helsinki (German School)
Quick Facts
- Type: Private, partly state-funded
- Grades: 1–12
- Location: Kamppi, Helsinki
- Languages: German and Finnish
Academics and Curriculum
Founded in 1881, the German School offers a bicultural education combining German and Finnish curricula. Students can graduate with qualifications recognized in both Germany and Finland.
Languages of Instruction
Instruction is in German and Finnish, with English taught as a foreign language. This makes it suitable for German-speaking families and those who want a trilingual education.
Facilities and Culture
The school emphasizes cultural exchange, academic excellence, and multilingualism. Facilities include modern classrooms, libraries, and sports areas.
Admissions
German language skills are an advantage but not always required for the youngest grades. Admission is competitive for higher grades.
Why It Stands Out
This school is the top choice for German families in Helsinki and a great option for anyone seeking a strong multilingual education.
7. The English School of Helsinki
Quick Facts
- Type: Private, partly funded
- Grades: 1–12
- Location: Etelä-Haaga
- Curriculum: Finnish national curriculum + strong English emphasis
Academics and Curriculum
The English School combines Finnish national education with intensive English instruction. Students graduate with the Finnish matriculation exam, giving them access to Finnish universities.
Languages of Instruction
Both English and Finnish are used as mediums of instruction, depending on the subject and grade level.
Facilities and Culture
The school has a strong reputation for discipline, academic rigor, and fostering bilingualism. It also offers a variety of extracurriculars.
Admissions
Admission is through application and, at some levels, entrance exams. Because it is popular, places are competitive.
Why It Stands Out
For families wanting strong English exposure without committing to the IB, The English School offers the perfect balance.
8. Lycée Franco-Finlandais d’Helsinki (French-Finnish School)
Quick Facts
- Type: State school, partly French-funded
- Grades: 1–12
- Location: Helsinki
- Languages: French and Finnish
Academics and Curriculum
The Lycée offers a unique French-Finnish program, allowing students to graduate with qualifications recognized in both countries. It combines the Finnish curriculum with French standards.
Languages of Instruction
Subjects are taught in French and Finnish, with English also included.
Facilities and Culture
The school promotes cultural exchange between France and Finland. Students enjoy access to both Finnish and French teaching resources.
Admissions
Children of French citizens and French-speaking families are often given priority. Others may apply, but admission is competitive.
Why It Stands Out
This school is an excellent choice for French families in Helsinki or those seeking a trilingual education.
Comparison: How to Choose the Right School
Helsinki’s top schools share high standards but differ in focus. Here’s a simplified comparison:
| Priority | Recommended Schools |
|---|---|
| Best IB Results | SYK, Ressun Lukio, Mattlidens Gymnasium, ISH |
| Strong Finnish National Curriculum | Ressun Lukio, SYK, The English School |
| Multilingual / Bilingual Focus | German School, French-Finnish School, The English School |
| Swedish-Language Option | Mattlidens Gymnasium |
| Fully International | ISH, European School of Helsinki |
| Free or Low-Cost | Ressun Lukio, Mattlidens (public), most Finnish comprehensive schools |
When choosing, families should consider:
- Language proficiency of the child
- Long-term goals (Finnish university vs international)
- Budget (free municipal vs tuition-based private schools)
- Commute and location
- Cultural fit and extracurricular opportunities
Conclusion
Helsinki offers an exceptional range of schools, from tuition-free public institutions to elite international programs. The Finnish education system guarantees quality across the board, but the right choice depends on family priorities.
For academic excellence with international recognition, SYK and Ressun Lukio stand out. For families seeking full international environments, ISH and the European School of Helsinki are excellent options. Those valuing cultural or linguistic ties may prefer the German School, the French-Finnish School, or Mattlidens Gymnasium for Swedish instruction. Finally, the English School strikes a balance between Finnish education and strong English exposure.
With recent reforms making English-language matriculation more accessible, Helsinki’s schools are becoming even more international. Families who take the time to explore their options will find that Helsinki offers some of the best education in Europe—equipping students for success both at home and around the world.