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Government proposes expanding study opportunities for unemployed people
The Government proposes a legislative amendment under which open higher education studies would no longer affect unemployment security for unemployed people aged 25 or over. Open higher education studies refer to higher education studies at universities, universities of applied sciences, adult education centres and summer universities that can be completed without a place as a degree student.
In future, jobseekers would not need to notify the employment authority of their open higher education studies, and the authority would not assess the effect of the studies on unemployment security.
At present, open higher education studies may prevent a person from receiving unemployment security.
Job-seeking obligation would remain during studies
Receiving an unemployment benefit would still require the jobseeker to seek work in accordance with their employment plan and to be prepared to accept full-time work. In addition, the jobseeker would be obliged to participate in services promoting employment if such services are offered.
The change would apply to people aged 25 or over
The Government is not proposing changes to the provisions concerning studying on unemployment security for those under the age of 25. The employment authority would assess the effect of studies on unemployment security in the current manner if the jobseeker is under 25. Studies considered full-time would continue to prevent entitlement to unemployment security.
Entry into force of the change
Please note that the legislative amendment is not yet in force. According to the Government proposal, the change is intended to enter into force by autumn 2026 at the latest.
The change would apply to studies beginning after the Act enters into force.
We will provide updates on the progress of the matter when we receive further information.
Further information
- Ministry of economic affairs and employment: Government proposes making it easier to study while unemployed
- Parliament of Finland: Government proposal HE 86/2026 vp (in Finnish)
- Employment authority’s website, Job Market Finland: Studying while unemployed
If you have any questions about studying while receiving unemployment security, please contact the employment authority.
