YKI vs. TISUS: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Take?
If you’re planning to study, work, or settle in a Swedish-speaking country, you might need to prove your Swedish skills with an official language exam. Two of the most recognized exams are:
- YKI – Yleinen Kielitutkinto, used in Finland
- TISUS – Test i svenska för universitets- och högskolestudier, used in Sweden
But how do you choose between YKI and TISUS? This guide will help you understand the differences and decide which exam fits your goals.
Quick Comparison: YKI vs. TISUS
| Feature | YKI (Finland) | TISUS (Sweden) |
|---|---|---|
| Use Case | Citizenship, work, general proficiency | University admission in Sweden |
| Proficiency Level | B1–C2 (choose level) | C1 only |
| Language | Finnish or Swedish version | Swedish only |
| Recognition | Finnish Migration Service, employers | All Swedish universities |
| Citizenship use | ✅ Yes (Finland) | ❌ Not valid for Sweden |
| Listening component | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (only speaking, reading, writing) |
| Exam frequency | 2–3 times/year | 2 times/year (May & Nov) |
| Offered in | Finland | Sweden + some locations abroad |
🇫🇮 What Is YKI?
YKI is Finland’s national certificate for language proficiency. It can be taken in Swedish or Finnish and is designed for adults who need to prove language skills for:
- Finnish citizenship (B1)
- Work or education applications
- Personal development
You can choose your level (intermediate or advanced), and the exam includes:
- Reading
- Writing
- Listening
- Speaking
It’s a more flexible and general-use exam, ideal if you live in Finland or need a B1/B2 certificate.
🇸🇪 What Is TISUS?
TISUS is required if you want to study at a Swedish university and don’t already have high school education in Swedish. It only tests at C1 level and is designed to check academic readiness, not conversational fluency.
It tests:
- Reading comprehension
- Formal writing (summarizing + opinion)
- Speaking (discussion + monologue)
It does not include a listening section, unlike YKI.
Who Should Take Which Exam?
| You are… | Take… |
|---|---|
| Applying to a Swedish university | ✅ TISUS |
| Applying for Finnish citizenship | ✅ YKI (B1 level) |
| Living in Finland and need a job certificate | ✅ YKI |
| Wanting to prove general Swedish skills (B1/B2) | ✅ YKI |
| Aiming for C1 academic Swedish in Sweden | ✅ TISUS |
Exam Format Comparison
| Section | YKI | TISUS |
|---|---|---|
| Reading | Newspaper texts + questions | Academic texts + summary |
| Listening | Everyday and formal audio | ❌ Not tested |
| Writing | Email + essay | Argumentative + summarizing essays |
| Speaking | Interview + task (alone/pair) | Interview + monologue |
Where to Prepare
YKI Preparation:
- YKI-kirja or Suomea suomeksi (Swedish edition)
- Practice at Migri.fi
- Swedish lessons tailored for immigrants in Finland
TISUS Preparation:
- Rivstart C1+C2 textbook
- Practice papers from tisus.su.se
- Online C1-level Swedish courses like Online Swedish
FAQ: Common Questions
No. YKI is primarily recognized in Finland.
Yes, it’s C1 level and meant for academic readiness.
Yes. Some Swedish embassies and institutions abroad offer it.
No, but it’s often subsidized for immigrants.
