Any pupil who wishes to study in a bilingual environment and learn the Russian language can apply to The School of Eastern Finland.
The school path begins in pre-primary education, and the goal is for pupils to continue within the same school community through basic education and upper secondary school. However, it is also possible to start at other grade levels.
Preschool
Applications for pre-primary education are submitted by filling in the application form and returning it to the nearest school unit. Each location admits a maximum of 20 pupils to its pre-primary group. In the selection process, early childhood and pre-primary education specialists assess whether The School of Eastern Finland pre-primary group is a suitable place for the child. In case of a tie, priority is given to children who already have siblings studying at The School of Eastern Finland.
The application period for pre-primary education in Imatra and Lappeenranta ends on 31 January 2026. For the Joensuu unit, the application period ends on 5 December 2025. Available places can be inquired directly from the unit’s principal even after the application deadline. Applications can be submitted electronically or on paper. Completed forms can be delivered directly to the principal or sent by post to: Itä-Suomen koulu, Laserkatu 8, 53850 Lappeenranta.
Electronic applicationPrintable application form
Comprehensive School
Applications for grade 1 are submitted either electronically or in writing and returned to the nearest school unit. Applicants take an entrance test by which their language and school readiness are assessed. After the application period ends, any remaining places can be inquired about from the unit’s principal.
Pupils may also be admitted to grades 2–9 if there are available places at the desired grade level and the applicant demonstrates sufficient Russian language skills and grade-appropriate knowledge in other subjects.
Electronic applicationPrintable application form
The application period for pre-primary education and grade 1 in Imatra and Lappeenranta ends on 31 January 2026. For the Joensuu unit, applications for grade 1 close on 21 November 2025. Available places can be inquired about directly from the unit’s principal even after the deadline.
Applications can be delivered directly to the unit’s principal or sent by post to: Itä-Suomen koulu, Laserkatu 8, 53850 Lappeenranta.
Electronic application for other gradesPrintable application form for other grades
Upper Secondary School
Applications to the upper secondary school of Eastern Finland are made through the national spring joint application process.
Electronic application (Joensuu)Electronic application (Imatra)Electronic application (Lapppeenranta)
