Adult education allowance and the scholarship for qualified employee have been discontinued

The adult education allowance and the scholarship for qualified employee supported self-motivated learning during working careers in Finland for over 20 years. The benefits have now been discontinued and can no longer be applied for. On this page, we briefly explain what these benefits were, what the discontinuation means, and where you can find the information you need in the future.

Data retention and contact after discontinuation

What were the benefits?

The benefits supported employees and entrepreneurs in developing their professional skills during their careers. The adult education allowance enabled individuals to focus on studies financially when work was interrupted or reduced. The scholarship for qualified employee encouraged completing vocational qualifications through a one-time payment.

Why were the benefits discontinued?

The discontinuation was outlined in the Government Programme of Prime Minister Orpo’s Government in 2023. The aim was to reduce public expenditure and improve employment. The decision led to a gradual phase-out.

• The legislation entered into force on 1 June 2024.
• A transition period applied from 1 August 2024 to 31 December 2025.
• Benefits could be paid only if studies began by 31 July 2024.
• Applications could be submitted retroactively until 31 March 2026.

The summary on the implementation of adult education benefits

The summary on the implementation of adult education benefits, published on 1 April 2026, brings together for the first time information on the implementation, use and impacts of adult education benefits from the early 2000s until their discontinuation.
The publication provides decision‑makers with a fact‑based overall view of adult education benefits, aiming to support the assessment and development of new options in the future. You can access the publication via the link below. The summary is only available in Finnish.