Journeys to school and school transport

For pupils in pre-primary education and grades 1 – 2, free transport is arranged to the school designated for the pupil (= local school) when the length of the journey exceeds three kilometres. For other pupils, school transport is arranged if the length of the journey exceeds five kilometres. School transport is also organised if the journey to school is hazardous, or if the pupil needs school transport on the basis of a physician’s or psychologist’s report. Public transport is primarily relied on in school transport. The distance to the school is measured along the shortest route that can be used by a pedestrian, from the pupil’s home to the school gate.

If the pupil attends a school other than their local school on the guardian’s request, the guardian must pay the costs incurred from school transport or escorting the pupil. School transport may also be granted to a school other than the local school, however, if the transport costs are the same or less expensive than those incurred from the pupil’s transport to their local school. In this case, the prerequisite is that travel to school takes place by public transport. The guardian must always apply for transport using the school transport application form. The guardian is also responsible for the costs of school transport when the pupil needs transport to school due to an illness or leisure time accident. Temporary school transport required because of an accident that occurred at school is arranged by the school if necessary.

School transport guide/Finnish National Agency for Education (In Finnish)