What does YKI level 3 require?

Last checked 19 October 2026

In the intermediate YKI test, each subtest gets its own grade: below 3, 3 or 4. Level 3 corresponds to B1. This page explains OPH's criteria in plain English and the most common reasons a text or answer stays below level 3.

The scale at a glance

Grade	CEFR	Meaning
below 3	–	The performance does not reach level 3 yet.
3	B1	Satisfactory skills. This is the level Migri requires for citizenship.
4	B2	Good skills.

OPH's criteria state that the grade is based on the performance as a whole, never on one criterion alone.

Writing at level 3, in plain words

You can write simple, connected text on ordinary topics.
The text is mostly understandable. A few unclear expressions or inconsistencies may interrupt the reading in places.
You handle everyday written communication well, but telling formal and informal registers apart can still be incomplete.
Your vocabulary is enough for everyday situations such as family, work and hobbies.
Structures work in familiar situations. In more demanding ones the language may sound unnatural, but the message gets across.
You can describe, tell what happened and briefly give reasons for opinions and plans.

Speaking at level 3, in plain words

You cope in most practical situations and can take the initiative in everyday ones.
Speech can be fairly slow, but there are few unnatural pauses. You keep going without help.
You are easy to understand even though a foreign accent is clearly evident.
You can link short points into a connected sequence.
Your vocabulary covers most everyday topics. Errors occur, but it is clear what you mean.

What separates level 4 from level 3?

According to OPH's criteria, at level 4 expression is more varied, the level of abstraction is higher, and the writer or speaker distinguishes between formal and informal registers.

Common reasons for staying below level 3

This is not an OPH list. These are things that, measured against the criteria, easily pull a performance down:

A task point is missing. If the task asks for four things and you cover three, the reader doesn't get everything they need.
Wrong register. Moi! in a complaint, or a blunt Haluan rahat with no politeness.
Disconnected sentences. The text reads like a list because there are no linking words.
Too little content. A very short text or answer doesn't show what you can do. OPH's advice is to always try to answer something.
Errors that block understanding. Small errors are allowed, but the reader or listener must understand what you mean.
Long silences when speaking. Stopping because of a mistake costs time and fluency.

How many people reach level 3?

OPH's statistics show 8,417 attempts at the Finnish intermediate YKI test in 2024. Of these, 3,835 (about 46%) reached level 3 or higher and 4,582 stayed below 3. That is why it pays to practise the writing and speaking tasks and get feedback on them before the test.

FAQ

Is YKI level 3 the same as B1?

Yes. OPH says intermediate grade 3 corresponds to CEFR level B1 and grade 4 to B2.

What does 'below 3' mean?

It means the subtest performance did not reach level 3. The intermediate test gives below 3, 3 or 4.

Is level 3 enough for citizenship?

Migri requires at least level 3 in the intermediate YKI test in one oral and one written subtest, in an accepted combination. See the accepted combinations.

Is one criterion more important than the others?

No. OPH's criteria state that the grade is formed from the performance as a whole, not from any single criterion.

Try it free: 1 writing + 1 speaking check

Get instant feedback on your text or speech. The level shown is an unofficial practice estimate, not a YKI result. No card needed.

Start free

Sources

Tasolle3 is an independent practice service. We are not the Finnish National Agency for Education (OPH) or the Finnish Immigration Service (Migri). Always check the official sources linked here for current information.