Finnish high school graduates who failed exams urged to seek support, plan next steps

Thousands of Finnish students will celebrate their high school graduation this weekend, but for those who failed their final exams, the day can bring deep disappointment and shame, a psychologist warns.

Katja Myllyviita, a psychologist and psychotherapist specializing in emotional processing, told public broadcaster Yle that Finland’s education system—built on constant evaluation—can amplify feelings of failure when students don’t meet their own expectations.

“Graduation exams often become a culmination of shame, where each student must ask themselves: What is good enough for me?” Myllyviita said. She advised students to avoid comparing themselves to peers and instead seek support from friends, family, or counselors.

For parents, Myllyviita emphasized reassurance: “Remind them that one setback doesn’t define their future. The next opportunity to retake exams is just months away.”

Students can retake failed subjects in the next three exam periods, and those who fail the entire diploma may restart it under current rules.

Myllyviita also offered practical advice for handling graduation day itself:

– Assess your emotional state – If grief feels overwhelming, skipping celebrations is acceptable. Alternatively, attending might help some feel included rather than isolated. – Prepare for questions – Rehearse simple responses like “My project continues” or “I’ll celebrate in the fall”—or decline to answer entirely. – Delay major decisions – Avoid rushing into new plans while emotions are raw. Instead, discuss interests and strengths with trusted advisors once feelings settle.

“Important life projects rarely follow a straight path,” Myllyviita noted. “They require patience and persistence.”