Finnish matriculation exam essay theme surprises students with focus on love

The theme of this year’s Finnish matriculation exam essay—love—divided opinions among students, with many welcoming it as a refreshing contrast to global conflicts, according to a survey by national broadcaster Yle.

Over 70 students shared their reactions with Yle after the Finnish language and literature exam, where “love” was revealed as the essay topic. While most responses were positive, some found the theme too broad or abstract.

Fanni Korpelainen from Lieto called it a perfect choice: “I was the happiest person in the world! Thank you, Matriculation Examination Board!” Others, like Jere Lampén from Tervakoski, struggled with its scope. “Love is too vast and abstract—it’s hard to write something concrete about it. Taking a stance is difficult because everyone has personal experiences with family, friends, and relationships,” he said.

Iiris Oksanen from Tampere admitted the theme was unexpectedly sentimental for her taste, though she acknowledged its timeliness: “It’s nice to dwell on something warm amid all the chaos in the world.”

For Aino Sääskilahti from Laukaa, love was an ideal subject. “I could talk about it every minute. The broadness allowed for personal angles, though it also risked going off-topic.” Iris Hietamies from Lappeenranta, who had braced for topics like war or climate change, called the choice a “positive surprise.”

Oona Vanhala from Tampere predicted unique submissions: “It was a wonderful, important theme—great to write about something warm amid war, violence, and unemployment. Love means different things to people; some find it intimate, others see it as life’s essence.”

Helka Raetsaari from Oulu saw it as fitting for the current global climate: “The world needs more love amid conflicts and divisions.” Joona Levälahde from Espoo noted its everyday relevance: “I loved it! Love is part of daily life, so it was easy to write about.”

The Finnish matriculation exam, a national university entrance test, often sparks debate over its essay themes, which range from societal issues to personal reflections.