Apply to Helsinki Rescue School
The next application period for the rescuer qualification will be from February 2 to March 6, 2026. More detailed dates and instructions for the application process will be updated later.
The next application period for the rescuer qualification will be from February 2 to March 6, 2026. More detailed dates and instructions for the application process will be updated later.
The rescuer qualification takes 1.5 years to complete. The qualification opens opportunities for positions such as rescuer or firefighter nationwide, with excellent employment prospects for graduates.
The application process for rescuer training involves several stages. The table below outlines the main stages, and it will be updated as the application deadline approaches.
The application process
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1. Check your Eligibility on the Admission Criteria
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2. Make an Appointment and have a Health Check and a Muscle Fitness Test
Instructions for booking an appointment will be provided later.
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3. Submit the Online Application Form and Attach the Required Documents
Instructions for submitting the e-application form will be provided later.
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4. Complete the Cooper, Swimming, and Phobia Tests
The applicant will be notified of the test date.
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5. Book an Appointment and Participate in the Aptitude Assessment
Instructions for booking the appointment will be provided later.
5.1. Individual Assesment
Task will be conducted remotely on a computer, with an estimated duration of approximately 2.5 hours.
5.2. Interviews and Group Assesments
The dates for the assessments will be announced later. Place: Helsinki Rescue School (Tyynenmerenkatu 1, 00220, Helsinki).
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6. Receive Information About Conditional Student Selection
All participants of phase 5.2 will be notified of the selection results.
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7. Provide Consent for a Security Clearance
Instructions will be sent separately.
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8. Receive Information About Final Student Selection
The final selection results will be announced as soon as the security clearances are completed.
Information on tests
Muscle Fitness Tests
Muscle fitness tests are conducted on the same day as your health check at the selected testing location.
Cooper Run Test, Swimming, and Phobia Tests
These tests are completed in one day. In the morning, the Cooper Run Test is performed. Those who pass the Cooper Run Test will complete the remaining tests (swimming, phobias) in the afternoon.
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Bench press
45 kg / 60 s / 25 repetition
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Sit-up
34 repetition / 60 s
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Chin-up (underhand grip)
6 repetition
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Squat
45 kg / 60 s / 23 repetition
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Cooper (12 min)
2800 m
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Swimming
200m / 4min 45s. In addition, retrieving an object from water at a depth of about 2 metres (pass/fail)
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Fobia
Fear of high places and enclosed spaces (pass/fail)