Compensation is not an alternative to CSN
To be entitled to compensation, you must be actively seeking and able to accept full-time work, and therefore in most cases you are not allowed to study while receiving compensation. Compensation must not be used as an alternative to other student financial aid, but there are some exceptions.
20 weeks up to 50 percent
One may study with a-kassa for a maximum of 20 weeks during a compensation period. Once the application is approved, studies can be pursued without deductions from the compensation. The requirements for a-kassa to approve studies are that:
the study pace is no more than 50 percent of full-time,
one has not left a job in order to study,
the education does not prevent one from seeking and accepting full-time employment, and
one has not received or is not receiving any form of study support for the course. (Exception: if one participated in education for at least 15 weeks alongside work before becoming unemployed.)
If the study pace is unclear or flexible, a certificate from the education provider must be attached, showing course times and details about the education. It does not affect the assessment whether the course takes place during the day, in the evening, or on weekends.
What counts as 50 percent?
Maximum half-time pace at universities and colleges.
Maximum 10 study points per week at Komvux. Equivalent to 200 points per term.
Other studies: Attach a course description to the application and we will assess the study pace.
20 weeks at a study pace higher than 50 percent
In certain cases, studies may be approved even if the study pace exceeds half-time. The requirements for approval are that:
one has not left a job in order to begin studying,
the education is not and has not been funded by CSN, study entry support, or transition study support,
one has pursued the education for at least 15 weeks alongside full-time work during the qualification period (the past 12 months), and
one does not increase the scope of the studies during the unemployment period.
15 days full-time
It is possible to receive a-kassa even during short full-time education programs, up to a maximum of 15 days. The purpose must be to provide orientation about different professions and educational paths or to support the transition from one job to another.
Wait for our decision before starting studies
Once the application to study has been reviewed, we issue a written decision.
Do not begin any studies before the decision has been made—if the application is denied, you may be required to repay compensation.
If the application cannot be approved, the right to compensation ends on the date the studies begin. If you then choose not to start the studies, you must notify both us and the education provider in order to maintain your right to compensation.