Finland's Consumer Protection Agency is advising Helsinki Design School students to stop paying tuition invoices. The school announced it will close through bankruptcy proceedings last Friday.
Students should not pay any bills or collection notices for studies that will not happen. The Competition and Consumer Authority issued clear guidance about this situation.
If students receive invoices for unpaid fees, they should dispute them directly with the billing company or collection agency. They should state clearly they will not pay for services they will never receive.
Students who already paid tuition now become creditors in the bankruptcy process. They can file claims to recover their money through bankruptcy proceedings.
Those who used credit cards or loans to pay tuition have additional options. They can request refunds directly from their credit card companies or lenders.
Young adult students expressed deep disappointment about the sudden closure. Many described feeling betrayed by the school's communication failures.
One student in her twenties told reporters this represents a significant financial loss for people their age. She said most of her classmates are young adults facing this unexpected burden.
The consumer authority notes no bankruptcy application has yet been filed with district court. This creates uncertainty about the formal process timeline.
Students should monitor the company's official communications and check insolvency registers for updates. The authority recommends staying informed through official channels.
This situation highlights the risks students face when educational institutions fail suddenly. Proper consumer protection guidance becomes essential when promised services disappear.
The visual arts education provider operated in Finland's capital region. Its abrupt closure leaves students seeking alternatives for their creative careers.