About Estonia

Estonia is quite a well-kept secret, still relatively unknown in many parts of the world. Across the bay from Finland and Sweden, we are a country of only 1.3 million residents living on 45 000 square kilometres. What we lack in numbers, however, we more than make up for in spirit and big ideas! Here are just some of the reasons why we think Estonia is an awesome place:

Why Estonian universities?

  • Over 100 unique and high quality degree programmes taught fully in English
  • Internationally accepted diplomas
  • Various state scholarships and funding possibilities for incoming students
  • English language widely spoken
  • High level research projects
  • Active and fun student life
  • Working possibilities during studies and possibility to stay in the country for 9 months to look for a job after graduation
  • The personal touch: small group sizes in classrooms
  • Great value for money and affordable living
  • Safe and stable environment

92% of international students in Estonia are satisfied with the level of support they received during their studies.

 

Want to study abroad in Estonia?

As one of the first fully-digitalized societies in the world, few countries could match the technological advancements that Estonia has achieved. Students taking up an education in Estonia are given a glimpse to the world of tomorrow, where almost every facet of life – healthcare, business, even government elections–  are done online.

Due to the country’s success and high quality of life, an education in Estonia has become an interesting pursuit among the global community. An estimated 3,800 foreign enrollees and around 1,500 exchange students called the country their home during the academic year of 2016.

The trend is on an upward surge, with a 20% growth of foreign applicants every year. Plus, 89% of international students stated that they are satisfied with their education in Estonia in a survey conducted by the International Student Barometer.

Estonian academic institutions provide over 140 English-instructed, internationally-recognized degree programs as well as a successful and efficient support service for foreign students pursuing an education in Estonia.

More about education in Estonia

Estonia is the birthplace of premiere companies such as Skype and TransferWise.

The student population features individuals from 90 different countries, including fellow European states such as Germany, Italy and Russia, as well as non-European nations in China, India and the US. Student life is made sweeter by the fact that the Internet is majorly free and accessible anywhere, as Estonia declared that Internet access is a basic human right in the year 2000.

Another attractive aspect of an education in Estonia is that the country is also one of healthiest places to live in with 50% of its territory covered in forests. Along with quaint inlets and gorgeous beaches, these natural wonders remain relatively untouched, due to the nation’s small population size.

The study guide sections below offer a more detailed information about undertaking an education in Estonia.

Estonian University Education System

The education system in Estonia can trace its roots as far as the 13th century during the establishment of the first monastic schools. The University of Tartus is the Estonia’s national university, was well as its biggest, most prestigious, and oldest, having been established in 1632 when Estonia was still under Swedish rule.

Today, the higher education system in Estonia is divided into two branches: Academic and Professional.

The former specializes in research and general educational development while the latter focuses more on providing vocational training and the necessary competence for employment.

Academic study is split into three cycles namely:

Bachelor’s Studies (Bakalaureusekraad) 

In the simplest of terms, the first cycle of higher education ensures that students are equipped with the basic understanding and knowledge in the programme they studied in.

  • Bachelor’s studies are often completed after 3-4 years which amount to a study load of 180-240 ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) credits.
  • Students can choose between two types of curricula:
    • Theory Based– practical skills are developed based on theoretical principles and a strong knowledge in general education.
    • Professional– emphasizes practical training where theoretical knowledge is developed based on practical needs. The Rakenduskõrgharidusõppe diplom is given after completion of the study.
  • After graduating from both curricula, students are awarded a bachelor’s degree and are now eligible for the second cycle otherwise known as Master’s studies.

Master’s Studies (Magistrikraad)

This second cycle of higher education enhances the specialized knowledge and skills acquired at the Bachelor’s level, while also paving the way for more advanced forms of learning, such as Doctoral study.

  • Master’s studies are generally finished after 1-2 years with a study load of 60-120 ECTS credits.
  • In Estonia, the length of a Master’s level curriculum normally doesn’t differ among specialties.
  • At least one year’s worth of work experience is required to pursue a Master’s degree in an institution of professional higher education.
  • When combined with Bachelor’s studies, the length of study and the amount of work load should not be less than 5 years and 300 credits respectively.
  • There are more than 50 English-taught Master’s programmes in Estonia.

Doctoral Studies in Estonia (Doktorikraad) 

The highest level of study in higher education gives students the most prestigious set of knowledge and skills necessary for research, development as well as career advancement in their chosen field of work.

  • The average length of doctoral studies in Estonia is 4 years with a study load of 240 ECTS credits.
  • Estonia is home to international students from more than 50 countries across the globe.

Apart from the traditional two-cycle structure presented above, Estonian academic institutions also offer another method of acquiring Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees:

Integrated Study Programs

The education system in Estonia features single-long cycle studies in which both Bachelor’s and Master’s studies are integrated into one curriculum.

  • These have a length of 5-6 years are equivalent to 300-360 ECT credits.
  • Implemented in the study areas of medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, veterinary medicine, architecture and civil engineering.
  • Successful completion of the programme generally leads to a master’s level diploma.

The Estonian Academic Year

The Estonian academic year, which runs from September up until June, is split into two terms: Autumn and Spring. International students often begin their studies during Autumn.

Both terms last for five months. The Autumn term is generally from September to December with examinations taking place in January.

On the other hand, the Spring term begins either on the end of January or the beginning of February, lasting up to the end of May, with examinations taking place until the end of June.

Students are entitled to a holiday break which should be, at minimum, eight weeks long per year.

 

Student Visas in Estonia

There is no such thing as a student visa in Estonia. Acquiring the right to study in Estonia is done through an entirely different process, with separate and specific requirements for EU citizens and for those outside of the EU.

Non-EU Citizens

Citizens from countries outside the EU will need to check if a visa is needed for them to enter Estonia as some none-EU nations have a visa-free agreement with the country.

If a visa is needed, the student can apply for either a short-term stay (type C – less than 90 days) or long-stay visa (type D – 3 to 12 months) to be allowed entry into the Schengen area.

Should the duration of study exceed more than 12 months, an Estonian temporary residence permit (TRP) is also needed to pursue a study in Estonia.

  • It is advisable to apply for the TRP prior to the student’s arrival to Estonia, as the process will take up to two months or even longer, depending on the season.
  • The application for the visa and the TRP can be submitted at the same time.
  • The temporary residence permit (TRP) for study is issued for the entire period of study (3 years for Bachelor’s; 2 years for Master’s)
  • Extension of the TRP should be applied 2 months prior to its expiry.

Within a month of arrival in the country (if they already have a permit) or after the acquisition of their residence permit, Non-EU students are required to register their place of residence at the local government registers office.

Requirements for Temporary Residence Permit

  • A printed and filled out application form for TRP
  • Sufficient funding or income
  • A valid health insurance contract
  • Enrollment/Invitation letter from the chosen academic institution
  • Data concerning close relatives and family members
  • Receipt of payment of the state fee
  • Documents proving your identity
  • A 40×50 mm colored photo

While the entire process may seem intimidating, Estonian academic institutions which offer international programmes are well-experienced in assisting foreign applicants, so requesting for their help is highly recommended.

Working while Studying 

Taking up a job as a student does not require an additional permit. If one can study in Estonia, then it automatically ensures the right to work – even full time – provided that the job does not interfere with one’s academic performance.

Should they be interested in finding a job in Estonia, non-EU students can stay for an additional 6 months after their graduation to give them time to do so.

Living Costs & Accommodation in Estonia

The cost of a student accommodation in Estonia will differ on the type and quality of accommodation, the location, and the current season. Not all universities offer student dormitories or hostels, so it would be best to consult with your chosen institution’s International Relations Office about your options.

Quick facts about student dormitories

  • Some universities offer single, double and triple roomed dormitories.
  • Apartment-type dormitories are the most common, where up to a maximum of 4 people can share two twin rooms, a kitchenette, a shower and toilet.
  • Rent is the sum of the number of tenants plus utility costs (water, electricity, sewage, and heating)
  • The average price range for student dormitories is €80 –150 per month.
  • Sometimes, there is an option of renting a twin room for just one person. All expenses will then be doubled.
  • It is advisable to meet first with your roommates to see what they already have in the dorm before buying any additional appliances or items. Dorms are generally equipped with the basic furniture items (bed, refrigerator, shelves, etc.)

Quick facts about Private Housing

  • The best way to find the ideal flat is to ask for help from your local friends, professors or even acquaintances, as the cost of rent could be overexaggerated for international students.
  • Upon the confirmation of a rental deal, you will be asked to pay a deposit, which is normally equivalent to three months’ of rent.
  • The average price range for private housing is €200–510
  • International students usually agree to buy and share the bigger apartments amongst themselves to cut costs on rent as well on the time spent commuting from the university.

Living costs for necessities in Estonia

As with other expenses, the living costs of a student will differ based on their lifestyle and spending choices. In general, living costs in Estonia are more affordable compared to the other European countries.

  • A food budget costing around €200–250 per month is considered enough to live comfortably in Estonia.
  • People residing and studying (including international students) in Tallinn do not have to pay for public transportation.
  • However, those living in Tartu will have to pay €8.63 for a monthly student ticket or €0.51 – €1 for a single journey.
  • It costs €8.10 – €10.50 to get from Tallinn to Tartu via bus.
  • Taxis initially charge a fee of €1.9 and €0.6 for every succeeding kilometer.
  • Student in Estonia generally do not have to worry about travel expenses, as shops that provide basic necessities (supermarkets, pharmacies, cafes) are within walking distance of most universities.

Entertainment and leisure costs

  • Theatre tickets are around €12 – €18; Concerts range from € 8 – €30; and Cinemas charge €4.5–€5.7
  • Nightclubs charge up to €5 – €15, with possibilities for free entrance or discounts for students with a student card.
  • Universities have gyms and fitness clubs which costs €30–€35 per month while private clubs are understandably more expensive, clocking in at €30–€70.

 

Tuition Fees in Estonia

Tuition fees in Estonia will depend on your chosen institution, the level of your studies, and your preferred programme.

At times, the cost of the tuition will also depend on your country of origin, as some Estonian higher education institutions have separate fees for students from the European Union and those from outside the EU.

For Bachelor and Master Studies

  • Estonia joins Finland, Norway and Germany as one of the few European countries which offers the privilege of studying for free in their universities.
  • However, these tuition-free programmes are taught in Estonian only.
  • Generally, programmes taught in English cost around EUR 1660 – EUR 7500 per year
  • Medicine programmes are the priciest, charging EUR 11 000 per year.
  • Business, Law and Social science degrees are also considered as the most expensive to pursue in Estonia.

For PhD & Exchange Studies

  • Doctoral programmes in Estonia are tuition-free.
  • PhD students can take advantage of a doctoral allowance amounting to EUR 383.47 per month.
  • Exchange studies are at no cost as well, and are eligible for a small grant if stated in the agreement.

 

Grants and Scholarships

Estonian government scholarships are provided for international students, lecturers and researchers who wish to have additional support in their pursuit of a Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD studies at any of the recognized Estonian higher education institutions.

Scholarship conditions

  • The scholarship covers 12 calendar months’ worth of study for each academic year during the entire run of the degree programme, except during the final academic year, in which it will only cover 10 months.
  • An individual must be taking up full-time studies and is completing at least 75% of their required coursework in each academic year for the scholarship to take effect.
  • Any academic period extending beyond the normal duration of the programme will not be covered by the scholarship.
  • The scholarship assistance amounts to EUR 350 per month for Bachelor and Master’s programmes.
  • Conversely, PhD scholarships are at EUR 422 per month.
  • The scholarship for Bachelor degrees are only applicable to courses in areas associated with Estonian language and culture.
  • PhD students receiving allowances under the Study Allowances and Study Loans Act are not eligible for scholarship.

Required documents for scholarship applications

  • An accomplished application form and motivation letter to be submitted through the online application system
  • Affirmation of admission from an Estonian institution of higher education
  • Either a copy of the applicant’s passport or ID-card.

 

The submitted documents must be translated to either English or Estonian. The application period is usually between the months of April and May.

 

Entry Requirements for Estonian Universities

Entry requirements in Estonia widely vary across academic organizations and degree programs. However, there are couple of general admission policies shared among higher education institutions.

General requirements

  • Applicants who wish to pursue their undergraduate, Master and Doctoral degrees in Estonia must also be academically qualified to take up the same programs back in their home country as well.
  • Applicants are required to prove their competency of the English language through internationally recognized tests like IELTS and TOEFL. Other Estonian institutions may run their own language tests.

 

It is advised to check with your chosen university’s website and program, as these may require additional tests such as interviews, essays, portfolios among others