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Complete guide to studying in Estonia

Everything you need to know about becoming an international student in Estonia

Top reasons to study in Estonia:

  • Modern digital society with excellent innovation and tech culture
  • Safe, clean cities with a high quality of life
  • Strong academic standards and internationally recognised degrees
  • Affordable tuition fees compared with many Western European countries
  • Compact, friendly student cities with vibrant English speaking communities

A quick introduction to Estonia

Located in northern Europe on the Baltic Sea, Estonia shares borders with Latvia and Russia and is closely connected to Finland across the Gulf of Finland. The country is known for its modern digital infrastructure, mediaeval architecture and peaceful natural landscapes.

Estonia is an attractive choice for international students who want high quality education within a forward thinking society, while enjoying a quieter pace of life and easy access to the rest of Europe. English is widely spoken, especially in larger cities such as Tallinn and Tartu, and this helps international students settle in quickly.

The country is part of the European Union and the European Higher Education Area, which means that universities follow the Bologna process and award ECTS credits that are recognised across Europe.

Estonian universities have built strong reputations for innovation, computer science, engineering and life sciences. Around ten percent of students in Estonia are international and this number is rising as more English taught degrees become available and students discover Estonia’s combination of affordability, safety and digital excellence.

The regions and communities of Estonia

Estonia is divided into counties, each with its own local character, but the two most significant centres for students are Tallinn on the northern coast and Tartu in the south east.

Estonian is the official national language, although Russian is also spoken in some areas, particularly in the north east. English is widely used in academic environments and in everyday life, especially among younger people.

All universities in Estonia

Estonia’s higher education system

Estonia has a well developed higher education sector that offers a broad range of programmes at universities and universities of applied sciences.

Public Universities

Public universities are the main providers of degree programmes in Estonia. They focus on academic learning and research excellence. Notable institutions include the University of Tartu, Tallinn University and Tallinn University of Technology. These universities offer a wide variety of bachelors, masters and doctoral programmes, including an expanding number of English taught options.

Universities of Applied Sciences

Estonia also has several universities of applied sciences that provide more practical and professionally focused education. These institutions tend to work closely with industry and offer hands on training that prepares students for specific careers. Examples include Estonian Entrepreneurship University of Applied Sciences and TTK University of Applied Sciences.

Private Institutions

A small number of private higher education institutions operate in Estonia, offering specialised programmes in areas such as business, entrepreneurship and design. These institutions often have close links with industry and international partners.

Climate

Estonia has a northern European climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with temperatures often below freezing, especially from December to February, and snowfall is common. Summers are pleasantly warm with average temperatures between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius.

The climate varies slightly by region. Coastal areas around Tallinn can feel breezier and milder, while inland regions such as Tartu may experience colder winters.

Year round, students should expect quick weather changes and make good use of layered clothing and waterproof jackets.

Lifestyle and welfare

Estonia offers a calm, organised and student friendly lifestyle. Cities are compact, public services are reliable and the atmosphere is welcoming to newcomers.

Healthcare

Estonia has an efficient and modern healthcare system.

Non EU students:
You must have valid health insurance for the full duration of your stay. You can purchase international student insurance from your home country or register with an Estonian health insurer once you receive your residence permit.

EU students:
You can access necessary healthcare using your European Health Insurance Card, although registering with a local health insurance provider can make reimbursements easier.

Food

Estonian food combines Nordic, Baltic and Eastern European influences. Meals often feature rye bread, fresh vegetables, soups, fish and simple but hearty dishes.

International students will find a growing range of cafes, bakeries and budget friendly eateries, particularly in Tallinn and Tartu. University canteens offer affordable meals and vegetarian options are increasingly common.

Leisure

As a student in Estonia, you will find plenty to enjoy outside your studies.

  • Historic old towns, independent shops and cosy cafes
  • Student clubs and societies at every major university
  • Beautiful forests, lakes and coastal paths for hiking and cycling
  • Popular sports such as football, volleyball, skiing and ice skating
  • A strong cultural scene with concerts, museums, film festivals and design events

Transport

Getting around Estonia is simple and cost effective.

  • Buses run frequently between towns and cities and are inexpensive
  • Tallinn’s public transport network is extensive and easy to use
  • Cycling is popular in student cities, especially Tartu
  • Ferries and flights provide good access to Finland and other Baltic nations

Safety

Estonia is considered one of the safest countries in Europe. Crime rates are low and international students generally feel secure. As with any city, it is sensible to stay aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings safe in busy areas.

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Languages

The official language of Estonia is Estonian, a Finno Ugric language related to Finnish. Russian is also spoken in some communities.

English is widely used in universities, workplaces and city centres. Many masters programmes are taught entirely in English and bachelors programmes in English are increasing each year.

Learning some basic Estonian is helpful for everyday life and is appreciated by locals.

University cities

Tallinn

Tallinn is the capital of Estonia and the country’s largest and most international city. It is known for its UNESCO listed mediaeval old town, modern business district and strong digital culture.

Tallinn is home to institutions such as Tallinn University and Tallinn University of Technology. Students appreciate the balance of history, innovation and lively social life.

Tartu

Tartu is Estonia’s main university town and has a long academic tradition centred around the University of Tartu. The city is compact, friendly and very student orientated.

Tartu offers cultural festivals, relaxed cafes, cycling routes and a warm student community, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter but highly academic atmosphere.

Pärnu

Pärnu, on the south west coast, is known as Estonia’s summer capital. It has a calm environment, sandy beaches and a welcoming local culture.

It hosts smaller campuses of some universities and suits students who prefer a slower pace of life near the sea.

Narva

Located on the eastern border, Narva offers a unique blend of Estonian and Russian cultural influences. The city is home to Narva College of the University of Tartu and is known for its strong community spirit and affordability.

Student visa

International students from outside the EU or EEA must apply for a long term study visa. Upon arrival, you will need to register for a temporary residence permit for study, which allows you to live in Estonia for the duration of your programme.

EU and EEA students do not require a visa, but must register their place of residence after arrival.

Costs of studying

Course fees

Compared with many European countries, tuition fees in Estonia are affordable.

Fees vary by university and programme, but most international students can expect to pay:

  • Around 2,000 to 6,000 euros per year for many bachelors and masters programmes
  • Higher fees for specialised fields such as medicine or engineering

EU students may pay reduced fees or study free of charge in specific programmes.

Living costs

Estonia is generally more affordable than many Western European countries.

Student living costs per month are usually:

  • 350 to 500 euros for accommodation in Tartu or smaller towns
  • 450 to 700 euros in Tallinn
  • Around 300 to 400 euros for food, transport and personal expenses

Budgeting wisely and making use of student discounts helps keep costs manageable.

How to apply to university in Estonia

There is no single national application system. Students apply directly to their chosen universities through online portals.

Typical application requirements include:

  • Completed application form
  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • Proof of English proficiency for English taught programmes
  • Copy of passport or ID
  • Motivation letter
  • In some cases, an interview or portfolio

Language requirements

Most international programmes in Estonia are taught in English. Universities generally accept IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent qualifications as evidence of proficiency.

Competitive programmes

Some subjects, such as medicine or advanced engineering, may have entrance exams or additional selection steps.

Application deadlines

Deadlines vary, but non EU students often need to apply between February and April for programmes beginning in autumn. EU students may have slightly later deadlines.

Job prospects for international students

Estonia has a growing economy with strong opportunities in technology, engineering, business and start ups. Speaking Estonian is an advantage, although many companies use English in their daily operations, especially in tech and international firms.

EU graduates can work freely in Estonia. Non EU graduates can apply for a temporary residence permit to search for work after completing their degree.

Frequently asked questions

Is it free to study in Estonia?
No. Tuition fees apply, although some programmes for EU students may have reduced or no fees. Non EU students usually pay full international tuition rates.

Am I allowed to work while I study?
Yes. International students can work part time during their studies as long as the job does not interfere with their academic progress.