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Study in Estonia
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Universities in Estonia
Estonian higher education is well respected around the world. The country is a participant in the Bologna Process, which aims to standardize higher education across Europe, and its university diplomas are internationally accepted. Currently there are 15 public universities in Estonia, and nine private. English is widely spoken, and most universities in Estonia offer a wide variety of English-taught programs.
University of Tartu
The University of Tartu is ranked at an impressive second place in the latest QS University Rankings: EECA. Established in 1632, it is Estonia’s oldest higher education institution, and one of the oldest in northern Europe. The University of Tartu teaches about 13,400 students, including over 800 internationals. It is a member of the Coimbra Group and the Utrecht Network, both of which promote international collaboration in higher education. The university is also a participant in the Erasmus Mundus program, which brings it into cooperation with more than 200 universities worldwide. The University of Tartu prides itself on having many notable alumni, including two Nobel laureates, in medicine and chemistry. Tartu itself is Estonia’s second largest city; well-known as an intellectual hub, it’s home to the Ministry of Education and Research.
Tallinn University of Technology (TUT)
The Tallinn University of Technology ranks 621-630 in QS World University Rankings. Established in 1918, it is the only dedicated technology specialist among Estonian universities. The Tallinn University of Technology has eight faculties and around 12,000 students enrolled, including 1400 international students. It offers degrees in engineering, economics, business administration, social sciences and information technology. Partly due to its strong innovation focus, the university is one of the most popular choices for international students coming to study in Estonia, currently hosting overseas students from more than 60 countries. Located in the beautiful capital city Tallinn, the university has well-established connections within industry and offers a good selection of work opportunities and placements to its students.
The third-largest university in Estonia, Tallinn University joins TUT in the capital city. It offers a wide range of courses and has well-established exchange programs and support for international students.
Out Now! QS World University Rankings: Europe 2024
Life in Estonia
Estonia boasts one of the world’s most digitally connected societies, with free Wi-Fi almost everywhere. But aside from its highly impressive leadership in modern technologies, Estonia has much more to offer. For those keen to escape the city (and even temporarily de-tech), there are plenty of opportunities to explore the country’s green forests, picturesque lakes and white-sand beaches. Alternatively you can enjoy roaming the medieval streets of old Estonian towns, attend concerts, participate in the lively city night-life, or join the range of student-run events on campus – everything from cycle trips to photo competitions.
Discover Estonia’s major student cities:
Tallinn
Tallinn is home to some of the most prestigious universities in Estonia, including Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn University, the Estonian Academy of Arts and others.
Tartu
Tartu is home to Estonia’s highest-ranked institution, the University of Tartu. Other higher education institutions in the city include the Estonian University of Life Sciences, the Baltic Defense College, the Estonian Aviation Academy and others.
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Applying to study in Estonia
Visas to study in Estonia
Students coming from a member state of the European Union do not need a student visa to study in Estonia. However, they do need to obtain a temporary right of residence in Estonia after arriving in the country. EU students should register with the local authorities within three months from the day of entry in Estonia. In addition, students must apply for an Estonian ID card within one month of obtaining the temporary right of residence.
Fees and funding
Various scholarships are available to international students, most of which are at master’s and PhD level, though there are some for bachelor’s degrees. Current guidelines from the Estonian government advise students to allow €300-500 (~US$340-570) per month to cover accommodation and other living expenses.
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