Study in Estonia

Quick facts

• Population: 1,315,944 (2016)
• Capital: Tallinn
• Geographical size: 45,339 km²
• GDP: €20.916 billion (2016)
• Official EU language(s): Estonian
• Currency: Euro

Higher education in Estonia

• Number of higher education institutions: 25
• Number of students in higher education: 55,214 (2014/2015, Estonian Ministry of Education and Research
• Number of international students in higher education: 2,887 (2014/2015, Estonian Ministry of Education and Research)
• Language of instruction: Most higher education courses in Estonia are taught in Estonian language but you will find many courses taught in English too. In fact, 9 higher education institutions offer degree studies fully in English language
• Typical tuition fees: Doctoral/PhD level programmes in Estonian public universities do not require tuition fees. For Bachelor’s and Master’s level programmes, some are free of charge, whereas some charge tuition fees ranging from 2000-11 000 Euros per academic year.
• Average length of a full-time higher education programme in Estonia:
  • Bachelor’s degree programme: 3 years
  • Master’s degree programme: 2 years
  • Doctorate/PhD: 4 years

Overview

Situated in northern Europe, Estonia is a country of striking natural beauty and stunning seaside locations, bringing together historical and modern contrasts.

A 2004 European Union entrant, Estonia is a prosperous and forward-thinking country, with a modern market-based economy and one of the most liberal tax regimes in the world.

It is known for its e-solutions, flat-rate tax system, nationwide e-voting, open democracy where residents can tweet the President Mr. Ilves – and of course its innovative and open approach to new technologies. One of the best examples of how far Estonia’s modern technology has come is Skype, developed in Estonia!

Estonia boasts a long tradition of high-quality higher education. The first university was established here in 1632, making it one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe.

Today, Estonian universities offer more than 100 degree programmes in English at Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral/PhD level, with internationally recognised diplomas and scholarship possibilities.

With world-class research facilities and infrastructure, students here get a maximum experience from their studies. Shorter periods of study in Estonia are also available – for example exchange studies and summer schools.

Living costs in Estonia are very affordable and are lower than in many other European countries. General feedback from students who have spent some time here is that living conditions here are similar to those in Western Europe.

Student life in Estonia is full of activities and events. There are many organisations and events to help students settle into Estonian life and make friends. After class, students can explore the medieval streets of Estonia’s old towns, attend concerts, participate in the lively night-life of modern clubs and bars… or escape into nature – endless forests, picturesque lakes, and white beaches.

According to Student Barometer survey (2015) 89% of international students are satisfied with their overall living and studying standard in Estonia!

As an international student in Estonia you have the right to work during your studies. Students coming from outside of the European Union can also look for full-time employment in Estonia upon graduation, with 6 months to find a role.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Estonia produces more start-up companies per head of population than any other country in Europe! Students and graduates are often encouraged to create their own start-ups/spin-off companies during their studies. Many governmental and non-governmental organisations offer students funding and support for this purpose.

It is not just the tech-savvy attitude, low living costs and fast-developing economy that make Estonia attractive for international students. Estonia is also a country of contrasts, with four different seasons – from the bright, endless summer nights to snowy winters.

If you are looking for a safe and innovative study destination with a personal approach and high quality education, Estonia is the place for you.