Estonia, a rising star in global education, is a high-tech, digitally advanced country in Northern Europe known for its innovation-driven economy. It has some of the best universities in Estonia, making it a top destination for students seeking world-class research, technology, and entrepreneurship programs in the Baltic region.
Why Study in Estonia?
- Globally Recognized Degrees – Estonia follows the Bologna Process, ensuring that degrees from universities in Estonia are accepted worldwide.
- Cost-Effective Education – Tuition fees at Estonian universities are more affordable compared to Western Europe, and the overall cost of living is relatively low.
- Technology-Driven Learning – Estonia is one of the most digitally advanced countries, with universities in Estonia offering cutting-edge learning experiences in fields such as AI, cybersecurity, and IT.
- International Environment – Over 10,000 international students from 100+ countries are currently studying at universities in Estonia, making it a diverse and welcoming destination for students.
- Opportunities for Work & Permanent Residency – Students studying at universities in Estonia can work part-time while studying and have a 6-month stay-back period after graduation to find employment. Estonia also offers pathways to permanent residency for graduates who secure a job in the country.
With its innovative education system, affordable tuition, and opportunities for career growth, Estonia is becoming an increasingly popular choice for students looking to study in Europe. If you’re considering universities in Estonia, now is the perfect time to explore your options!
Step 1: Researching Universities and Programs
Estonia’s higher education system is divided into two main categories:
- Academic Higher Education – Offered by research universities; includes bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs.
- Professional Higher Education – Focuses on practical skills and applied sciences; includes vocational and professional programs.
Types of Universities
- Public Universities – Funded by the government, offering a broad range of degrees and strong research opportunities.
- Private Universities – Focused on specialized fields like business, arts, and applied sciences, often with smaller class sizes.
Top Universities in Estonia
Estonia is home to several prestigious universities that offer high-quality education, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a globally recognized degree system. Here are some of the top universities in Estonia for international students:
- University of Tartu – Best for social sciences, medicine, business, and humanities (Ranked #1 in Estonia).
- Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech) – Best for engineering, IT, business, and cybersecurity.
- Tallinn University – Best for education, humanities, social sciences, and film studies.
- Estonian Business School (EBS) – Estonia’s top private business school, offering strong MBA and finance programs.
- Estonian Academy of Arts (EKA) – Best for fine arts, architecture, and design programs.
Where to Find Programs
- Study in Estonia Portal: www.studyinestonia.ee
- DreamApply Portal: www.dreamapply.com
- University Websites: Each university has a dedicated international admissions page.
How to Choose the Right Program
- Check Course Curriculum – Does it align with your career goals?
- Consider Tuition Fees & Scholarships – What is your budget? Are there financial aid options?
- Look at Career Outcomes – Do graduates get jobs in Estonia or internationally?
- Read Student Reviews – What do current students say about the university?
Step 2: Admission Requirements
General Eligibility Criteria
- Bachelor’s Degree Applicants: High school diploma equivalent to Estonia’s secondary education.
- Master’s Degree Applicants: A recognized bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
- PhD Applicants: A master’s degree and a research proposal approved by a potential supervisor.
Specific Entry Requirements
- Engineering & IT Programs – May require math and physics entrance exams.
- MBA Programs – May require work experience and GMAT/GRE scores.
- Creative Arts Programs – Require a portfolio and entrance exam.
English Language Proficiency Requirements
- IELTS: Minimum 6.0–6.5
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80–100
- Cambridge English Exam: C1 or higher
Exemptions: Some universities waive this requirement if your previous education was in English.
Required Application Documents
- Official Academic Transcripts & Diplomas
- Motivation Letter / Statement of Purpose
- CV/Resume (for master’s and PhD applications)
- Letters of Recommendation (usually 2-3)
- Research Proposal (for PhD applicants)
Step 3: Preparing Application Documents
Writing a Motivation Letter
- Format: 1–2 pages, professional tone.
- Key Points to Include:
- Why you want to study in Estonia.
- Your academic background and career aspirations.
- Why you chose the specific university and program.
Structuring a CV for University Applications
- Education Background
- Work Experience (if any)
- Research & Projects
- Extracurricular Activities
Letters of Recommendation
- Choose professors or employers who know your academic or professional skills well.
Document Translation & Notarization
- If documents are not in English or Estonian, they must be officially translated and notarized.
Step 4: Submitting Your Application
Most universities use DreamApply for applications. Create an account, upload documents, and track progress.
Application Fees & Deadlines
- Fees range from €50 to €100 per university.
- Bachelor’s & Master’s: Deadlines from December to April.
- PhD Programs: Rolling deadlines, varying by university.
Step 5: Entrance Exams & Interviews
Common Entrance Exams
- Subject-specific tests (Math, Physics, etc.).
- GRE/GMAT for business-related programs.
Interview Preparation
- Typical Questions:
- Why do you want to study at this university?
- What are your future career plans?
- How will you contribute to the program?
- Tips:
- Dress professionally.
- Be confident and practice beforehand.
Step 6: Receiving Admission Results & Accepting the Offer
When to Expect Admission Results?
- Bachelor’s & Master’s: Results in May – June.
- PhD: Varies based on the program.
How to Accept the Offer?
- Pay tuition deposit (if required).
- Confirm enrollment via DreamApply or email.
What If You’re Rejected?
- Consider reapplying next year with a stronger application.
- Apply to other Estonian universities with similar programs.
Step 7: Applying for a Student Visa and Residence Permit
If you are from a country outside the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you will need a long-term D-visa or a temporary residence permit (TRP) for study purposes to stay in Estonia legally.
🔹 D-Visa (Long-Stay Visa) – Allows you to stay in Estonia for up to 12 months. Suitable for students who need more time before applying for a residence permit.
🔹 Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) for Study – Required for students staying in Estonia for more than 12 months. It allows multiple entries and renewals during your studies.
How to Apply for a Long-Term D-Visa and Temporary Residence Permit
Step 1: Apply for a Long-Term D-Visa (If Necessary)
- Some students prefer entering Estonia with a D-visa before applying for a residence permit.
- You can apply for this visa at the Estonian embassy or consulate in your home country.
Step 2: Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) for Study
Once you arrive in Estonia, you must apply for a residence permit at the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board (PBGB).
📝 Where to Apply?
- Before arrival – Apply at the nearest Estonian embassy.
- After arrival – Apply at the PBGB office in Estonia.
Required Documents for the Visa Application
📌 For Long-Term D-Visa
- Completed visa application form (available on the Estonian embassy website)
- Passport (valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay)
- Official university admission letter
- Proof of financial means (€300–€500 per month to cover living expenses)
- Proof of health insurance (covering at least €30,000 per year)
- Visa fee payment receipt (€80–€100)
📌 For Temporary Residence Permit (TRP)
- Completed TRP application form
- Valid passport
- Official acceptance letter from an Estonian university
- Proof of tuition payment (or scholarship confirmation)
- Proof of accommodation in Estonia
- Proof of sufficient funds (usually around €6000 per year)
- Health insurance policy covering Estonia
- Biometric data (fingerprints and photo taken at the PBGB office)
Processing Time and Fees
- D-Visa Processing Time: 15–30 days
- TRP Processing Time: 2–3 months
- D-Visa Fee: €100
- TRP Fee: €65–€190, depending on processing speed
Tips for a Successful Visa Interview
✔ Prepare all necessary documents in advance.
✔ Be honest about your study plans and financial situation.
✔ Be confident and clear when answering questions about your chosen program and career goals.
✔ Dress professionally and arrive on time.
✔ If applying at an embassy, check their website for any country-specific requirements.
Step 8: Finding Accommodation in Estonia
📌 University Dormitories
- Managed by universities and provide affordable student housing.
- Monthly cost: €100–€300 (varies by location and room type).
- Shared or private rooms, often with a kitchen and study spaces.
📌 Private Rentals (Apartments or Shared Housing)
- More expensive but offers greater independence.
- Monthly rent: €300–€600, depending on the city and apartment size.
- Utilities and internet may cost an additional €50–€150 per month.
📌 Homestays
- Staying with an Estonian family can be a great cultural experience.
- Costs range from €250–€500 per month, usually including meals.
How to Apply for Student Housing
- University Dormitories – Apply through your university’s housing office after receiving admission. Spaces fill up fast, so apply early!
- Private Rentals – Use rental websites like KV.ee, City24.ee, and Yaga.ee.
- Facebook Groups – Many students find apartments through Facebook groups like “Apartments for Rent in Tallinn/Tartu.”
Cost of Living and Budgeting for Accommodation
💰 Estimated Monthly Expenses in Estonia:
- Rent: €100–€600 (depending on housing type)
- Utilities (electricity, water, heating): €50–€150
- Internet and phone: €15–€30
- Food: €200–€300
- Transport: €20–€40 (student discounts available)
- Entertainment & miscellaneous: €50–€100
📌 Total Estimated Monthly Budget: €500–€900
Step 9: Preparing for Arrival in Estonia
- Nearest international airport: Tallinn Airport (TLL)
- Direct flights from major European cities (Frankfurt, London, Helsinki, etc.)
- Transport from Airport:
- Taxi/Uber/Bolt – €10–€15 to the city center
- Bus – €2 (Tallinn public transport)
Understanding Estonia’s Healthcare System
- Health insurance is mandatory for all students.
- EU/EEA students – Use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
- Non-EU students – Must purchase private health insurance covering medical expenses.
- Popular providers: ERGO, IF Insurance, and Seesam.
Registering with Local Authorities
- If staying in Estonia for more than 3 months, you must register your residence at the Population Register Office.
- You will receive a personal identification number (isikukood), which is essential for healthcare, banking, and other services.
Opening a Bank Account and Getting a SIM Card
- Best Banks for International Students: SEB, Swedbank, LHV
- Required Documents: Passport, university enrollment certificate, residence permit
- Popular SIM Card Providers: Telia, Elisa, Tele2
- Estimated Cost: €5–€15 per month for mobile plans
Adapting to Life in Estonia
✅ Weather – Estonia has cold winters (-5°C to -20°C) and mild summers (+15°C to +25°C). Bring warm clothing!
✅ Public Transport – Students in Tallinn travel for free with a residence permit. Tartu and other cities offer student discounts.
✅ Language – Most people speak English, but learning some Estonian phrases is helpful!
✅ Culture – Estonians are friendly but reserved. Don’t be offended by direct communication styles.
Conclusion
✅ Apply to an Estonian university and receive admission.
✅ Apply for a D-visa or temporary residence permit.
✅ Arrange accommodation before arrival.
✅ Get health insurance and prepare necessary documents.
✅ Book your flight and register with local authorities after arrival.
Resources for Further Information
📌 Study in Estonia: www.studyinestonia.ee
📌 Estonian Police and Border Guard Board (Visa & Residence Permits): www.politsei.ee
📌 University Housing and Admissions Pages
Good luck with your study abroad journey in Estonia! 🚀 If you have any questions, feel free to ask. 😊
