About the Country
Welcome to Estonia, a beautiful country located in Northern Europe, known for its stunning natural landscapes, innovative technology, and vibrant culture. Whether you are interested in pursuing higher education, finding work opportunities, or experiencing a new culture, Estonia offers something for everyone.
Education System: Estonia's education system is known for its high quality and innovation. The country has a variety of universities and colleges offering a range of study programs in fields such as information technology, business, engineering, and the arts. Some of the top-ranked universities in Estonia include the University of Tartu, Tallinn University of Technology, and Tallinn University. Estonian universities are also known for their research and innovation, providing students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills.
Tuition Fees: Tuition fees in Estonia are relatively affordable compared to other European countries, with an average of €1,500 to €5,000 per year for Bachelor's and Master's programs. Doctoral programs are often tuition-free, with students only paying a small administration fee. Additionally, there are a variety of scholarships and financial aid options available for international students.
Scholarship Opportunities: Estonia offers a range of scholarship opportunities for international students, including the Estonian Government Scholarship and the Erasmus+ program, which provides funding for students studying in Europe. These scholarships can help offset the cost of tuition, living expenses, and travel, making it easier for students to pursue their academic goals in Estonia.
Work Opportunities: Estonia offers a range of work opportunities for international students, particularly in the fields of information technology, finance, and engineering. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during the holidays. Additionally, graduates can apply for a work permit and stay in Estonia for up to two years to search for employment.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Estonia is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. On average, students can expect to spend around €500 to €800 per month on living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other miscellaneous expenses. With affordable housing, healthcare, and public transportation, Estonia offers students a high quality of life at a reasonable cost.
Minimum Wage: As of January 2023, the minimum wage in Estonia is €700 gross per month for full-time employees, based on a 40-hour workweek.
Cultural Experiences: Estonia is rich in culture, with a blend of Nordic and Eastern European influences. From the medieval Old Town of Tallinn to the stunning natural landscapes of Lahemaa National Park, Estonia offers a wealth of cultural experiences for students and visitors alike. Whether you're interested in visiting museums, attending concerts, or exploring the outdoors, there's something for everyone in Estonia. Additionally, Estonia is known for its innovative technology, making it a great place to study and work in the field of information technology.
Top Universities
Here are the top five universities in Estonia, based on their academic reputation, research output, and international outlook.
University of Tartu: This is the oldest and most prestigious university in Estonia, founded in 1632. It has 13 faculties and four colleges, covering a wide range of disciplines from humanities and social sciences to medicine and engineering. It is also a member of the Coimbra Group and the Utrecht Network, two associations of leading European universities.
Tallinn University of Technology: This is the flagship university of engineering and technology in Estonia, established in 1918. It has eight faculties and six schools, focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship in fields such as information technology, cyber security, energy, and materials. It is also a partner of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT).
Tallinn University: This is the largest university of humanities and social sciences in Estonia, founded in 2005. It has six academic units and five regional colleges, offering programs in education, culture, media, governance, health, and natural sciences. It is also a member of the European University Association (EUA) and the Baltic Sea Region University Network (BSRUN).
Estonian University of Life Sciences: This is the only university of life sciences in Estonia, dating back to 1951. It has four faculties and one institute, specializing in agriculture, forestry, veterinary medicine, environmental sciences, and food technology. It is also a member of the Euroleague for Life Sciences (ELLS) and the International Association of Universities (IAU).
Estonian Academy of Arts: This is the leading university of art and design in Estonia, established in 1914. It has four faculties and two departments, offering programs in architecture, design, fine arts, art history, and cultural heritage. It is also a member of the European League of Institutes of the Arts (ELIA) and the Cumulus Association.