Located in the Baltic region of Northern Europe, the country of Estonia has become an economically developed country that highly values technology, education, well-paying jobs and civil liberties. In fact, the country calls itself an e-society because of its embrace of the digital world, exemplified by innovations such as the development of the software for Skype by four of the country’s engineers. If you are looking to study undergraduate studies in Estonia, you will find yourself in a technology-driven society surrounded by amazing landscapes filled with inventive citizens and students.

What Can Undergrads Study?

Undergraduate students looking for a one-of-a-kind education will find the ground-breaking and assorted degrees offered by Estonian universities to be thrilling and applicable. The universities of this country offer over 100 degree programs, with classes taught in English, Estonian and Russian. Different universities offer a variety of degrees including music, theatre, technology, business and life sciences.

How Long Is the Academic Year?

Many of the Estonian universities start their fall term in late August or early September. Make sure to apply and register before the fall, however, as most institutions will not allow you to start your studies in the spring term. Hence, higher education schools have only two terms, with the fall semester ending in January and the spring semester ending in late June. Some colleges have summer programs, so check with the institution you want to attend before planning for summer classes.

What Is the Cost of Attending School in Estonia?

Students looking to study undergraduate studies in Estonia will find many options for funding their schooling. Due to the government’s support of higher education, even international students can apply for scholarships and financial aid through their school of choice. Additionally, non-European Union students can work without a work permit while going to school. As long as the job does not interfere with their classes and they complete their full course load with passing grades, students can make money while earning their degrees.

How Long Does It Take to Earn an Undergrad Degree?

Most students can earn their undergraduate degrees in just three years, assuming they take the recommended amount of credits each term. However, many students choose to continue for another two years as they earn their Master’s Degree.

Why Study in Estonia?

Estonia is quickly becoming an attractive, highly developed, welcoming and forward-moving country. With a government and society that greatly respects universities, students are well taken care of and valued. International students will have opportunities to learn new languages, experience a burgeoning culture and just maybe find their post-college job in this incredibly innovative country.

Higher Education in Estonia
Estonian universities all use the two-tier (bachelor-master) structure for most programs. Bachelor’s degrees normally take 3 years of study and master’s degrees normally take 2 years of study. Medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, veterinary medicine, architecture and civil engineering all require a single program of 5-6 years and normally result in a master’s level diploma. Doctoral degrees are postgraduate research degrees and take 3-4.5 years to complete. Estonia uses the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

Why Study in Estonia?
Students from more than 70 countries are already studying in Estonia. In addition to being a beautiful and friendly country that welcomes international students, Estonia provides an excellent, internationally recognized education. The capital city, Tallinn, has been designated by intelligentcommunity.org as one of the world’s seven most intelligent communities. In addition, English is widely spoken throughout the country and internet access is free in many locations. Estonia is one of the most connected countries in the world, with electronic identification cards, e-government and online voting.

Universities in Estonia
Estonia has 12 public institutions of higher education (3 multidisciplinary universities and 9 specialized universities) and 8 private institutions of higher education. Estonian institutions of higher education offer nearly 60 master’s degree programs in a wide variety of academic disciplines, from Accompaniment (music) to Wellness and Spa Service Design and Management. Many schools offer programs in English, including the Estonian Academy of Arts, the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre, the Estonian Business School the Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tallinn University, Tallinn University of Technology and the University of Tartu.

Tuition and Program Duration
Tuition for Estonian-taught degree programs is free for full-time students. Tuition for English-taught programs varies widely depending upon the type of program and the school. Tuition per semester for English-taught programs is generally about €1500-2000 at a public university. Most master’s programs are two years in duration, but some can be completed in one year. Students earn between 60 and 120 credits depending upon the type of program.

Academic Year
The academic year begins in September and the autumn semester runs through the beginning of February. After a short break (about 10 days) the spring semester begins and runs through the end of June. The normal academic year includes forty weeks. Both oral and written exams take place during a four-week period at the end of each semester.

Post-Graduate Opportunities
There are many opportunities for employment in Estonia, particularly for international and information technology businesses. EU citizens do not need a work permit. Non-EU citizens must obtain a work permit, which is normally issued for two years, but can be extended for up to five years at a time.

Health Insurance
International students in Estonia are not generally covered by the Estonian Health Insurance Fund, unless they are employed in Estonia, are permanent residents or have a long-term residence permit. EU citizens can use a EU health insurance card, which should be obtained before they depart their home country. Non-EU citizens should obtain health insurance before applying for a residence permit. Since only certain insurance companies are accepted by the Estonian Migration Board, students should check with their institution or the Board prior to purchasing insurance.

Tips
Students wishing to explore Russia during their time in Estonia will find plenty of inexpensive buses to Moscow, Saint Petersburg and other major cities.