Estonia is an appealing destination for international students who want a high-quality study experience in a smaller European country. Estonia sits on the shores of the Baltic Sea, with Latvia to the south and Russia to the east. It is known for its historic architecture, digital society, forests, coastline, and islands. In this article, we will go over practical ways to reduce your study costs and, in some cases, study in Estonia for free.
English is widely spoken in Estonia, and Estonian universities offer many English-taught degree programs, so adjusting to life in the country can be easier for international students than in some destinations where fewer people speak English. Estonia also has more than 2,000 islands, so when your academic schedule allows, exploring the country can be a memorable experience.
How to Study in Estonia for Free
1. Maintain a good support system
Studying abroad can be both challenging and exciting, especially because you will be living away from family and friends. You may no longer have the same sense of familiarity with your surroundings, mainly because you are in a country where you may not have lived before. As a student, you will need to learn how to cope on your own, make friends, and build connections with people from around the world. Having a good support system can make the transition easier, especially when homesickness appears from time to time.
2. Reach out to your mentors and teachers
Teachers and mentors who have spent years in academia can be valuable sources of guidance. They may know your strengths as a student and understand what you are capable of achieving. They may also be able to suggest universities, scholarships, and application strategies. Reaching out to them for support can be helpful as you prepare for university life in Estonia.
3. Believe in your capabilities as a student
Believing in your abilities can help you set goals and present yourself confidently in your applications. This confidence can be useful when writing personal statements, scholarship essays, or other documents that universities may require.
It can also help when you take part in interviews or other screening steps. Do not sell yourself short. Universities in Estonia will not know what you can achieve unless you show them your academic strengths, motivation, and potential.
4. Apply for Scholarships in Universities in Estonia
Scholarships may be available from the Estonian government, Estonian universities, or organizations in your home country. Eligibility varies by scholarship and may depend on your study level, field of study, nationality, academic performance, financial need, or mobility status. Applying for scholarships is one of the best ways to reduce the cost of studying in Estonia.
A good place to start is Tallinn University of Technology, also known as TalTech. According to TalTech’s scholarship and study allowances page, the university lists several scholarship, study allowance, and mobility funding options. These include scholarships such as the Success Scholarship, Development Fund scholarships, and other targeted awards, but eligibility rules differ by scholarship.
Another university in Estonia that may interest you is the University of Tartu. According to the university’s scholarship information page, students can find information about different scholarships for applicants and enrolled students.
5. Look for Affordable Universities in Estonia
Tuition fees in Estonia vary by university, study level, and program. According to Study in Estonia, tuition fees for bachelor’s and master’s programs generally range from €1,500 to €15,000 per year, with a few more expensive exceptions. Some universities also offer selected bachelor’s and master’s programs with no tuition fee or with tuition-fee waivers, and doctoral studies in Estonia are tuition-free. If you are interested, you can also check out this guide to Affordable Universities in Estonia for International Students.
Living costs should also be part of your budget. Study in Estonia estimates that students’ average monthly living costs can be around €300 to €500. Accommodation prices usually range from €150 to €350 per month in dormitories and from €350 to €750 per month in private flats, depending on the location, quality of accommodation, and season. Choosing an affordable university, applying for scholarships, and living in student housing can all help you lower your total costs.
6. Work Part-time in Estonia
Another way to support yourself financially is to work while studying. According to Study in Estonia, international students do not need an additional work permit to work while studying full-time, as long as the job does not interfere with their studies. Students must receive passing grades, complete a full study load, and finish their studies within the nominal period. Working hours for international students are not limited.
Non-EU students can also stay in Estonia for an additional nine months after graduation to look for a job. If they find a job, they can use that time to apply for a temporary residence permit for work. Career centers, university contacts, and job-search websites can help students find part-time or full-time opportunities.
7. Save your money in Estonia
Saving money means spending only on what you truly need and cutting costs where possible. For example, sharing accommodation with other students or choosing a university dormitory can reduce your monthly housing expenses. Cooking at home, using student discounts, and planning your transportation carefully can also help you manage your budget.
These habits may not make your education completely free on their own, but they can help you make the most of your scholarships, part-time income, and savings while studying in Estonia.
I hope that this article was helpful. If you are interested, visit the Europe Scholarships Page and Available Courses for International Students!
