Estonia is a hidden gem for international higher education. This forward-thinking European nation boasts world-class universities, highly affordable tuition, and pristine natural environments, with lush forests just a short distance from any city center.
Estonia is also a thriving startup hub, ideal for ambitious entrepreneurs with innovative ideas; in fact, you can register a new company online in just 20 minutes. Impressed yet?
And that is only the beginning: from e-voting and digital parking payments to booking cinema tickets, you can manage almost every aspect of your daily life using nothing more than your smartphone.
All this sounds fantastic, but what about the actual budget? How much should you expect to pay for your education and your cost of living?
Let’s break down the details!
1. University tuition fees in Estonia
Tuition fees at public universities
In Estonia, public universities generally charge tuition fees between 1,660 and 7,500 EUR per academic year for both Bachelor's and Master's degrees. Keep in mind that some institutions may set higher fees for non-EU/EEA international students.
Students may find tuition-free study programmes, which are more widely available at the Master’s level. Additionally, all PhD studies are tuition-free. The most expensive disciplines typically include:
Tuition fees at private universities
Since private universities operate without state funding, their tuition rates are typically higher. These fees vary based on the specific programme, duration, and institution. Remember, a higher price tag does not always guarantee a higher quality of education.
Most affordable universities in Estonia
- – Bachelors and Masters start at 0 EUR/year
- – Masters start at 0 EUR/year
- – Bachelors and Masters start at 600 EUR/year
- – Bachelors start at 1,960 EUR/year; Masters start at 1,825 EUR/year
At many Estonian universities, these competitive tuition rates apply specifically to EU/EEA students. We recommend verifying the specific tuition fee requirements for your nationality before starting your application.
Universities we recommend in Estonia
Explore top-rated universities in Estonia according to global rankings.
2. Student living costs in Estonia
Despite its advanced technological infrastructure and high standard of living, Estonia remains an affordable destination. Monthly living costs typically range from 300 to 550 EUR, though your actual spending will depend on your personal lifestyle and spending habits.
As an EU member, Estonia uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency. If you are arriving from another Eurozone country, you will enjoy the convenience of a seamless transition without the need for currency exchange.
3. Student accommodation costs
There are two primary types of student accommodation available:
- Student dormitories (single, double, or triple rooms): only offered by some universities. They are usually in great condition, and the monthly cost of 80–150 EUR also includes the utilities.
- Private housing: rent costs between 200 and 550 EUR/month. You can pay less by sharing a larger apartment with other students. You also need to cover the monthly utilities (150–200 EUR) and the initial deposit (equivalent to 3 months’ rent).
If you decide to rent a private apartment, we recommend seeking guidance from your university or local Estonian friends to help secure a fair deal and avoid potential scams.
4. Food costs in Estonia
On average, students spend approximately 300 EUR per month on groceries. Universities offer affordable cafeteria dining, and you can frequently find student-friendly daily specials at local cafes and pubs.
Here is a breakdown of average food prices in Estonia:
- 1 loaf of bread: 0.81 EUR
- 1 litre of milk: 0.72 EUR
- 12 eggs: 1.52 EUR
- 1 kg of local cheese: 7 EUR
- 1 kg of apples: 1.32 EUR
- 1 kg of bananas: 1.09 EUR
- 1 meal at affordable restaurants: 8 EUR
Check out more information regarding living costs in Estonia.
5. Transportation costs
In Tallinn, public transportation is free for all registered students. In other university cities like Tartu, monthly transit passes with a student discount cost approximately 7–8 EUR. Other common transit options include:
- taxi: 2.50 EUR at start, 0.65 EUR per km
- bike renting: 10 EUR for a weekly membership, 30 EUR for an annual membership
6. Extra costs in Estonia
- entertainment (cinema, concerts, theatre): 30–70 EUR/month
- temporary residence permit for study (visa) fee: 64 EUR; only needed by non-EU citizens
- private medical insurance: only needed by non-EU citizens; the costs vary based on the length of your stay and the included services
7. University scholarships and grants
As an international student, you are encouraged to apply for various scholarships provided by the Estonian government and individual universities, available for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD levels.
Additionally, you may want to apply for our Online Result Scholarship: International Distinction Awards.