University admission in Europe

Most Estonian universities accept applications through the joint platform DreamApply. With one application you can apply for several programmes at several universities. After you submit the form, some universities also ask for a printed copy of the application with certified copies of your documents – it must arrive before the deadline.

The application fee is usually between €0 and €120 and is not refunded, even if you are not admitted.

Each university sets its own deadlines. For example, at the University of Tartu applications for English-taught programmes open on 2 January and close on 15 March (master's), 15 April (bachelor's and medicine) and 15 May (doctoral). Late applications are not considered. Applicants with Estonian qualifications apply through the national SAIS system – at Tartu from 1 February. If you come from outside the EU, apply as early as you can: you will need your admission letter to apply for a visa, and that takes time (see: Residence and formalities).

You usually attach your secondary school leaving certificate (for a master's – your bachelor's diploma), a transcript of records, a copy of your ID document and a language certificate. The programme description tells you exactly what the university requires for documents from your country.