Erasmus in Estonia: key information to make the best out of your experience

• It’s necessary to submit a motivation letter (in English) stating the reasons why you want to study at the institution in Estonia. In addition, in the case of art students, a portfolio is sometimes requested.
• You have to fill out and sign the Learning Agreement or the Online Learning Agreement and submit it.
• Most universities ask for the most recent transcript of academic records. In some cases, it’s requested to be translated into English with a certified translation.
• If you’re going to study in English, a certificate of English language proficiency is required, usually with a B2 being necessary. You can submit test results from exams such as TOEFL, IELTS, FCE or TOEIC.
• Students from the EU/EEA/Switzerland who are going to be in Estonia for more than 90 days have to register their residence in the country (once they have received their rental contract). To do this, you have to notify the place of residence through a form, apply to receive a Personal Identification Code - ID and apply for an Estonian Identity Card at the Police and Border Guard Office within the first 30 days of arrival. Remember to include your departure date in the registration of residence in Estonia as, if you don’t, you’ll have to register your departure when you leave.
• Citizens from third countries (not covered above) are required to obtain a type D study visa. This is done in the country of origin, before travelling to Estonia. In the case of citizens of countries that do not require a short-stay visa, if the exchange exceeds 90 days they must also process the long-stay type D visa.
• It’s necessary to have health insurance covering the entire length of the stay. Students who have it can use the European Health Insurance Card.
• Sometimes it’s required to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover the cost of the entire stay. This can be through a scholarship, a guarantor, a bank statement, or a combination of any of them.

Estonia has a rich history and a unique culture that combines Scandinavian, Germanic and Russian influences. Take advantage of your exchange to get to know this fascinating mix, participating in festivals and traditions, and visiting historical sites.

The "Land of Blue Forests" boasts unique natural beauty, from dense forests to more than 1,500 islands scattered in the Baltic Sea. During your stay, you’ll be able to explore unspoiled nature, national parks and breathtaking beaches.

Estonia is recognized worldwide for its innovative approach to technology and digital services. For this very reason, it’s a very good destination if you’re studying a related career, although you can also immerse yourself in this technological environment in your day-to-day life in the country.

Estonia attracts students from all over the world, which creates a multicultural environment where you can make international friendships and learn from diverse perspectives. This leads to most students using English as their preferred language of communication, so you’ll also be able to practice this language during your exchange.

There are plenty of things to do when studying in Estonia to enjoy your exchange to the fullest!

For the adventurers, the Baltic Pearl offers a wide variety of outdoor experiences. The island of Saaremaa is a paradise for nature lovers, with extensive beaches, national parks and ancient windmills. In addition, the forests and lakes of the Lahemaa National Park provide opportunities for hiking, biking and birdwatching.

For urbanites, Tallinn and Tartu are the gems. Tallinn, with its trendy cafes, designer boutiques and cultural events, is a place where history meets modernity. Tartu, as a university town, offers a lively student life and an urban scene with contemporary art galleries, cosy cafes and regular cultural events.

Do you consider yourself a foodie? In Estonia, you'll find a mix of tradition and modernity! Tallinn has a booming gastronomic scene, where restaurants fuse local ingredients with innovative techniques. You can also explore the local markets, such as the Balti Jaama Turg, for fresh produce and traditional Estonian dishes.

For those with an interest in history, there’s plenty to see. The Old Town of the capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a historical treasure trove of cobblestone streets, mediaeval walls and Hanseatic architecture. Furthermore, the Estonian National Museum in Tallinn provides an in-depth look at the country's history and culture, from the Stone Age to the present day. In addition, the Castle of Rakvere and the Fortress of Narva witness key historical events and offer a captivating glimpse into Estonia's past.