Education Estonia

Enrolling a child in a kindergarten

Residence registration: The child and their parents must be registered in the Estonian Population Register at their place of residence. This is a mandatory condition for obtaining a kindergarten place.

Kindergarten selection: Parents can choose up to three preferred kindergartens in their municipality. A list of kindergartens is available on the official websites of local governments.

Application submission: The application for kindergarten admission should be submitted as early as possible, preferably immediately after receiving the child's birth certificate. This can be done through electronic systems such as ARNO, or in person by submitting the application to the chosen kindergarten or the local education department.

Waiting for a decision: The formation of groups in kindergartens usually takes place from May 1 to August 15. If there are open spots, children are admitted throughout the year. Parents will be notified of the place allocation by email or postal mail.

Enrolling a child in school

Compulsory education: Children who have reached the age of 7 by October 1 of the current year are required to start school. Compulsory schooling lasts until either the acquisition of basic education or until the child reaches 17 years of age.

Assignment to a school by residence: Local authorities are obliged to provide all resident children with a place in a school located close to their home. Parents will receive a notification of the assigned school by residence.

Application submission: Applications for school admission are usually submitted from March 1 to March 15 through the eKool system or directly to the education department. Parents can also choose another school, not by residence, if there are available spaces.

Required documents: The following documents are needed for school admission:

Residence permit of the child and parents.

Residence registration.

The child's medical card.

Transcript of grades and personal file (if transferring from another school).

Notification of admission: Parents will be notified of the child's school admission by email or postal mail. Upon receiving notification, it is necessary to confirm the agreement to study at the specified school.

For more detailed information, it is recommended to contact the local education department or visit the official state service portal Eesti.ee. 

In Estonia, the educational system strives to ensure all children receive quality education in the Estonian language. However, for families interested in foreign language instruction, certain opportunities are available.

Kindergartens with foreign language instruction

In Estonia, there are private kindergartens and groups offering instruction in foreign languages, such as English. These institutions often use immersion methodologies to promote early foreign language acquisition. For example, in Tallinn and Tartu, there are kindergartens with fully English programs or specific English-speaking groups.

Schools with foreign language instruction

For schoolchildren, the following options are available:

International schools: In major cities like Tallinn and Tartu, international schools operate where instruction is conducted in English under the International Baccalaureate or European Baccalaureate programs:

- Tallinna Euroopa Kool

- Eesti Rahvusvaheline Kool

- Miina Härma Gümnaasium

- Tallinna Inglise Kolledž

- Audentese Erakool

- Tartu Rahvusvaheline Kool

- Tallinna Rahvusvaheline Kool

Language immersion programs: Some Estonian schools offer programs where some subjects are taught in a foreign language, most commonly English. This promotes bilingual education and enhances students' language skills.

Thus, opportunities for education in foreign languages exist in Estonia, mostly in private and international institutions. However, the state education system focuses on Estonian-language instruction, and this process is expected to intensify in the coming years. 

Public educational institutions

Preschool institutions: Municipalities are obliged to ensure access to preschool education for all children aged one and a half to seven years. Education in such institutions is organized based on a unified state program, providing equal opportunities for all children. Starting September 1, 2024, public kindergartens began transitioning to Estonian language instruction.

Schools: Public schools provide free education based on the national curriculum. Municipalities designate schools by residence for each child, ensuring accessibility to education. Compulsory education starts at the age of seven and continues until basic education is completed or the child reaches 17 years old.

Features of public institutions

Accessibility: Education in public institutions is free, providing equal opportunities for all children.

Unified curriculum: Education is conducted according to a unified state program, ensuring standardized quality of education.

Transition to instruction in Estonian: Starting from September 1, 2024, there is a gradual transition to instruction in Estonian in public kindergartens and schools, which is planned to be completed by 2030.

Private educational establishments

Preschool institutions: Private kindergartens offer various educational programs, including instruction in foreign languages such as English. They may use alternative teaching methods and provide additional services.

Schools: Private schools often offer specialized or international educational programs, such as the International Baccalaureate. Education may be conducted in various languages, providing parents and students with a wider choice.

Features of private institutions

Tuition fees: Education at private institutions is typically paid, and the cost can vary significantly depending on the program and services provided.

Flexibility of programs: Private institutions may offer unique or specialized programs tailored to the needs of students.

Smaller classes: Private schools often have fewer students per class, allowing more attention to be given to each child.

Thus, the choice between a public and private educational institution in Estonia depends on family preferences, educational goals, and financial capabilities. 

Inclusive education

Most children with special educational needs attend mainstream schools in their area, where necessary conditions and support services are provided for them.

Specialized institutions

In cases where a child requires a specific organization of learning and resource-intensive support, they may be offered education in a special class or special school. Parents have the right to choose the most suitable educational establishment for their child. Estonia has several specialized schools and educational centers that provide individualized education and support for children with special educational needs.

Examples of specialized schools in Estonia

Tartu Herbert Masing School, Tartu: Education for children with autism, emotional-volitional disorders, and other psychosocial features.

Tallinna Heleni Kool, Tallinn: Works with children with hearing, vision, and other complex impairments.

Tallinna Laagna Lasteaed-Põhikool, Tallinn: Education for children with intellectual disabilities and multiple developmental features.

Narva Soldino Gymnasium (special classes), Narva: Education for children with mild and moderate intellectual disabilities.

Tallinna Kadaka Põhikool, Tallinn: Education for children with delayed psychic development and emotional disorders.

Haapsalu Neurological Rehabilitation Center, Haapsalu: Rehabilitation and education for children with motor apparatus disorders.

Emajõe School, Tartu: Education for children with severe and multiple developmental disorders.

Tallinna Maarjamaa Educational College, Tallinn: Education for children with behavioral problems and emotional disorders.

 

Support services

To ensure quality education for children with special needs, various support services are provided, including:

Special educators: Assist in adapting educational material and teaching methods to the individual needs of the child.

Speech therapists: Work with children with speech and language impairments, promoting the development of communication skills.

Psychologists: Provide emotional and psychological support, helping to cope with educational and social challenges.

Social Pedagogues: Help address social and behavioral issues, facilitating the integration of children into the school environment.

Individual Learning Plan

An individual learning plan is developed for each child with special educational needs, taking into account their abilities and needs. This allows for the adaptation of content and teaching methods, ensuring the maximum effectiveness of the educational process.

Consultative Commissions

In Estonia, external consultative commissions operate, which assess the needs of the child and recommend the most appropriate form of education and necessary support measures. Parents can turn to these commissions for recommendations and help in organizing their child's education.

Transition to Estonian-Language Education

From September 1, 2024, a gradual transition to Estonian-language education began in state kindergartens and schools in Estonia. For children with special educational needs, an individual approach is provided, considering their capabilities and needs. In some cases, education may continue in the child's native language if it is necessary for their successful development.

The Role of Parents

Parents play a key role in the education process for children with special needs. They have the right to choose the most suitable educational institution, participate in the development of an individual learning plan, and collaborate with teachers and specialists to ensure the best educational conditions for their child. 

Adaptation Program "Settle in Estonia"

The adaptation program "Settle in Estonia" offers support to newly arrived foreigners, helping them settle in the country. It includes educational courses that provide a general overview of life in Estonia, as well as Estonian language training. Although the program is primarily aimed at adults, it also considers the needs of families with children.

Estonian Language Courses for Children

Free Estonian language courses at elementary and intermediate levels are organized for children from foreign families. The Integration Foundation offers such courses for those with international protection, as well as for permanent residents and repatriates. Registration for courses is carried out through the Integration Foundation's self-service environment.

Language Camps and Integration Activities

The Ministry of Education and Research of Estonia supports the organization of language camps and integration activities for children and youth. These programs provide an opportunity to learn the Estonian language in an informal setting, promoting social integration and intercultural communication.

Transition to Estonian-Language Education

From September 1, 2024, a gradual transition to Estonian-language education began in state kindergartens and schools in Estonia. Special educational materials and methodologies have been developed to help children with a native language other than Estonian to master the language of instruction.

Resources for Learning the Estonian Language

Various educational materials and online resources are available for children and their parents for the self-study of the Estonian language. For example, the e-Koolikott platform offers digital learning materials for different education levels.

Consultations and Support

The Integration Foundation provides consultations on learning the Estonian language and adaptation in Estonia. Additional information can be obtained on their official website or by contacting them directly. 

After-School Groups

After-school groups are designed for elementary school students whose parents work and cannot pick them up immediately after classes. In these groups, children complete homework, participate in developmental games, and relax under the supervision of teachers.

Interest Clubs and Circles

Many schools and cultural institutions offer a wide range of clubs and circles where children can develop their talents and hobbies. For example, the Tallinn Central Library organizes various activities for children, such as morning gatherings for little ones, book readings, and language circles. Younger students have classes in robotics and board games, while teenagers can attend creative clubs and language cafes.

Camps

During school holidays, various camps are organized for children, where they can spend time actively and beneficially. There are also specialized camps where children learn to live in harmony with nature, participate in hikes, craft, and cook in the open air.

Registration and Participation

To participate in after-school groups, clubs, or camps, pre-registration is usually required. Some events are free, but there may be a fee for certain clubs and camps. It is recommended to check the cost and schedule information in advance on the official websites of the institutions or by contacting the organizers directly. 

Five-point grading system

In most general education schools in Estonia, a five-point grading system is used:

- 5 — "very good": 90–100% of requirements met.

- 4 — "good": 75–89%.

- 3 — "satisfactory": 50–74%.

- 2 — "poor/unsatisfactory": 20–49%.

- 1 — "very poor/unsatisfactory": 0–19%.

Grades "2" and "1" are considered unsatisfactory, and the student must retake the material.

Verbal assessment

In the lower grades (1–6), schools may use descriptive verbal assessment without numerical grades. This allows for a more detailed evaluation of the student's progress and development, providing quality feedback.

Grading in gymnasiums and vocational schools

Gymnasiums and vocational schools also use a five-point grading system. A grade of "3" is the minimum passing grade.

Higher Education

In Estonian universities, an assessment system compatible with the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) is used. Grades are expressed in points and correspond to the following levels:

- 5 (A) — "excellent": 91–100%.

- 4 (B) — "very good": 81–90%.

- 3 (C) — "good": 71–80%.

- 2 (D) — "satisfactory": 61–70%.

- 1 (E) — "sufficient": 51–60%.

- 0 (F) — "unsatisfactory": less than 51%.

Changes in the grading system

In 2023, the Ministry of Education and Science of Estonia proposed to indicate the results of final exams in basic school in percentages, allowing students to obtain more accurate information about their results and plan further studies. 

For foreign applicants wishing to enter Estonian universities, the following general requirements should be considered:

Academic Qualification

Bachelor's Degree: Completion of secondary education confirmed by an appropriate certificate or diploma is required. Some programs may have additional requirements for specific subjects or minimum grades.

Master's Degree: A bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in the relevant field is required. Some programs may require a certain grade point average or prior work experience in the field.

Language Requirements

English: For programs taught in English, proof of language proficiency at a level not lower than B2 is required. International test results such as IELTS or TOEFL are accepted.

Estonian: For programs in Estonian, proof of language proficiency at a level not lower than B2 is required.

Application Process

Online Application: Applicants submit applications through online university systems such as DreamApply or SAIS. It is necessary to fill out the form, upload the required documents, and pay the registration fee.

Application Deadlines: Deadlines vary depending on the university and program. The application process usually starts in January and ends in April. It is recommended to check specific dates on the official university websites.

Additional Requirements

Entrance exams or interviews: Some programs may require taking entrance exams, tests, or passing interviews. Information about this is usually provided in the program description.

Letters of recommendation and motivation letter: Some programs may request recommendations from teachers or employers, as well as a motivation letter explaining the reasons for choosing the program and the university.

Recognition of Foreign Educational Documents

Document Evaluation: Foreign educational documents must be recognized in Estonia. Some universities require a preliminary evaluation by the Estonian ENIC/NARIC Center. The evaluation process can take up to a month, so it is recommended to begin in advance.

Visa and Migration Issues

Residence Permit: After receiving confirmation of admission, students from non-EU/EEA countries must apply for a temporary residence permit for study. EU/EEA citizens must register in Estonia and obtain an Estonian ID card.

Requirements may vary depending on the university and chosen program. It is recommended to carefully familiarize yourself with the information on the official websites of the chosen educational institutions and programs to ensure successful enrollment.

Estonia offers quality education, and its universities rank high in international ratings. Here is a list of top universities in Estonia:

University of Tartu, Tartu. Fields of study: Medicine, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences.

Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn. Fields of study: Engineering, Information Technology, Business, Architecture.

Tallinn University, Tallinn. Fields of study: Social Sciences, Humanities, Film and Media, Education.

Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu. Fields of study: Ecology, Forestry, Veterinary, Agriculture.

Estonian Academy of Arts, Tallinn. Fields of study: Design, Architecture, Art, Media.

Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre, Tallinn. Fields of study: Music, Theatre Art, Film Production.

Estonian Business School, Tallinn. Fields of study: Business Management, Entrepreneurship, International Business. 

Recognition of Foreign Educational Documents

In Estonia, recognition of foreign educational documents is carried out via the Estonian ENIC/NARIC Center, which evaluates the compliance of foreign qualifications with the Estonian education system.

Recognition Procedure

Application Submission: An applicant submits an application for the recognition of their diploma or certificate to the chosen university or directly to the Estonian ENIC/NARIC Center.

Required Documents:

- Certified copies of diplomas and their supplements.

- Official translations of documents into Estonian or English.

- A copy of the passport or another form of identification.

Evaluation: Center specialists compare the content and level of your education with Estonian standards.

Result: After evaluation, you receive official confirmation of the recognition of your qualification, which is necessary for university admission.

Timelines and Costs

The recognition process can take from several weeks to several months, so it is recommended to start the procedure early. Some universities may charge a fee for document review, so check the information directly with the chosen educational institution.

Additional University Requirements

Some universities may have their own procedures for evaluating foreign diplomas. It is recommended to contact the admissions office of the chosen university for detailed information on specific requirements. 

Language Courses

Estonian Language Courses: The Integration Foundation offers free Estonian language courses for newly arrived foreigners at the A1, A2, and B1 levels. Classes are held both online and in various cities in Estonia, including Tallinn, Tartu, Narva, and others.

Adaptation Program "Settle in Estonia": This program organizes Estonian language courses, as well as modules dedicated to various aspects of life in Estonia, such as culture, the education system, healthcare, and the legal system. The program is intended for foreign citizens residing in Estonia for less than five years.

Professional Courses and Programs

Professional Development Courses: Various training centers and vocational schools offer courses for professional development in various fields such as information technology, business management, engineering, and others.

Professional Training Programs: The Estonian Unemployment Insurance Fund offers professional training and retraining programs for foreign citizens registered as unemployed. These programs help acquire new skills and enhance competitiveness in the labor market.

University Programs

International Study Programs: Many Estonian universities offer study programs in English for international students.

Open University Courses: Some universities offer individual courses for adults and foreign citizens who wish to expand their knowledge in specific fields without enrolling in a full degree program.

Online Resources for Self-Learning

"Keeleklikk" Platform: A free online course for learning the Estonian language at A1 and A2 levels, available in Russian and English.

"Keeletee" Platform: An advanced online course for learners of the Estonian language at the B1 level.

Cultural and Integration Activities

Language Cafes and Clubs: The Integration Foundation and other organizations regularly host language cafes where you can practice the Estonian language in an informal setting.

Cultural Events: Participation in cultural events and festivals helps better understand Estonian culture and society, and also fosters integration.

For current information on available courses and programs, it is recommended to regularly visit the official website of the Integration Foundation and the "Settle in Estonia" program. It is also useful to keep track of announcements from local educational institutions and public organizations, which might offer additional opportunities for education and integration.