University of Tartu logo

University of Tartu

Tartu, EE · Ranking #501

University of Tartu is Estonia's oldest and most prestigious university, founded in 1632 by King Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden. Located in Tartu, Estonia, it is the country's leading research university and the largest institution of higher education. The university offers comprehensive programs across humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, medicine, law, and theology. It is renowned for its research excellence, particularly in Baltic studies, genetics, and computer science. The university maintains strong international connections and is a member of the Coimbra Group and the Utrecht Network. It consistently ranks as the top university in Estonia and among the best in the Baltic region.

University of Tartu logo

University of Tartu

About the university

University of Tartu is Estonia's oldest and most prestigious university, founded in 1632 by King Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden. Located in Tartu, Estonia, it is the country's leading research university and the largest institution of higher education. The university offers comprehensive programs across humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, medicine, law, and theology. It is renowned for its research excellence, particularly in Baltic studies, genetics, and computer science. The university maintains strong international connections and is a member of the Coimbra Group and the Utrecht Network. It consistently ranks as the top university in Estonia and among the best in the Baltic region.

Key information

  • Location: Tartu, EE
  • Ranking #501
  • National ranking #1
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • Faculty of Arts and Humanities
  • Faculty of Social Sciences
  • Faculty of Medicine
  • Faculty of Science and Technology
  • Faculty of Law
  • Faculty of Theology

Programs (17)

  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Computer Science
  • Dentistry
  • Economics
  • Environmental Science
  • History
  • Law
  • Linguistics
  • Mathematics
  • Medicine
  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacy
  • Physics
  • Political Science
  • Psychology
  • Sociology

Campus life

University of Tartu's campus life is rich and vibrant, with historic buildings dating back centuries alongside modern facilities. The university hosts numerous cultural events, academic conferences, and student festivals throughout the year, including the famous Tartu Student Days. Students have access to various student organizations, clubs, and societies covering academic, cultural, and recreational interests. The campus features excellent libraries, research facilities, and recreational spaces. Tartu, as Estonia's university town, provides a unique student-friendly atmosphere with cafes, cultural venues, and easy access to nature. The university promotes an inclusive and international environment, with students from various countries contributing to a multicultural learning experience.

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: €400 - €800 / per month

Housing options

  • University dormitories
  • Private apartments
  • Shared apartments
  • Student housing complexes

Student clubs and organizations

  • Academic clubs
  • Cultural societies
  • Sports clubs
  • International student associations
  • Debate clubs
  • Music and arts groups
  • Volunteer organizations
  • Faculty-specific clubs

Sports

  • Basketball
  • Volleyball
  • Football
  • Athletics
  • Various recreational sports teams
  • University sports clubs

Career & internships

Internships: University of Tartu provides extensive internship opportunities through partnerships with local and international companies, government institutions, research organizations, and non-profit organizations. The university's career services office assists students in finding relevant internships aligned with their field of study. Many programs include mandatory or optional internship components, allowing students to gain practical experience. The university maintains connections with various sectors including technology companies, healthcare institutions, educational organizations, media companies, and public administration. International students can benefit from Erasmus+ traineeship programs and other European mobility initiatives. The university's strong research focus also provides opportunities for research internships and laboratory work.

Admission requirements

Required documents

  • Application form
  • Secondary school certificate or equivalent
  • Transcript of records
  • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
  • Motivation letter
  • CV
  • Copy of passport
  • Entrance examination results (for some programs)

Tuition costs

  • €2,000 - €7,500 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 55.00%
  • Scholarships available: University of Tartu offers various scholarship opportunities for both Estonian and international students. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based financial aid, and specific scholarships for international students. The university participates in Erasmus+ program and offers mobility grants. Estonian government scholarships are available for international students, and the university also offers tuition waivers for outstanding students. Doctoral students can apply for research grants and stipends. Students are encouraged to check the university's financial aid office for current scholarship opportunities and application deadlines.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1632
  • Teaching languages: english, estonian
  • Study formats: offline

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