Language Requirements For Estonia Higher Study

Estonia offers degree programmes taught in English and Estonian. Each university and programme sets its own language criteria, so exact thresholds can differ. Below is a comprehensive guide to the most common requirements, accepted proofs, score ranges, waivers, and how to submit your results.

Instruction Languages

• English-taught programmes: available at all major universities and the most common choice for international students • Estonian-taught programmes: require Estonian proficiency (usually B2–C1 CEFR) • Bilingual options are limited and programme-specific; always verify the language of instruction on the programme page.

English Requirements (for English-taught programmes)

Universities typically accept internationally recognized tests. Exact minimums vary by institution and programme.

• IELTS Academic: commonly 6.0–6.5 for bachelor’s; 6.5–7.0 for master’s; some programmes set minimum sub-scores (e.g., no band below 5.5–6.0) • TOEFL iBT: commonly 72–90 for bachelor’s; 90–100 for master’s; note possible section minimums • PTE Academic: commonly 59–65 for bachelor’s; 65–76 for master’s, sometimes with subscore limits • Cambridge English: C1 Advanced (often 180+) or C2 Proficiency (often 200+) accepted; some programmes require a specific score on the Cambridge scale • Duolingo English Test (DET): accepted by some programmes (often 105–120 for bachelor’s; 115–130 for master’s); acceptance varies, so check your programme’s page.

Important Notes on Tests

• Test validity: IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/DET scores are typically valid for 2 years; Cambridge C1/C2 do not expire, but some universities prefer results not older than 2–3 years • Home/online versions: acceptance of TOEFL iBT Home Edition and similar variants differs by university and year—confirm before booking • Unaccepted tests: TOEFL Essentials, IELTS Indicator, or institutional/online-only tests are often not accepted unless explicitly stated • Subscores matter: many programmes require minimum scores in reading, listening, speaking, and writing—borderline overall scores with low subscores may be rejected.

Who Can Get an English Test Waiver

Universities may waive a test if you meet one of the following (varies by institution):

• Completed a prior degree fully taught in English in a country/university recognized by the admitting school • Citizenship or long-term residence and schooling in a majority English-speaking country (list differs by university) • International curricula and exams such as IB (English A), Cambridge A-level/AS-level English, certain APs, or specific high school diplomas with defined grades • A recent multi-year full-time study history in English (e.g., 2–3 years); a “medium of instruction” letter may be required but is not always sufficient alone.

Estonian Requirements (for Estonian-taught programmes)

• Typical level: B2–C1 CEFR, depending on programme and academic level • Accepted proofs: state Estonian language proficiency exam certificate (B2/C1), prior education in Estonian, university placement tests, or recognized certificates from accredited language centres • Programmes with clinical practice, teacher training, or public-facing work often require higher proficiency at entry or by a set study milestone.

Preparing for Estonian-taught Studies

• University courses: many universities offer preparatory or in-programme Estonian courses (from A1 up to B2) • National/settlement programmes: look into government-supported options such as Settle in Estonia and courses via the Integration Foundation for subsidized language learning • Strategy: aim for B1 before arrival if possible, then progress to B2/C1 within the first study year if your curriculum allows.

University Snapshots (typical expectations—always verify)

• University of Tartu (UT): many master’s ask for IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL iBT around 90 / Cambridge C1 180+ / PTE 62–65+; higher for some programmes • TalTech – Tallinn University of Technology: often IELTS 6.0–6.5 / TOEFL iBT 80–90 / PTE 59–65+; programme-specific subscores may apply • Tallinn University (TLU): commonly IELTS 6.0–6.5 / TOEFL iBT 80–90 / PTE 59–65+; check faculty rules • Estonian University of Life Sciences (EMÜ): similar to above; some programmes accept slightly lower for bachelor’s and higher for master’s • Estonian Academy of Arts (EKA) and Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre (EAMT): language test plus portfolio/audition; thresholds vary by discipline.

Programme-Specific Variations

• Health, law, teacher education, and communication-heavy fields may set higher English/Estonian thresholds or require an interview • Design, architecture, and performing arts often combine language requirements with portfolio or audition; meeting language minimums does not guarantee admission • IT and engineering may prioritize technical interviews but still enforce language minimums and subscores.

PhD Applicants

• English proficiency may be verified through interviews, supervisor endorsements, publications, or institutional tests; some schools still require an external certificate • Aim for at least C1-level academic English for research proposal writing, publishing, and teaching duties.

Submission: How to Send Your Scores

• IELTS: provide your Test Report Form (TRF) number; some universities accept electronic verification directly • TOEFL iBT: send scores via ETS using the university’s DI code listed on the admissions page • PTE Academic: send results through your Pearson account to the university • Cambridge C1/C2: share your Statement of Results or verification details as instructed • Duolingo: share your official results from the DET portal to the programme’s institution • Upload deadlines: many universities allow uploading pending scores until a set date; late or unofficial copies can delay decisions.

Deadlines, Validity, and Retakes

• Book early: popular test dates fill quickly before main admission deadlines (Nov–Apr for autumn intake; later for spring intake where available) • Validity: ensure your score will still be valid on the programme’s deadline day • Retakes: plan buffer time for a retake and score reporting (1–3 weeks depending on test).

Interviews and Writing Samples

• Many programmes add an interview to confirm academic communication skills • You may be asked for a writing sample, motivation letter, or recorded task; language quality is part of the evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is there a national minimum? No—requirements are set by each university/programme • Do I need language proof for a visa/residence permit? Language proof is primarily for admission; consulates may review admission documents but do not set a separate national test requirement for students • Can I combine scores from different sittings? Usually no; one complete, valid test is required • Are expired scores accepted? Typically not • Is a “medium of instruction” letter enough? Sometimes, but many programmes still require an international test unless you fit specific waiver categories.

Accessibility and Special Arrangements

• Major test providers offer accommodations for documented needs (extra time, separate room, assistive tech) • Apply for accommodations well before your target test date and inform the university if your documentation affects timelines.

Practical Prep Timeline

• 5–7 months out: check exact programme minimums and subscore rules; choose your test • 3–5 months out: book and take the test; keep a retake slot in mind • 1–3 months out: send official scores; complete interviews and any writing tasks • Before enrollment: if below target, consider a retake or ask about conditional admission or preparatory courses.

Quick Checklist

• Confirm programme language and exact minimums • Check if you qualify for a waiver • Choose a test that your programme accepts • Book early and aim above the minimum (including subscores) • Send official scores before the deadline • Prepare for interviews/writing tasks • If studying in Estonian, plan your path to B2–C1 with preparatory courses.

Final Note

Requirements can change year to year. Always verify the latest language rules on your target programme’s official admissions page before you book a test or submit your application.