Study in Estonia from Nepal: A Comprehensive Guide
Basic Introduction to Estonia
Estonia is a small but vibrant country located in Northern Europe, known for its beautiful landscapes and advanced digital society. The official language is Estonian, and the capital city is Tallinn, which is also the country’s largest city. Estonia has a population of approximately 1.3 million people. It shares borders with Latvia to the south and Russia to the east, while to the north and west, it is bounded by the Gulf of Finland and the Baltic Sea, respectively. The country has a high standard of living, with a per capita income of around $24,000 USD. Estonia is a member of several international organizations, including the European Union (EU), NATO, and the Schengen Area.
Top 5 Universities in Estonia
1. University of Tartu
Ranked as the top university in Estonia, the University of Tartu is a prestigious institution known for its strong emphasis on research and quality education. It offers a wide range of programs in various fields, including humanities, social sciences, medicine, and natural sciences.
2. Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech)
TalTech is a leading university in the field of engineering and technology. It offers innovative programs in information technology, engineering, business, and maritime studies, making it a popular choice for students interested in technical education.
3. Tallinn University
Known for its diverse programs in social sciences, humanities, and arts, Tallinn University is an excellent choice for students seeking a broad education. It also has a strong focus on media and communication studies.
4. Estonian University of Life Sciences
This university is renowned for its programs in agriculture, environmental sciences, and veterinary medicine. It plays a crucial role in research and development in these areas, contributing to Estonia’s sustainable development.
5. Estonian Academy of Arts
For those interested in creative fields, the Estonian Academy of Arts offers programs in fine arts, design, architecture, and media. It is the leading institution for arts education in Estonia.
Visa Application Process
To study in Estonia, Nepalese students need to apply for a longterm (D) visa or a temporary residence permit for study purposes. The application process generally includes the following steps:
1. Acceptance Letter: Obtain an acceptance letter from a recognized Estonian educational institution.
2. Visa Application: Submit the visa application form along with required documents, including passport copies, proof of financial means, health insurance, and the acceptance letter.
3. Biometrics and Interview: Attend a visa interview and provide biometric data if required.
4. Fee Payment: Pay the visa application fee.
5. Processing: Wait for the visa processing, which can take a few weeks.
Student Visa Application Fee
The fee for a longterm (D) visa is approximately €100. However, this may vary, so it is advisable to check the latest information on the official immigration website of Estonia.
Why Estonia is Popular Among Nepalese Students
Estonia is becoming increasingly popular among Nepalese students due to its highquality education system, affordable tuition fees, and the widespread use of English in higher education. The country is also known for its innovative and digital society, which offers numerous opportunities in the tech and business sectors. Moreover, Estonia’s location within the EU and the Schengen Area allows students to travel and explore other European countries easily.
PostStudy Work Visa Opportunities
Estonia offers excellent poststudy work opportunities. International students can stay in Estonia for up to nine months after graduation to search for a job. Once employed, they can apply for a temporary residence permit for employment purposes. The country encourages talented graduates to remain and contribute to the local economy, especially in highdemand sectors like information technology, engineering, and business.
Popular Fields of Study in Estonia
- Information Technology: Estonia is known as a digital nation, making IT a popular and promising field of study.
- Engineering: TalTech and other universities offer strong programs in various engineering disciplines.
- Business and Management: Many universities provide courses in business, management, and entrepreneurship.
- Medical and Health Sciences: The University of Tartu offers highquality medical programs.
- Arts and Humanities: The Estonian Academy of Arts is a top choice for creative fields.
Average Living Cost in Major Cities
The cost of living in Estonia is relatively lower compared to many Western European countries. Here’s an approximate monthly estimate for major cities:
1. Tallinn: €600 €800
2. Tartu: €500 €700
3. Narva: €400 €600
4. Pärnu: €450 €650
5. Viljandi: €400 €600
These costs include accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses. Students can also benefit from various discounts and services designed for international students.
Bringing Dependents to Estonia
International students in Estonia can bring their dependents, such as a spouse or children, under certain conditions. Dependents can apply for a temporary residence permit for family members. However, it is important to note that dependents are not automatically allowed to work in Estonia unless they obtain a work permit or a residence permit for employment purposes.
Permanent Residency and Citizenship for Foreign Students
After completing their studies and working in Estonia, international graduates can apply for a temporary residence permit for employment. Continuous residence in Estonia for five years may make one eligible for longterm residency. However, acquiring Estonian citizenship requires passing a language and civic knowledge test, and Estonia does not permit dual citizenship. Thus, individuals must renounce their original citizenship if they wish to become Estonian citizens.
GAP Acceptance for Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees
Estonian universities are generally flexible regarding education gaps. However, the acceptance of an education gap depends on the course and university. It is crucial to provide a valid reason for the gap, such as work experience or other significant activities. Prospective students should check specific university requirements and consult with the admissions office.
Advantages of Studying in Estonia for Nepalese Students
1. Quality Education: Estonia offers highquality education with a strong emphasis on research and innovation.
2. Affordable Costs: Tuition fees and living expenses are relatively lower compared to many other European countries.
3. EnglishTaught Programs: A wide range of programs is offered in English, making it accessible for international students.
4. Safe and Welcoming Environment: Estonia is known for being safe and welcoming to international students.
5. Digital Society: As a pioneer in digital technology, Estonia provides ample opportunities for students in the tech sector.
Other Relevant Information
Embassy Presence: Estonia does not have an embassy in Nepal. However, Nepalese citizens can apply for a visa to Estonia at the nearest Estonian embassy in New Delhi, India. Nepal also does not have an embassy in Estonia. The absence of direct diplomatic missions means that Nepalese students must be prepared to travel to nearby countries for consular services.
International Affiliations: Estonia is a member of the European Union (EU), the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and the Schengen Area. These affiliations provide significant advantages, such as high educational standards, security, and the ability to travel freely within the Schengen Zone.
In conclusion, studying in Estonia offers Nepalese students a unique opportunity to gain a quality education in a dynamic and technologically advanced environment. With its affordable living costs, supportive immigration policies, and strong postgraduation opportunities, Estonia is an excellent choice for those looking to study abroad.