Name: Estonian University of Life Sciences (Eesti Maaülikool)
Location: Tartu, Estonia
Founded: 1951 (as a part of the University of Tartu, became an independent institution in 1951)
The university specializes in life sciences and related fields, particularly emphasizing research and education in agriculture, forestry, environmental sciences, veterinary medicine, food sciences, and rural economy. Its programs are designed to address global challenges related to natural resources, sustainability, and environmental management.
Institute of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Institute of Forestry and Rural Engineering
Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences
Institute of Technology
Institute of Economics and Social Sciences
Agriculture: The university offers programs in crop and animal production, agroecology, and farm management.
Environmental Sciences: Focuses on environmental protection, sustainable management of natural resources, and biodiversity conservation.
Forestry: Covers forest management, wood processing, and the economic aspects of forestry.
Veterinary Medicine: One of the top fields, offering comprehensive training in veterinary sciences.
Food Sciences: Research and education on food production, safety, and technology.
Degree Level |
Program Name (Estonian) |
Field of Study |
|---|---|---|
|
Bakalaureuseõpe (Bachelor's) |
Agronoomia |
Agriculture |
|
Bakalaureuseõpe (Bachelor's) |
Keskkonnakaitse |
Environmental Protection |
|
Bakalaureuseõpe (Bachelor's) |
Metsandus |
Forestry |
|
Bakalaureuseõpe (Bachelor's) |
Põllumajandusettevõtlus ja finantsjuhtimine |
Agricultural Business and Financial Management |
|
Bakalaureuseõpe (Bachelor's) |
Aiandus |
Horticulture |
|
Bakalaureuseõpe (Bachelor's) |
Veterinaarmeditsiin |
Veterinary Medicine |
|
Bakalaureuseõpe (Bachelor's) |
Toiduteadus ja toiduohutus |
Food Science and Safety |
|
Magistriõpe (Master's) |
Maastikukorraldus ja maakorraldus |
Landscape Management and Land Management |
|
Magistriõpe (Master's) |
Keskkonnakorraldus |
Environmental Management |
|
Magistriõpe (Master's) |
Metsanduse ökoloogia ja majandamine |
Forestry Ecology and Management |
|
Magistriõpe (Master's) |
Põllumajandussaaduste tootmine ja turustamine |
Agricultural Production and Marketing |
|
Magistriõpe (Master's) |
Aianduse ökonoomika |
Horticultural Economics |
|
Magistriõpe (Master's) |
Toiduainete tehnoloogia |
Food Technology |
|
Magistriõpe (Master's) |
Kliimamajandus ja ressursijuhtimine |
Climate Economics and Resource Management |
|
Magistriõpe (Master's) |
Loomaarstiteadus |
Veterinary Science |
Program Name (Estonian) |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (Approx. in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Agronoomia |
3 years |
$3,200 - $4,000 |
|
Keskkonnakaitse |
3 years |
$3,200 - $4,000 |
|
Metsandus |
3 years |
$3,200 - $4,000 |
|
Põllumajandusettevõtlus ja finantsjuhtimine |
3 years |
$3,200 - $4,000 |
|
Aiandus |
3 years |
$3,200 - $4,000 |
|
Veterinaarmeditsiin |
6 years |
$8,500 - $9,500 |
|
Toiduteadus ja toiduohutus |
3 years |
$3,200 - $4,000 |
Program Name (Estonian) |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (Approx. in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Maastikukorraldus ja maakorraldus |
2 years |
$4,200 - $5,000 |
|
Keskkonnakorraldus |
2 years |
$4,200 - $5,000 |
|
Metsanduse ökoloogia ja majandamine |
2 years |
$4,200 - $5,000 |
|
Põllumajandussaaduste tootmine ja turustamine |
2 years |
$4,200 - $5,000 |
|
Aianduse ökonoomika |
2 years |
$4,200 - $5,000 |
|
Toiduainete tehnoloogia |
2 years |
$4,200 - $5,000 |
|
Kliimamajandus ja ressursijuhtimine |
2 years |
$4,200 - $5,000 |
|
Loomaarstiteadus (Veterinary Science) |
2 years |
$8,500 - $9,500 |
Program Name (Estonian) |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (Approx. in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Põllumajandusteadus ja biotehnoloogia |
4 years |
$4,500 - $5,500 |
|
Keskkonnakaitse ja ökoloogia |
4 years |
$4,500 - $5,500 |
|
Metsateadus |
4 years |
$4,500 - $5,500 |
|
Loomaarstiteadus |
4 years |
$4,500 - $5,500 |
|
Toiduteadus |
4 years |
$4,500 - $5,500 |
|
Majandusteadus |
4 years |
$4,500 - $5,500 |
|
Tehnikateadus |
4 years |
$4,500 - $5,500 |
Landscape Architecture (taught in English)
Agri-Food Business Management (taught in English)
Environmental Governance and Adaptation to Climate Change (taught in English)
Veterinary Medicine (selected courses in English, but primarily in Estonian)
Various PhD programs may be conducted in English, depending on the research focus and availability of supervisors who can provide guidance in English.
Completed secondary education equivalent to the Estonian level.
Proof of proficiency in Estonian (as most Bachelor's programs are taught in Estonian).
Some programs may require additional entrance exams or interviews.
A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.
Proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) if the program is taught in English.
Specific program requirements, such as a portfolio for Landscape Architecture.
A Master’s degree or equivalent qualification in a related field.
A research proposal or plan.
Proof of English proficiency if the program or research is conducted in English.
Master’s Programs (English-taught):
Typically range from $4,200 to $5,000 per year.
Veterinary Medicine may have higher fees.
PhD Programs:
Approximately $4,500 to $5,500 per year, with possible variations based on the program and available funding.
Review the programs offered by the university in English or Estonian.
Decide on the degree level: Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral.
Bachelor’s Programs: You generally need a high school diploma or equivalent.
Master’s Programs: A relevant bachelor’s degree is required.
Doctoral Programs: A relevant master’s degree is required.
English-taught Programs: Proof of English proficiency, usually through tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent.
Estonian-taught Programs: Proof of proficiency in the Estonian language if the program is taught in Estonian.
Application Form: Complete the online application form through the university’s admission portal.
Educational Certificates: Copies of diplomas, transcripts, etc. If documents are not in English or Estonian, they must be translated.
Proof of Language Proficiency: Submit your language test scores.
Copy of Passport: A copy of your passport’s identification page.
Motivation Letter: Explaining why you want to study the chosen program and your future plans.
CV/Resume: Especially for Master’s and Doctoral programs.
Recommendation Letters: Required for some programs, usually at the Master’s and Doctoral levels.
Submit your application through the DreamApply system, which is commonly used by Estonian universities.
Pay the application fee, if applicable.
Some programs may require an entrance exam or an interview. If required, you will be informed about the schedule.
The university will review your application and documents. The decision typically takes a few weeks.
Successful applicants will receive an offer letter via email.
If accepted, confirm your intention to study by following the instructions in the offer letter.
Pay any required tuition fees or deposits.
Bachelor’s Programs: Typically have a main intake once a year, with applications opening in January or February and closing in mid-April.
Master’s Programs: Similar to Bachelor’s, applications generally open in January or February and close in mid-April.
Academic Year: The academic year usually begins in September.
Educational Background: Applicants must have completed secondary education equivalent to the Estonian national curriculum.
Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is required for most international programs. Accepted tests include:
IELTS: A minimum overall score of 5.5-6.0.
TOEFL: A minimum score of 72-80 (Internet-based).
Some programs might accept a previous degree taught entirely in English as proof of proficiency.
Entrance Exams/Interviews: Some programs may require entrance exams or interviews.
Bachelor’s Degree: A completed Bachelor’s degree relevant to the field of study is required.
Minimum GPA: Some programs may have specific GPA requirements.
Language Proficiency: Similar to Bachelor’s requirements, with possibly higher minimum scores (IELTS 6.0+, TOEFL 80+).
Motivation Letter/CV: Most programs require submission of a motivation letter and a CV.
References: Some programs require academic or professional references.
Master’s Degree: A relevant Master’s degree is required.
Research Proposal: A detailed research proposal aligned with the university’s research priorities.
Supervisory Agreement: Often, candidates need to have a pre-agreement with a supervisor at the university.
Language Proficiency: Same as for Master’s programs.
Online Application: Applications are generally submitted through the DreamApply portal.
Documents: Applicants must submit:
Copies of diplomas and transcripts.
Proof of English language proficiency.
A copy of passport or ID card.
Motivation letter and CV (for Master’s programs).
Application Fee: There is usually a non-refundable application fee.
Interview (if applicable): Some programs may require a video interview or entrance exam.
Ranking Organization |
Global Rank |
Subject-Specific Rank (if applicable) |
Region/Category |
|---|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not Ranked Globally |
201-250 (Agriculture & Forestry) |
N/A |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Not Ranked Globally |
N/A |
N/A |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Coverage/Benefits |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Estonian Government Scholarships |
International students (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD) |
Monthly stipend of €350-€400 |
Apply via the Estonian Education and Youth Board (Harno) portal. Additional documents may be required. |
|
Dora Plus Scholarship |
Full-time Master’s and PhD students; Non-EU/EEA |
Monthly stipend of €350 |
Application is typically submitted during admission or through a separate call from the university. |
|
University Performance-based Scholarships |
Enrolled students with excellent academic performance |
Monthly stipend of up to €100 |
Automatically considered based on academic results. |
|
Specialty-Specific Scholarships |
Specific to certain study programs, based on merit |
Varies depending on the scholarship |
Typically applied for through the department offering the program. |
|
PhD Study Scholarships |
PhD students enrolled in research-intensive programs |
Monthly stipend; research funding |
Apply during PhD application or via calls for research funding. |
|
External Scholarships (e.g., Erasmus+) |
Students in exchange programs, internships, or joint programs |
Varies: includes travel, living costs, and tuition fees |
Apply through the international office or relevant mobility programs. |
Facility Type |
Details |
Location |
Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Main Campus |
The main campus is located in Tartu, Estonia. It houses academic buildings, laboratories, libraries, and student services. |
Kreutzwaldi Street, Tartu |
N/A |
|
Student Dormitories (Accommodation) |
University-managed dormitories with options for shared or private rooms. Basic amenities include Wi-Fi, laundry, and common areas. |
Near the main campus |
€100 - €300 per month, depending on room type and facilities |
|
Single Rooms (in dormitories) |
Private single rooms with shared kitchen and bathroom facilities. |
On-campus or nearby |
€180 - €300 per month |
|
Shared Rooms (in dormitories) |
2 to 3-person shared rooms, with common kitchen and bathroom. Ideal for budget-conscious students. |
On-campus or nearby |
€100 - €180 per month |
|
Private Apartments (Off-Campus) |
Independent housing options available in Tartu. These are generally more expensive than dormitories but offer more privacy. |
Tartu city center or residential areas |
€300 - €500+ per month |
|
Library and Study Spaces |
Modern library facilities, computer labs, and group study rooms are available on campus. |
Main campus |
Free for students |
|
Sports Facilities |
On-campus gym, fitness centers, and sports halls. Access to recreational activities and student sports clubs. |
Main campus and surrounding areas |
Gym membership: €20 - €30 per month |
|
Cafeterias and Dining |
Several on-campus cafeterias offering affordable meals for students. |
Main campus |
€2.50 - €5 per meal |
|
Student Support Services |
Includes academic advising, career counseling, and mental health support. |
Main campus |
Free for students |
The university is known for its focus on life sciences, agriculture, and environmental studies, with strong research-driven learning opportunities.
Small class sizes and close interaction with professors foster a supportive academic atmosphere.
Students can participate in various research projects, seminars, and workshops related to their field of study.
There are various student organizations and clubs on campus that cater to different interests, such as:
Student Union (ESÜ): Represents student interests and organizes various events and activities.
International Student Club (ESN Tartu): Supports international students by organizing social events, trips, and cultural activities.
Academic Societies: Subject-specific clubs related to agriculture, veterinary medicine, environmental science, and more.
Sports Clubs: Opportunities for participating in team sports like volleyball, basketball, and football, as well as individual activities like running and martial arts.
Freshers’ Week (Tudengipäevad): A week-long event at the beginning of the academic year filled with activities, parties, and opportunities to meet new friends.
Tartu Student Days (Tartu Tudengipäevad): Held twice a year (in spring and autumn), featuring concerts, sports events, and quirky competitions.
International Evenings: Events organized by ESN Tartu where students showcase their culture through food, performances, and traditional games.
Student Festivals: The city of Tartu is known as Estonia’s “student city” and hosts various festivals, fairs, and markets throughout the year.
On-campus dormitories are available and provide a community atmosphere where you can meet and live with other students.
Living in Tartu is generally affordable compared to other European cities, with plenty of options for dining, shopping, and entertainment.
The university has modern sports facilities, including gyms, sports halls, and outdoor courts.
Students can participate in a variety of sports activities, ranging from group fitness classes to competitive sports teams.
The nearby forests and parks provide opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and skiing in the winter.
International Office: Provides assistance to international students regarding visas, residence permits, and general support.
Career Services: Helps students with internships, job placements, and career counseling.
Health and Wellness: On-campus health services, including counseling and mental health support, are available to students.
Tartu is known as the intellectual capital of Estonia and is home to a large student population, giving the city a youthful and dynamic vibe.
The city center is full of cozy cafes, restaurants, and bars, making it a popular spot for students to hang out.
Cultural venues like the Estonian National Museum, theaters, and galleries offer plenty of options for those interested in arts and culture.
Public transportation is well-organized, and the city is bike-friendly, making it easy to get around.
Tartu is affordable compared to many other European cities, with average monthly living costs (including rent, food, and transportation) ranging from €500 to €800.
Student discounts are widely available for transportation, museums, events, and even some restaurants.
The university hosts career fairs, workshops, and networking events that allow students to connect with potential employers and industry professionals.
Partnerships with local businesses, government institutions, and international organizations open opportunities for internships and employment.
Although many courses are offered in English, international students are encouraged to learn some basic Estonian to help integrate into the community.
The university offers Estonian language courses and organizes cultural adaptation programs for newcomers.
Aspect |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Career Services |
The university has a dedicated Career Services office that helps students with career planning, job searches, and professional development. They organize workshops, CV clinics, and one-on-one counseling sessions. |
|
Internships |
Many programs at the university incorporate mandatory internships, allowing students to gain practical experience and establish industry connections. Internships are often the pathway to full-time employment. |
|
Industry Partnerships |
The university collaborates with companies in agriculture, forestry, environmental sciences, and other sectors, providing students with access to internships, research projects, and job opportunities. |
|
Career Fairs and Networking Events |
Annual career fairs are held where local and international employers participate, giving students direct access to potential employers. Networking events, guest lectures, and company presentations are also organized regularly. |
|
Employment Rate |
While specific placement rates are not publicly available, graduates from the Estonian University of Life Sciences generally find employment within their fields of study, especially in sectors like agriculture, forestry, and environmental management, where the demand for skilled professionals is strong. |
|
Entrepreneurship Support |
The university encourages entrepreneurship through various programs, including startup incubators and business mentorship. Students with innovative ideas in agriculture, food technology, and environmental sectors receive support to launch their own ventures. |
|
Job Portals and Alumni Network |
The university has an internal job portal where employers post job and internship opportunities. Additionally, the alumni network plays an important role in connecting students with industry contacts and job openings. |
|
International Opportunities |
Graduates looking to work abroad can benefit from the university’s Erasmus+ partnerships and international collaboration projects, opening doors to global job markets. |
Program Popularity: Competitive programs like Veterinary Medicine, Environmental Sciences, and Agriculture may have lower acceptance rates compared to other programs.
Application Pool: The university attracts both domestic and international students, which impacts the overall selectivity.
Eligibility Criteria: The university seeks applicants with a solid academic background and proficiency in English. Meeting the minimum academic and language requirements significantly improves the chances of admission.
Estonian University of Life Sciences
Kreutzwaldi 1,
51006 Tartu,
Estonia
Academic Buildings: The main academic facilities, including lecture halls, research labs, and faculty offices, are centralized around Kreutzwaldi Street.
Library and Study Facilities: The university’s library offers extensive resources, study spaces, and modern technology to support students’ academic needs.
Student Dormitories: Student housing is located within walking distance from the main campus, providing convenient accommodation options.
Research Institutes: The campus hosts specialized research centers focused on agriculture, forestry, veterinary medicine, and environmental studies.
Sports and Recreation Facilities: On-campus gymnasiums, sports fields, and fitness centers are available for student use.
