International Community

In Tartu, one can find friends from at least 30 countries: Every year the University of Tartu hosts over 600 international students in its degree and semester programmes. International students come from more than 30 countries from all corners of the world. It is truly a multicultural study and living environment. To ensure that the international members of the university and town community feel comfortable in Tartu, the city has launched a series of events to raise awareness and understanding among the town citizens for the representatives of the world's many cultures who choose Tartu for studies and research.

Students of the University of Tartu learn from an international team of academic staff: From its founding in 1632 the University of Tartu has been a highly international institution and this academic value is at the core of the university's DNA. Over 100 international staff members teach and work at the University of Tartu every year. Many more come to deliver lectures and short courses. In 2008/2009, for example, the University of Tartu community had the distinct privilege of hearing from world-famous figures like renowned Italian semiotician, philosopher and writer Umberto Eco and former NATO Secretary General Lord Robertson.

Study abroad experiences are highly valued and are available to everyone: The University of Tartu places high priority on providing international experience for its students and staff. From year to year the geography and number of foreign exchange opportunities increase, as does the number of students and staff using them. International students studying in university degree programmes have the opportunity to spend a semester or two at one of partner universities of the University of Tartu around the world.

International student organisations are very active in Tartu: As befits a true university town, Tartu is bustling with student life. In Tartu, one can find representatives of every major international student organisation, like ESN, AIESEC and AEGEE. ESN is the main student organisation that coordinates student social life and events that often go beyond the borders of Estonia.

English is widely used inside the university and elsewhere in town: English is definitely the most-used language of international communication in academic circles of the university. One will be surprised to find it also broadly used in Tartu's everyday life and even in public services. Taxi and bus drivers will speak some English, documents in the migration office that students visit to register for their study period are available in English and a lot of signage in the streets and public places is in English, as are the menus in restaurants.

Communication in foreign languages: The University of Tartu recognises the need for international students and staff to be informed and aware of what is going on inside and outside the university. The International Relations Office publishes a monthly electronic newsletter for the international community at the university. An international edition of the university newspaper comes out once at the middle of every semester. The Study Information System and University Intranet are also partially in English. Do not miss out on those valuable resources!