Record number of new international students at the University of Tartu
This autumn, 200 international students started their degree studies at the University of Tartu, which is 34% more than last year. Most international students come from Finland, Russia, Ukraine and India.
Compared to last year, the number of admitted international students almost doubled: from 188 in 2013 to 349 in 2014. “There are several reasons behind this increase, the most important of which are probably the two new English-taught programmes and a more active marketing,” explained Senior Specialist for International Studies Ülle Tensing.
Tensing added that the number of admitted international students who decline the admission offer is still relatively large, but “the more reason we have to be glad that 34% more international students started their studies compared to last autumn”.
International students who have started their studies come from 46 countries. 31% of international students come from EU member states. The most common countries of origin are the same as last year. Most international students come from Finland, Russia, Ukraine and India. “These are the countries where the University of Tartu has persistently marketed higher education for a long time. I am happy that students who arrive in Tartu from these countries reflect our efforts,” added Senior Specialist for International Marketing Eveli Soo.
Vice Rector for Academic Affairs of the University of Tartu Martin Hallik emphasised that also the listed countries have highly recognised universities present in the 2014 QS World University Rankings next to the University of Tartu. “The fact that these international students have chosen the University of Tartu proves that our reputation and quality of education places us among other highly reputed universities of the world. This is what brings international students to Tartu.”
Brigita from Lithuania who now studies in the master’s programme in European Union-Russia Studies said that she decided to come to the University of Tartu mostly because she knows that as one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe, it provides high teaching standards and brilliant academic environment that encourages learning. “I had already been to Tartu a number of times before choosing to study at the University of Tartu. Every time, I was impressed by the liveliness and unique student spirit in this town.”
Mayowa from Nigeria who now studies Applied Measurement Science at UT said: "I chose to study at UT because Tartu is a learning environment that I really seek for in terms of having people from different parts of the world coming together to study. UT is safer, healthier and less hectic which makes it the best environment for me to study.”
In addition to international degree-seeking students, also the number of international visiting students has increased by 21%. In previous years, less than 250 international visiting students started their studies each autumn semester. This time, the University of Tartu welcomed about 270 new international visiting students.
Additional information: Ülle Tensing, Senior Specialist for International Studies of the University of Tartu, tel: +372 737 5150, email: ulle.tensing [ät] ut.ee;
Martin Hallik, Vice Rector for Academic Affairs of the University of Tartu, tel: +372 737 6201, +372 51 53 853, email: martin.hallik [ät] ut.ee.