At a glance
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Duration
6.0
IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
The University of Tartu offers doctoral studies for international applicants. To be considered for admission, you must demonstrate proficiency in English or Estonian. For English, a minimum of B2 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages is required. For certain specializations, like Russian Language and Literature, proof of Russian language proficiency is necessary instead of English or Estonian. Accepted English language tests must be taken by the application deadline. If your test scores are not yet available when you submit your application, you can upload proof of registration for a language test. Scores from tests taken after the application deadline will not be accepted. If you are unable to meet the document submission deadline, you are encouraged to apply in a future application round.
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for doctoral studies?
- You need a minimum of B2 level proficiency. Accepted tests include TOEFL iBT (75 overall before Jan 21, 2026; 4 overall on/after Jan 21, 2026), IELTS Academic (6.0 overall, 5.5 in each section), Cambridge English (169), or PTE Academic (59). Exemptions are possible if you completed higher education in English in specific countries or worked in an English-speaking research group.
- When is the application deadline for doctoral studies?
- The application deadline for the May intake is 15 May. Accepted English language tests must be taken no more than 2 years before applying and remain valid for at least one month after submission.
- How do I apply for doctoral studies?
- You must submit an online application with supporting documents, including proof of English language proficiency by the deadline. This includes submitting your test score report or proof of registration for a language test.
- Are there any tuition fees for doctoral studies?
- Specific tuition fees for doctoral programmes are not detailed. However, the university does offer tuition-waiver student places for certain Master's programmes for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens from the 2026/2027 academic year, conditional on meeting a nominal study load.
- What scholarships are available for international doctoral students?
- The University of Tartu offers a scholarship program for expatriate Estonians and the Estonian national scholarship programme for international students.
Entry requirements
TOEFL iBT75 (before Jan 21, 2026); 4 (overall), 3.5 (Reading, Listening, Writing), 4 (Speaking) (on or after Jan 21, 2026)
IELTS Academic6.0 overall, with no part below 5.5
Cambridge English169
PTE Academic59
The University of Tartu only accepts TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, Cambridge English, and PTE Academic test scores taken no more than 2 years before applying. The test must remain valid for at least one month after the application submission. Exemptions are available if you have completed higher education in English in the USA, Switzerland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, UK, or any EU/EEA member state. Studies at offshore campuses or online do not count towards exemption. Studies or work in an English-speaking research group in the specified countries for at least four months can also exempt you from the test, provided the necessary documentation is submitted.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
While specific tuition fees for doctoral programmes are not detailed on the provided pages, the university does offer tuition-waiver student places for certain Master's programmes for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens starting from the 2026/2027 academic year. These waivers are conditional on meeting a nominal study load requirement.
How to apply
1. Prepare Language Proficiency ProofEnsure you have taken an accepted English language test (e.g., TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, Cambridge English, PTE Academic) by the application deadline. For the May intake, this is 15 May. If scores are not yet available, upload proof of registration.
2. Gather Required DocumentsCollect all necessary academic transcripts, certificates, and any other documents required for your specific doctoral program.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit your application through the university's online application system. Upload your language test score report or registration proof.
4. Verification of ScoresThe University of Tartu will verify your submitted test scores online. Ensure your TOEFL institutional code (0133 for UT) or other electronic submission methods are correctly used.
Scholarships
Scholarship program aimed at supporting the studies of expatriate Estonians in Estonia—
Estonian national scholarship programme for international students—
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language proficiency requirements for doctoral studies?
+
You need a minimum of B2 level proficiency. Accepted tests include TOEFL iBT (75 overall before Jan 21, 2026; 4 overall on/after Jan 21, 2026), IELTS Academic (6.0 overall, 5.5 in each section), Cambridge English (169), or PTE Academic (59). Exemptions are possible if you completed higher education in English in specific countries or worked in an English-speaking research group.
When is the application deadline for doctoral studies?
+
The application deadline for the May intake is 15 May. Accepted English language tests must be taken no more than 2 years before applying and remain valid for at least one month after submission.
How do I apply for doctoral studies?
+
You must submit an online application with supporting documents, including proof of English language proficiency by the deadline. This includes submitting your test score report or proof of registration for a language test.
Are there any tuition fees for doctoral studies?
+
Specific tuition fees for doctoral programmes are not detailed. However, the university does offer tuition-waiver student places for certain Master's programmes for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens from the 2026/2027 academic year, conditional on meeting a nominal study load.
What scholarships are available for international doctoral students?
+
The University of Tartu offers a scholarship program for expatriate Estonians and the Estonian national scholarship programme for international students.