4,806 new students start their studies at the University of Tartu

On Monday, 4 August at 10, the festive opening of the 2023/2024 academic year of the University of Tartu takes place in front of the university’s main building. 4,806 new students join the ranks of University of Tartu students. 

Of all new students, 2,979 start at the first level of higher education, 1,660 in master’s studies and 167 in doctoral studies. Nearly one fifth of newly admitted students are starting their studies in a teaching-related curriculum. “It is a pleasure to note that there was more interest in Estonian-taught curricula than last year. I am particularly happy about the 300 additional students admitted to teacher education curricula and the 40% increase in the number of applicants,” said Vice Rector for Academic Affairs Aune Valk, commenting on the successful admission to Estonian-taught curricula. 

On the occasion of the new academic year, students will be greeted by Rector Toomas Asser, Minister of Education and Research Kristina Kallas, Mayor of Tartu Urmas Klaas, President of the University of Tartu Student Union Renar Kihho and Karl Eerik Kala, a first-year student of Law at the Faculty of Social Sciences. 

The Chamber Choir of the University of Tartu, conducted by Triin Koch, will perform at the ceremony. Also, the band Inerts, comprising UT students and alumni, will take the stage. 

During the event, it is possible to buy the university’s souvenirs and publications from the tent of the UT Gift Shop in front of the University Café. 

The entire university family is welcome in front of the main building, and the ceremony will also be broadcast on UTTV. The event will have simultaneous interpretation in English, with headphones available next to the tent of the UT Gift Shop. The ceremony with English interpretation (with a short delay) can also be followed on UTTV, using personal headphones and a smart device.