Welcome to the University of Tartu language learning hub!

If you are an international staff member, an international student or a student who speaks Estonian as a foreign language, this page can help you find a wide range of Estonian courses offered by the University of Tartu. If you are a native Estonian-speaking employee or student, you can help learners of Estonian by participating in various courses. 

In its strategic plan, the University of Tartu has taken the responsibility to preserve and develop the Estonian language, Estonian-taught education, culture and heritage. According to the university’s language and internationalisation principles, we want to encourage our international staff and students, as well as students who speak Estonian as a foreign language, to acquire and improve their Estonian language skills. For this purpose, we offer language courses at all levels, as well as numerous opportunities to communicate in the Estonian language environment and learn about Estonian culture. 

If you are unsure of your level of Estonian, you can assess it yourself before registering for a course. 

Language proficiency is assessed according to the three language levels set out in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages

0 – I have not learned Estonian before; 

A – Basic User, divided into levels A1 and A2; 

B – Independent User, divided into levels B1 and B2; 

C – Proficient User, divided into levels C1 and C2. 

All levels can be further subdivided if necessary, e.g. A1.1 and A1.2, A2.1 and A2.2, etc. 

Language proficiency can also be assessed across language skills: understanding (listening and reading), speaking (spoken interaction and spoken production) and writing. 

You can use the self-assessment grid to help you assess your language proficiency and particular skills. There are also other free self-assessment opportunities: 

For international staff (incl. doctoral students)

For international students (incl. doctoral students)