Estonian applicants’ interest in doctoral studies is growing

During this spring and summer, the University of Tartu received a record number of applications for doctoral studies. Out of 1,043 applications, 204 were submitted by applicants from Estonia and 839 by international applicants. Compared to last year, the number of applicants from Estonia increased by 19%.

This spring, applicants could apply for 49 doctoral specialisations, grouped under eight doctoral programmes. In the autumn, 178 new doctoral researchers will begin their research journey at the university. Among them are 60 international students, nearly 40% of whom have previously studied at an Estonian university.

Most doctoral researchers will work at the university as junior researcher fellows, giving them a better opportunity to fully dedicate themselves to research. Each year, thanks to cooperation with partner organisations, also the number of intersectoral doctoral researchers has grown. This autumn, more than 20 of them will be added.

According to Professor Mari Moora, Vice Rector for Research at the University of Tartu, it is crucial for the sustainability of Estonian research to increase the number of researchers of Estonian origin. “Interest in doctoral studies among Estonian-speaking applicants has gradually increased since 2023. We can assume that the 2022 doctoral reform, which granted doctoral students the status of junior researcher fellows, has encouraged more talented Estonian applicants to pursue doctoral studies,” said Moora.

The University of Tartu opens 164 state-funded doctoral positions annually, and besides that, creates additional positions using its own resources or in cooperation with research institutions or companies. On average, 190–200 new doctoral researchers start at the university each year. Admission to doctoral studies at the University of Tartu takes place four times a year. For more information, see the university’s website.