Semester in Tallinn
Unique Experiences
Visit Tallinn’s Old Town
one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, with its cobblestone streets, Gothic spires, and stunning architecture
Explore Tallinn’s Natural Beauty
by canoeing or kayaking through the picturesque lakes and waterways of Estonia's vast wilderness
Take a Moment To Relax
at one of Estonia’s traditional saunas, where you can unwind and rejuvenate in a warm, soothing atmosphere
Your Destination
Tallinn is Estonia’s cosmopolitan city, offering an inspiring environment for students of all disciplines. The city’s unique blend of medieval history and modern innovation, iconic architectural landmarks like the Town Hall Square and Kadriorg Park, bustling markets, and lively arts scene create an enriching backdrop for studying abroad. Whether you're studying business, science, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Tallinn is the perfect place to study abroad.
Program Highlights
- Academic Courses: Choose from CIEE courses, host institution courses, and online courses delivered by CIEE’s global partner, ASU, that align with your academic major.
- Optional Internship Placements: Enhance your program with an optional for-credit internship that aligns with your career aspirations.
- Immersive Experiences: Participate in activites, excursions, study tours, and more that showcase your host city's culture, values, and local art, film, music, cuisine, and sports scenes.
- Academic Projects: Enroll in an optional for-credit independent research project or service-learning project for increased professional development opportunities.
Excursions & Activities
CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Tallinn will open doors for you to explore Estonia's rich diversity, language, culture, history, and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.
Samples of past excursions and activities:
- Enjoy a ferry ride to Estonia’s largest islands, Saaremaa and Hiiumaa
- Visit famous landmarks including Toompea Hill, Tallinn Town Wall, and the Kohtuotsa viewing platform
- Take day trips to nearby Estonian cities including Tartu, Pärnu, and Narva
Please note: Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
Program Blogs
EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: TALLINN
BEST FOOD TO EAT IN TALLINN The national dish of Estonia requires an open mind and adventurous palate, so don't say we didn't warn you. Enter verivorst (blood sausage), a... keep reading
Studying and Interning Abroad in Tallinn: A Reflection on International Cooperation
This blog post comes from our Spring 2025 student, Chloe who had the opportunity to intern at the Estonian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the country's largest business network dedicated... keep reading
No Crowds, No Small Talk, No Regrets: Studying in Estonia
This blog post comes from Caleb, our Spring 2025 student. During his semester abroad, Caleb interned at the International Centre for Defence and Security (ICDS), Estonia’s leading think tank focused... keep reading
Housing & Meals
Housing
CIEE Tallinn offers diverse housing options to ensure you're comfortable in your home away from home. From homestays to student residence buildings, we will strive for your accommodation preferences to be met. Additionally, all housing options are located in neighborhoods with convenient access to public transportation, shops, cafés, and eateries.
Standard Housing:
- Homestay: Includes a single room with an Estonian and/or Russian-speaking homestay family to immerse you in the city’s language and culture. Homestays feature a kitchen, living room, and bathroom shared with a host family and are located under 40 minutes from universities and CIEE Tallinn.
- Residence Hotel: Includes a private room with modern amenities. All rooms boast a small kitchen area, private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, bed sheets, blankets, towels, and a washing machine. The building also features common areas and event spaces. Travel times by public transport are around 30–35 minutes.
- Shared Apartment: Includes a private bedroom in a fully furnished apartment shared with other students. Apartments feature a shared kitchen, bathroom, and living area. Students use self-service laundry facilities with other students/guests in the building. Located within walking distance of the city center, with universities accessible in about 25 minutes by public transport.
Select Housing (Additional Fee):
- Modern Studio Apartment: Includes a private studio apartment near Tallinn University with a kitchen area, private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, TV, as well as bed sheets, blankets, towels, and access to a fitness club. Weekly cleaning is included. Students use self-service laundry facilities with other students/guests in the building. Located within 10-minute walking distance of the city center and Tallinn University.
A note: The default criterion to assign housing is first-come, first-served; however, other factors may also be considered. If we cannot accommodate your first housing choice, we'll let you know before you arrive. Non-standard housing options require an additional fee that can be found in the program Dates and Fees.
Meal
- Homestay: Breakfast and dinner are provided
- Residence Hotel & Shared Apartment: Meals are not included.
Academics
CIEE Tallinn: Study in Tallinn’s city center at Tallinn University, CIEE’s partner institution, just a 10-minute tram ride from the historic Old Town and within walking distance of Kadriorg Park, Estonia’s largest urban park, as well as the harbor and key cultural landmarks. CIEE Tallinn offers a modern learning environment with a library, study areas, and student lounges.
Tallinn University: Tallinn University is a public university located in Tallinn and is the third-largest university in Estonia. The university has six institutes and Haapsalu College. Their main focus is on the humanities. Tallinn University is a compact campus with state-of-the-art laboratories, a modern library, a business center, an active student house, a sports hall, several cafes, and numerous student organizations. There is always a way to put what you study into practice.
Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech): Founded in 1918, TalTech is the only technological university in Estonia. It is a research-based university offering renewed study programs that target labor market needs to make TalTech graduates more marketable. As a leader in science, technology, and innovation, the school maintains constant interaction with universities around the world, bringing together scientists, students, and entrepreneurs. TalTech strengths include STEM and business areas of study. Focus is placed not only on the theoretical field of STEM but also on putting this knowledge into practice and into business, like startups.
Arizona State University (ASU): Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar.
Course Information
For students who want to take Russian language courses, previous coursework or placement testing appropriate to the level of course selected is required.
Academic Projects
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Languages and Cultural Studies
Academic Projects
Communication, Journalism, and Media
Languages and Cultural Studies
Social Sciences
Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing
Engineering and Engineering Technologies
Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech)
At TalTech, students may take courses from the School of Business and Governance, School of Information Technologies, School of Engineering, and the School of Science. There is an extensive list of courses available in English. The list is updated regularly. Currently, the list for 2023 Spring semester and 2024 Fall semester is available.
Course offerings may vary from semester to semester. Courses are taught in English and are mostly 3 U.S. credits.
Some examples of English language courses at TalTech:
School of Business and Governance
- Personal Finance
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- Statistics
- Money, Financial Institutions and Markets
- Financial Modelling
- International Humanitarian Law and Cyber Conflicts
- Industrial Property
School of Information Technologies
- Programming
- Discrete Mathematics
- Social, Professional and Ethical Aspects of IT
- Algorithms and Data Structures
School of Engineering
- Industrial Design Basics
- Machine Engineering
- Machine Engineering-Project
- Digital Manufacturing
- Basics of Mechatronics
- Statics and Dynamics
- Supply Converters and Control of Machines
School of Science
- Fundamentals of Life
- Probability Theory and Mathematical Statistics
- Scientific Computing
- Physics II
University of Tallinn (TLU)
At TLU, students can take courses from the Baltic Film, Media and Arts School, School of Digital Technologies, School of Educational Sciences, School of Governance, Law and Society, School of Humanities, School of Natural Sciences and Health. The list of courses available in English is available online.
The description for language levels:
- A1 - Beginning
- A2 - Elementary
- B1 - Intermediate
- B2 - Upper-intermediate
- C1 - Advanced
- C2 – Proficiency
Baltic Film School
- Intercultural Communication
- Introduction to Crossmedia Environments
- Introduction to Estonian Culture
- Film History I
- Introduction to Digital Media and Crossmedia Environments
Humanities Department
- British Literature from the Renaissance to the Present Day
- Estonian B1.2
- Estonian B2.2
- Academic Estonian C1.2
- Practical Estonian A1
- Practical Estonian A2
- Finnish B2.2
- Finnish C1.2
- Introduction to Academic French II
- German B2.2
- German C1.2
- Portuguese A1
- Spanish B2.2
- Spanish C1.2
- Russian A2
- Russian B1.2
- Russian B2.2
- Russian C1.2
- Chinese Language A2
- Chinese Language B1.2
- Chinese Language B2.2
- Chinese Language C1.1
- Turkish A2
- Turkish B1.2
Governance, Law and Society
- Social Enterprises and Vocational Rehabilitation
- International Commercial Law
- European Union Law
- International Courts
- International Political Economy
School of Educational Sciences
- Supporting Trauma Children
- Multicultural Learning Environment
- Multimedia Production and Media Education in Learning Process
- Educational Technology in Learning Process
- Lifelong Education and Social Changes
School of Digital Technologies
- Information Seeking: Sources and Methods
- Computer Games
- Computer Graphics
Nature Science and Sports Department
- Basic Course of Skiing
- Improvement of physical fitness II
- Basic Course in Volleyball II
- Outdoor Activities II
- Sport and Exercise Psychology
CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.
CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.
Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program!
Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO
Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.
Discover Internship Opportunities
We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.
Explore Industry Options
Tallinn's work scene thrives on tech innovation, e-governance, and diverse industries like finance, engineering, and international relations. Known for the highest startups per capita in Europe, the city emphasizes sustainability, with growing sectors in manufacturing and renewable energy, fostering a forward-looking ecosystem.
Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications
Immerse yourself in today's cutting-edge global media by working in film studios, media companies, the theater, and more.
Consumer Goods and Retail
Explore consumer behaviors, business strategies, international retail trends, and more in the global commerce marketplace.
Government and Public Administration
Gain insight into global policy-making, diplomatic relations, and governance practices in agencies, nonprofits, and firms.
Information Technology
Explore diverse tech environments, cutting-edge innovation, and emerging technologies in South Korea, Spain, and more.
Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security
Experience international legal systems, global justice issues, and law enforcement challenges in courts, firms, and agencies.
Browse Internship Opportunities
Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.
Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.
Scholarships & Grants
CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.
Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:
- Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
- Global Access Initiative (GAIN) Grants
- CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
- MSI Grant
To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.
Dates & Fees
You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Fees & Housing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Fall 2025 17 weeks | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date | End Date | Fees & Housing $19,950 |
| Program Academic year 2025-2026 | Application Due Deadline Passed | Start Date * | End Date TBD* | |
| Program Spring 2026 18 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * | Fees & Housing $14,950 | |
| Program Fall 2026 17 weeks | Start Date * | End Date * |
*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.
To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Participation Confirmation | $300 * |
| Educational Costs | $15,206 ** |
| Housing | $4,250 *** |
| Insurance | $194 |
| Total Fees | $19,950 |
Optional Housing
CIEE accommodation options are detailed in the Housing section. Based on availability, Select or Select Plus Housing can be chosen during the application process for an additional fee. Housing is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis; however, other factors may also be considered.
| Select Housing Fee | $850 |
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
| Meals not included in program fee | $476 † |
| International Airfare | $1,500 |
| Local Transportation | $100 †† |
| Books & Supplies | $75 |
| Visa Fees | $100 |
| Personal expenses | $220 ††† |
| Total Costs | $2,471 |
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†For students in homestays, families provide 2 meals a day. For students in residence halls, you should budget approx. $335 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.
††Public transportation card 30 EUR ($33), per month, we will provide first month card.
†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
| Participation Confirmation | $300 * |
| Educational Costs | $9,956 ** |
| Housing | $4,500 *** |
| Insurance | $194 |
| Total Fees | $14,950 |
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
| Meals not included in program fee | $565 † |
| International Airfare | $1,500 |
| Local Transportation | $100 †† |
| Books & Supplies | $75 |
| Visa Fees | $100 |
| Personal expenses | $245 ††† |
| Total Costs | $2,585 |
*non-refundable fee
**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students
***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.
†The listed estimated cost is for students in homestays. Families provide 2 meals a day and students typically purchase lunch. For students in residence halls, you should budget approx. $335 per month for groceries if you plan on making your own meals, and more if you plan on eating out regularly.
††Public transportation card 30 EUR ($33), per month, we will provide first month card.
†††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries
Program Fees
CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.
Financial Aid
CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.
Estimated Costs
Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.
What's Included
Tuition
Housing
Pre-departure Advising
Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions
Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet
Orientation
Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city
On-site Staff
Full-time program leadership and support in your city
Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities
Excursions and/or Study Tours
Travel Protection
CIEE iNext travel protection
24/7 emergency on-site support
Our Staff
Evelyn Müürsepp
Center Director
Evelyn had 15 years of experience in Estonian Government before joining CIEE, where she supported the launch of the CIEE Tallinn Center. Tallinn is Evelyn's hometown, and she enjoys the...
Mari Prok
Student Life Manager
Mari holds a Master's degree in Social Sciences, blending a multicultural background with over four years of hands-on experience in marketing & IT project management, event planning, and client relations.
Get Started
1
2
Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office
Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.
3
Contact CIEE
We're here to help! Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.
4
Interested in an optional internship?
After being accepted to this program and submitting the required internship documents, work with CIEE staff on your internship goals and select which positions to interview for. CIEE will reach out to companies that would be a good fit for you, your interests, and your qualifications. Finalize your internship placement upon arrival!
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