A Parent's Guide to International Schools in Estonia

Moving to a new country is a whirlwind of emotions. Amid the excitement of a new chapter and the chaos of packing boxes, there's often a persistent, quiet worry that hums in the background for every expat parent: What about the kids' education? If your journey is leading you to the beautiful, tech-savvy nation of Estonia, you can let that worry fade.

Estonia, known for its digital innovation and stunning natural landscapes, also boasts a top-tier education system. While its public schools are among the best in the world (consistently ranking high in PISA scores), many expat families opt for international schools for curriculum continuity, language of instruction, and a diverse, global community.

As an expat who has navigated this very path, I've created this comprehensive guide to help you understand the landscape of international schools in Estonia in 2025. Let’s dive in and find the perfect fit for your family.

Why Choose an International School in Estonia?

First things first, let’s be honest. The Estonian public school system is fantastic and free. If your children are young or you're planning a long-term stay, integrating into the local system can be a wonderful, immersive experience.

However, international schools offer distinct advantages for many expat families:

• Language: Instruction is primarily in English, removing the language barrier for children who aren't fluent in Estonian.
• Curriculum Continuity: Schools typically offer globally recognized curricula like the International Baccalaureate (IB) or Cambridge International, making future transitions to other countries or back home much smoother.
• Global Community: Your child will be in a classroom with peers from dozens of different nationalities, fostering a truly international perspective.
• Expat Support: These schools are hubs for the expat community, providing not just education for your kids but also a support network for you.

The Top International Schools in Estonia: A Detailed Look

Estonia’s international school scene is concentrated in its two largest cities, Tallinn and Tartu. Each school has its own unique character, curriculum, and community.

In Tallinn: The Capital's Hub

1. International School of Estonia (ISE)

• Curriculum: Full International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum – Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP), and the Diploma Programme (DP).
• Ages: 3 to 19
• Vibe: As the oldest and most established international school in Estonia (founded in 1995), ISE has a strong reputation and a very diverse student body, often representing over 40 nationalities. It's known for its tight-knit community, rigorous academics, and a strong emphasis on inquiry-based learning. The school is fully accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).
• Campus & Location: Located in the Ülemiste City area, a modern business and tech hub near the airport. The facilities are modern and well-equipped to support the IB curriculum.
• Good to Know: ISE is often the first choice for families affiliated with embassies and large multinational corporations. Admission can be competitive, so applying early is crucial.

2. Tallinn European School (TES)

• Curriculum: Accredited European Schools curriculum, culminating in the European Baccalaureate diploma.
• Ages: 4 to 18
• Vibe: TES was originally established to serve the children of EU agency employees (like the EU-LISA agency headquartered in Tallinn), but it is open to all students. The environment is structured, multilingual, and academically focused. It's an excellent choice if you anticipate moving within the EU, as the European Baccalaureate is recognized across all member states.
• Language Sections: It features distinct language sections, primarily English, French, and German, with strong support for learning other European languages.
• Campus & Location: Boasts a state-of-the-art campus in central Tallinn, with excellent sports and science facilities.
• Good to Know: The fee structure is tiered, with children of EU institution employees paying significantly less. This can be a major financial advantage for eligible families.

3. International School of Tallinn (IST)

• Curriculum: A blend of the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) for younger years and the Cambridge curriculum (IGCSE) for secondary students.
• Ages: 3 to 16
• Vibe: IST is a newer and generally smaller school, which fosters a nurturing, family-like atmosphere. It focuses on personalized learning and a student-centered approach. For families who find the larger schools a bit intimidating or prefer the Cambridge pathway, IST is an excellent alternative.
• Campus & Location: Conveniently located in central Tallinn, making it accessible from many residential areas.
• Good to Know: As it currently goes up to age 16 (IGCSE level), it's a perfect fit for families with younger or middle-school-aged children. Parents often praise the school's responsive communication and dedicated staff.

In Tartu: The University Town

Tartu International School

• Curriculum: IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP). For the final years, students often transition to a local Estonian school's IB Diploma Programme or another international school.
• Ages: 6 to 15
• Vibe: Located in Estonia's vibrant university city, the school has a strong academic and intellectual atmosphere. It's much smaller than the Tallinn schools, allowing for highly individualized attention. It shares a building with a local Estonian school, providing unique opportunities for cross-cultural interaction.
• Community: The school is the heart of the expat community in Tartu, serving families connected to the University of Tartu, tech startups, and other local industries.
• Good to Know: If you're moving to Tartu, this is your primary international school option. The community is welcoming, and the connection to the city's academic life is a significant plus.

At a Glance: Comparing the Schools

To make things easier, here’s a quick comparison of the main options for the 2025-2026 academic year.

*Note: TES fees are significantly lower for children of EU institution staff.

The Admissions Process: What to Expect

Navigating applications can feel daunting, but the process is generally straightforward. Here’s a typical roadmap:

1. Initial Inquiry & Tour: Start by exploring the school websites. Most offer virtual tours and are very responsive to email inquiries. If you're in Estonia, schedule an in-person visit to get a feel for the campus and community.
2. Application Submission: You'll need to complete an online application form and pay a non-refundable application fee (typically €150-€300).
3. Required Documents: Be prepared to provide:
   • Copies of passports for the student and parents.
   • Student's birth certificate.
   • Previous two years of school reports/transcripts (translated into English if necessary).
   • Immunization and health records.
   • Any standardized test results or educational-psychological evaluations, if applicable.
4. Assessment & Interview: Most schools will conduct an assessment. For younger children, this is usually a play-based observation. For older students, it may involve tests in English and mathematics. An interview with the student and parents (either in person or online) is also standard. This is as much for them to assess you as it is for you to ask them questions!
5. Offer & Enrollment: If your child is accepted, you’ll receive a formal offer. To secure the spot, you'll need to sign an enrollment contract and pay a one-time registration or capital fee, which can range from €1,000 to €4,000.

Pro Tip: Start the process at least 6-9 months before your intended start date. Waiting lists can exist for certain year groups, especially at the more established schools.

The Financial Reality: Tuition and Beyond

International education is a significant investment. The tuition fees listed in the table are just one part of the equation. Be sure to budget for additional costs:

• Application & Registration Fees: One-time, non-refundable costs.
• Capital/Building Fees: A one-time fee to contribute to campus development.
• School Lunches & Transportation: Most schools offer bus services and hot lunch programs for an additional fee.
• Uniforms: While not all schools require a full uniform, most have a dress code or branded athletic wear.
• Extracurricular Activities: Specialized clubs, sports teams, or music lessons may have extra costs.
• Field Trips: Especially overnight or international trips (common in secondary school).

When you factor these in, the total annual cost can be 10-15% higher than the base tuition fee.

Life Beyond the School Gates: Settling into Estonia as a Family

Choosing a school is also about choosing a lifestyle. The good news is that Estonia is incredibly family-friendly.

• Cost of Living: While international school fees are high, the general cost of living in Estonia is more affordable than in many other Western European countries. According to 2025 data from sources like Numbeo, rent for a three-bedroom apartment in a good Tallinn neighborhood averages around €1,200-€1,800, while Tartu is about 20-30% cheaper.
• Visas & Residence Permits: If you are moving for work as a specialist or on a startup visa, your spouse and children can typically obtain residence permits as your dependents. The process is managed by the Estonian Police and Border Guard Board and is known for being relatively efficient and digital-first. Start this process as soon as you have a job offer, as it can take a few months.
• Culture & Lifestyle: Estonians value nature, and family life often revolves around outdoor activities. From skiing and skating in the winter to hiking, foraging, and spending time at summer cottages, there's a strong connection to the outdoors. Cities are safe, clean, and very walkable.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice

Choosing a school is one of the biggest decisions you'll make in your relocation journey. There is no single "best" international school in Estonia—only the one that's best for your child and your family.

My advice? Think about your child’s personality. Do they thrive in a large, bustling environment or a smaller, more nurturing one? Consider your long-term plans. Is the globally-recognized IB Diploma a priority, or does the European Baccalaureate better suit your future?

Reach out to the schools, talk to the admissions officers, and try to connect with other expat parents online (Facebook groups like "Expats in Tallinn" are a great resource). The community you build around your child's school will become your community, too.

Welcome to Estonia! It’s a wonderful place to raise a family, and with this information in hand, you’re already one step closer to a smooth and successful transition.