This September, Estonia opened its doors to more than 1,300 new international degree students who chose the country as their study destination. Their arrival marks not only the start of an exciting academic journey but also a celebration of Estonia’s growing role as a place for global talent.

To help students settle in, Study in Estonia continued its tradition of handing out thoughtfully designed welcome bags. Each package combines practical items, cultural insights, and useful information to support the first steps in a new country. The concept has been recognized by the global international education PIEoneer Awards as one of the best marketing campaigns in the world.

This year’s welcome bags featured the “Welcome Guide for International Students” alongside materials and items from Research in Estonia (Estonian Research Council) and Erasmus+ (Estonian Education and Youth Board). The bags were distributed across universities offering degree programmes in English, including the University of Tartu, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn University, Estonian Academy of Arts, Estonian University of Life Sciences, and others.

“When students move to a new country, the first weeks are a bit overwhelming and filled with new challenges. A small gesture like a welcome bag helps them feel cared for and waited,” said Triinu Lillepalu, international marketing specialist at Study in Estonia. “Our aim is not only to welcome them warmly but also to encourage them to build lasting ties with Estonia beyond their studies.”

International students enrich Estonia in countless ways. “They bring new ideas, perspectives, and energy into our classrooms and communities. Their presence makes Estonian universities more international and innovative, while also strengthening our global networks,” noted Lillepalu.

Study in Estonia, unites all universities that offer fully accredited English-taught programmes. The initiative promotes Estonia as a destination for high-quality higher education and works to ensure that international students feel supported, valued, and inspired throughout their academic journey.