Who can apply
Thank you for your interest in Tartu International School!
We admit students of any nationality and mother tongue. Knowledge of the English language is not required. We offer both English and Estonian as a second language or native language.
Admission is based on the candidate’s documents and an admission interview between the representatives of the school, the student, and his/her family. We look for candidates and parents who are committed to the school’s vision, mission, and philosophy; who are motivated/determined to succeed in our programmes; who are internationally minded; who would benefit academically and personally from the curriculum of Tartu International School; and whose qualities would enrich the community of TIS and be a positive contribution to it.
Admission for the Academic Year 2023/2024
Tartu International School admits students from ages 1½ to 15. Children (local or international) who are aged between 6 and 7 years old by 1st September are admitted to Grade 1. The admission period lasts from 28th November 2022 until 1st June 2023.
28th November 2022 – Admission opens;
December 2022 to May 2023 – Working period for the Admission Board (this time involves online or face-to-face interviews with families, questions–answers, and the preparation of documents);
1st June 2023 – The end of the admission period.
We recognize that not all international applications can be submitted within the given timeframes. In this case, please contact the principal via e-mail at maria.paaver@istartu.ee to discuss your situation.
In the event that places are available, we admit students to Grades 1 to 9 and Kindergarten throughout the academic year.
For admission, the following documents are needed:
- The Online Registration Form for TIS, available here;
- A written application submitted to the Principal;
- A copy of the child’s birth certificate;
- A report card or description of development, in English, from the child’s previous school or childcare institution.
All documents (except the Online Registration Form) should be sent to info@istartu.ee.
Open Mornings
Our open morning gives an overview of what your child can experience and achieve when they become part of our diverse academic family. It offers an opportunity to talk to the principal and teachers, meet fellow students, take a tour of our freshly renovated facilities, see our warm and welcoming atmosphere, learn more about the academic programmes, and gain a real insight into school life at Tartu International School. Come along and see what our professional faculty, beautiful surroundings, and modern facilities have to offer!
In order to keep our community and guests safe during the ongoing pandemic, we offer personal school tours to our potential families. To book your in-person or virtual visit, please send a request to info@istartu.ee.
Taster Days
TIS taster days give your child the opportunity to experience a school day at Tartu International School. They get to meet their teachers and join their age group for three lessons and activities. The taster day can be for an individual (an individual student trying out life at TIS before final enrolment), or for a group of children who are to be admitted to the school. The taster days take place in case the pandemic situation allows so.
How to apply step by step
To start or change school is a big step, especially internationally. We therefore aim to support your family throughout this process. Please find below our step-by-step information outlining the typical admission process.
Step 1: Inquiry. We´ll be there to answer any questions you may have about the school. Families who are already located in Estonia are welcome to visit us after making the first inquiry.
Step 2: Submission of admission documents. The list of documents that are needed for admission is listed above on this page. All admission documents can be sent electronically.
Step 3: Meeting with the family. We look forward to meeting our new families before the academic year starts. Visits can be arranged either before or after the submission of documents.
Step 4: Administration. A schooling contract between the school and family will be signed before the start of the academic year. The contract and fee invoice will be sent to parents electronically.
Step 5: New beginnings at TIS. Welcome to the TIS community! Within the first month, we pay lots of attention to student adjustment. The initial grade placement is based on a student’s birthday. The school applies a four-week observation period after admitting a student. During this period, the teachers, school counsellor and parents observe in close collaboration how the student is doing academically and socially. Grade placements can be adjusted by the Teachers´ Council in the best interest of a student.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us in case of any questions!
