Admission Requirements (Non-Scholarship)

The Programme

Every year, the Estonian School of Diplomacy (ESD) provides a 8-month certificate programme on International Relations and Diplomacy. The study programme takes place at the Estonian School of Diplomacy in Tallinn, over two semesters, beginning in October and ending in May of the following year. 

The programme for 2025/2026 academic year is available here. The academic year 2025/26 will start on 14 October 2025 and end on 15 May 2026.

Admission Requirements for Non-Scholarship Applicants

Students applying to the eight-month study programme on International Relations and Diplomacy at the Estonian School of Diplomacy (ESD) should have:

  • An interest in international relations;
  • At least a Bachelor’s or equivalent degree;
  • Advanced knowledge of English in order to be able to participate actively in class discussions and to understand specialized texts.
  • Knowledge of other languages and previous study of relevant topics are considered as an advantage;

Application Documents

The applicant should complete/submit latest on 16 June 2025:

  • Application with a passport-sized photo
  • CV in English
  • Personal statement [motivation letter]; 1 page [300-400 words] in length, explaining the reasons for applying and outlining relevant previous experience
  • Copy of the degree diploma from the institution of higher education attended most recently (accompanied by English translation if the diploma is not in English or Estonian)
  • Copy of the academic record from the institution of higher education attended most recently (with unofficial English translation if necessary)
  • Copy of passport photo/data page [or of Estonian ID card]
  • Bank payment order for the €20.00 application fee
    • Bank details: account number: EE041010220071516018, recipient: Eesti Diplomaatide Kooli SA, explanation: applicant´s first and last names; 2024-2025 application
  • An academic essay of 4 pages (1,300-1,500 words with references) to be written on one of the topics below:
  1. Impact of the War in Ukraine to the Future of Europe
  2. China – a Partner or a Foe?
  3. Is Europe’s Strategic Autonomy possible?
  4. Digital Diplomacy – Interim Measure or Way Forward?

Application Procedure

Application documents can be submitted:

Deadline for applications is 16 June 2025.

After submitting the initial application documents, candidates will be invited to the second round – a short interview – at ESD. This year, the second round will take place by 19 June 2025 at the office of Estonian School of Diplomacy (Rävala pst 12, 4th floor). We will contact the applicants to agree the time of the interview.

All candidates will be informed by e-mail about the result of their application by 20 June 2025.

For further questions please contact us at edk(at)edk.edu.ee.

Estonian School of Diplomacy
Rävala pst 12
10143 Tallinn
ESTONIA