High school exchange program in Estonia

Immerse yourself in a different way of life, living with an Estonian family and studying at a local high school.

Discover our programs

Where forests, castles and innovation meet 

Student exchange program in Estonia

Estonia is not a big country, nor a well-known place. This is exactly why it’s the perfect student exchange destination for anyone looking for a truly unique experience!

With 50% of his land covered in forests, free public transport, and modern, safe towns and cities, Estonia is extremely advanced both in terms of wellbeing and innovation.

Its enchanting landscapes and peaceful colours – think intense blue sky, luxurious green forests and a blanket of white snow for approximately six months a yer – will draw you in. Ready for long walks in nature, winter sports, and magical places hidden in every corner?

A land of myths, legends and eco-revolution

Nature

Over half of the country’s surface is covered in wild nature. That means living close to impressive lakes, forests and beaches.

What’s high school like in Estonia? 

Progressive culture

Estonian schools are progressive, focusing on positive learning environments and making a wide use of technology. Estonian teachers are highly educated, schools have free Wi-Fi and offer online exams and courses.

Interactivity

Classes are lively and focus on developing social and personal skills, just as much as on academic learning. Participation is important, and the best way for you to improve your language skills quickly!

Equity

Estonian schools offer universal free lunches to students, as well as free public transport, educational materials and books, and even excursions. School staff – including psychologists – are available to students, to offer support with any challenges they may be facing.

Personalised approach

A few subjects, such as mathematics, sport and social science, are compulsory. The curriculum typically includes a wide range of subjects, from music and arts to robotics and coding. A fantastic opportunity to explore new interests!

A small country full of wonders. Let it surprise you with an exchange experience!

Your host family during your exchange year

Gain a second family – they can’t wait to welcome you into their lives! 

Here is why: 

Estonians love to make the most of their country’s natural riches. They are curious and adventurous, and they welcome new learning opportunities.

Estonia has a dynamic society, with a mix of cultures and a fusion of traditional and modern. Locals speak Estonian as well as English, Russian, Finnish and German.

You will slide into the routine of an Estonian family and share their daily life. Outdoor activities, typical games, celebrations and foods... their customs will soon become yours.

Your school in Estonia

Find out more about your school experience in Estonia

The Estonian education system

Subjects in Estonia

Estonian secondary school

Extra-curricular activities

The school calendar

Grades in Estonia

Stories from students and parents who have been there

Here are the testimonials of families who have chosen WEP for their exchange experience.

Going with WEP is best

Since 1988, a wide choice of destinations and comprehensive assistance before, during and after your overseas program. WEP is the ideal partner for your adventure.

Reliable travel companions

We also get to choose who we travel with: our schools, host families and overseas partner organisations are carefully selected.

Safety first

We offer a custom-made insurance policy, specifically designed for our participants, and we have a solid network behind us.

We're there for you, always

Emergency assistance, overseas and from Australia, is available 7 days out of 7, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Guaranteed placements

Allowing all our participants to live their desired overseas experience is a mission, a challenge we're thrilled to accept.

FAQ

Your host family, local coordinator and your host organisation will provide you with support while you are overseas. WEP Australia will remain in contact with the host organisation and your parents to coordinate and support your experience. In case of an emergency, both you and your family will be able to call an emergency phone number that is answered 24/7.

You will be advised of your placement location, host family and host school as soon as feasible. This can range from a few months prior to departure, right up until departure, as a lot needs to happen behind the scenes before each student's placement process is complete and can be communicated to you with certainty. The placement process doesn't only include sourcing a suitable host family, but also finding availability at a local school, and completing all red tape (including, for example, lenghty criminal history checks in some countries). Prior to departure from Australia, all students will receive host family, host school and local coordinator details.

Independent travel is not permissible while on exchange. However, you will be able to travel with your host family, school, host organisation and other community groups such as sporting teams or scouts. Again, the foremost aim of the program is educational, and your priority for any holiday periods must be your host family, who will be investing a lot of time, energy and money into this experience - simply in return for your frienship and positive contribution to their household.

Generally speaking, overseas schools won't issue a diploma to exchange students who are only there for a short time and don't graduate at that school. You may however be provided with a honorary certificate, as well as a WEP certificate of completion, which however don't count towards credit or graduation in Australia.

Language experience is desirable, but not necessary, for most countries. However, some countries have mandatory language requirements. You'll find the specific requirements for each country listed on its page. Intensive language courses may, in some circumstances, meet language pre-requisites. WEP strongly recommends language preparation prior to departure as language knowledge is of enormous benefit in assisting you to quickly adapt to your new family, school and life.

Of course, there are English-speaking destinations available if you are not interested in learning another language.

No, it's the host families who choose the student they wish to invite into their home. Based on the documents you will submit as part of your WEP application, one lucky family will choose to open their home and hearts to you, which is why for all Exchange Classic programs, and many Flex programs as well, there is no avenue for students to choose a specific location.

It may be possible to live with an overseas family that you already know (excluding relatives of the student). However, the family will have to be screened and approved, prepared and supported by our partner organisation in the same manner as any other host family. School enrolment must also be available.

Got more questions?

Leave us your contact details and we'll provide all the information you need.