A statement from the university said no students from countries with a coronavirus infection rate of more than 16 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in the past 14 days will be admitted to the first and second levels of study at TalTech.

The same is true for countries which do not have credible statistics and where there is a high risk of infection.

The number of student candidates affected is slightly over 300.

The restrictions will not apply to students applying for doctoral programs.

English-language programs at TalTech will open to students from Estonia and the European Union, spokespeople for the university said. 

The university is prepared to make exceptions to students from coronavirus risk countries who have completed their bachelor's studies in Estonia and have entered a master's program, but who have not left Estonia in the meantime. 

The decision of the Senate of TalTech arises from the readiness to protect the wellbeing and health of the people of Estonia, employees of the university and students against coronavirus. 

Hendrik Voll, TalTech's vice rector for academic affairs, said the decision was made with a heavy heart.

"In Estonia the virus is well under control now, largely thanks to a big joint effort by the entire nation. New cases brought in from abroad are considered the main risk of a new virus outbreak. Since Tallinn University of Technology does not wish to put people's health at risk, we are prepared to admit fewer international students this year," Voll said. 

TalTech will enroll students this fall only from the countries which are ranked as low coronavirus risk countries on the website of the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on August 3.

"Fortunately, the interest of students from Estonia and the European Union in the English-language study programs of Tallinn University of Technology is big and no program will not be opened due to a small number of students," Voll said.

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