Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Find answers to common questions about learning Russian in Narva, Estonia — from visas, accommodation and safety to semester study, summer school and intensive course options.

Course levels vary by programme. For example, the autumn semester is offered at A2→B1 or B1→B2, while the intensive course is aimed at A2–B1 learners.

There are several ways to enter Estonia for the purpose of studying at the University of Tartu (UT). The available options depend on the student's country of origin, as well as the level and duration of their studies at UT.

Find out more from the UT webpage

Students can choose between a student dormitory, private apartments, or staying with a host family. The Narva College dormitory at Paul Kerese 14 offers rooms at 125–250 EUR per month, while private apartments are widely available and host family stays provide a more immersive local experience.

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The fee covers teaching, learning materials and classroom use at Narva College, and includes cultural programme components that are part of the course activities. Housing, transportation and meals are not included.

Each registered participant will be asked to take an online test and attend a short interview with one of our teachers to determine whether their language skills are sufficient for the course.

For the summer school and semester programme, you apply via an online application form, and the team will contact you with next steps and practical details. For the intensive course and customised programmes, dates and content are typically agreed individually—use the contact option to discuss your needs.

After completing the registration form for the summer or semester course, an email with further information will be sent to the address provided in the form. As a rule, each registered participant will be asked to take an online test and attend a short online interview with the teachers to better assess their level of Russian.

Registration can be cancelled by notifying our contact person. There will be no sanctions if you cancel at least a month before the course begins.

Course fees do not include meals. If you are staying with a host family, you may arrange a meal plan directly with the family.

There is a cafe called Muna in the college building. It is usually open when the college is open. Menu can be found here -> https://www.kohvikmuna.ee/

Living in Narva is in general, cheaper than in Tallinn or in Tartu, especially when it comes to paying rent. Breakdown of living costs for Narva can be found here -> https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Narva-Estonia

Yes. The program is designed for international learners, and credits can often be transferred to US institutions.

Yes. Narva College designs customised Russian-language programmes for universities, government institutions, and other organisations. The schedule and focus can be adapted to your group’s level and goals.

All the programmes include ECTS credit. Depending on the programme it may vary from 3 ECTS to 15 ECTS. At the end of each programme, a participant receives a certificate stating what course they completed, on condition that they have fulfilled all the necessary requirements for the course completion.

Most international travellers arrive via Tallinn. From Tallinn you can reach Narva by train (about 2.5 hours, direct), bus (about 3–3.5 hours), or car via the E20 highway (about 2.5–3 hours, longer in winter conditions).

Although Narva is not a big city, it has its fair share of attractions. Narva Museum, which is situated in Narva Castle is one of the places worth visiting. Narva Town Hall and Victoria Bastions should also be marked on everyone’s itinerary. During the summer Narva is host to several festivals and events, and schedules can be found on different websites, including the official website of Narva town.

Yes. Narva is a safe and comfortable EU-based destination, with European-level services and a welcoming environment for learners.