Russian language summer school 2026

A2 → B1.1 level
Dates: 6 July - 31 July 2026

Join the University of Tartu Narva College International Summer School 2026 and learn Russian in one of the most immersive environments in the European Union. During this four-week Russian language course, you will study with expert instructors, practise Russian in real-life situations, and experience the unique cultural atmosphere of Narva — Estonia’s easternmost and most Russian-speaking city.

The course is suitable for adult learners who already have knowledge of Russian at A2 level and wish to further develop their language skills toward an independent user level. It is designed for learners of Russian as a foreign language who wish to enhance their ability to communicate confidently in everyday, social, cultural, and educational contexts, particularly through active speaking and listening practice.

Why join the Russian summer course in Narva?

  • Authentic immersion: Up to 97% of Narva’s residents are native Russian speakers.
  • Top academic quality: Learn under the University of Tartu, ranked among the top 1% worldwide.
  • Native-speaker instructors: Experienced UT teachers guide your progress.
  • Safe EU environment: Narva offers European-level safety, comfort and services.

Find out more

Study programme

Level: A2 → B1.1
Credits: 6 ECTS
Workload: 80 classroom hours + 76 hours of independent work
Dates: 6 July - 31 July 2026

Topic 1. Let’s get acquainted. Biography
Russian names and self-introduction across cultures. Autobiography and biographies in Russian culture.
Urban activity: “Reading the City” walk and collaborative map “Names of Narva”.

Topic 2. Family
Family structure, relationships, roles, and values in different cultures.

Topic 3. My day
Daily routine, study and work, time expressions, and everyday life in Narva.

Topic 4. Leisure time
Leisure in Russian culture, dacha traditions, holidays, and travel.
Urban activity: Quest game in Narva-Jõesuu.

Topic 5. Sport
Sports, major events, famous athletes, and local sports activities.

Topic 6. Health
Doctor’s visits, medical specialists, body parts, symptoms, and folk medicine.

Topic 7. In the city
Transport, shopping, route planning, and life in big and small cities.
Urban activity: Game “Orientation in the City”.

Topic 8. Traveling
Tourist destinations and travel in Estonia: Sillamäe, Mustvee, Pühtitsa Convent, and Kuremäe.

Topic 9. Nature and climate
Nature and climate of Estonia, natural resources, and environmental issues.
Urban activity: Exploring nature in and around the city.

Topic 10. National holidays of russians
Major holidays, traditions, gifts, and festive customs.

Topic 11. Russian historical figures in Estonia
Key historical figures and their connection to Estonia.
Urban activity: Quest game “Peter the Great and Narva”.

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

  • Communicate confidently in everyday social and cultural situations with native Russian speakers
  • Understand dialogues and monologues on familiar topics, identifying key and additional information
  • Read, interpret, and evaluate authentic texts related to sociocultural communication

Course Fee

  • Standard fee: 950 EUR + VAT 24% (if applicable)
  • Early-bird fee until 30 April 2026: 850 EUR + VAT 24% (if applicable)
  • Housing and meals are not included.

How to apply

To apply for the Russian language summer school, please complete the online application form linked below. Once we have received your submission, we will contact you with further details about the course options, schedule, and next steps.

Apply to join the course

I value how Narva has taught me routine - learning and gym routines - how I have been able to experience a culture and people so different from that in England.

Barnaby
student from UK

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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.

Read more

After the registration form for the summer course or semester course is filled out, an email with further information will be sent to the email address mentioned in the registration form. As a rule, each registered participant will be asked to do an online test and have a short online interview with the teachers to better understand the level of Russian language.

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.