Sügissemestr

Sügissemestr, meaning autumn semester, is the first major term of the academic year in Estonia’s education system. It is used in both higher education and general education institutions and, together with kevadsemester (the spring semester), forms the two-term structure of the year.

The sügissemestr typically runs from September to December, though exact dates vary by institution. During this period students attend lectures, seminars, and practical work, and complete ongoing assignments. Assessment is usually by a combination of exams, coursework, and projects, with many courses concluding in December or January.

Some institutions include a reading or study week and a short autumn break; the length and timing differ between universities and schools. International students commonly align with the general calendar, but local schedules can differ due to holidays and administrative planning.

At the end of the sügissemestr, the kevadsemester begins (often in January or February) and continues into spring, with examinations scheduled in late spring. The autumn term marks the start of the academic year, influencing course registration, housing, and study plans for students across different levels of education.