üliõpilane

Üliõpilane is the Estonian term for a person enrolled in higher education studies, typically at a university or other tertiary institution. It denotes someone pursuing a degree or diploma and may include bachelor's, master's, or doctoral studies. The term is used to distinguish from pupils or students in primary and secondary education (õpilane). In everyday use, an üliõpilane is someone who has active student status, usually enrolled full-time, but part-time study is also common.

The concept encompasses a range of institutions, including traditional universities, professional universities, and universities of applied sciences (kõrgkool or riiklik ülikool). In Estonia, üliõpilane has rights and responsibilities defined by national law and the institution's rules, such as attending lectures, completing coursework, sitting examinations, and, in many cases, paying tuition or receiving state support or scholarships. Student unions and associations often represent üliõpilaste interests and provide services such as housing, career guidance, and social activities.

Historically, the term reflects Estonia's modern higher education system established in the 20th century, and it remains in common use to describe individuals pursuing tertiary studies. The plural form is üliõpilased.