Estonian School of Diplomacy (ESD) Scholarship in International Relations and Diplomacy 2025
- Omran Aburayya
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
If you are a young diplomat or civil servant eager to deepen your expertise in international relations and diplomacy, the Estonian School of Diplomacy (ESD) offers a unique opportunity. In collaboration with the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ESD provides fully funded scholarships for its 8-month certificate programme in International Relations and Diplomacy. This immersive experience in Tallinn, Estonia, is designed to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of global diplomacy.
🎓 Scholarship Summary
Location: Tallinn, Estonia
Host Institution: Estonian School of Diplomacy
Study Level: Postgraduate Certificate
Target Group: Young diplomats and civil servants from eligible countries
Fields of Study: International Relations and Diplomacy
Award Value and Coverage:
Full tuition fees (€4,400)
Monthly stipend of €500
Accommodation in Tallinn, including internet and utilities
Health insurance for the duration of the programme
Schengen visa application costs
Note: Travel expenses to and from Estonia are not covered
Duration: 8 months (14 October 2025 – 15 May 2026)
Application Deadline: 9 June 2025
Start Date: 14 October 2025
Eligible To: Citizens of Uganda, Ukraine, Kenya, Georgia, Armenia, Botswana, Moldova, or Namibia
📚 Programme Overview
The ESD's certificate programme spans two semesters, offering a comprehensive curriculum that includes:
Core Modules:
International Relations
European Studies
Diplomatic Studies
Learning Activities:
Lectures and seminars led by experienced diplomats and scholars
Policy analysis and development exercises
Intercultural communication workshops
Field visits to Estonian governmental institutions and international organizations
This structured approach ensures that participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for effective diplomatic engagement.
🎁 Benefits
Comprehensive Financial Support:
Full coverage of tuition fees
Monthly living stipend
Accommodation with utilities
Health insurance during the study period
Visa application costs
Academic and Professional Development:
Exposure to European diplomatic practices
Networking opportunities with international peers and experts
Enhanced career prospects in international relations and diplomacy
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
Be citizens of one of the eligible countries (Uganda, Ukraine, Kenya, Georgia, Armenia, Botswana, Moldova, or Namibia)
Hold at least a Bachelor's degree
Have advanced proficiency in English (both written and spoken)
Be currently employed in the foreign or civil service of their country, with a minimum of one year of experience
Demonstrate a strong commitment to returning to their home country's civil or diplomatic service upon completion of the programme
Be open to an intercultural academic environment
📝 Application Procedure
To apply, candidates must submit the following documents by 9 June 2025:
Completed application form with a passport-sized photo
Curriculum Vitae (CV) in English
Personal statement (300–400 words) detailing motivation, relevant experience, and expected benefits from the programme
Copy of Bachelor's degree diploma (with unofficial English translation if necessary)
Copy of academic transcript (with unofficial English translation if necessary)
Copy of passport data page
Academic essay (1,300–1,500 words) on one of the following topics:
Impact of the War in Ukraine on the Future of Europe
China – a Partner or a Foe?
Is Europe’s Strategic Autonomy Possible?
Digital Diplomacy – Interim Measure or Way Forward?
📝 Submission
Applications must be submitted through the Online Scholarship Application System. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for Zoom interviews, and final results will be communicated by 20 June 2025.
Selected participants are expected to arrive in Tallinn between 8–13 October 2025.
🔗 OFFICIAL LINK
