Study: Majority of Estonian Students Work Alongside Their Studies

A new Praxis Centre for Policy Studies survey shows that the financial situation of Estonian university students has deteriorated significantly in recent years. An ever-growing number of students are forced to work while pursuing higher education.

A survey conducted by the Praxis Centre for Policy Studies highlights a worrying trend in Estonia's higher education landscape: the majority of students must work simultaneously with their studies to cover living expenses and education-related costs.

The survey results show that Estonian students' financial situation has steadily worsened in recent years. Rising cost of living and insufficient state support have forced many students into the job market, which in turn can negatively impact academic performance and dropout rates from higher education institutions.

Working alongside studies has become more the norm than the exception. This puts young people in a difficult position, having to balance work duties with academic obligations. Experts warn that such a situation may damage both the quality of education and Estonia's competitiveness in the long term.

To address the problem, policymakers and higher education representatives must find effective measures, including increasing student grants and ensuring affordable housing for students. The Praxis Centre for Policy Studies has previously emphasized the need to review the higher education funding model to ensure equal access to quality education for all.