A record number of high school graduates means universities will have more student candidates. If the number of places is not increased, access to higher education will decrease. Greater competition means fewer young people will get into university. This is the opinion of Tallinn University rector Tõnu Viik.
Viik emphasized that universities need more teaching staff. Although the number of high school graduates will start to decline in 2031, it won't drop too quickly. The state aims to educate more people with higher education. This means universities will have more students in the future.
More students and teaching staff also require additional funding. The Ministry of Education and the Council of Rectors are making a proposal to the government to find additional funds. This money should be included in the state budget strategy.
Helen Joost, head of the academic department at Tallinn University, said increasing the number of places depends on funding. Currently, universities cannot make firm promises until the state gives its approval.
Tallinn University of Technology (TTÜ) is already prepared to admit more high school graduates. Anne Urbla, head of admissions at TTÜ, said they are ready to increase the number of places in engineering and IT fields. They are renovating premises and ensuring there are enough teaching staff.
The Estonian University of Life Sciences is also ready to increase admissions. Ina Järve, head of the academic department, said they plan to increase the number of first-level study places.
The University of Tartu has not yet received guidelines from the Ministry of Education to increase the number of students. Marily Saar, head of admissions, said they don't yet know exactly what to expect. The topic was discussed on Tuesday by the Riigikogu Cultural Affairs Committee.