Study in Latvia For International Students | Complete Application Process

Latvia has quietly grown into one of Europe’s underrated study hubs, offering modern universities, affordable education, and an easy-going lifestyle that international students genuinely enjoy. With rapidly developing cities like Riga and Liepaja, plus globally recognized programs in IT, engineering, business, and health sciences, choosing to study in Latvia gives students access to high-quality education without the high cost usually expected in Europe.

Beyond affordability, students who study in Latvia benefit from safe cities, multicultural campuses, advanced digital infrastructure, and a fast-growing job market for tech and business graduates. The country blends European charm with a modern lifestyle, creating the perfect environment to learn, grow, and build a global future. Whether you’re into computing, aviation, medicine, business, or environmental studies, studying in Latvia opens doors to hundreds of English-taught programs across the country.

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Pros of Study in Latvia for International Students

Choosing to study in Latvia offers many advantages, including:

• Affordable tuition fees compared to Western Europe
• Low cost of living for international students
• Wide range of English-taught bachelor’s and master’s programs
• Degrees recognized across Europe and beyond
• Safe, peaceful, and student-friendly environment
• Advanced digital services and modern campuses
• Increasing job opportunities for IT and business graduates
• Easy Schengen travel to 25+ European countries
• Multicultural environment
• Part-time work opportunities during studies

Cons of Study in Latvia for International Students

• Cold winters, especially for students not used to European climates
• Language barrier in small towns (Latvian is the official language)
• Limited part-time jobs compared to larger EU countries
• Some programs are competitive during admissions
• Public universities may have slower administrative processes

How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)

A clear process helps students planning to study in Latvia stay organized. Here’s the complete guide:

1. Search for Suitable Study Programs

Use official portals like:

• Study in Latvia Official Portal
  This is the main government-run platform listing all accredited programs.
• Individual university portals
  Each university has its own application system.

2. Review Admission Requirements

Most universities require:

• Academic transcripts
• English proficiency scores (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or English-medium certificate)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Motivation letter
• Passport copy
• Application fee
• Recommendation letters (some programs)

3. Apply Through the University Portal

• Latvia does not use a centralized portal like UCAS or Studielink.
• Applications are submitted directly through each university’s online system.

4. Submit Required Documents

Upload all transcripts, test scores, and supporting documents.

5. Attend Additional Assessments

Some programs may require:

• Entrance exams (especially for medicine or aviation)
• Interviews
• Portfolios (for creative fields)

6. Receive Your Offer Letter

Accepted students get either a conditional or unconditional offer.

7. Pay Tuition Deposit & Apply for Visa

After accepting the offer, the university guides you through:

• Tuition deposit
• Visa application at the nearest Latvian Embassy
• Residence permit documentation

Cost of Living in Latvia

Students planning to study in Latvia can expect the following monthly expenses:

• Accommodation: 150–300 EUR in dorms, 250–450 EUR in shared flats
• Food & groceries: 120–220 EUR
• Transportation: 15–20 EUR with student discounts
• Health insurance: 40–60 EUR
• Miscellaneous: 80–150 EUR

Total Estimated Cost: 450–850 EUR per month

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Tuition Fees in Latvia

• Bachelor’s programs: 2,000–4,000 EUR per year
• Master’s programs: 3,000–6,000 EUR per year
• Medical programs: 10,000–15,000 EUR per year
• Engineering/IT programs: 3,000–5,500 EUR per year

Scholarships Available for International Students

Scholarships significantly reduce overall cost for students who plan to study in Latvia. Latvia offers government-funded, university-funded, and international scholarship options. Here are the major ones:

1. Latvian Government State Scholarships (via VIAA)

A major funding option for non-EU students planning to study in Latvia.

• Eligibility: Applicants for bachelor’s, master’s, or postgraduate studies.
• Requirements: Academic transcripts, English proficiency, CV, motivation letter, passport, VIAA application.
• Benefits: Monthly stipend + accommodation support (varies by program).
• Duration: One academic year, renewable.

2. University Merit Scholarships

Available at top universities for outstanding students who study in Latvia.

• Eligibility: Enrolled students with high academic performance.
• Requirements: University-specific forms, transcripts, recommendation letters (sometimes).
• Benefits: Partial to full tuition fee reduction.
• Duration: One academic year, renewable.

3. Erasmus+ Scholarships

Popular option for exchange and joint-degree students planning to study in Latvia.

• Eligibility: Students from Erasmus-partner universities.
• Requirements: Learning agreement, transcripts, university nomination.
• Benefits: Monthly stipend + travel allowance.
• Duration: 3–12 months.

4. University-specific International Scholarships

Offered by Latvian institutions like:

• Riga Technical University
• University of Latvia
• Riga Stradins University

Top Universities in Latvia

These are the most popular choices for students wanting to study in Latvia:

• University of Latvia
• Riga Technical University
• Riga Stradins University
• Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences
• Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies
• Turiba University
• University of Daugavpils
• Liepaja University

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Choosing to study in Latvia gives students the chance to experience affordable education, strong academic programs, and rich cultural exposure. With English-taught degrees, modern campuses, and easy travel across the Schengen Zone, Latvia offers excellent value for students aiming to build an international future. Despite small challenges like cold winters or a mild language barrier, the overall experience makes Latvia a top study destination for 2026 and beyond.

Looking to maximize your chances of acceptance?

Consider using our Professional Services to polish your application and stand out from the crowd.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)