Latvia is a country in the Baltic Region of the Northern Region. The country is bordered by Estonia, Lithuania, Russia, and Belarus. It also shares the Maritime Border with Sweden. It is a member of the World Trade Organization, and since the year 2000 AD, it is one of the fastest-growing economies in Europe. The three biggest cities of Latvia are Riga, Ventspils and Liepaja. Latvia sets its long-term goals on Science and technology, to make its economy more knowledge-based instead of labour-consuming economy.


Student Life in Latvia

A number of cities in Latvia are fondly called University Towns, which means when you go out, you will find many international students like you enjoying the leisure activities that the city offers. There are many activities for students to take part in. Theatres, Concerts, Operas, Museums and Galleries to visit. In winter, there are many winter sports like Ice Skating and skiing, which can prove to be a first-time thing for many. The Country has many parks and international reserves, and it is naturally rich. for the ones who love adventures and tracking, Latvia has endless opportunities. Like any country, there is a number of festivals and events to take part in.


Top Student Cities in Latvia

Riga is known for its blend of new and old architectural brilliance, and Vecriga (City’s historic centre) has been declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Approximately a third of the population lives in Riga, and so do most of the international students coming to Latvia. Daugavpils is the second-largest city in Latvia, which can be called the cultural centre of the country. There is a number of music and cultural festival held here, and Riga Technical University has an affiliate centre in Dugavplis. Liepaja is the third largest, located on the West Coast, and faces the Baltic Sea. The City is home to Summer Festivals and Quality Education.


Benefits of Studying in Latvia

One of the benefits of studying in Latvia is the affordable tuition fee. The cost of studying in Latvia is one of the most affordable study-abroad destinations in Europe for international students. The cost of living is also some of the lowest in the continent. There are 36 public institutions for higher education in Latvia. The Universities in Latvia also offer internship programs for the ever-valuable international experience. There is a predicted large inflow of international students to Latvia, which make the country a place to be.


Student Accommodation in Latvia

Student Accommodation in Latvia is provided by the University dormitories and the hostels. There are almost all the required facilities available in these student dorms and hostels. Students are advised to stay in these accommodations provided by the institutions themselves, as the real estate in Latvia outside of the campus can be a little costly, and hard to negotiate. However, the costs of living are again more affordable than in other European Countries and English Speaking Destinations for international students.

 

Masters in Latvia for International Students 

Latvian Universities offer both academic and professional courses. The courses, as we mentioned are offered both in local languages and in English. The Academic programs for the Master’s degree would take 2 years (4 semesters), and collectively, the total length of the bachelor and Master’s degrees should be 5 years. The professional courses for the Master’s degree can be of one or two years in duration. More than 200 of the programs in Latvia are taught in English.

 

Study and Work in Latvia

There is no specific work permit required for international students who have a student visa in Latvia. Students are allowed to work at part-time jobs, which are restricted to 20 hours a week for international students. Students can earn while learning at local jobs. Part-time jobs can help them with tuition fees of day to day expenses, which are already largely affordable in Latvia.


Stay Back After Studying in Latvia

There is a provision for international students to stay back in Latvia, once they finish their program at a higher education institute. International students can stay back and work in Latvia for up to six months after their studies in Latvia. They can look for internships or permanent jobs in the country to extend their stay if they want to.


Study in Latvia Scholarships

Study abroad scholarships are a great way to fund the expenses of international students. There are some countries that have mutual agreements with Latvia, which benefit from the science scholarships to study in Latvia. For other students, there are government-offered scholarships, university-offered scholarships, and scholarships offered from private entities, too. The Scholarships can be in the form of either waiver of the tuition fees, or financial aid.


Latvia Study Visa

Non-EU Students are required to have a visa to study in Latvia. And since most of the courses in Latvia would be longer than 90 days, the students should apply for a residence permit in Latvia. The universities that you are accepted into, will help you with the application process for a student visa in Latvia, and help you if you are stuck somewhere. The visa takes a little time to process, so it is important to apply at the right time that way you can avoid the last-minute hassles. The University you are applying to will send your documents for verification.

UNIVERSITIES IN LATVIA

The universities in Latvia are some of the top-ranked universities in the world, and not only in Europe. Universities like the University of Latvia (Ranking 800-1000 in the world), Riga Technical Universities and Riga Stradins University are ranked among the best in the world by various ranking entities of the world. The tertiary institutions have a large number of courses in English, and most of the international students coming to Latvia prefer that there are also colleges in Latvia without IELTS. The Latvian Universities are also known for their research and innovation and they prompt their students to do the same, the quality of education in Latvia is on par with its European counterparts.


List of universities and colleges in Latvia

Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

This is a list of universities and colleges in Latvia as follows:

Universities

State Universities

 

State colleges

 

Non-university type colleges

 

Vocational schools and colleges

State colleges

 

Foreign university affiliates

  • Newport University CED, Latvia, affiliated with the Tomsk State University tsu.ru
  • Riga Higher Institute of Religious Sciences, under the Pontifical Lateran University pul.va/en/
  • Riga Institute of Theology, under the Pontifical Lateran University pul.va/en/

INTAKE IN LATVIA

Latvian universities are an excellent option for students looking for an international education with a unique cultural experience. With quality education, stunning scenery, and a vibrant economy, Latvia is an attractive destination for students wishing to pursue higher education. The universities of Latvia offer a wide range of courses, from undergraduate and postgraduate programs to master’s and doctoral degrees. If you are planning to study in Latvia, you must know about the intakes in Latvia.

There are two different intakes in Latvia for International Students. Autumn and Winter. The international students can choose either of the two intake periods. The deadline for the autumn intake at Universities in Latvia might end in July-August. The deadlines for the winter intake at Latvian universities will end in December-January. However, the university’s admission deadlines for enrolling in different programs may vary.


Steps to Study in September Intake in Latvia

If you plan to study in Latvia for either undergraduate or postgraduate studies, you first require an action plan. Below is an application timeline of what to do and in which month to do it!

 

Step 1 – Start Now!

  • Begin early and shortlist 4-5 universities you will apply to by August. Visit university websites and check the requirements, application deadlines, etc.
  • By September, be all the details about bank loan options and scholarships to support your studies.
  • Begin with downloading admissions brochures from the Latvian university websites. Most brochures are out over a year sooner.
  • Do some initial research on different accommodation options.

Step 2 – Appear for the exams: January to February

  • Prepare for required international exams such as GMAT, SAT, GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS – depending upon your chosen course and university.
  • By June and July or three months before the test date, register for the required GMAT or GRE.
  • Enrol and start preparing for TOEFL or IELTS a minimum of a month before the exam date.
  • Take the required tests around September and plan for buffer time if you need to retake the test.

 

Step 3 – Apply! February to March

  • Shortlist the universities and prepare for your application. Consider what makes you unique as an applicant and sketch your strengths and self-appraisal.
  • Contact your professors and direct managers for 2-3 reference letters at least a month before your application due date.
  • Start drafting your SOP and essays. Give a month to structure these documents appropriately.
  • Apply before the due date! Latvia’s September intake deadline will be around from February to May.

 

Step 4 – What next: April  to May

  • Don’t delay replying to college emails. Also, there will be quite a few!
  • Appear for personal/video interviews. These are planned for around January to March.
  • Once you obtain acceptance letters, decide as quickly as possible.
  • Depending on the deadline, inform your decision to the university
  • You have to submit the deposit fee to finalise your university admission.


Step 5 – Visa and money matters: June to July

  • Research online and apply for external grants and scholarships (if required).
  • If required, apply for the education loan as soon as you get your acceptance letter.
  • Assemble the paperwork for your Latvia student visa. Check visa prerequisites.
  • Without waiting for a single day apply for a student visa to Latvia. Remember the time taken for visa processing!

 

Step 6 – Get ready to fly: July to August

  • Book airline tickets.
  • Organize an International Debit/Credit card.
  • Assemble all the paperwork to take along.
  • Check out the Pre-departure checklist!

 

Steps to Study in January Intake in Latvia

Here we have mentioned the step-by-step process for the Latvian universities with the January intake for postgraduate and undergraduate courses.

 

Step 1 – Start Now: May  – June

  • The first step to study in Latvia for the January intake is to choose a course and shortlist the Universities that suit you best.
  • The choosing process is different for everyone and will change from individual to individual as per your academics and plans. Do thorough research on the courses you want and the courses and universities you are eligible for.
  • The best way to start is to go through the official websites of the Universities in Latvia and see the course details.
  • Research the bank loan options and scholarships to finance your studies.
  • Do not forget to look for application deadlines for the course you want to apply.

 

Step 2 – Appear for the Exams: July to August

  • The entrance exams are the most important eligibility requirements for your chosen courses and university.
  • There will be general aptitude tests like GRE and GMAT, which will be required to get admission to Latvia universities. Prepare and attempt it.
  • The other important tests are English language proficiency tests such as IELTS and TOEFL.
  • Remember that these tests will take some preparation time, and the results will also be declared after weeks.
  • If the results are unfavourable, you might want to appear for the required exams again. All this time should be considered while preparing to get a seat in the January intake in Latvia.

 

Step 3 – Start Applying to Colleges: August  to September

  • It is time for you to start preparing for your application. Keep an eye on the application deadlines. Different universities and courses will have different deadlines.
  • A month before the deadline, start the documentation process for all required paperwork.
  • Prepare your SOP/Application Essay. You should write a Statement of Purpose/College Essay stating your academic background and reason for choosing the university.
  • You should contact your professors or manager and request them to write letters of recommendation for you.
  • Apply to the universities in Latvia before the due date. The deadline for Latvian university’s January intake will be from June to October.

 

Step 4 -Acceptance Letters and Interviews: September  to October

  • You will receive a mail from their side. You must revert with a confirmation if you are interested in attending the course.
  • If you are willing to attend the course, notify the university with a confirmation email as soon as possible. Do not wait for the deadlines to revert.
  • You might also be asked to pay a non-refundable confirmation fee. That, too, has its own deadlines, and you should pay the amount before that.

 

Step 5 – Apply for Visa / Fund requirements: October to November

  • As soon as you receive the acceptance letter from the university, you should start the process of getting a student loan and a Latvia student Visa. You should apply for the Latvia student Visa at least three months before the January intake starts. Both the Visa and Loan process will take time and are essential processes.
  • You will be required to show your financial capability during your visa application, and any scholarships or grants should be declared then while applying.

 

Step 6 – Tickets and Departure: November to December

  • You are just one step away from your study in Latvia journey. Before you book the flights, make sure you have all the documents that will be required.
  • The next step is to look for accommodation. Start this process a month before your arrival.
  • Arrange an international credit or debit card.
  • Make a pre-departure checklist to ensure you do not miss out on anything.

Latvia intake to choose

It can be confusing to choose the Latvia intake that suits you better. To select the Latvia study intakes, consider factors such as

  • Availability of your chosen program,
  • Your academic records,
  • Your Entrance exam scores
  • Acceptance rates of the university
  • Job opportunities available
  • Your readiness to join the university

Most of the international students prefer to take the September intake. However, January intakes are also suitable for some of the courses. If you do not have your exam scores ready, it is good to skip the quickness and apply for the next intake.


COST OF STUDY IN LATVIA

Latvia is one of the most affordable countries to study and live in in Europe, if not the most affordable. Universities in Latvia have lower tuition fees and highly rewarding programs for international students. Most of the higher education courses in streams of Science, Mathematics, Technology and Management are offered in English. If you want to have a rewarding study abroad experience in Europe, Latvia is a perfect destination. Here is all you need to know about studying in Latvia costs along with the costs of living.

 

Latvia Student Visa Cost

Students who are not from EU-EEA, Nordic Countries or Switzerland are required to have a student visa to study in Latvia. After arriving in Latvia, they need to apply for a residence permit separately. The Application fee for the Latvia Student Visa is €60.

 

Cost of Study in Latvia

The costs of study in Latvia for higher education are different for each course and university, thus there is no definite number for international students. However, these are some average tuition fees for different levels of studying for International students:

Latvia University Fees for International Students:

Level of Study Average Tuition Fees
Bachelor’s Degree €3000 – €5000
Medicine Degree €15000
Master’s Degrees €1700 for EU and Swiss Students

€3700 for International Students

As we mentioned, the average cost of studying in Latvia is some of the lowest in Europe. Not only in Europe, one can compare it to other countries offering English Taught courses, and these are some of the lowest numbers for international destinations for Education. Medicine and management are on the higher end of the spectrum when compared to other courses.


Living Cost in Latvia for Student

Not only the tuition fees, Latvia has one of the most affordable lifestyles in Europe, also. There is no compromise on the standards of living, however, as the country is keeping up with the times at the same time conserving its nature and heritage. Latvia is known for its natural landscape, but there is a happening nightlife, too. Here is a general breakdown of some of the day-to-day expenses in Latvia, for the top student cities:


Cost of Living in Riga per Month

Riga is the capital and biggest city of Latvia. Obviously, it is the most populated, too. Riga is home to Riga Technical University, University of Latvia and Riga Stradins University.

Accommodation Dorms/Student hostel €70 – €20
Shared Apartment €100 – €200
Apartment without Sharing €250 – €350
Food €150 – €250 (€4 – €7 per meal)
Transportation €16 for students (trams or buses)
Social €100 approximately depending on the students

Cost of Living in Liepaja per Month

Known for Long Beach on the Baltic Sea, Liepaja is one of the bigger cities in Latvia. It is home to the University of Liepaja, offering highly accredited technical courses in fields like computer science and Information Technology.

Accommodation Dorms/Student hostel €40 – €110
Shared Apartment €50 – €150
Apartment without Sharing €150 – €300
Food €130 (€3 – €5 per meal)
Transportation €20 for students (trams or buses)
Social €50 approximately depending on the students

Cost of Living in Ventspils per Month

Another city on the west coast of Latvia, Ventspils is home to Ventspils University College, known for scientific research.

Accommodation Dorms/Student hostel €47 – €69
Shared Apartment €85 – €100
Apartment without Sharing €100 – €220
Food €120 – €230 (€2.5 – €9 per meal)
Transportation €16.5 – €26.5 for students (trams or buses)
Social €50 – €70 approximately depending on the students

 The numbers are just to give students an idea about what to expect while studying and staying in Latvia. The expenses can change depending on the location and lifestyle of the students, not to mention the courses chosen. Study abroad scholarships in Latvia are the best ways to fund your education and living in Latvia, which will help you further in this affordable country.

 

STUDENT VISA IN LATVIA

Students from EU countries and Switzerland do not need a study permit or visa to study in Latvia. International students from other countries, however, will need a student visa to study at Latvian Universities. The country is known for its affordable studies and the quality of the education on offer. If you are someone looking forward to studying in Latvia, the visa process is one of the most important steps of them all. Here is all you need to know about student visas in Latvia.

 

Visa to Study in Latvia

International students need a Long Stay Student Visa (Type D) for courses that are for more than 90 days in Latvia. Before 90 days to entering Latvia or upon arrival, the students have to apply for a residence permit in Latvia.


How to Apply for Student Visa in Latvia

The first step for a Student visa in Latvia is to register on the vfs website, from where you can also book an appointment for the application submission. The visa application can be submitted either at the nearest embassy or consulate and for those who do not have access to that, a video conference is a way. The VFS charges are approximately 20 euros, and if there is a video conference, an additional fee of 35 euros is needed to be paid.

Students are required to pay the visa fees while booking and registering for the appointment.

Latvia Visa Fees: 60 Euros, the visa fees are non-refundable.

For a successful visa application, the Latvian Long Stay Student Visa Application form. The form should be filled out and downloaded from the PLMP registration website. Along with the Application form, there are some supporting documents you need to submit. Here are the documents required:

 

Student Visa in Latvia Checklist

  • Passport valid for more than Six months of intended stay in Latvia
  • All academics documents (Photocopy)
  • A recent photograph
  • National ID
  • Police Clearance Certificate
  • Proof of your intended residence in Latvia
  • Latvia Invitation Letter for Visa: Invitation Letter by University in Latvia which is approved by the OCMA.
  • Bank Statement of the Last three months showing that student is able to sustain him or herself during their stay in Latvia.
  • Travel Insurance (minimum coverage of 42600 euros)

 

Processing Time for Student Visa in Latvia

The Visa Processing time for Latvia may change with the country you are applying from, however, the average time is 15 working days from the day of the submission. If there is some information required or an inspection necessary, it can take up to 60 days.

Once you have applied, wait for 2 weeks or 15 days to be notified about the visa status, or you can track the proceedings online from your VFS account.

 

How to Apply for a Residence Permit in Latvia

The documents required for the Residence are almost the same as the student visa. The invitation letter for that is filled out by the Latvian university you have applied to. It is submitted to the Office of Citizenship and Migration (OCMA) in Latvia, and evaluated by it, too. The fee for Consulate is 80 euros. There are also legislation fees of 15 euros. Only if the Residence Permit is cleared by the Office of Citizenship and Migration (OCMA), the student is provided with the type D Student Visa. The whole process can take more than 40 days, so make sure you apply for the Student visa and residence permit on time.


Latvia Student Visa Interview Questions

Students are required to face a Latvian embassy interview to apply for Latvia Student Visa. Here are some of the questions you might be asked during the visa interview:

•          Why have you chosen Latvia and not any other country?

•          Why have you chosen this Latvian University and Course?

•          How will the course you have chosen, help you with your career?

•          What are your short and long-term goals?

•          What are your plans for returning to your Home Country?

Latvia Student Visa Work Permit

With a valid Student Visa, International students are allowed to work for 20 hours a week in Latvia. The students are required to submit proof of employment, such as an employment contract. Students might be required to apply for a separate work permit visa in Latvia.


Latvia Student Visa Stay Back

Latvia offers a very lucrative option of staying back for international students even after the program is over. International students who have completed a master’s degree in Latvia are eligible to stay for a back period of six months in Latvia. This allows international students to do internships, gain international experience or look for permanent jobs in Latvia to extend their stay.

FAQs

Why Study in Latvia?

The main reason why one should study in Latvia is affordable education. The tuition fees and other living costs are lower when compared with several other western nations. The government of  Latvia has laid special stress on education and has made various changes in order to improve the quality of education which has made it an ideal destination for studying abroad.

How Much does it Cost to Study in Latvia?

The cost of Study in Latvia is totally based on the institution and on the programme selected. Latvia is the most affordable country to study and live in Europe. Universities in Latvia have lower tuition fees and highly rewarding programs for overseas students. The range is from less than 1,600 EUR per year to 25,600 EUR. To know more about the cost of the Latvia study please read. Cost of studying in Latvia

How to Study in Latvia?

In order to study in Latvia, you should follow the steps mentioned on the university website. Check the admission requirements of the selected university in Latvia and send an application online with the help of the university website. Different university has a different procedure for the admission of students from overseas, so being on the safe side contact the university directly and then apply for the course of your choice.

How much Study Gap Acceptable in Latvia?

Most of the European countries including Latvia do no mind the study gap. The gap is accepted in the universities of Latvia. Several students from all over the world come to study in Latvia. Education in Latvia is high-quality education which attracts many students worldwide. Most of the European countries including Latvia do no mind the study gap. The gap is accepted in the universities of Latvia. Several students from all over the world come to study in Latvia. Education in Latvia is high-quality education which attracts many students worldwide.