Studying in Latvia is a great opportunity for cross-cultural exposure and personal development. Latvia remains a fabulous country for international students to study abroad. Moreover, it is the most wonderful country that 90% is covered with old forests and it has the widest waterfalls in Europe.
Latvia is located on the northwest edge of Europe and it is known as the “Republic of Latvia”. in addition, Russia shares an eastern border with Lithuania, Belarus borders it on its south, and Estonia to the north, also, it has a coast with the Baltic Sea.
It has five large rivers, the Guaja, the Salacia, the Lielupe, the Daugava, and the Venta. It is mostly flat and has plains and thick forests; moreover, Gaizinkalns is the highest point 1,000 feet tall.
Riga is the capital and the largest city in Latvia. Riga’s port plays a significant role in fostering trade from Russia and Belarus to European ports.
Riga has The Via Baltica highway which is a major trucking route to Warsaw, Tallinn, and Kaunas. Riga Technical University is one of the most famous educational institutions in the European Union.
It is an Eastern Baltic language and known as Lettish that is spoken in the Baltic region. Latvian is the official language in this country and 80% of the population speaks Latvian especially in their homes.
However, Latvian is related to the Lithuanian but Latvian developed faster than Lithuanian. High Latvian, the Middle dialect, and the Livonian dialect are dialects in Latvian. Finally, many people speak Russian fluently
Lats is the currency of the Republic of Latvia and is known in Europe (currency code: LVL or 428). And the Euro is the official currency in Latvia. You can exchange the money at banks and offices Ana’s some banks provide exchange money at ATMs.
debit cards (like Maestro, Visa, and MasterCard) and credit are accepted by ATMs but if you want to go on a trip outside the cities, it is better to take cash with you.
Education in Latvia is free and compulsory and its universities are advanced including numerous disciplines and programs offering several types of scholarships for international students.
The cost of living and studying in Latvia is low-cost and most international students think of universities in Latvia as a good place to study abroad.
Latvia is one of the European countries and has a rich history that has shaped its unique culture which is considered influenced by the surrounding countries.
lifestyle in Latvia is very rooted in ancient traditions and customs, and they shared belief in its folklore, and they also:
Being a student in Latvian universities is a great leap in your life. frontality, Latvia is one of the most affordable countries to study and live in compared to the rest of European countries.
The Latvian government is a big supporter of the educational system offering many features for international students to study through its prestigious universities.
Most of the programs at Latvian higher education institutions charge tuition fees that vary greatly, depending on the institution and the study program rather than the level of study.
Heads up: Public universities usually have lower prices than private institutions.
Due to the government’s support to the educational sector, there are some universities in Latvia that pay low tuition fees, however, they are very good in academics and other related university activities.
Students always think that living out of their country is easy and they forget to see the whole picture. However, living in a new country is a challenge, so students who want to go to Latvia have to know that the cost of living in Latvia is suitable for students.
For one person, the cost of living is €620 ($725) per month, and the average monthly living in Latvia is between 450 and 700 EUR.
This money covers food, utilities, transportation, and others and the student will live a good life.
You should know the Latvia culture and traditions In Riga, there are many options for an inexpensive fast food and street food:
People in Latvia love dark rye bread, and it is a very good chance to experience Latvia food.
There are many places to rent in Latvia, but this is determined by your salary. Renting a house in Latvia is not expensive, the cost starts from 350 EUR.
Riga is the most popular place to rent in Latvia, followed by Jurmala. However, the rent for one apartment is between 150 and 900 EUR depending on the location, and size.
When a student applies for a student visa, it is important to know that he needs to obtain healthcare insurance. On the other hand, in the event of emergencies, state healthcare is only available. Although healthcare in Latvia is universal.
However, you will wait a long time if you go to the hospital because of a lack of treatment and access to the latest medicines. You should be aware that to receive a Residence Permit, you need healthcare insurance.
Narvesen outlets are the places where people buy public transport tickets and this is the safest way to get the tickets and you can buy them from the driver.
However, it is better to buy a ticket before you go on a trip. Anyone who wants to know about transportation in Latvia needs to know that buses in Latvia are very good and one of the most convenient means in this country for students.
Also, the rail network system in Latvia connects almost all the cities in Latvia. It links the capital with lines to seven cities, Valga, Zilupe, Liepāja, Tukums, Daugavpils, Skulte, and Gulbene.
electricity price undergoes an agreement with an energy producer. electricity costs consist of four elements.
The first element is the tariff of Latvian electricity transmission, and the second one is the mandatory procurement component. The tariff price varies depending on the electricity consumption.
People use gas for cooking and for heating, Latvijas Gaze monopolizes the Latvian natural gas market. The price for 1 m3 of natural gas is 0.81 EUR yearly.
Rigas Udens Is a company that provides water in Riga, Liepajas Udens, and Daugavpils Udens. The water counter readings determine the price of water consumption.
Along with its high-quality education system, Latvia is a place with one of the World’s best universities that attract international students to study in Latvia
Bear in mind the accommodation in Latvia is very available and affordable, and the Latvian state offers many options for international students to choose the type to can be comfortable with.
Student housing in Latvia is typically given by universities, whether you prefer to stay on-campus or off-campus.
This type is offered by universities in the form of dormitories, lodgings, or student hostels, Higher institutions provide suitable, comfortable, and conducive student hostel facilities in modern buildings with a safe study environment.
The average costs of student dormitories or hostels range from 75 EUR to 120 EUR per month, depending on the luxury level of each hostel facility.
Perks of Living on Campus
Private flat
For those who desire to stay independently in Latvia and have space of privacy, this option is the best for them. this type of accommodation range from
These houses have a varied price that is affected by location, building type, or if they come fully furnished or not, however, students can expect to pay around 250 EUR to 350 EUR for a rented apartment.
An apartment sharing is popular in Latvia where two or more colleagues share an apartment and split the costs. The average costs range from 100 EUR to 200 EUR per month with or without utilities.
Homestay with Latvian families
Homestays are a great option for international students to learn the culture and language of Latvian. Also, the student can share his or her own culture with the house owners.
About 85% of the homestay students in Europe learned the Latvian language faster by living together with the natives.
The homestay costs vary and depend on the location, size, and the offered utilities.
Latvia is a multi-ethnic country and the most popular destination for international students, The higher education institutions are members of international cooperation within several aspects of the study.
Latvia has 58 higher education institutions which consist of six state universities and a large number of educational institutions, partly private, and other higher. the list below show the most important universities in Latvia:
Riga Technical University is a modern international university that is considered the largest and the only polytechnic university in the country, opened in 1862 in Riga, the capital of Latvia.
RTU is focused on becoming a third-generation university that not only provides a strong and high education but also ensures innovation and conducts advanced research as well as technology transfer, especially implementing scientific discoveries.
with more than 100,000 students, as part of its international exchange program, it offers many types of scholarships for international students who form 15% of the students.
Riga Technical University offers five courses taught in English at the faculty, from undergraduate to PhD level, the university consists of 9 faculties:
Riga Stradins University is one of the most modern and prestigious universities in Latvia. It is a public education institution that was founded in 1950 and is located in the city of Riga.
with an extensive choice of study programs in health care and social sciences, international recognition with the best reputation in Europe, and
a strong foundation in advanced research
The university enhances its education, and make a contribution to the creation of knowledge and new technologies, AND has nine faculties that provide undergraduate as well as postgraduate level studies in numerous programs:
The University of Latvia is the largest comprehensive university with a prominent standing in the development of the entire education system. It was established in 1919 in Riga, Latvia.
It is one of the most leading universities and influential higher education institutions In terms of the total number of students and scientific research.
The students’ study programs with a higher degree of specialization, internationalization, and selectivity are based on research activities corresponding to the mission of a research university.
The university campus is of urban-type and consists of 13 faculties:
Daugavpils University is a public university in Daugavpils, Latvia, and the largest regional university, it began its academic activity in 1921. It is one of the top 20 universities in Latvia.
Every year, a lot of international students choose to study at Daugavpils University due to its strong education, offering many types of scholarships, and it also has various student exchange programs.
The University consists of five faculties
It is one of the leading universities of science and technologies in the Baltic Sea region, specializing in the sustainable use of natural resources aimed at the enhancement of quality of life for society.
The history of Latvia Universities of Life Sciences and Technology can be traced back to 1939 located in Jelgava, Latvia. the LLU Offers a wide range of study programs for international students and consists of 8 faculties with several study programs:
Baltic International Academy is one of the most important and pioneer universities in the Baltic region with its advanced technologies and strategies in teaching and equipping the students to be ready for the job market.
It is a private profit higher education institution, it was founded in 1992 and is located in Riga. The university has more than 15,000 students and the international students are most welcome forming 15%. It has numerous programs and disciplines in many fields, it has four faculties:
Turiba University is one of the leading universities, established in 1993 and is situated in Zemgale Suburb, Riga, it is the largest business school in Latvia, and the most famous university, especially the high employment rate of its graduates, which reaches 99.61%,
The university provides its students the chance to gain work experience during their studies and prepares them well for the job market.
Turiba University consists of four faculties, It runs 25 study programs, which include Bachelor’s Program, Master’s Program, and Doctoral study program:
Admission requirements for Latvian universities vary from one university to another, the students should contact the university’s admission office to find out the requirements for the particular university.
In general, universities in Latvia require similar applications to universities in Europe such as language proficiency and academic certificate.
Aside from its wonderful culture, high quality of life and breathtaking natural views, Latvia’s educational system has a long historical background that makes it stronger and world-class.
Latvia state provides affordable and quality education to its incoming and current international students as well as the students enjoy numerous opportunities and experiences.
Latvia scholarships and grants are offered to financially support students aiming to take programs in this country.
Scholarship Amount: 30 EUR per day for personal use and 300 EUR for accommodation costs.
Eligible Degree: Ph.D. degrees
Pro-Tip: Scholarships in Latvia are valid for one year for bachelor’s and master’s degree courses. while Ph.D. scholarships are valid for 11 months. Therefore, international students have to apply again for next year’s scholarships.
The Latvian government offers financial assistance for the international students:
As Latvia is a member of the European Union, so its visa requirements and rules are similar to other countries.
When you think about studying in Latvia, take in your consideration the required documents and types of a student visas in Ireland.
The students whose studies require them to stay for more than 90 days should apply for a long-term student visa.
The holder of this visa has the right to enter the Schengen Zone as well as he or she can renew the visa without returning to their own home.
is known as a Schengen student visa, this type is issued a duration up to 90 days in 180 days period. This visa can be issued as multiple entries, single entries, or double entries.
Heads up: The VFS charges are around 20 EUR, and if there is a video conference, the additional fees of 35 EUR are needed to be paid.
Studying in Latvia will benefit the international students to get a European Degree, which is recognized all over the world, in the selected course along with specialization.
Therefore, after you decide on which university or high institution you want to study in and receive the acceptance letter. it is time to collocate the requirements of the Latvia student visa
The average time is 15 working days, starting from the day of the submission. sometimes, it can take up to 60 days If there is some information required or inspection necessary,
Once you have applied, wait for 2 weeks or 15 days to be notified about the visa statutes, or from VFS (online).
Remember, The Visa Processing time for student visas in Latvia may change with the country you are applying from.
Latvia has many wonderful programs which attract international students. When you are looking for good universities, you have to keep an eye on everything you find.
So, if you look closely, you will find out that Latvia has a great Education System. Students in Latvia have to study hard to keep enhancing their skills, in addition to attending 20 hours per week part-time jobs.
Universities provide students with a comfortable atmosphere for academic life that motivates the students to be creative.
1- Students can study in English: Master / Bachelor/ Doctorate level Programs.
2- Universities are approved by the government.
3- Low-cost Tuition Fee
4- Students can bear the cost of living.
5- There are many leisure activities and sports.
Anyone who wants to go to Europe, studying in Latvia will open the gate of Europe, so you can go to travel in European countries without effort to search for a job.
There are several highly ranked world-class universities in Latvia such as the University of Latvia, Riga Technical University, and Stradins University and these universities will give you a high level of education.
Latvia is one of the biggest names in Eastern Europe with its pioneer universities which are ranked at the top universities worldwide.
These are the top reasons that make it the preferred destination for international students: