Officially known as the Republic of Lithuania, this is the largest of all three Baltic States. Lying on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea, the country enjoys a moderate climate. With the growing exposure of international universities, students are resorting to studying abroad more than ever. The country is becoming a highly preferred study destination and is reeling more interest from international students.
Lithuania houses some of the best Universities in Europe in an array of programs spread across fields. From Medicine, Architecture, Engineering, to art disciplines like Film-making, Photography, and many more have found their home in the country. The programs and diplomas are internationally recognized and valued. Apart from offering competitive curriculum, Lithuania also is an affordable country for international students. There are plenty of options for students to choose their accommodations on and off their University campuses. However, choosing a university abroad can be a challenge, given the wide variety of options. Seek help from our professionals to ace the process and land your dream University.
When moving to a new country, it’s common to have concerns about adjusting to its climate, fitting in with the people, adapting to its culture, and many more. Lithuania is a land rich in culture and traditions coming from its historical ties with Poland and other countries. It may wonder you to know that Lithuanian is one of the most ancient languages in the entire world. However, apart from its native language, English, Polish, and Russian is widely spoken on the streets. Lithuanian people are welcoming towards foreigners and allow you to bring and seed in your culture and values along with yourselves.
If you come from a country that doesn’t share its currency with the EU, chances are you would want to find some work while you complete your degree. Earning on the side is always deemed beneficial. It not only allows you to add a few more bucks to your account, but you also gain experience that you can use later. Besides welcoming students to find work on their student visa, you also would be eligible for many student discounts. You can seek discounts at places like restaurants, public transport, museums, historical sites, and certain shops. However, do make sure you carry the below IDs with you to avail these discounts-
You also have a provision of staying back after graduating to find work in the EU. Make the right choice, consult a professional to get a holistic view of the options to study in Lithuania.
Tuition fees is the biggest expenditure when moving to an international study destination. However, studying in Lithuania is deemed affordable by many international students. This Baltic state is a land of many surprises. From incredibly beautiful outdoors toan affordable living condition, Lithuania has a lot to offer. The affordable living expenses don’t compromise on the quality of living. Similarly, the competitive academic quality doesn’t always mean you have to burn a big hole in your pocket to cover the costs.
Let us take a look at the tuition fees of some of the leading Universities,
University | Cost per year (indicative) |
Lithuanian Sports University | Masters start from 1,000 EUR |
Klaipeda University | Bachelors start from 1,600 EUR |
Mykolas Romeris University | Masters start from 2,150 EUR |
The above are some of the most affordable Universities in Lithuania. You can also consider studying in public funded universities since they are more cost effective than opting for a private university in this country.
While it is easier for EU students to study here, there are financial resources to aid international students to cover the tuition fees in Lithuania. There are scholarships and grants provided by Universities at every study level. These financial resources are provided by individual universities, the government and private institutions. The criteria to qualify for scholarships are different for each of the above, so make sure you reach out to the concerned body to find in depth information. Alternatively, you can connect with experts at Udrus who will guide and help you attain these scholarships given you fit the criteria.
Let us briefly look at some scholarships below-
Don’t forget to reach out to the concerned authorities or experts at Udrus to find the right information within your deadlines. You wouldn’t want to miss a chance to attain some of the best scholarships that let you enjoy the warm embrace of a beautiful Baltic country and get a degree in a study of your choice.
When it comes to the cost of living in a country as an international student, a major part of it depends upon your spending habits and lifestyle. While a budget of 350 to 750 EUR per month should be enough for most international students, it might not cover the month for others. Let’s browse through some of the activities which would need to factor in except the cost of your stay in Lithuania.
1. Travel: Whether or not you opted for out of campus accommodation, travel costs would be a part of your daily routine. Lithuania is a small country. It can be easily covered in 7-8 hours by bus or car. In this country you will never fall short of places to visit and marvel at.
Let us have a look at the transport expenses
Mode of Transport | Cost (indicative) |
One-way Ticket(Local Transport) | 1 EUR |
Taxi Start( Normal Tariff) | 1 EUR |
Taxi 1 km( Normal Tariff) | 0.60 EUR |
Taxi 1 Hour Waiting | 10 EUR |
Gasoline (1 litre) | 1.18 EUR |
2. Groceries: This is another unavoidable but manageable expense. You are going to get tired of eating outside in no time. Before you start missing food from your home country, it is best that you choose to cook and eat at home. Listing below cost of some essential items.
Item | Cost (indicative) |
Eggs (12) | 1.51 EUR |
Fruits (1 kg) | 0.96 – 1.24 EUR |
Rice (1 kg) | 1.35 EUR |
Loaf of Bread (500 g) | 0.86 EUR |
Milk (1 litre) | 0.87 EUR |
Water (1.5 litre) | 0.64 EUR |
Vegetables (1 kg) | 0.91 – 1.58 EUR |
3. Basic utilities like electricity, heating, cooling, water are going to cost you around 130 EUR per month for a small apartment. Prepaid mobile tariffs and internet would amount to 1 to 11 EUR on an average.
4. Clothing: No matter how many clothes you pack before arriving in Lithuania, you will need to buy some clothes during the course of your program. The expenses would be from 32 EUR for a summer dress to 88 EUR for one pair of Men Business shoes.
Apart from the above, some leisure activities like going out for dinner or buying a fitness membership may also be a part of your expense sheet. Don’t forget to watch out for your physical fitness, because as they say, health is wealth.
When moving to a different country, your finances are one of the most crucial aspects to be addressed. It is recommended to plan your financial expenses against the availability of your financial resources. This will ensure that you stay on top of your cost expenses and manage them beforehand.
Living in Lithuania is considered comparatively affordable from other EU nations. As an International student, you will have two options of accommodation; one to take up a dormitory in the University campus itself or opt for an out of campus accommodation. The Student dormitories are highly preferred by students since they come equipped with all facilities required for a student. With that said, these dormitories are taken up sooner than you would expect. Hence, the recommendation is to apply as soon as you can if you don’t want to miss your opportunity to stay on campus at an affordable expense.
Let’s showcase indicative costs to stay on a University campus. Please consider the below as indicative, and reach out to Udrus or the University directly to know the exact costs.
Room Type | Cost per month if you stay more than 2 months |
Double Room | 87 EUR |
Triple Room | 58 EUR |
While staying on the campus can turn out as an economical choice, however, you may not get the dorm or may get late to apply for one. In that case, you would want to resort to an out of campus accommodation. This can prove to be a relatively expensive option, however, with good research and timely booking you have a chance to reserve yourself a suitable apartment. Let’s take a bird eye view of the rent of apartments in Lithuania.
Room Type | Cost per month (indicative) |
1 bedroom apartment in City Centre | 436.99 EUR |
1 bedroom apartment outside of Centre | 294.33 EUR |
3 bedrooms apartment in City Centre | 724.90 EUR |
3 bedrooms apartment outside of Centre | 478 EUR |
The rent is manageable for a student given you decide to split the accommodation with a few friends/batch mates. You can find already occupied accommodations and resort to staying with the previous tenants of the flat or apartment in order to save a few bucks. Either way, you would have to decide on an accommodation well in advance before moving to Lithuania itself.
Located in the North of Europe and on the Southeastern edge of the Baltic states, Lithuania offers an exceptional location for international students. It is a unique blend of traditional cultures and the modern era coming together. The country serves as the best option for nature lovers and those who prefer living near the lush mix of forests, colorful houses and cobbled stones. Lithuania is a treat to the eye and soul alike. If you are looking to study in Lithuania, read further to find out the top universities,
Vilnius Gediminas Technical University
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania houses this public university. This is one of the most prestigious public research universities in the Baltic region. Counted among the oldest and most sought-after in Northern Europe, it offers competitive educational resources and takes pride in the academic excellence it provides. It is well known for its expertise in technical and engineering education and has been welcoming international students from across the globe for years. 13.5% of its students are international, coming from 80 different countries around the globe. It has recently received a three-star rating from the QS Stars rating system.
Visit the official website of the University of Vilnius Gediminas
Vilnius University
Another University that resides in the heart of Lithuania, is known for its quality education in Europe. It is the largest scientific institution in Lithuania and the oldest standing in the Baltic region. It has earned the title of a leader in science and research. The University comprises 12 faculties, 7 educational institutes, 2 university hospitals, the oldest library in Lithuania offering study material in modern science, astronomy and many more. It is also ranked among the top four per cent of the best universities in the world. This would serve as one of the best options for you to study in Lithuania especially if you are looking to pursue a major in science and technology.
The official website is here
Vytautas Magnus University
Situated in Kaunas, the university is one of the few education institutes to teach liberal arts and multilingualism. Standing since 1922, its roots are old but not withered. It is a proud modern university with quality education to offer. The university offers 12 academic faculties and covers a broad spectrum of subjects like Arts, Humanities, Physical sciences, technology among others. Several research and art centres and high-tech laboratories operate the campus.
Click here to go to the University’s website
Kaunas University of Technology (KTU)
The largest technological university is situated in the largest baltic country. It is well known for its linkages in technology, being a leader in scientific education, flexible study programs among others. To compensate for the constantly rising diversity ratio of students, the University also brings in international faculties to make the students feel at home. It offers courses in various disciplines from Art, Media, Medicine to Science and technology.
Visit the University’s website from here.
International School of Law and Business
It is a modern and fast-growing university that offers accredited professional degrees to its students. International School of Law and Business is counted as the biggest private institute of higher education in Lithuania. The studies conducted at the university are regarded in the highest order across Europe and outside. The programs offered by the institute are acknowledged by the Ministry of Science and Education; being highly dynamic and delivering quality education in Business.
Click here to go to the University’s website
Lithuanian Sports University
The University founded in 1934, offers programs specializing in public higher education. It is known to have developed its unique traditions in sports, leisure and health sciences. It is one of the very few Universities in Lithuania that focuses on contributing to the sustainable development of society by opening its doors to international students. It has gradually been known to attain the title of a leading academic and research centre in sports science among the Universities in the Baltic region. It started with an enrollment of a minimum of 50-100 students, has now expanded its horizons to now enroll more than 2000 students in its premises.
The official website is here
LCC International University
Situated in KlaipÄ—da, Lithuania the University was established in 1991. It is a joint venture of Lithuanian, Canadian and American foundations. It has inevitably distinguished itself from other Universities by offering a futuristic, unique style of education to its students. It is counted among the leaders in advanced higher education and is known to extend its education beyond its classrooms. The curriculum is designed to have enough room for students to actively participate in community projects and gain practical experiences.
Click here to go to the University’s website
The above Universities are some of the finest, connect with Udrus to get in detail information about the Institute of your choice. You will get all the help from shortlisting the best programs to weighing the options between Universities catered specifically for you.
European students don’t require a visa to study in Lithuania. However, if you are an international student looking to move to this Baltic state, you would need your Visa D and a temporary resident permit to study at the university of your choice. While the processing time for the visa is not very long, it is advisable that you apply for it as soon as you can to avoid any loose ends later.
You would need to make sure you have a valid health insurance when applying to study in Lithuania. You can contact any insurance company in the state to grant you your insurance.
Read on to list the application process for your Visa D:
In the meantime, if the Embassy will reach out in case it requires any additional documents to clear the process for you. Make sure you are vigilant enough and submit any remaining certificates in a short turnaround time.
Let’s also list the documents required for your visa application:
You would also need to parallelly apply for a temporary residence permit. Listing the essential documents required for the process-
Following the above steps, you would be in a good place to land your dream university in Lithuania.
What are the requirements you, as an international student must fulfill after arriving in, and during your time in Lithuania? Here’s all that you need to know.
Arrival
Upon arrival, you must register yourself as a temporary resident in Lithuania with the Minister of the Interior and get a certificate for the same. Keep your proof of accommodation, proof of study in Lithuanian university, essential documents like passport, etc. ready for the process of getting your residence certificate.
Student Checklist
Moving abroad is a big step and definitely an overwhelming experience. As a student has barely experienced the customs and ways of the country you’re moving to, you might feel like you’re not ready for the move. The following student checklist will help you pack your bags better for Lithuania and feel more ready:
What to Bring
Here are some essentials that you should bring to Lithuania as an international student:
Carry-On Items
Always check with your airlines to see what carry-on items are allowed in that specific flight. Keep certain essential items like documents and cash packed for convenient access in a small bag. Never pack liquids, sharp items like scissors, razors, etc. in your carry-on bag.
Student Visa Requirement Post Visa
You need to have a Type D (student) visa in order to be eligible to move to Lithuania as an international student. A Lithuanian D Type visa costs about 80 Euros.
Finance Requirements
To be eligible to move and study in Lithuania, you need to show proof of financial capacity. You need to have a bank balance of the total estimated amount of study and living expenses for the whole duration of your degree program in Lithuania. This amount present in your bank balance should cover your tuition fees for the whole year, your accommodation expense for the whole year, your living costs, and your health insurance for the whole year.
Local Cultural Norms
Here are some common everyday cultural norms that you will be expected to follow in Lithuania as an international student:
Health Insurance
EU students with a European Health Insurance Card do not require any other health insurance program for their time in Lithuania. They can avail health services with this card itself. However, private healthcare institutions might not accept this card. If you are an EU student going to study in Lithuania, keep a list of healthcare facilities that accept this health card handy.
On the other hand, Non-EU students are required to have health insurance for the whole duration of their living period during their degree in Lithuania. They can obtain insurance from their home country or from an insurance provider in Lithuania itself. The average yearly health insurance cost will amount to 50 Euros to 150 Euros. This amount can differ according to the health plan and the duration of the plan.
Lithuania is a beautiful country with a powerful historical past, rich heritage, and ancestry. This Baltic state is a business-friendly and very sociable country.Â
Lithuania also is one of the best study destinations in the European Union with an education system that is highly regarded. The country offers accredited degrees which are valuable and recognized globally and makes for an ideal study destination for students from overseas. Moreover, pursuing higher education while living here is relatively affordable when compared to most other European study destinations.Â
The reasons to choose Lithuania as a study destination are aplenty. A common reason why international students choose this country for their education is that attaining a student visa for Lithuania is not difficult.Â
The job prospects after studying in Lithuania are also great. While the country itself offers great job opportunities with competitive pay to its graduates, the degrees are also highly rated in the rest of Europe. You can explore work opportunities in entire Europe after attaining a work permit. The country is also open to startup culture and invites entrepreneurs. It gives you the opportunity to explore career options that are not just limited to an office and desk jobs. Â
This is not all, you can also travel to all the European countries with a student visa. You wouldn’t want to miss witnessing the beauty this country has to offer.
If you are looking to study in a developed nation in Europe without having to compromise on academics, Lithuania is the country for you. Udrus can help you understand all about the universities, their application-scholarship, and visa process in detail. Our experts have got your back every step of the way. Prepare your set of questions and reach out to them for the help you require.
Working While StudyingÂ
Many students prefer to make an earning on the side while toiling hard to study for their degrees. This helps them cover their rental and living costs. According to Lithuanian law, international students are allowed to work for up to 40 hours per week (or five hours per day) as long as they are enrolled in a university.Â
Financial Cost and AssistanceÂ
In order to be eligible to move to the country for studies, you need to have enough amount of money in your bank account to prove that you can cover your expenses there. If your personal finances are not enough to cover these expenses, you can support your study abroad plans in Lithuania by getting financial assistance from governmental or private institutions offering scholarships, financial grants, loans, etc.Â
Scholarships
Grants
Student LoansÂ
Public and private banks offer numerous study loan options for students aspiring to pursue education abroad. Check out the popular loan options from the best banks in your country, compare the plans and pick one that suits you the most. While comparing the loan plans, check for the one with the most favorable repayment terms and lowest interest rates.
Student Jobs
Students can take up jobs in various sectors in Lithuania to earn money to support their living costs in the country. While students are only allowed to work for limited hours each day in Lithuania, they can earn enough money working 4-5 hours a day to at least afford their monthly transportation and other living expenses.Â
Foundation ProgramsÂ
Many top universities in Lithuania offer foundation programs for international students to prepare them and get them ready for pursuing a full-degree study in Lithuanian universities. The average duration of a foundation program is one or two-semester, after which the student gets a certificate of completion. The course typically combines a focus on speaking, writing, listening, reading skills in the English language and other degree-specific modules. The fee for a foundation course differs from 750 Euros to 1000 Euros.Â
Entry Requirements
The Education SystemÂ
The Lithuanian education system is highly competitive. The educational institutes spread across this Baltic nation are known for providing superior quality education. Lithuania is among the countries that put great emphasis on universal schooling. The country offers free and compulsory education for students between 6 to 16 years of age. The degrees offered by schools and universities are regarded highly throughout the EU and across the world.
Students who have completed their schooling in the country can choose from a range of modes of higher-level education, ranging from regular university courses, part-time degree courses, and distance learning courses.