BS/MS Admissions in Latvia
When can I start my studies in Latvia?
✓June deadlines for September start
✓Rolling admissions for some programs
What do I need to get admited?
✓Bachelor’s: High school + IELTS 5.5
✓Medicine: Entrance exams
Is IELTS mandatory for admission?
Not always! Exemptions if you:
✓ Studied in English (submit MOI letter)
✓ Are from an English-speaking country
How much does tuition cost?
🇱🇻 Latvia University Fees (2024/25)
Public Universities: EU/EEA students pay €1,500–€6,000/year (PhD free + stipend); non-EU €2,500–€15,000/year.
Private Institutions: €3,500–€15,000/year (e.g., RISEBA, SSE Riga).
Additional Costs: Health insurance (€50–€120/month), housing (€250–€600/month), and permits (€80–€150).
What financial support is available?
🇱🇻 Latvia Scholarships (2025)
✓ Top Awards: Latvian State Scholarships (non-EU), Erasmus Mundus, university-specific waivers (e.g., Riga Tech).
✓ EU Benefits: Tuition-free public unis for EU/EEA students (living costs ~€500–800/month).
✓ Pro Tip: Apply early for dorm spots (€100–300/month) – Riga fills fast!
Is health insurance required?
🩺 Health Insurance – Latvia (Student Edition)
Non-EU students: Mandatory private insurance (€42,600+ coverage) from providers like ERGO/Compensa. EU students: EHIC valid but supplementary private insurance recommended for full protection.
What is the Key Advise?
🇱🇻 Latvia Student Success Tips (2025)
✓ Housing Hacks: Apply for dorms 6+ months early (€100–200/month) – private flats cost €300+ in Riga!
✓ Language Boost: Learn basic Latvian (free uni courses!) – unlocks jobs and local connections.
✓ Adventure Perks: Explore Gauja National Park and Baltic beaches – student travel discounts available!
What is the cost of living?
🇱🇻 Latvia Student Budget (2025)
✓ Essentials: Rent (€100–300 in dorms), food (€150–300), transport (€30–55) – Riga 20% pricier than smaller cities!
✓ Extras: Utilities (€50–100) + fun (€40–120) – *total €500–900/month*.
✓ Savings Hack: Use student ID for 50% off transit & culture – cook with local markets!
What are the work opportunities and allowed working hours?
🇱🇻 Latvia Student Work Rules (2025)
✓ EU/EEA: No permit – work freely. Non-EU: 20h/week (40h in holidays) – Master’s/PhD can work full-time!
✓ Top Sectors: IT, logistics, tourism – *avg wage €5–8/hour*.
✓ Post-Study: 9-month job-search visa (extendable if employed).
What are the minimum visa requirements?
🇱🇻 Latvia Student Visa Checklist (2025)
✓ Essentials: Admission letter, passport, proof of funds (€740/month), health insurance (€42.6K coverage), housing proof.
✓ Extras: Visa fee (€60), flight itinerary, clean criminal record, language certs (if required).
✓ Pro Tip: Non-EU students must apply in-person at Latvian consulates – book slots early!