Latvia inherited its education system from the Soviet Union, but it’s been thoroughly modernized since the country joined the EU in 2004. Latvian schools are part of the Bologna Process, meaning that you can be assured of a world-class education. This also means that the Latvian higher education system is split into three cycles:
- First Cycle - undergraduate degrees that take three or four years to complete
- Second Cycle - postgraduate qualifications that take one to three years to complete
- Third Cycle - PhD studies that take at least three years to complete
Like in the US, undergraduate students in Latvia can either take a set program leading to a degree or take standalone courses in a certain subject area that add up to a degree.
As it’s an ex-Soviet state, Latvia places a strong emphasis on STEM and IT subjects and these are often overrepresented at Latvian schools. This also explains why most of Latvia’s best schools are technical ones. Chief among these are the Latvia University of Agriculture, the Riga Technical University, the Ventspils University of Applied Sciences and the Transport and Telecommunication Institute. That being said, the country’s very top school is the University of Latvia - a school that offers a broad spectrum of programs.
As Latvia is both in the EU and part of the Bologna Process, you can also take advantage of the Erasmus program. This scheme allows those at any school in any participating country to take a semester or a year abroad. You can find out more about Erasmus here.
Study in Latvia
From ancient woodland to a vibrant business district, Latvia has a lot to offer international students. Find out a little more about the Land of Blue Lakes, as Latvia is known, in this section.
Student Visas
Do you need a visa to enter Latvia to study? Learn more about the student visa process, and what you need to enter the country, depending on your citizenship.
Housing & Living Costs
No matter where you study abroad, it’s important to create a budget in advance so that you’re prepared. Therefore, we’ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as a student in Latvia.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition fees for degree programs in Latvia can vary. Both international and domestic students are expected to pay tuition fees in Latvia, but these fees can vary a lot. We've put together information on how this works, and on scholarships, in this section.
Language & Culture
Latvia is a country rich in culture heritage and significance. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of languages, culture, and more! We also talk about safety in Latvia in this section.
Application Process
Learn more about how to apply to Latvian schools and the documentation you need to do it in this section.
Programs
Ready to look at education in Latvia? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Latvia today!
