Reasons to Pursue Studies in Latvia
Latvian education stands out for its comprehensive curriculum and global outlook, aiming to furnish students with qualifications and skills essential for a promising future. Opting to study in Latvia presents a chance for cross-cultural exposure and personal growth. Latvia continues to be an excellent choice for European studies due to the following factors:
- Programs at Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate levels conducted in English
- Prestigious and globally recognized degrees
- Universities approved by the government
- Opportunities for exchange semesters or internships abroad
- Affordable tuition fees
- On-campus accommodation options available
- Moderate living costs (approximately $400 per month)
- Abundance of opportunities for leisure activities and sports
Latvia is a multi-ethnic country and rich in different cultural and education traditions. The higher education institutions in Latvia are members of international cooperation within many different fields of study. Latvia offers researchers and teaching staff from several countries for studies as well as research work. Universities also offer both English taught academic and professional bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Tuition fees and living costs are generally lower than the costs in most "Western Countries". Universities are well known for producing high quality IT and engineering graduates. EU membership means that a degree from Latvia is equivalent to other EU countries, making it easier to get credentials recognized
You will have all the benefits of living in a European country with lower costs than many westernized EU Countries.
Language
Latvian is the official state language. Latvian belongs to the Baltic branch of the Indo-European language family. Although the official state language is Latvian, you will easily get around by using Russian and English language.
Travel to Latvia
Latvia is easily accessible by land, sea or air, and has the largest railway terminal and international airport in the Baltics. 19 different airline companies serve Riga airport, another way of arriving in Latvia is by ferry. Riga is very well served by extensive bus connections.
For international students primarily located in Riga, the following costs provide an overview of the living expenses in the capital. The average costs in both EUR and USD are as follows:
- Monthly rent (1-bedroom apartment): €430 ($500)
- Utilities (monthly average): €160 ($185)
- Monthly public transport pass: €50 ($60)
- Meal (inexpensive restaurant): €8 ($9.50)
- Coffee: €2.60 ($3)
- Milk (1 liter): €0.90 ($1.10)
- Vegetables (1kg): €1.50 ($1.75)
- Eggs (dozen): €1.95 ($2.30)
- Water (1.5 liters): €0.60 ($0.70) *
- Chicken (1kg): €5.40 ($6.30)
- Wine (bottle): €7 ($8.20)
- Bread (loaf): €0.85 ($1)
* This reflects the cost of bottled water. It's important to note as tap water in Latvia is not safe to drink.
Rent is typically considered a separate cost from living expenses in Latvia. Consequently, the average cost of living for one person is approximately €620 ($725) per month. Healthcare in Latvia is universal but may be hampered by extended waiting times and limited access to the latest medicines and treatments. It is available only to Latvian and EU citizens and residents, necessitating health insurance for student visa applications. State healthcare is reserved for emergencies.
While some students opt for part-time employment to supplement their income, finding work can be challenging without proficiency in Latvian. However, students whose first languages are globally recognized, such as English, French, and Spanish, may find opportunities as language tutors.
Tuition fees in Latvia exhibit significant variation, primarily contingent on the chosen program of study rather than the academic level. For instance, a humanities degree typically incurs a cost of around €1600 ($1870) per year, while the fees for a medical degree can escalate to €15,000 ($17,600) annually. Certain postgraduate programs may command fees reaching up to €25,600 ($30,000) per year.
Latvia facilitates student loans through Swedbank, a Swedish financial institution. These loans are not government-issued but are private loans resembling a mortgage more than a traditional student loan.
Regarding scholarships, the Latvian government provides several opportunities designed to attract students and researchers globally. While government scholarships do not cover tuition fees, they can provide substantial funding to address accommodation and various day-to-day living expenses. The application window for these scholarships is open from February 1 to April 1, applicable to studies and projects commencing in the subsequent September.
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.
A world-class education that doesn’t cost a fortune
Latvia is a great value for money, with an affordable cost of living and accessible tuition fees for international students. This allows students to pursue their passions with internationally recognized diplomas in fields such as business, law, ICT, or medicine, without worrying about having to start their career chained to excessive debt.
Don’t know what to do? Get free expert Guidance! Contact Us Today.