STUDY IN LATVIA
Name of the country: The Republic of Latvia
Language: Latvian
Number of universities: 46 universities and colleges
IELTS requirement: The IELTS requirement varies depending on the program, but most universities require a minimum score of 6.0.
Job opportunities: International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks. Spouses can also work full-time.
PR facilities: International students can apply for a permanent residence permit after living legally in Latvia for at least 5 years.
Range of tuition fees: Tuition fees for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs range from €2,500 to €8,000 per academic year. PhD programs are usually funded by the government and do not require tuition fees.
Latvia, located in Europe’s Baltic area, is a lively and inviting country that provides an unforgettable experience for foreign students. Latvia, with quality universities and many institutions, offers a varied range of academic programs, including courses offered in English. The country is well-known for its high educational standards, with numerous Latvian universities ranking among the finest in Europe.
As an international student in Latvia, you will be able to work part-time while studying and even full-time after graduation. Latvia’s laidback atmosphere and low cost of living make it an appealing location for students looking to broaden their eyes and obtain a one-of-a-kind foreign experience.
Latvia is a lovely country with lush woods, clean lakes, and picturesque scenery. It also has a strong cultural past, with Riga’s Old Town being a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as a lively arts and music scene. Latvia is a perfect destination for any foreign student looking for an enriching and remarkable experience, thanks to its kind people, magnificent scenery, and active culture.
Top reasons to study in Latvia
- Quality education: Latvia’s higher education system is of high quality, with several Latvian universities ranked among the best in Europe.
- Affordable cost of living: Latvia has a lower cost of living compared to many other European countries, making it an attractive destination for students seeking to save money while studying abroad.
- Part-time work opportunities: International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks, providing an opportunity to earn some extra income while studying.
- Multicultural environment: Latvia is a welcoming country with a diverse population, making it a great place for international students to meet new people and experience different cultures.
- Stunning natural beauty: Latvia is home to lush forests, pristine lakes, and picturesque countryside, making it an ideal destination for students who love outdoor activities and adventures.
- Vibrant culture: Latvia has a rich cultural heritage, with its capital city of Riga boasting a UNESCO World Heritage site Old Town, as well as a thriving arts and music scene.
- Accessible transportation: Latvia has a well-developed transportation system that makes it easy for students to travel around the country and to other parts of Europe.
- Opportunities for language learning: Studying in Latvia provides an opportunity for students to learn Latvian, which is a valuable skill for those interested in working in the region.
All applicants applying for a definite level of studies (bachelor, master or doctoral studies) must have an attested certificate or qualification allowing to pursue the desired studies.
Usually it is secondary level diploma or high school diploma and academic transcript for college or Bachelor level (undergraduate) study programmes or higher education degree diploma and academic transcript for Master level (postgraduate) study programmes or Doctoral studies.
Applicant’s secondary education certificate must correspond to the Latvian standard – it should be at least 12 years at secondary level education institution.
IELTS 6
The application period for international students in Latvia varies depending on the institution and the program of study. Generally, the application period for most universities in Latvia is between January and July for the autumn semester, and between September and December for the spring semester.
It’s important to note that some programs may have earlier application deadlines, so it’s best to check with the individual universities for specific deadlines.
The application process for international students usually involves submitting an online application, along with supporting documents such as academic transcripts, language proficiency test scores, a motivation letter, and a CV or resume. Some programs may require additional entrance exams or interviews.
Once the application is submitted, the university will review it and make a decision on whether to accept the student. This process can take several weeks to several months, depending on the program.
After being accepted, students must then apply for a student visa, which can also take several weeks to process. It’s important to start the application process well in advance of the desired start date to allow for ample time for processing and preparation.
There are several types of work available for international students in Latvia, including:
On-campus jobs: Universities and colleges in Latvia often offer part-time jobs for students, such as working at the library, cafeteria, or administrative offices.
Off-campus jobs: Students can also find part-time work in the local community, such as in restaurants, cafes, or shops.
Internships: Many programs in Latvia offer internships as part of the curriculum, which can provide valuable work experience and connections for students.
It’s important for students to note that working without a valid permit is illegal and can result in fines, deportation, and other penalties. Students should also prioritize their studies and ensure that work does not interfere with their academic performance.
Latvia is an excellent destination for international students, offering a high-quality education system, a multicultural environment, and a range of post-study facilities. Here are some of the post-study facilities that international students can expect in Latvia:
Temporary Residence Permit: International students who have completed their studies in Latvia can apply for a temporary residence permit. This permit allows them to stay in the country and look for employment for up to six months. Once they have found a job, they can apply for a long-term residence permit.
Career Guidance: Latvian universities and colleges offer career guidance services to their students. These services include workshops, job fairs, and individual counseling sessions that help students identify their career goals and find suitable employment opportunities.
Job Opportunities: Latvia has a growing economy, and there are ample employment opportunities for graduates in various fields such as IT, engineering, healthcare, finance, and tourism. International students can find job opportunities in multinational companies, start-ups, or local businesses.
Entrepreneurship Opportunities: Latvia is a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation, and international students who want to start their own business can take advantage of the country’s favorable business environment. The Latvian government offers various programs and incentives to support entrepreneurs, and there are numerous co-working spaces, incubators, and accelerators that provide support and resources for start-ups.
Continued Education: Latvian universities and colleges offer postgraduate programs and courses that allow international students to continue their education and specialize in their chosen field. These programs are often taught in English and offer international students the opportunity to network with professionals in their field.
Health Services: International students in Latvia are entitled to free or subsidized healthcare services under the national health insurance scheme. They can access primary healthcare services at public healthcare centers and hospitals, and specialized healthcare services at private clinics.
In conclusion, international students who choose to study in Latvia can benefit from a range of post-study facilities that provide them with the resources and support they need to succeed in their careers. From temporary residence permits to career guidance, job opportunities, entrepreneurship opportunities, continued education, and healthcare services, Latvia offers a conducive environment for international students to thrive.
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