Study in Latvia — universities, campus life and student cities

Latvia flag Sukhada's Study Destination Guide

Study In Latvia

Everything you need to know about tuition, cost of living, post-study work rights and top universities in Latvia — backed by Sukhada's counselling team.

Latvia at a Glance

Partner Universities 2+
Region Europe
Cost Tier Moderate
Post-Study Work 12 months
› Study Destinations › Latvia

Why Study in Latvia?

Latvia is an affordable Baltic EU country with English-taught programmes in business, IT and medicine. Riga is compact, safe and student-friendly.

  • Affordable EU degrees
  • Low cost of living
  • Safe, compact student cities

Quick Facts

Europe Moderate cost tier Not specified PSW 12 months
Talk to a Counsellor

Key Numbers

2+ Partner Universities
Moderate Cost Tier
Europe Region
12 months Post-Study Work
17 Programmes
2 Universities with Scholarships

What Are the Most Popular Courses in Latvia?

Our partner universities in Latvia offer 17 programmes. The largest subject areas are Engineering, Natural Sciences, Business & Management.

A programme can appear in more than one subject area.

Latvia at a Glance

Official Name Republic of Latvia
Capital Riga
Population 1.9M
Currency Euro (EUR)
Official Language(s) Latvian
Also Spoken Russian, English
Calling Code +371
Region Europe
Economy Developed
English Proficiency Moderate

How Does the Education System Work in Latvia?

A bachelor's degree in Latvia usually takes 3–4 years and a master's takes 1.5–2 years. The main intakes are September, February.

Bachelor's 3–4 years
Master's 1.5–2 years
MBA 1.5–2 years
PhD 3–4 years
Academic Year Starts September
Intakes September, February

Grading system

1–10 scale; 4 is a pass

Accepted tests

IELTS, TOEFL

What Is the Application Timeline for Latvia?

Most students start 10–12 months before their intake. Exact deadlines vary by university and programme.

  1. ResearchShortlist universities in Latvia that match your budget, course and career goals.
  2. ShortlistNarrow down to 4–6 programmes and note each deadline for your intake.
  3. TestsBook the tests your universities ask for: IELTS, TOEFL.
  4. ApplySubmit applications with transcripts, SOP, LORs and test scores.
  5. OfferAccept your offer and receive the Admission letter.
  6. VisaApply for the Residence Permit for Studies as soon as your documents are ready.
  7. AccommodationBook on-campus or private housing before you travel.
  8. TravelArrange flights, forex and insurance, and carry original documents.
  9. EnrolComplete orientation, local registration and course enrolment.

How Much Does It Cost to Study in Latvia?

Typical bachelor's tuition in Latvia: EUR 3,000–6,000/yr. Master's tuition: EUR 3,500–8,000/yr. Living costs, covering rent, food and transport: EUR 500–800/month.

Bachelor's Tuition EUR 3,000–6,000/yr
Master's Tuition EUR 3,500–8,000/yr
Living Cost EUR 500–800/month
Proof of Funds Proof of funds for the study period

Monthly budget breakdown (Riga)

Rent (shared) EUR 300/month
Food & groceries EUR 200/month
Local transport EUR 30/month
Utilities & phone EUR 80/month
Personal & leisure EUR 50/month
Estimated Total EUR 660/month (approx.)

Accommodation options

On-campus housing EUR 200/month
Shared apartment EUR 250/month
Private studio EUR 450/month
Homestay EUR 300/month

Figures are indicative ranges for international students and change every year. Your counsellor will confirm exact fees for your shortlisted courses.

How to Get a Latvia Student Visa

Indian students apply for the Residence Permit for Studies after receiving the Admission letter. Visa fee: From about EUR 60. Typical processing time: Around 30 days.

Visa Type Residence Permit for Studies
Visa Fee From about EUR 60
Processing Time Around 30 days
Interview No

Step-by-step visa process

  1. Secure your admission Apply to your chosen university and accept the offer. You will receive your Admission letter, which your visa application depends on.
  2. Arrange proof of funds Proof of funds for the study period. Keep recent bank statements, loan sanction letters or sponsor documents ready.
  3. Prepare your documents Collect your passport, academic records, English test scores, Health insurance, Tuberculosis test.
  4. Submit the visa application Apply for the Residence Permit for Studies and pay the fee: From about EUR 60.
  5. Biometrics and interview Give biometrics if requested. Visa interview: No.
  6. Get your decision and travel Typical processing time: Around 30 days. Once approved, book your travel and complete any local registration after arrival.

Can You Work in Latvia During and After Studies?

Part-time Work Up to 20 hrs/week
Work During Breaks Within 20 hrs/week
Post-Study Work Up to 12 months to seek work
After a Bachelor's Up to 12 months
After a Master's Up to 12 months
PR Pathway Permanent residence after 5 years
Typical PR Timeline 5 years

Immigration rules change often — always confirm on the official government website before you apply.

Documents You'll Typically Need

Exact document requirements vary by university and visa category. This is a general checklist — we'll confirm the precise list for your course.

Checklist

Academic transcripts & certificates
Valid passport
English proficiency score (IELTS / TOEFL / PTE / DET)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
Proof of funds / financial statements
Resume / CV (for PG programs)
Offer letter (once admitted)
Health insurance
Tuberculosis test

What Is the Weather Like in Latvia?

Cold winters and mild summers. Summers: Mild, 18–23°C. Winters: Cold, around -5°C.

Average temperatures in Riga

January -6°C to -1°C
April 2°C to 11°C
July 13°C to 23°C
October 4°C to 11°C

How Do Students Open a Bank Account in Latvia?

Open an account with your residence permit.

Popular banks for students

Swedbank SEB Citadele

Documents usually needed

Passport
Residence permit
Proof of address
University enrolment letter

Is Latvia Safe for International Students?

Safety: High. Healthcare: Good.

Health Insurance Yes
Typical Insurance Cost EUR 100–200/yr

Common insurance options

Private student plans

Safety tips

  • Pack warm clothes
  • Learn a few Latvian words
  • Save local emergency numbers on your phone
  • Keep digital copies of your passport, visa and admission letter

What Is the Job Market Like in Latvia?

Graduate job demand in Latvia is low. Entry-level salaries are roughly EUR 14,000–18,000/yr, rising to about EUR 22,000–30,000/yr with experience.

Top hiring sectors

IT Medium demand
Logistics Medium demand

Skills in demand

IT Logistics

Salary figures are indicative gross annual ranges and vary by city, role and employer.

What Is Student Life Like in Latvia?

Reserved but friendly, with strong folk traditions.

Student life

  • Old Town Riga
  • Midsummer festivals

Major religions

Christianity

Indian community

Community Size About 3,000 people of Indian origin
Indian Food & Groceries Limited

Which Scholarships Can Indian Students Get for Latvia?

Well-known options for Latvia include Latvian State Scholarships. Eligibility and deadlines change every year, so check the official page before applying.

Latvian State Scholarships Amounts vary; check the official page for current details

Scholarships for Latvia

Our team tracks live scholarship listings across 150+ university and government portals. Here are the common categories students in Latvia typically qualify for — talk to a counsellor for current deadlines and amounts.

All Levels Merit-Based

Merit Scholarships

Awarded by universities based on academic performance
Latvia
UG / PG Need-Based

Need-Based Financial Aid

Partial tuition waivers based on demonstrated financial need
Latvia
PG / PhD Government

Government & Institutional Grants

Country and institution-run funding programs for international students
Latvia
All Levels Sukhada

Sukhada Partner Discounts

Fee-waivers and priority processing through our university partnerships
Latvia

Partner Universities in Latvia

We work directly with 2 verified universities across Latvia — browse the full list and filter by course, budget and intake.

View All 2+

Top-ranked universities in Latvia

Frequently Asked Questions

Typical tuition for international students in Latvia: EUR 3,000–6,000/yr for a bachelor's degree and EUR 3,500–8,000/yr for a master's. Living costs: EUR 500–800/month, depending on the city.

The visa you need is the Residence Permit for Studies, and the application is based on the Admission letter. Visa fee: From about EUR 60. Typical processing time: Around 30 days.

Proof of funds for the study period. The exact amount is revised from time to time, so confirm it with the official immigration website before applying.

Student work rules in Latvia: Up to 20 hrs/week.

Post-study work in Latvia: Up to 12 months to seek work. Long-term settlement route: Permanent residence after 5 years.

Safety in Latvia: High. Healthcare: Good.

Yes. Typical cost: EUR 100–200/yr.

Graduate job demand in Latvia is low, led by IT, Logistics. Entry-level salaries are roughly EUR 14,000–18,000/yr.

About 3,000 people of Indian origin. Indian food: Limited.

The main intakes in Latvia are September, February. A bachelor's degree usually takes 3–4 years and a master's takes 1.5–2 years.

IELTS, TOEFL. Minimum scores differ by university and course, so check each programme page.

We currently work directly with 2 verified universities in Latvia, spanning a range of budgets and course levels.

Ready to start your journey to Latvia?

Book a free session with a Sukhada counsellor — no obligation, no pressure, just a clear plan for Latvia.

Free Counselling Zero Hidden Charges 94% Visa Success 12,000+ Students Guided
Handpicked For You

Top Universities Worldwide

A closer look at some of the institutions our students are applying to right now.

United States flag United States Cambridge
  • IntakesFall and Spring
  • Visa SuccessNA
  • Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
  • Cost of LivingHigh
  • Work While Study20 hrs/week
  • LanguageEnglish

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, United States Est. 1861
QS WORLD#1
Annual Tuition US$66,720 avg
Acceptance NA
Placement Ratio 93%
Pillar Scores out of 100 · QS World University Rankings 2026
Academic Reputation
100/100 #4
Employer Reputation
100/100 #2
Faculty / Student
100/100 #16
Citations / Faculty
100/100 #7
Intl. Faculty
100/100 #63
Intl. Students
91.6/100 #153
Intl. Student Diversity
92.3/100 #130
Intl. Research Network
94.1/100 #98
Employment Outcomes
100/100 #7
Sustainability
93.8/100 #33
SG
Sukhada Expert Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support Free
Verified Mentor REF SGE-C4CA
United Kingdom flag United Kingdom London
  • IntakesSeptember
  • Visa SuccessNA
  • Post-Study WorkUp to 2 years (Graduate visa)
  • Cost of LivingHigh
  • Work While Study20hrs/week
  • LanguageEnglish

Imperial College London

London, United Kingdom Est. 1907
QS WORLD#2
Annual Tuition £42,700 – £58,600 avg
Acceptance NA
Placement Ratio 94%
Pillar Scores out of 100 · QS World University Rankings 2026
Academic Reputation
99.6/100 #22
Employer Reputation
100/100 #9
Faculty / Student
99.3/100 #42
Citations / Faculty
95/100 #69
Intl. Faculty
100/100 #74
Intl. Students
100/100 #35
Intl. Student Diversity
100/100 #22
Intl. Research Network
97.5/100 #28
Employment Outcomes
95.9/100 #68
Sustainability
98.3/100 #7
SG
Sukhada Expert Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support Free
Verified Mentor REF SGE-C81E
United States flag United States Stanford
  • IntakesFall and Spring
  • Visa Success82
  • Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
  • Cost of LivingHigh
  • Work While Study20hrs/week
  • LanguageEnglish

Stanford University

Stanford, United States Est. 1885
QS WORLD#2
Annual Tuition USD67,731 avg
Acceptance NA
Placement Ratio 90%
Pillar Scores out of 100 · QS World University Rankings 2026
Academic Reputation
100/100 #5
Employer Reputation
100/100 #3
Faculty / Student
100/100 #17
Citations / Faculty
99.7/100 #24
Intl. Faculty
94.2/100 #188
Intl. Students
73.5/100 #261
Intl. Student Diversity
76.1/100 #230
Intl. Research Network
96.5/100 #49
Employment Outcomes
100/100 #2
Sustainability
95.4/100 #19
SG
Sukhada Expert Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support Free
Verified Mentor REF SGE-ECCB
United Kingdom flag United Kingdom Oxford
  • IntakesOctober (Michaelmas term)
  • Visa SuccessNA
  • Post-Study Work2 yrs; 18 months from Jan 2027
  • Cost of LivingGBP 1,405-2,105 / month
  • Work While Study20hrs/week
  • LanguageEnglish

University of Oxford

Oxford, United Kingdom Est. 1096
QS WORLD#4
Annual Tuition GBP 39,620-66,580 avg
Acceptance NA
Placement Ratio 90%
Pillar Scores out of 100 · QS World University Rankings 2026
Academic Reputation
100/100 #
Employer Reputation
100/100 #
Faculty / Student
100/100 #
Citations / Faculty
91/100 #
Intl. Faculty
98.8/100 #
Intl. Students
98.6/100 #
Intl. Research Network
100/100 #
Employment Outcomes
100/100 #
Sustainability
77.9/100 #
SG
Sukhada Expert Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support Free
Verified Mentor REF SGE-A87F
United States flag United States Cambridge
  • IntakesFall
  • Visa SuccessNA
  • Post-Study Work12 months OPT (STEM +24 months)
  • Cost of LivingHigh
  • Work While Study20hrs/week
  • LanguageEnglish

Harvard University

Cambridge, United States Est. 1636
QS WORLD#5
Annual Tuition USD 62,226 avg
Acceptance NA
Placement Ratio 87%
Pillar Scores out of 100 · QS World University Rankings 2026
Academic Reputation
100/100 #1
Employer Reputation
100/100 #1
Faculty / Student
98.3/100 #50
Citations / Faculty
100/100 #1
Intl. Faculty
79.1/100 #300
Intl. Students
81.4/100 #217
Intl. Student Diversity
60.6/100 #335
Intl. Research Network
99.4/100 #8
Employment Outcomes
100/100 #1
Sustainability
77.8/100 #201
SG
Sukhada Expert Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support Free
Verified Mentor REF SGE-E4DA
United Kingdom flag United Kingdom Cambridge
  • IntakesSeptember
  • Visa Success95
  • Post-Study WorkUp to 2 years (Graduate visa)
  • Cost of LivingHigh
  • Work While Study20hrs/week
  • LanguageEnglish

University of Cambridge

Cambridge, United Kingdom Est. 1209
QS WORLD#6
Annual Tuition £29,052 – £70,554 avg
Acceptance NA
Placement Ratio 95%
Pillar Scores out of 100 · QS World University Rankings 2026
Academic Reputation
100/100 #3
Employer Reputation
100/100 #5
Faculty / Student
100/100 #23
Citations / Faculty
88.6/100 #107
Intl. Faculty
100/100 #80
Intl. Students
93.1/100 #144
Intl. Student Diversity
93.6/100 #120
Intl. Research Network
99.2/100 #12
Employment Outcomes
100/100 #5
Sustainability
78.4/100 #194
SG
Sukhada Expert Response: < 2 mins
Premium Support Free
Verified Mentor REF SGE-8F14
This Week's Picks

Scholarships worth applying to right now.

A rotating shortlist our counsellors flag as genuinely worth the paperwork.

Kazakhstan flag
Sh. Yessenov Caspian State University of Technologies and Engineering Kazakhstan
All Levels Free tuition + stipend

Kazakhstan Government Grant (foreign quota)

Deadline: Contact counsellor for deadline
Enquire about this scholarship
Apply Now
United Kingdom flag
University of Birmingham United Kingdom
Postgraduate Funding + benefits

Birmingham Alumni Masters Discount

Deadline: Contact counsellor for deadline
Enquire about this scholarship
Apply Now
Australia flag
Eynesbury College Australia
All Levels Funding + benefits

Eynesbury Merit Scholarship

Deadline: Contact counsellor for deadline
Enquire about this scholarship
Apply Now
Germany flag
University of Greifswald Germany
Postgraduate Funding + benefits

University excellence scholarships

Deadline: Contact counsellor for deadline
Enquire about this scholarship
Apply Now
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