Top Universities in Latvia in 2024: Universities & Fees

Did you know Latvia has 3 universities listed in the QS World University Rankings 2025, ranking within the 1,000 mark? This truly highlights Latvia’s commitment to academic excellence and research. 

You’d also be delighted to know that of Latvia’s over 71,000 higher education students, nearly 10,000 are international students from over 60 countries worldwide, including India. 

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Latvia is known for its affordable study compared to many other European countries, and it maintains high educational standards. This key factor attracts Indian students to pursue education here. 

For instance, the postgraduate tuition fees in the UK range from approximately INR 9.5L to INR 32L (£9,000 – £30,000) per year, whereas in Latvia, you can pursue a master’s course for INR 2.2L to INR 4.5L (€2500 to €5000) per year. 

Keen to explore studying opportunities in Latvia? If so, this guide will help you find the top universities in Latvia for international students, top courses, tuition fees, different scholarships available, and so much more.

Dive in for more details about studying in “Europe’s Best Kept Secret”!

Key Highlights

In this guide, you will find a snapshot of all the information you will read about the top universities in Latvia. 

5 Top Universities in Latvia for International Students

Did you know Latvia has a higher education enrollment rate of 91.33%?

In Riga, Latvia’s capital and largest city, you’ll find prestigious universities like the University of Latvia and Riga Technical University. The University of Latvia, nearly 100 years old, offers courses in English, such as medicine and dentistry.

Riga Stradins University has the highest number of international students in Latvia, making up 25% of the total student body. These students come from 50 different countries.

Here is a tabulated snapshot of the best universities in Latvia for international students.

Check out the details below, which include the top courses offered, entry requirements, and the average tuition fees for international students at the 5 top universities in Latvia.

1. Riga Technical University (RTU)

Established in 1862, Riga Technical University is the oldest technical university in the Baltic countries. The university offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programs in engineering and social sciences taught in English for international students. 

What’s more? With a total enrollment of 14,000 students, including over 5,000 international students from more than 100 countries, the International Cooperation Department at RTU aims to enhance creativity, campus diversity, and inclusiveness. 

Here are details of the top master’s courses offered and the average tuition fees you will pay at RTU, one of the top universities in Latvia.  

Entry Requirements for Master’s Courses at Riga Technical University

• A copy of your Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcript in the original language, along with an official English translation.
• Curriculum Vitae
• Copy of the passport
• Academic performance of at least 60% in your previous studies
• English proficiency at minimum *B2 level demonstrated through an internationally recognised English test. 

You must achieve one of the following English proficiency scores. 

*Level B2 indicates an upper intermediate level of English proficiency on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) for Languages.

Please note: A letter confirming previous studies were conducted in English can also help you qualify. 

2. University of Latvia (UL)

Established in 1919, the University of Latvia is one of the top public universities in Latvia for international students. The University currently hosts over 1,000 international students. For the academic year 2024/2025, 15 undergraduate, 16 graduate, and 15 doctoral programs are available. 

What’s more? The UL provides 2 student accommodations for international students: Prima Hostel and Reznas Student Hotel. The university is well-connected by public transportation, and it takes approximately 20 minutes to reach the city centre. 

Here are details of the top master’s courses offered and the average tuition fees you will pay at UL, one of the best universities in Latvia. 

Entry Requirements for Master’s Courses at the University of Latvia

• Original Bachelor’s degree diploma and a notarised English copy
• Original transcript of grades or final examination results, along with a notarised English copy
• Diploma supplement or transcripts of records (both in original language and a notarised English translation)
• Motivation letter (if requested)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) (if requested)
• Copy of passport
• One photograph

You must achieve one of the following English proficiency scores. 

3. Riga Stradins University (RSU)

Looking for the best Latvia public universities to pursue a Master’s programme? Look no further than Riga Stradins University. Established in 1950, for the academic year 2024/2025, RSU aims to enrol 600 international students in the Medicine program (360 in September 2024 and 240 in February 2025).

Additionally, RSU aims to enrol 88 students in Dentistry (60 in September 2024 and 28 in February 2025) and up to 30 students in other English-taught programs. Isn’t this a golden opportunity to apply to this prestigious university in Latvia?

Here are details of the top master’s courses offered and the average tuition fees you will pay at this university in Latvia. 

Entry Requirements for Master’s Courses at Riga Stradins University

• You need a Bachelor’s degree in social science, medicine, health care, or medical engineering.
• If applicable, provide proof of prior work experience in health management, detailed in your CV (for the Health Management program).

You must meet one of the following English proficiency requirements.

4. Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies

Founded in 1936, the Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies is the only higher educational institution in Latvia that specialises in agricultural science, forestry, food technology, and related fields. The university has 3,845 students, including 123 international students. 

Here are details of the top master’s courses offered and the average tuition fees you will pay at this university in Latvia. 

Entry Requirements for Master’s Courses at Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies

• A Bachelor’s degree is required depending on the program you apply for. For example, a bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Sciences, Mathematics, or Physics is required for the Master’s program in Engineering or Computer Sciences.
• The entry qualification documents are accepted in either English or Latvian.

You must meet one of the following English proficiency requirements.

5. Turiba University

Established in 1993, Turiba University is Latvia’s largest business school. It operates 3 branches in Liepāja, Cēsis, and Talsi.

Turiba University offers over 20 study programs, several of which are available in English. Students from over 40 countries worldwide attend Turība University. Additionally, the university comprises three faculties: the Faculty of Business Administration, the Faculty of Law, and the Faculty of International Tourism.

Here are details of the top master’s courses offered and the average tuition fees you will pay at this university in Latvia. 

Entry Requirements for Master’s Courses at Turiba University

• Must provide a copy of your Bachelor’s degree certificate with its transcript in the original language, along with an official translation into English or Russian.
• Curriculum Vitae
• A copy of the passport
• One photo

You must meet one of the following English proficiency requirements.

Intakes in Latvia in 2024

Since you’ve come this far in the guide, it shows your serious interest in enrolling at the top universities in Latvia in 2024. Now that you’re familiar with the best universities in Latvia, you might be wondering when you can apply for admission to them. This section has you covered. 

Latvia offers two main intake periods for international students: Autumn and Winter. You can choose either of these intake periods.

Here are the intake details you must know to study in Latvia. 

Please note: You must visit university websites for specific application deadlines and details. 

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Which Latvia Intake Should You Choose?

Choosing the right intake period in Latvia can be confusing. However, here are some factors to consider before making your decision. 

• Availability of your preferred program
• Your academic records
• Entrance exam scores
• Acceptance rates of the university
• Job opportunities
• Your readiness to start at the university

In Latvia, the September intake is more favoured among international students than the February intake. This is because some of the top universities in Latvia welcome applications for the September intake. 

5 Popular Courses at Top Universities in Latvia for International Students

Did you know there are over 200 English-taught study programs in Latvia, many of which are even offered at the bachelor’s level?

That said, higher education in “Europe’s Best Kept Secret” is divided into 2 main types: academic and professional studies. Academic programs focus on improving your ability to conduct independent research and provide a theoretical foundation for various careers. 

On the other hand, professional programs are more practical, preparing you for specific careers in which you need to apply your knowledge to design systems or products or for creative work, research, and teaching roles in your chosen field.

Are you looking to secure a high-paying job in Latvia? Consider enrolling in these top 5 courses at the best universities in Latvia.

1. Master’s in Business Administration from Turiba University

The minimum education requirement to pursue a Business Administration program at Turiba University is to have a professional bachelor’s diploma or a diploma of professional qualifications at the 5th level. This should be earned after completing a 4-year study program in social sciences, business, or law-related subjects.

The ECTS requirement for this program is 120 credits. In Latvia, a credit point equals a full-time weekly study load. This system aligns with the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) and accumulates and transfers credits. Each credit corresponds to 40 academic hours (one study week), with up to 50% expected to be contact hours.

These are the jobs you can get after completing the course. 

2. English Language, Literature, and Language Acquisition from the University of Latvia (UL)

This course spans two years (four semesters) and includes coursework and a research thesis. The program aims to thoroughly explore English studies, covering literary, linguistic, and language acquisition aspects while developing independent research skills. It requires earning 120 ECTS credits to complete.

After completing the course from UL, one of the best public universities in Latvia for international students, you can get these jobs. 

3. Design Engineering from Riga Technical University

To qualify for this course, you need a professional bachelor’s degree in textile production technologies and product manufacturing, material production technologies and product manufacturing, or equivalent education. The approximate cost of the course is INR 4.6L (€5,120) per year. 

These are the jobs you can get after completing the course.

4. Biostatistics from Riga Stradins University (RSU)

The primary requirement for admission to the course is a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent second-level professional higher education in fields such as mathematics and statistics, biology, programming, medicine, medical services, nursing, dentistry, pharmacy, or public health. The program includes 4 main study course blocks: statistics courses, medicine courses, epidemiology courses, and clinical trial courses.

After completing the course at RSU, one of the best Latvian public universities, you can get these jobs. 

5. International Business from the University of Latvia

Admission requirements for this course include a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (or equivalent diploma) from a higher education institution in Economics, Business Administration, Social Sciences, Mathematics, Computer Sciences, Information Technology, Physics, or Engineering. The average course grade must be at least 60% of the maximum.

The approximate cost of the course is INR 2.6L (€2,990) per year. 

These are the jobs you can get after completing the course.

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Student Visa Application Requirements to Study in Top Universities in Latvia

If you’re a student from a non-EU country (non-EU countries are all countries that are not members of the European Union) and wish to study at the top universities in Latvia, you must apply for a Latvia student visa. Also, if you are granted a study permit, you can work up to 20 hours a week while studying and up to 40 hours per week during holidays.

When preparing to apply for a student visa to study at the top universities in Latvia for international students, it is essential to keep the following documents handy.

• Valid passport
• Two recent passport-size colour photographs.
• Proof of acceptance by the university or educational institution.
• Medical insurance records: INR 38L (€42,600)
• Letter confirming accommodations during studies in Latvia.
• Completed and signed visa application form.
• Proof of financial means: Original bank account statement reflecting transactions from the past month.
• Proof of visa payment
• Document from an accredited higher educational institution for exchange program students.

According to Latvia’s Immigration Law, Indian students studying at accredited educational institutions can apply for a long-stay visa. Once granted a 90-day long-stay visa, students must apply for a residence permit at Latvia’s Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (OCMA) upon arrival.

Here is some additional information you must know about when applying for a student visa to get admission to the top universities in Latvia. 

Scholarships by the Government and Top Universities in Latvia

According to a report by Global Finance Magazine, Latvia is ranked as the 39th safest country in the world, making it an ideal destination for international students to pursue their studies.

Another compelling factor that attracts students to Latvia is the availability of numerous scholarships to support their living expenses. Latvian state scholarships are one such scholarship catering to students from over 40 countries. The application period typically runs from February to April.

In addition to state scholarships, many universities provide scholarships, grants, and discounts.

Here is a list of the various scholarship programs offered by the top universities in Latvia and the Latvian Government for you to help finance your studies. 

To Conclude

Pursuing higher education in Latvia is no longer a distant dream. Known for its excellent academics and vibrant culture, Latvia is a fantastic choice for international students seeking new experiences. Top universities like the University of Latvia offer excellent academic programs in English.

What makes Latvia even better? The tuition fees are pretty affordable compared to other European countries. This means you can get a quality education without breaking the bank.

We hope you’ve found all the information you need to explore studying at top universities in Latvia. For more details, check out our ultimate guide on studying in Latvia for international students. 

Frequently Asked Questions