Published Date: 16th March 2023
Latvia is a beautiful country located in Northern Europe, with a rich history and culture. The country has a long-standing tradition of providing high-quality education, and its higher education system is well-developed and recognized internationally. Latvia is an ideal destination for international students who wish to pursue higher education in a safe, friendly, and multicultural environment. In this blog, we will discuss the higher education system in Latvia, its benefits, the admission process, and the cost of living for international students.
Latvia's higher education system is based on the Bologna process, which ensures that the education provided is in line with the European Union's standards. The system consists of two main types of higher education institutions: universities and colleges. There are eight state-funded universities and sixteen state-funded colleges in Latvia. Apart from these, there are also several private higher education institutions in the country.
The universities in Latvia offer a wide range of courses in various fields, including medicine, engineering, law, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The colleges, on the other hand, mainly offer vocational and professional education in fields such as business, tourism, and technology. The language of instruction in most universities and colleges is Latvian, but many courses are also offered in English.
Studying in Latvia has many benefits for international students. Some of them are:
The admission process for international students in Latvia is relatively straightforward. Applicants must first choose the university or college they wish to attend and then check the admission requirements for their chosen course. The admission requirements may vary depending on the institution and the course, but typically include:
1. Completed application form
2. Proof of language proficiency (Latvian or English)
3. Certified copies of academic transcripts and diplomas
4. Passport or identity card
5. Health insurance
6. Payment of application fee
After submitting the application, the institution will review the application and inform the applicant of their admission status. If accepted, the applicant will receive an acceptance letter, which they can use to apply for a student visa.
As mentioned earlier, the cost of living in Latvia is relatively low compared to other European countries. The average monthly living expenses for a student in Latvia range between 400 to 600 EUR, depending on the city and lifestyle. The cost of accommodation is the most significant expense, and it can vary depending on the type of accommodation and location.
Students can choose to live in university dormitories or private apartments. The cost of a room in a university dormitory ranges from 80 to 150 EUR per month, while private apartments can cost between 200 to 500 EUR per month, depending on the location and amenities.
Transportation in Latvia is affordable, and students can benefit from various discounts on public transport, such as the ISIC student card. The cost of food and entertainment in Latvia is also relatively low, and students can enjoy various cultural events and activities at affordable prices. The country also offers various discounts and special offers for students on museums, theaters, and other cultural events.
Latvia offers several scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. The Latvian government provides scholarships for international students, which cover tuition fees and provide a monthly allowance for living expenses. The scholarship programs are available for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students, and the application process is open once a year.
Apart from government scholarships, there are also several private organizations that offer scholarships and financial aid for international students. Students can search for scholarships online or contact the international student office of their chosen institution for more information.
International students in Latvia can work part-time during their studies to support themselves financially. Students from European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries are allowed to work without any restrictions, while non-EU/EEA students can work up to 20 hours per week during their studies.
After graduation, international students can also stay in Latvia for up to six months to look for employment opportunities. If they find a job, they can apply for a work permit and continue living and working in Latvia.
Latvia's higher education system is well-developed and recognized internationally, making it an excellent destination for international students. The country offers a safe, friendly, and multicultural environment, and its low cost of living makes it an affordable option for students. The admission process is straightforward, and there are several scholarships and financial aid opportunities available for international students. Studying in Latvia can be a life-changing experience for international students, and it can open up a world of opportunities for their future.
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Twinkle is an active listener and observer. She has a boundless curiosity to improvise her all-round knowledge. She is always open about her thoughts and her personality is filled with thirst for acquiring knowledge about different fields. Her favourite pastime is to pen down her thoughts and knowledge. Her strength is the simplicity of language yet being artistic.
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Categories: Latvia
Tags: Study Abroad