Latvia Covid Updates for the International Students 2021

As of 1 August 2020 higher education institutions will be allowed to restart the study process in a face-to-face (full time) mode.

Studying in abroad has multi dimensional benefits that involve personality grooming, mind broadening, global exposure, recognized degrees, study of broad based curriculum and studying in international and modern teaching system. When it comes to choosing a country for studying in abroad, most of the students incline towards European States, mainly because of availability of opportunities, globally acclaimed institutions, cultural diversity and favorable living standards. Latvia, a small Baltic State, is European Union member, Schengen signatory, economically developed and well established country of Europe. The higher education of institutes of Latvia have esteemed reputation for best quality of education and advanced teaching methodologies. The Latvian Universities are renowned for mastery in IT, Business Management and Medicine courses. The foreign students have permission to work part time and Latvian universities specifically include internship programmes in curriculum structure to give professional exposure to students. Latvia has affordable living expenses and tuition fee is reasonably structured. The general requirements to study abroad in Latvia for foreign students are briefly explained in this section:

The two most spoken languages in Latvia are Latvian and Russian language. But English is commonly spoken and almost all universities in Latvia offer English taught courses. For admission purpose the first step is to find an English taught course of your interest in a right Latvian University. After selecting the study programme and university you want to study in Latvia, check its admission requirements. Latvian universities do not have rigid and complex merit for admission but students are required to have academic capability and eligibility to meet Latvian education standards. A few of study programmes such medicine, engineering and IT have more specific and high merit for admission. In general, the admission requirements in Latvian universities for higher education courses are as follow:

Under Graduate Study Programmes in Latvia for Students 2021:

The students must have completed Higher Secondary School Diploma with passing grades of at least 60% in each subject. Entrance examination; it can be taken in form of motivation letter or online examination. Skype Interview: the faculty member of your chosen study field will ask curriculum related questions to assess your academic readiness and previous set of skills.

Post Graduate (Masters) Study Programmes:

The students should have a Bachelors Degree (4 years duration course) which must have been attained from a recognized institute of your country. The overall grades attained in Bachelors degree must be minimum 60%. The B.A (Bachelors of Arts) and Bachelors of General Science Degrees (2 years duration course) is not welcomed for Masters level admissions in Latvia. Entrance Examinations; motivation letter or online examination can be taken. Skype interview: The students will have to convince the faculty member of their chose studies field about their academic capabilities and eligibility for admission. The admission will only be granted after entrance exam and Skype interview satisfactory results.

Post Graduate (PhD) Study Programmes:

Passed Bachelors Degree (4 Years Duration Course), Masters Degree (2 Years Duration Course) from recognized institutes of your country with good grades are required for admission. The students will submit research proposal, previous research experience and work experience documents. Skype Interview will be conducted for admission as well.

Language Requirements to study in Latvia for Students:

For admission in English taught courses, the students have to prove their proficiency in English language that can be either through IELTS or TOEFL test. The minimum grades is required in IELTS are 6.5 bands.

The documents for admission such as transcripts of academic certificates, degrees and diplomas will be verified by Academic Information Centre (AIC) of Latvia for approval. If the documents meet academic standards set by Academic Information Centre (AIC) it will be marked as approved and finally you chosen Latvian university will issue acceptance letter to you.

After receiving acceptance letter from Latvian University the Process for student visa shall begin. The Latvian Embassy or Consulate in your country will process the visa documents. The students are required to visit the Latvian Embassy in person and acquire visa details. The requirements for visa documents are country specific and are different for each country but generally the following documents are required by all nationalities for Latvian Students Visa:

• Valid Passport

• Original Acceptance Letter

• Proof of Security Fee Deposit (Latvian Universities take 500 to 750 USD as security fee that shall be returned to students at the end of their study programme)

• Proof of Paid Tuition Fee

• Visa Application (Completed and signed)

• Proof of finances (Bank statement or credit card statement demonstrating the student can spend 450 Euros per month in Latvia during studies)

• Proof of Accommodation Arranged in Latvia (Rental contract with residential address)

• Health Insurance Coverage

• Medical Examination Certificate

• Clearance letter from police stating the applicant has no criminal record or case registered against them

• Visa application Fee Receipt (Can be around 120 USD)

• English Language Proficiency Test Certificate

The Non-EU or Third Country Nationals can attain the permanent residency of Latvia after staying in the country for 5 years. During the duration of 5 years, the individuals must have held temporary resident permit. The pathway to permanent residency for foreign students is through work permit. After completing degree from Latvian University successfully the students have to return to their native lands. For employment in Latvia, the fresh graduates can do job searching during last semesters of their study programme or through online means. After getting an adequate employment contract from Latvian Company or firm the employer intending to hire a third country national at his company will seek permission from Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs by submitting application. Upon getting permission, the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs will issue an invitation letter from employer to third country national for employment. The hired employee will submit invitation letter and employment contract along with other documents to Latvian Embassy at their home country and attain work permit of Latvia. The Latvian work permit is granted for one year duration initially which is extendable for more 5 years. After 5 years PR Visa can be applied.

Latvia has radiant and charming city life and serene calm country areas. The living standards and accommodation design are according to modern day life style. Large numbers of international students are getting enrolled in Latvian Universities because of top quality of education and cheap cost living. An average amount of 430 to 500 Euros is required by a student to bear his/her living expenses in Latvia per month. Foreign students also have permission for part time working hours during studies which makes it rather easier for students to earn money and manage their budget on their own without requiring finances from back home.

Study Expenses in Latvia:

Under Graduate Study Programme Tuition Fee in Latvian Universities: 2200 to 3000 Euros per year. Medicine and dentistry related courses are most expensive with tuition fee ranging from 5000 to 13,000 Euros per year.

Post Graduate (Masters) Study Programme Tuition Fee in Latvian Universities: 2000 to 3000 Euros per year. Business Administration and Medicine related courses are most expensive at Masters Level with tuition fee around 6,000 Euros per year.

Post Graduate (PhD) Study Programme Tuition fee in Latvian Universities: 34,00 to 4000 Euros per year.

Living Expenses in Latvia:

Accommodation:

• A Single Room or Shared Room in University Dormitory: 70 to 120 Euros per month

• Studio Type Apartment or One Bed Room Flat: 250 to 300 Euros per month

• Shared Flats: 120 to 250 Euros per month for per person

Food:

• Half Liter Water Bottle:  0.70 Euros

• 1 Liter Fresh Milk Bottle: 0.89 Euros

• A Loaf of Fresh White Bread: 0.81 Euros

• 1 Kg White Rice: 1.26 Euros

• Dozen Eggs: 1.61 Euros

• 1 Kg Local Cheese: 6.17 Euros

• 1 Kg Chicken Breast Meat: 5.00 Euros

• 1 Kg Beef Meat: 6.91 Euros

• 1 Kg Apples: 1.05 Euros

• 1 Kg Bananas: 1.31 Euros

During Studies:

Foreign students studying a full time study programme in Latvia are allowed to work 20 hours a week during semesters and 40 hours a week during semester breaks. The students do not require any additional work permit for part time work during studies however there are certain areas where they can work that include: Petrol Kiosks, Restaurants, Managerial Work, Shop Keeping and Selling products and Internships related to their study field.

After Studies:

After studies the students have to find a short term or long term employment contract to stay in Latvia. After graduation they must exit the country and re return on work permit to work and stay in Latvia. For work permit, the employer hiring the fresh graduates will send invitation letter and employment contract to them at their home country. The employer hiring foreign nationals as its employees is responsible for their health insurance and accommodation.

Latvia Health Insurance for Students

Latvia offer two types of health insurance Public and Private. If you are national you can have public health insurance but if you are not then you have the option to buy the private health insurance if you want a study visa of Lativia and admission in Latvia university.

Latvia is a small country located on Baltic Sea which is being ruled over by Russians, Germans, Swedish and Polish people for centuries until it finally declared to be an independent state in 1991. In 2004, Latvia became part of European Union and it is regarded as one of highest income economies of Euro Zone.  With temperate climate, historical sites, safe environment, scenic landscape and rich and vibrant culture, Latvia is an attractive cosmopolitan country to pursue your higher education. This multi-ethnic country has a well established education sector which is build on broad-based curriculum. Latvia’s location joins east to west and north to south which has been reason of its occupation by Soviet Union and Sweden in the past. The modern day Latvia is merger of many cultures and unique environment that is hard to find anywhere in the world. If you are considering to study abroad in Latvia for your higher education, this article will unfold few most important factors making it a wise choice:

Latvia’s World Recognized Higher Education Institutions 2021:

The higher education institutions of Latvia have made significant development towards improvement by initiating mergers and collaborations with international higher education institutes. The degrees offered by state and private universities of Latvia are recognized in all European states. Latvia has made remarkable advancement in Science and Technology, Latvia uses world’s fourth fastest internet speed. Despite Latvia’s land being under occupation of foreigners for centuries, the country has valued education and invested in building schools and universities. About 44% of Latvia’s population holds higher education degrees. Latvia has expertise in education fields of IT, Social Sciences, Business Management, Medicine, Aviation, Arts, Education Science, Language Studies and Engineering.

Tuition Fee:

The tuition fee is around 1,000 Euros to 24,000 Euros per year at Post Graduation level in Latvian Universities.

Living Cost in Latvia:

Latvia is scarcely populated country with around 2 million people; the students can expect to spend around 400 USD per month to manage their living cost there. It is an inexpensive country in terms of living cost.

English Taught Courses:

Although the national language of Latvia is Latvian but Russian and English are widely spoken. About, 5,000 international students travel each year to Latvia for studying in its universities, there are plenty of English taught courses in all universities whether public or private.

Working Permission While You Study in Latvia

Part time working permission is predominantly basic factor affecting international students to study abroad in Latvia. Latvia allows international students to work 20 hours a week in the country without any work permit during semesters and 40 hours a week during semester holidays. Internship programmes are offered to students in summer holidays to deliver professional experience as Latvia’s IT and engineering industries are booming, the related students get a significant and beneficial professional experience and exposure of job market in their academic years.

Post Graduation Work Opportunities in Latvia

Latvia allows students to work in the country after getting graduated successfully from Latvian university but in case of attaining an employment contract. The employer will apply for work permit on worker’s behalf by taking permission from Government and showing required company registration documents. Most of the Latvian Universities have specific units in their administration that specifically help international students to find employment in Latvia after graduation. The students can take information about availability of university offered internship programme and post graduation employment assistance before taking admission in Latvian universities.

Life in Latvia as a Foreign Student

When living in multicultural and rich historical country like Latvia the potential of personal growth and learning is immense. The ambience and lifestyle of Latvia is vibrant and colorful, because of being ruled over by different civilizations, the Latvian cuisines have fusion of Russian and Swedish dishes. About 50% of Latvia’s area is surrounded by forests and mountains, it is a beautiful country located on Baltic Sea, the climate is idyllic and landscape is exceptionally beautiful. The main cities have plenty of coffee shops, cafes, restaurants and hotels for eating out on Saturday night, for adventures you can go water- skiing, wind-surfing and mountain climbing. There is so much to learn from Latvian people who have endured centuries of struggle to gain an independence state for themselves. The century’s old Latvian heritage and literature will be worth exploring during your studies years that include national events, festivals, opera halls, art galleries and museums.

Latvia is although a small country with about 2 million populations, but its higher education sector has greatly evolved and progressed into one of the finest in Europe. Latvian institutions offer internationally recognized degrees in a quite affordable tuition fee structure with focus on broad based curriculum and professional coaching. Catering the demands of international students there are hundreds of English taught courses being offered by Latvian institutions. Though, Latvia has been subject to tumultuous occupation for several decades, the country is now independent and member of European Union, it has a vibrant and diverse culture, clean and peaceful academic environment and high standards of living with economic stability. For the students currently in process of assessing the admission requirements of universities in Latvia, we have sketched step by step process of admission at Latvian Universities in this article:

1. Choosing a University

2. Choosing a Study Programme

3. Academic Requirements

4. Language Requirements

5. Preparation of Required Documents

6. Admission Deadlines

7. Acceptance Letter

Latvia has a few of the oldest universities of Europe. The University of Latvia (ranked at 47^th position by QS world university rankings in 2016) is about a century old, University of Daugavpils was established in 1921 and Riga Technical University was established in 1862. Latvia’s universities follow old academic traditions merged with modern day techniques and curriculum. The higher education institutions of Latvia are established and have forged international links with many top rated institutions. Especially, the engineering and IT related institutes of Latvia have high reputation and prestige for their quality education. The courses of Arts, Literature, Business Management and Medicine are Latvia’s forte. To select an apt university for your higher education in Latvia ascertain if it offers the study programme you want to study, compare the tuition fee of one institution with others before finalizing one, ascertain if the location of the university is at Latvian city where you wish to reside, check admission requirements and availability of on campus residence.

The study programme you chose in tertiary education leads you to your profession. Therefore, study programme must be selected after complete searching and thorough contemplation. First of all the study programme you choose must polish your existing set of skills and develop them further. The subjects you choose must be of your interest and in the language of your understanding, the education stream you choose must lead you to a professional career of your choice and preference. Higher education is mostly focus on developing skills and cognitive abilities of students which are only possible if you have passion for the subjects included in your curriculum. Therefore, commit to those set of subjects and study programme that not only have career scope but also derive your interest. After considering these factors and doing searching regarding career scope it is better to short list three study programmes, check if the university you have selected offers it in the language of your understanding, check subject wise merit requirements of your chosen study programme, entrance test compulsion, language requirements and overall admission eligibility.

The academic requirements are different for each study programme and academic level. The universities in Latvia set their own set of academic requirements and merit each year, therefore the specific requirements might differ university to university. Latvian universities grant admission to international students if their higher education degrees match Latvian standards or if the degrees are attained from institutions of your country that are recognized by Latvia. In general Latvian Universities have following academic requirements for admissions of international students:

For Admissions in Under Graduate Programmes:

Higher Secondary School Diploma (12^th Pass) or 3 years duration polytechnic diploma with minimum 60% grades requirements overall. Entrance Exam: Latvian Universities take entrance examinations from international students to assess their academic capabilities, the examination will be set by university according to your chosen study programme (it can be based on motivation letter) and a Skype interview is also taken before granting admission to students.

For Admissions in Post Graduate (Masters) Programmes:

Bachelors Honors Degree (4 Years Duration) with minimum 60% grades from a recognized institution of your country, Bachelors of Art or Bachelors of General Science (2 Years Degree) is not acceptable for admission in Masters level. Entrance Exam: Universities in Latvia take entrance examination from international students before granting admission; the examination will be designed according to your chosen study programme. Skype interview and entrance examination results must be satisfactory, one of the faculty member of university related to your study programme will conduct he interview. After the results your admission will be finalized.

For Admission in Post Graduate (PhD) Programmes:

Bachelors Honors Degree (4 Year Duration), Masters Degree (2 Year Duration) attained from a recognized institute of your country with minimum grades of at least 60%. Research proposal and Skype Interview will be required.

As you submit you admission application, all the academic certificates, degrees and diplomas will be assessed by Academic Information Centre (AIC) for approval, the AIC issues statement of comparability to the university which then approves or disapproves your admission application.

The international students applying for admission in Latvia need to prove their proficiency in English language through IELTS or TOEFL tests. The English Language Proficiency Tests are compulsory for all those students who belong to non English speaking countries. For admissions in under graduate or post graduate courses, the minimum grades in IELTS or TOEFL Tests required are:

IELTS: 6.5 bands overall

TOEFL Paper Based: Minimum 500 Scores

TOEFL internet Based IBT: 90 Score Minimum

The international students can submit documents directly at university they have chosen for admission. The required documents are different for each study programme that can be attained from the university’s website. The required documents must be prepared before admission intake deadline and with complete accuracy.

• Completed and Signed Admission Application Form

• Transcript of Academic Certificates, Diplomas, Degrees with additional documents demonstrating grading system of your institution

• Motivation Letter (At least 2 to 3 Pages Written In English)

• Language Proficient Test Certificate (IELTS, TOEFL)

• Updated CV (for Post Graduate Research Study Programme)

• Photocopy of Passport

• Detailed Research Proposal (For Post Graduate Research Courses)

• Recommendation Letters (From two of Applicant’s Professors) For Post Graduate Courses

• Passport Size Photographs

• Application fee Receipt (not refundable) It will be around US$167.34/£132.33

• All the documents should be translated in English language and certified copies

After receiving the required documents your chosen university will submit the documents to Academic Information Centre (AIC) for approval. Entrance examination and Skype interview will be taken in this duration. If approved the university will send you an acceptance letter, study contract, invoice for tuition fee, invoice for security deposit (500-700 Euro will be received from student by university as security). After paying tuition fee, the students can apply for student visa. In case if the student visa gets rejected, the universities refund the amount taken. You shall carry all of your original documents for applying student visa of Latvia. Overall admission process will take one to two months.

The admission intakes in Latvian university can differ from one another. The students can confirm the exact month and date from their chosen university but in general the admissions intake of Latvian Universities is as follows:

Autumn Semester: The admission applications must be submitted till May to June.

Spring Semester: The admission applications must be submitted till January.

Latvia is referred as a hidden treasure and best kept secret of Europe. Though not as famous as other European countries like the UK and Sweden, Latvia is nonetheless charming, it has vibrant and radiant cities, serene and alluring sceneries, globally recognized and acclaimed higher education institutions, moderate climate and long standing history to be travel through while you study. The chief and most appealing factor to declare Latvia as one of the best choices among European countries to complete your study abroad degree is definitely cheap cost of living and tuition fees. In fact, it can be regarded as the most inexpensive country to live in Europe as an approximate amount of 450 to 600 Euros is enough to bear monthly expenditures of one person in Latvia. Latvian Universities hold a prominent position in world university rankings because of their cutting edge academic and research facilities. We have assembled this section to give an elaborated estimate of living and study expenses in Latvia for your study abroad planning.

The tuition fees of Latvian universities are very reasonably structured making it affordable for international students. The tuition fees of private universities are higher than public universities and for each academic level and study programme the cost varies. The average tuition fees in various Latvian Universities for under graduate and post graduate levels are as:

Public Universities of Latvia 2021 for Students

Under Graduate Full Time Study Programmes:

• Computer Science: 2200 Euros per year

• Business Administration: 2750 Euros per year

• Dentistry: 13000 Euros per year

• English Philology: 2750 Euros per year

• International Economics and Commercial Diplomacy: 3080 Euros per year

• Modern Language and Business Studies: 3000 Euros per year

• Medicine: 58500 Euros for entire degree programme

• English Language Teacher: 2800 Euros per year

Post Graduate (Masters) Study Programme:

• International Business with specialization in Export Management: 2365 Euros per year

• Educational Sciences: 3700 Euros per year

• Orientalistics: 3000 Eros per year

• Engineering and IT Courses: 2200 to 4000 Euros per year

• Medicine: 7,000 to 15,000 Euros per year

• Business Administration and Management: 6,000 Euros per year

Post Graduate (PhD) Study Programme:

• Mathematics, Biology, Economic, Literary Sciences: 3,400 to 4,000 Euros per year
• Management Sciences: 2,276 to 3,000 Euros per year

Private Universities of Latvia 2021

• Under Graduate Programme: 3,600 to 6,000 Euros per year

• Post Graduate (Masters) Programme: 2,500 to 3,500 Euros per year

• Post graduate (PhD) Programme: 2,000 to 4,000 Euros per year

As per the Latvian resident permit requirement, the foreign students have to show through his/her bank statement that they can spend an amount of 450 Euros per month on their living expenses during their stay in Latvia. By estimating the monthly amount requirement indicated by Latvian Immigration Department for students, an amount of 450 Euros is enough for one person to afford day to day expenses and accommodation in Latvia. This amount is considerably low than other European countries and adding that a student is allowed to work 20 hours a week part time in Latvia, the student can even save some amount for their tuition fee payment.  The living expenses are entirely dependent on a person’s spending habits and general life style, for students living in abroad the financial back up is usually limited. In fact, studying in abroad is a great chance for a student to manage their expenses and take responsibility of their lifestyle and start earning by doing part time jobs which altogether shape students in becoming independent, organized and learned individuals.

Accommodation:

The accommodation offered by universities would be the most cheap cost option for foreign students. Private rentals are usually out of range for students unless they earn a good amount through part time job or have sufficient financial resources. The accommodation cost will be different in various locations of Latvia depending on their proximity to central city and public transport. The average accommodation cost in Latvia is as:

• A Single Room or Shared Room in University Dormitory: 70 to 120 Euros per month

• Studio Type Apartment or One Bed Room Flat: 250 to 300 Euros per month

• Shared Flats: 120 to 250 Euros per month for per person

• 3 Bedrooms Apartment in Central City: 570 Euros per month

• 3 Bedrooms Apartment Outside City: 370 to 400 Euros per month

Food:

• Basic menu meal for one person in an inexpensive restaurant: 7.00 Euros

• Basic menu meal for two persons in mediocre restaurant: 37.00 Euros

• Combo meal for one person in McDonalds and Mc Meal or equivalent Fast Food Chain: 5.00 Euros

• Half Liter Water Bottle:  0.70 Euros

• 1 Liter Fresh Milk Bottle: 0.89 Euros

• A Loaf of Fresh White Bread: 0.81 Euros

• 1 Kg White Rice: 1.26 Euros

• Dozen Eggs: 1.61 Euros

• 1 Kg Local Cheese: 6.17 Euros

• 1 Kg Chicken Breast Meat: 5.00 Euros

• 1 Kg Beef Meat: 6.91 Euros

• 1 Kg Apples: 1.05 Euros

• 1 Kg Bananas: 1.31 Euros

• 1 Kg Oranges: 1.45 Euros

• 1 Kg Tomatoes: 1.67 Euros

• 1 Kg Potatoes: 0.46 Euros

• 1 Kg Onions: 0.45 Euros

Transportation:

• One way ticket of local transport: 1.15 Euros

• Monthly pass of local transport: 50.5 Euros

• 1 Km travel tariff in Taxi: 0.66 Euros

Other Expenditures:

• Monthly utility bills of electricity, gas, water, heating: 160 Euros

• Monthly internet connection of 60 Mbps speed cost: 15.52 Euros

• Monthly fitness club membership cost for one person: 34.11 Euros

• Cinema ticket one seat: 7.00 Euros

• Prepaid mobile card tariff 1 min call: 0.08 Euros

Health Insurance Coverage:

The foreign students enrolled in a full time study programme in Latvian Universities that last longer than 6 months are required to purchase health insurance coverage. Health insurance coverage will be purchased for the entire duration if your stay in Latvia. The students can purchase health insurance after arriving at Latvia from their university or from private insurance company. The insurance coverage can be around 30 000 LVL.

FAQs for Study in Latvia

#1. How can I get student visa for Latvia?/ Admission process for latvia?

Ans. Below is the step wise procedure to get Student Visa :

Step 1 Applying for a course in any recognized university.

Step 2 In case the documents are well in order than the University will issue Invoice for Application Fees Payment.

Step 3 After the Application Fees are paid a Skype Interview is conducted by the University.

Step 4 Meanwhile if the student does not have any of the required English proficiency than the university will conduct the Entrance test of English.

Step 5 After passing the Skype Interview the university will issue offer letter and forward the documents of the student for AIC approval. It takes about 4 – 6 weeks for the getting the AIC result.

Step 6
Then the University will provide the Acceptance Letter and Study Agreement. Once the student gets the study agreement and invoice he/she is required to make the fees payment (which includes basically tuition, hostel fees etc.) as per the invoice.

Step 7 After making fees payment the university will provide the acceptance letter, AIC letter, accommodation letter and other visa documents.

Step 8 On receiving the documents the student has to submit the file according to the check list.

Step 9 Then student need to submit the file at VFS for visa purpose. Later within one week the VFS will provide the consulate interview schedule or Embassy Interview schedule to the student through mail. Once the interview is done, you will get result with io 7 Working days.

#2. How much gap is accepted for study in Latvia?

Ans. If you are going for bachelors then gap up to 5 years is acceptable while for masters up to 10 years is acceptable from visa point of view.

#3. Is IELTS required for Latvia?

Ans. No, a student can also study on the basis of MOI. IELTS are not mandatory to study in Latvia.

#4. What is the cost of living in Latvia?

Ans. Living in Latvia is way more cheaper compare to many other European Countries. The living cost in Latvia is around 300-600 Euros/ Month.

#5. How many intakes are there in Latvia?

Ans. There are major 2 intake in Latvia. Winter and spring Intake.

#6. How can I get admission in Latvia?

Ans. You can contact us at EDUGO ABROAD to get all the required details and admission in top Latvian Universities.

#7. What is the cost of study in Latvia?

Ans. The living cost in Latvia is around 300-600 Euros /Month while tuition fees for Graduates and post Graduates ranges between 2400 to 7000 Euros.

#8. Why should I study in Latvia?

Ans. There are many reason to choose Latvia as a study option. Located along the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea, Latvia is considered a geographic hotspot for its role as a crossroad between the East, West, North and South. Latvia is a multi-ethnic country and rich in different cultural and education traditions. It has been influenced by the varied traditions of its neighbouring countries, thus offering a multi-cultural experience for students taking up an education in Latvia.Universities in Latvia offer an advanced education system. Institutions of higher education are small enough to operate functionally and effectively, ensuring each individual student approach to each student. The higher education institutions in Latvia are members of international cooperation within many different fields of study.

The education system is very flexible having huge experience to make different educations models. Latvian Institutes offers the benefits of the world class higher education system, majority programs are taught in English, affordable tuition fees and living cost, qualifications accepted across Europe. The education system in Latvia is also heavily involved in multi-national cooperation in the field of education and research, with the aim of further developing student competitiveness in both local and international job markets.

#9. Is Latvia good for education?

Ans. Definitely, Latvia is one of the best study destinations in Europe. At very lower fees this country provides education in top ranked universities.

#10. Are there any Scholarships for Indian students in Latvia?

Ans. As the tuition fees are very low, no Scholarship are available at present for Indian Student.

#11. What are the Top universities in Latvia?

Ans. To know about Top Universities,

#12. Best programmes to study in Latvia?

Ans. Latvia is known for the business program offered by its universities. Also it is known for engineering programs offer by its public university – Riga Technical University.

#13. What are the Latvia student visa requirements?

Ans. To apply for Latvian Student Visa, You need to have following documents :

Cover Letter

Long stay visa application form

• Original Passport (valid for the entire duration of the course)
• Passport size photographs (45×35 mm with white background)
• Affidavit of Oath
• Apostle of Police Clearance Certificate (P.C.C.) (Compulsory)
• Apostle of Last Education (Compulsory)
• Academic Documents
• Invitation approved by University
• AIC Letter
• Acceptance letter from the University
• TT Copy
• Hostel and study Agreement from University
• Sponsor Affidavit
• Financial documents

#14. How to get PR for Latvia?

Ans. For getting PR, you need to have a stay in Latvia for around 5 Years and you must be earning 22,500 Euros/ Annum then you become eligible to become PR in Latvia.

#15. Is Latvia safe for students?

Ans. Latvia is an ideal destination for foreign students With its safe and welcoming cities and spectacular coastline, it is ideal for students and visitors alike. Located on the Baltic Sea, Latvia is somewhat of a crossroads between East and West.

#16. I need to learn Latvian to study?

Ans. There is not need to learn Latvian Language as most of the University provide the teaching in English and whole curriculum is taught in English.

#17. What are the master’s courses available in Latvia?

Ans. Latvian University provide a wide range of course curriculum for Masters. All the courses related to engineering, science and business is available in Latvia.

FAQs to Prepare for University Interview – Study in Latvia

During the process of getting university admission and visa for studying in Latvia, any student need to clear 2 interviews, First at university to get admission and once that is done and you have got your unconditional offer letter then you need to clear the embassy interview. The embassy interview of Latvia is a bit tricky but in both the interview majorly some common questions are asked such as :

#1. Tell us something about yourself?
Ans. For any academic interview, Introduction should include details as below:
First name
Educational qualification
Experience (if any)
Family context and some information about your personality (you can include hobbies or any extracurricular results)

#2. What is the reason for choosing further studies?
Ans. The student should link his academic background and experience with choosing their course for further study.

#3. Why did you choose Latvia for further studies?
Ans.
Reference 1: Located along the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea, Latvia is considered a geographic hotspot for its role as a crossroad between the East, West, North and South. Latvia is a multi-ethnic country and rich in different cultural and education traditions. It has been influenced by the varied traditions of its neighboring countries, thus offering a multi-cultural experience for students taking up an education in Latvia. Universities in Latvia offer an advanced education system. Institutions of higher education are small enough to operate functionally and effectively, ensuring each individual student approach to each student. The higher education institutions in Latvia are members of international cooperation within many different fields of study. The education system is very flexible having huge experience to make different educations models. Latvian Institutes offers the benefits of the world class higher education system, majority programs are taught in English, affordable tuition fees and living cost, qualifications accepted across Europe. The education system in Latvia is also heavily involved in multi-national cooperation in the field of education and research, with the aim of further developing student competitiveness in both local and international job markets.
Reference 2: Riga is the capital of Latvia, the language spoken in Latvia is Latvian, but majority speaks in English. Latvia has 60 state & private colleges and Universities. More than 50 of these higher institutions have been established since Latvia became independent from the Soviet Union in 1990. One more interesting factor to study here is that after completing a Master degree, students are welcome to work at Latvia. Most students requires to show an invitation for a job before applying for a visa & work permit but students with some specialized skills may receive a work permit without a firm offer letter. Most of the Latvian institute offers both degree academics & professional, Erasmus program is also available in much University. The Latvian education offers a broad based curriculum and global prospective to equip students with relevant skills and qualification which will work as a spring board to brighter future. Many cafeterias in Latvia serve at least one Vegetarian option, also a student is allowed to cook their own food.

#4. Why you want to study abroad and not in other countries?
Ans.

Main advantages of studying abroad for many international students is the possibility of immersing themselves in a totally different environment

Possibility of obtaining the double degree.

Studies abroad are mainly based on practical knowledge.

You will acquire a greater knowledge of different cultures

View your culture through a new lens

Get an international degree and exposure.

Increase the international job prospects.

Acquire greater knowledge of different cultures.

Meet several people.

Discover new environment.

Get a global mindset.

Learn self-sufficiency and gain independence.

Learn to appreciate smaller things more.

#5. Why this university?
Ans. Students must describe the key USP for choosing a particular university. The information we can include can be:

Accreditations

Ranking

Courses

Forms- Modules

Faculty

Alumnus network

#6. Who is your sponsor?
Ans. Please mention the name of your sponsor – It can be parents/gaurdians/siblings/self sponsor.

#7. How much does life in Latvia cost?
Ans. The cost of living is very affordable at Latvia for student. It cost around 300-600 euros/Month.

#8. What is your future goal?
Ans. (Below are some examples of future target)
Entrepreneur: after completing my study by the name of the university, I would go back to my hometown and start my organization which will focus on its development. I assure you that I will learn all the skills necessary to better manage my organization. I am confident that studying at university will give me a solid knowledge of the basic principles of this field and help me acquire the skills necessary to achieve my goal. Even my degree in Course from University will give me a solid foundation and a perfect channel to capitalize on my strengths.
Work in MNC: after completing my course, I would like to work with a renowned company in Europe, India or anywhere in the world. I wanted to become more effective and progressive in the field of my interest. I am looking forward to doing safe work in renowned companies such as ONGC, BHEL, TATA and many others. I am very confident that after completing this course I can start my professional career with a good position as information system manager, marketing manager, system developer etc.
Family affairs: after completing the course named after the university, I will return to India and join by hand in the family business. Since my father has always managed the business in a very simple and traditional way, but I want to expand it by implementing new ideas and taking our business to the next level. (For example, since my father runs a temporary shop and I want the chain to grow only in my place, but also in some other part of India, and then take it internationally. So, to bring an exhibition in the sector I will have need market research that will help me understand the essential market value for the business).

Questions for Embassy Interview. The embassy interview of Latvia is a bit tricky and they check your presence of mind and ability to frame answer. The most important thing to prepare before going for an Embassy interview is about the country. Below listed are few of the information asked to trick you and your confidence:

About seasons of Country

About temperature of country

About neighboring countries

Details about the profession of your sponsors.

Current Currency exchange

Documents required for visa process

Documents required for application in university

What is success as per you?

Do you have fear of anything? How did you overcome that fear?

Who inspire you to choose this college?