University of Latvia
Latvia
University of Latvia
Riga, Latvia
Founded
1919
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
15,600+
Faculties
6
Discover the University of Latvia: History and Mission
Discover the University of Latvia: History and Mission
The University of Latvia (Latvijas Universitāte) is a public research university located in Riga, the capital of Latvia. Founded on September 28, 1919, shortly after Latvia declared independence, it is the largest and one of the most prestigious higher education institutions in the Baltic States.
With 6 faculties, over 20 research institutes, and more than 140 state-accredited academic and professional study programmes, the university conducts research in over 50 fields spanning the humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and education studies. The university has signed cooperation agreements with around 150 universities in more than 40 countries.
The University of Latvia follows its historic motto Scientiae et Patriae (For Science and Fatherland). It plays a crucial role in the development of Latvian academic traditions, national economy, education, the Latvian language, and culture, while steadily expanding its international presence and English-language programme offerings.
Key Milestones
- 1919: Founded as the Latvian Higher School on September 28, based on the former Riga Polytechnic Institute established in 1862.
- 1923: Received its current name, University of Latvia (Universitas Latviensis), with the adoption of its constitution.
- 1991: Constitution reconfirmed by the Supreme Council of the Republic of Latvia after Latvia regained independence, restoring university traditions and symbols.
- 2019: Celebrated its centennial anniversary and opened the House of Science, featuring unique laboratories in the Baltic States.
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
The University of Latvia offers more than 140 state-accredited academic and professional study programmes at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Its academic structure encompasses 6 faculties, 7 affiliates, 17 scientific institutes, and 3 colleges, covering a broad range of disciplines from humanities and social sciences to natural sciences and medicine.
Faculty of Medicine
The Faculty of Medicine provides comprehensive medical education and training, preparing students for careers in healthcare and biomedical research with modern laboratory facilities.
- Medicine (MD)
- Pharmacy
- Nursing
Faculty of Business, Economics and Management
This faculty offers programmes in economics, finance, and management, equipping graduates with the skills needed for leadership roles in business and the public sector.
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Finance and Accounting
Faculty of Humanities
The Faculty of Humanities covers a wide range of disciplines including linguistics, literature, philosophy, history, and intercultural studies, with several English-taught programmes.
- English Studies
- East-West Intercultural Studies
- History and Philosophy
Faculty of Science and Technology
This faculty encompasses physics, chemistry, mathematics, biology, geography, and computer science, with strong research output and modern scientific infrastructure.
- Computer Science
- Physics
- Biology
Faculty of Social Sciences
The Faculty of Social Sciences offers programmes in political science, sociology, communication studies, and law, preparing students for careers in governance, media, and legal professions.
- Political Science
- Communication Studies
- Law
Faculty of Education, Psychology and Art
This faculty combines education sciences, psychology, and the arts, training future teachers, psychologists, and creative professionals through innovative pedagogical approaches.
- Pedagogy
- Psychology
- Teacher Training
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary EducationCompleted secondary education equivalent to Latvian standard, verified by the Academic Information Centre
- English ProficiencyIELTS 5.5+ or TOEFL equivalent (varies by programme)
- Application FeeEUR 170 (non-refundable)
- DocumentsOriginal diploma, transcript of records, notarised English translation
- AdditionalOnline interview may be required depending on the programme
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeCompleted bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognised institution
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL equivalent (varies by programme)
- Application FeeEUR 170 (non-refundable)
- DocumentsOriginal diploma, transcript, notarised English translation, CV, and motivation letter
- AdditionalSome programmes may require GRE/GMAT scores or a face-to-face/online interview
Main application deadline for international students for programmes starting in September.
Application deadline for the spring semester, with studies starting in February. Available for select programmes only.
Applications for the autumn intake typically open in March each year.
Applications for the spring intake typically open in November for a February start.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
The University of Latvia offers affordable tuition compared to many Western European institutions. Fees vary by programme, level of study, and whether instruction is in Latvian or English. Contact the university directly for the most current programme-specific fee information.
| Fee Category | EU/EEA Students | Non-EU/EEA Students |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Programmes (per year) | EUR 1,600 - 4,500 | EUR 2,070 - 5,000 |
| Master's Programmes (per year) | EUR 2,000 - 5,400 | EUR 2,400 - 5,400 |
| Medicine / Dentistry (per year) | EUR 10,000 - 14,000 | EUR 10,000 - 14,000 |
| Application Fee (one-time) | EUR 170 | EUR 170 |
| Total | EUR 1,600 - 14,000 per year | EUR 2,070 - 14,000 per year |
Latvian Government Scholarship
The Latvian State offers scholarships for international students from countries with bilateral education agreements. These may cover tuition fees partially or fully and provide a monthly stipend.
- Coverage: Tuition waiver and/or monthly stipend
- Eligibility: Citizens of countries with bilateral education agreements with Latvia
- Duration: Up to the full duration of the study programme
Erasmus+ Exchange Scholarship
Students from partner universities can study at the University of Latvia through the Erasmus+ programme, benefiting from tuition fee waivers and monthly mobility grants.
- Coverage: Tuition fee waiver plus monthly grant
- Eligibility: Students enrolled at Erasmus+ partner institutions
- Duration: 1-2 semesters
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of Latvia's main campus is centered on the historic building at Raina Boulevard 19 in Riga, the former Riga Polytechnic Institute. The university also operates the modern Academic Centre in Tornakalns, featuring state-of-the-art research laboratories, including the House of Nature (opened 2015) and the House of Science (opened 2019).
The iconic main building at Raina Boulevard 19 has served as the university's symbol since 1919.
Opened in 2019, the House of Science features advanced laboratories unique in the Baltic States.
Founded in 1524, the Academic Library is one of the oldest in Europe with over 3.3 million items.
Housing and Dining
Student Accommodation
The university offers two student residences for international students — Prima Hostel and Reznas Student Hotel, both located on Reznas Street in Riga with good public transport connections.
- Affordable dormitory rooms from approximately EUR 70-129 per month
- About 20 minutes by public transport to the city centre and main campus
- Assistance with private accommodation search also available
Campus Amenities
The university provides a range of facilities to support student life, including sports facilities, a botanical garden, an observatory, and the cultural venue NABAKLAB.
- UL Sports Center offering 40+ different activities with professional coaches
- Botanical garden and astronomical observatory on campus
- NABAKLAB cultural club and cafes on campus
Student Life at the University of Latvia
Student Life at the University of Latvia
Student life at the University of Latvia is vibrant and diverse, with a wide range of cultural, academic, and social activities. The university's student union actively organises events throughout the year, and the location in Riga provides access to a rich cultural scene.
Riga: A Vibrant Baltic Capital
Riga: A Vibrant Baltic Capital
Life in Riga
Riga is the capital and largest city of Latvia with approximately 700,000 residents. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its outstanding Art Nouveau architecture and medieval Old Town. The city offers an affordable cost of living compared to Western Europe, a lively cultural scene, and excellent connectivity across the Baltic region.
UNESCO World Heritage Old Town
Riga's medieval Old Town features stunning architecture, cobblestone streets, historic churches, and vibrant cafes, creating a unique living and studying environment.
Affordable Cost of Living
Monthly living expenses in Riga range from approximately EUR 350 to EUR 850, making it one of the most affordable European capitals for international students.
Art Nouveau Architecture
Riga boasts one of the finest collections of Art Nouveau architecture in the world, with over 800 buildings in this distinctive style concentrated in the city centre.
Transport and Connectivity
Riga has a well-developed public transport system and Riga International Airport provides direct connections to major European cities, making travel convenient for international students.
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Notable Alumni and Employers
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The university assists admitted students with the visa and residence permit process. Non-EU citizens receive an invitation number from the university to apply at the Latvian embassy. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester.
The Mobility Division supports incoming and outgoing exchange students, represents them with Latvian government agencies, and cooperates with other university departments to ensure a smooth transition.
Each semester the university offers regular Latvian and Russian language courses for international students. Over 500 courses are taught in English across faculties for degree and exchange students.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Latvia: Worldwide Rankings
University of Latvia: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Latvia is consistently recognised in major global university rankings. It ranks first among all universities in Latvia and holds strong positions in the Baltic region, particularly excelling in graduate employability where it ranks 89th globally according to QS 2026.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Arts and Humanities | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #501 |
| Business and Management Studies | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #601 |
| Medicine and Health Sciences | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #601 |
| Natural Sciences (Chemistry) | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #401-450 |
Features
The University of Latvia is a leading public research university located in Riga. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across faculties such as Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Law, and Business. The university is known for its strong academic reputation, international collaborations, and active student life. It also provides various support services for foreign students and emphasizes employability through practical training and research opportunities.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - June
Location
Raiņa bulvāris 19, Centra rajons, Rīga, LV-1586, Latvia
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