Vilnius University
Lithuania
Vilnius University
Vilnius, Lithuania
Founded
1579
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
~25,000
Faculties
15
Discover Vilnius University: The Oldest University in the Baltic States
Discover Vilnius University: The Oldest University in the Baltic States
Founded in 1579 by King Stephen Bathory as a Jesuit Academy, Vilnius University is the oldest and largest higher education institution in Lithuania and one of the oldest in Central and Eastern Europe. Today it serves a vibrant community of nearly 25,000 students, including approximately 3,000 international students, across 15 faculties offering more than 200 study programmes.
The university's motto, Hinc itur ad astra (From here, the way leads to the stars), inscribed on its historic Astronomical Observatory, reflects centuries of academic ambition. A significant part of the campus remains in the scenic Old Town of Vilnius, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical architectural styles blend across 13 interconnected courtyards.
As Lithuania's leading research institution, Vilnius University is a member of the Coimbra Group and the ARQUS European University Alliance. The university has signed more than 180 bilateral cooperation agreements with universities in 41 countries and participates actively in Erasmus+ and other international exchange programmes, making it a truly global academic community.
Key Milestones
- 1579: King Stephen Bathory grants a charter transforming the Jesuit College (founded 1570) into a university, confirmed by Pope Gregory XIII.
- 1753: The Astronomical Observatory is established, one of the first professional observatories in Europe.
- 1919: The university reopens after being closed by Tsar Nicholas I in 1832 following the Polish-Lithuanian uprising.
- 2016: Vilnius University joins the Coimbra Group and establishes the first university endowment foundation in Lithuania.
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
Vilnius University is organized into 15 faculties spanning the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, life sciences, medicine, and technology. With faculties located across Vilnius and additional campuses in Kaunas and Siauliai, the university offers more than 140 bachelor's, 140 master's, and 29 doctoral programmes. Many programmes are available in English, making the university accessible to a growing international student body.
Faculty of Medicine
One of the university's historic faculties, offering comprehensive medical education and clinical research opportunities in partnership with leading Lithuanian hospitals.
- Medicine (Integrated Studies)
- Public Health
- Nursing
Faculty of Physics
A leading faculty in the Baltic region for physics research, with strengths in laser physics, quantum technologies, materials science, and astrophysics.
- Physics
- Laser Technologies
- Astrophysics
Faculty of Economics and Business Administration
Provides rigorous programmes in economics, business, and finance, with strong connections to Lithuania's growing business ecosystem and international scholarship opportunities.
- Economics
- Business Administration
- Finance
Faculty of Philology
Renowned for linguistics and literary studies, this faculty is ranked among the top in the QS World University Rankings by Subject for Linguistics.
- English Philology
- Linguistics
- Literary and Cultural Studies
Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics
Offers cutting-edge programmes in mathematics, statistics, and computer science, with active research in applied mathematics, data science, and artificial intelligence.
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Data Science
Life Sciences Center
A modern research hub focused on biotechnology, biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology, with advanced microfluidic and genomics laboratories.
- Molecular Biology
- Biotechnology
- Biochemistry
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary EducationCompleted secondary education equivalent to Lithuanian 12-year programme
- English ProficiencyIELTS 5.5-6.5 or TOEFL iBT 75-90 (varies by programme)
- Application DocumentsAcademic transcripts, motivation letter, passport copy
- Application SystemOnline application via VU International Admissions portal
- Motivation InterviewRequired for some programmes, conducted online
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeRelevant bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL iBT 80-95 (varies by programme)
- Application DocumentsTranscripts, CV, motivation letter, reference letters
- Research ProposalRequired for doctoral programmes
- GPA RequirementCompetitive GPA; specific minimum varies by faculty
Application deadline for international students from non-EU/EFTA countries requiring a visa.
Application deadline for students from EU and EFTA member states.
Deadline for international students to submit tuition fee waiver requests with a motivational letter.
The autumn semester starts in September with a dedicated Orientation Week for international students.
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Vilnius University offers highly competitive tuition fees compared to other European universities. EU/EEA students may qualify for state-funded places with no tuition fees, while international students benefit from affordable rates. Fees vary by programme and level of study.
| Cost Category | EU/EEA Students | Non-EU/EEA Students |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Tuition (per year) | EUR 0 - 3,200 (state-funded or self-funded) | EUR 3,200 - 5,000 |
| Master's Tuition (per year) | EUR 0 - 4,200 (state-funded or self-funded) | EUR 3,200 - 7,000 |
| Doctoral Tuition (per year) | EUR 0 (state-funded places available) | EUR 5,600 - 15,000 |
| Dormitory Housing (per month) | EUR 70 - 180 | EUR 70 - 180 |
| Total | Contact university for programme-specific totals | Contact university for programme-specific totals |
Incentive Scholarship
Awarded automatically to students with particularly good academic results. No application is required; eligible students are informed personally after each semester's progress ranking.
- Eligibility: All enrolled students with outstanding grades
- Frequency: Disbursed twice per year after semester rankings
- Application: Automatic, no application required
Tuition Fee Waiver for International Students
Offered by select faculties such as the Institute of International Relations and Political Science and the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration to the most motivated and competent non-EU international applicants.
- Coverage: Full or partial tuition fee waiver
- Deadline: May 15 (results announced by July 1)
- Requirements: Written request, motivational letter, strong academic record
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
Vilnius University's campus is a unique blend of centuries-old architecture and modern research infrastructure. The historic Old Campus in the heart of Vilnius Old Town features 13 interconnected courtyards with Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical elements, while the modern Sauletekis campus houses state-of-the-art laboratories, a 24/7 library, and research centres.
The most prominent courtyard, home to the Church of St. Johns and the tallest belfry in Vilnius, hosting historical celebrations and academic ceremonies.
The modern campus features advanced research laboratories, the Scholarly Communication and Information Centre, and a 24/7 library with extensive digital resources.
The oldest courtyard, dating to the late 16th century, features the historic Astronomical Observatory bearing the university's motto: Hinc itur ad astra.
Housing and Student Services
Student Housing
Vilnius University owns dormitories in Vilnius and Siauliai, available to all students including international students. Monthly costs range from EUR 70 to EUR 180 with communal fees included.
- Conveniently located near academic campuses
- Affordable monthly rates from EUR 70
- Social interaction opportunities with fellow students
Libraries and Research
The Vilnius University Library, established in 1570, operates across multiple locations including the Central Library in the Old Town and the modern Scholarly Communication and Information Centre at Sauletekis.
- 24/7 access at the Sauletekis campus library
- Historic reading rooms in the Central Library
- Computers and wireless internet in all reading rooms
Student Life at Vilnius University
Student Life at Vilnius University
Vilnius University offers a rich and diverse student experience that extends well beyond academics. With a strong tradition of community engagement, cultural activities, and sports, students find ample opportunities for personal growth, social connection, and creative expression throughout their studies.
Vilnius: A Vibrant European Capital
Vilnius: A Vibrant European Capital
Living in Vilnius
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a dynamic and affordable European city known for its stunning Baroque Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), thriving tech startup scene, and welcoming international community. With a cost of living significantly lower than Western European capitals, students can enjoy a high quality of life on a modest budget.
Affordable Living
International students typically spend between EUR 350 and EUR 700 per month. Rent in Vilnius is 60% lower than London and 38% lower than Amsterdam.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Vilnius boasts a UNESCO-listed Old Town, numerous museums, galleries, and a vibrant arts scene with festivals, concerts, and theatre performances year-round.
Growing Tech Hub
Lithuania's capital is home to a rapidly expanding fintech and tech startup ecosystem, offering students internship and career opportunities in innovative industries.
Excellent Connectivity
Vilnius International Airport connects the city to major European destinations. Public transport is affordable, with a student monthly pass costing approximately EUR 6.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where Vilnius University Graduates Work
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Relations Office assists non-EU students with obtaining temporary residence permits in Lithuania. A mediation letter is sent by email after tuition payment is confirmed.
All international students must have valid medical insurance for the study period. EU students should carry a European Health Insurance Card; non-EU students need international medical insurance.
Both EU and non-EU students can work full-time (up to 40 hours per week) during studies. Non-EU students must obtain a work permit first. After graduation, non-EU students can stay up to 15 months to find employment.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Vilnius University World Rankings
Vilnius University World Rankings
Vilnius University is consistently recognized as the top-ranked university in Lithuania across all major global ranking systems. It holds strong positions in the QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education World University Rankings, and US News Best Global Universities, reflecting its research output and academic reputation.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Linguistics | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #201-250 |
| Physics and Astronomy | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #251-300 |
| Business and Management Studies | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #451 |
| Medicine | EduRank | #941 (1st in Lithuania) |
Features
Diverse Programs: Offers over 140 Bachelor's and 140 Master's programs, plus PhD studies.\nResearch Excellence: A leading research institution in Lithuania with strong contributions in fields from laser physics to biochemistry.\nInternational Focus: A welcoming environment for international students from over 90 countries.\nAcademic Tradition: Embraces classical university traditions with a focus on combining research and teaching.\nStudent Support: Provides a mentor support system for international students.\nAffordable Living: Students can access discounts on public transport, museums, and food, with affordable dormitory options.\nCampuses: Facilities are located across the city of Vilnius, including the historic Old Town and modern Saulėtekis Campus, as well as locations in Kaunas and Šiauliai.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
February - July
Location
he complex of University buildings extends over a whole block of the Old Town. Its original architecture attracts the visitor’s attention. The construction of the University buildings was carried on over the centuries under the changing influences of the Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical styles. The campus began to take shape in about 1570 in a city quarter belonging to the Bishop of Vilnius. By that time, the area had already been built up with brick houses. It later gradually expanded to the east and to the north, towards St.John’s church. Bounded by four streets , the campus is composed of 13 buildings, some of them having multiple structures, the Church of St.John, and the belfry. The buildings are arranged around 13 courtyards of different shape and size. At present the Rector’s Office, the Library, the Faculties of Philology, Philosophy, and History, as well as Institute of Foreign Languages and the Centre of Oriental Studies are situated there.
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