University of Latvia

Tradition of excellence, foundation for your future.

📍 Riga, Latvia 🇱🇻

🏆 #1 in Latvia · QS World #801 · THE World #1001

Quick Facts about University of Latvia

  • Founded: 1919
  • Type: Public
  • Students: 12,055
  • Campus: Urban
  • Tuition: $4,500 – $10,000/year
  • Language: Latvian, English
  • Intakes: Fall, Spring

About University of Latvia

The University of Latvia (UL), established in 1919, is a prominent public research university located in Riga, Latvia. It stands as one of the largest and most prestigious higher education institutions in the Baltic States, recognized for its comprehensive academic and research potential across various fields. The university is dedicated to contributing to global science, higher education, and innovation, while also fostering Latvian democracy, culture, and economic prosperity.

Academics

The University of Latvia offers a wide array of academic and professional studies across humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and medical and health sciences. The university comprises six faculties, including Medicine and Life Sciences, Science and Technology, Economics and Social Sciences, Humanities, Education Sciences and Psychology, and Law. UL is actively developing interdisciplinary study programs, including new English-taught bachelor's programs like "Eastern-Western intercultural studies" and an interdisciplinary program combining linguistics, literary science, and business studies. Research is a cornerstone of UL, with over 50 research fields and active participation in international R&D programs, contributing significantly to Latvia's research output.

International Students

The University of Latvia is committed to attracting and supporting international students, offering a wide range of Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral programs in English. The Foreign Student Division provides comprehensive services, including recruitment, marketing activities, consultations for prospective students, immigration support, and various support programs. The International Students' Collegium (UL ISC), part of the Students' Council, actively represents and integrates international students through academic affairs and social events. UL also organizes orientation courses and events in cooperation with the Erasmus Student Network and the Student Council to facilitate cultural integration.

Campus & Location

The University of Latvia's main building is centrally located in Riga, a city rich in culture and history along the Baltic Sea. The university is expanding its campus in the Torņakalns neighborhood, with modern facilities like the Academic Centre for Natural Sciences already established, providing an excellent environment for research-based study. Riga offers a vibrant city life with numerous outdoor and indoor events, including markets, concerts, and festivals. Public transportation in Riga is efficient and affordable for students.

Career Outcomes

The University of Latvia aims to prepare specialists for a global intercultural environment, offering programs that provide extensive job opportunities. For example, the Master's in English Studies can lead to careers in educational institutions, public administration, translation, NGOs, and international organizations. The university actively collaborates with industrial partners and the Employers' Confederation of Latvia to align study content with labor market needs and foster innovation. UL's Innovation and Acceleration Centre and OpenLab further drive cooperation with industry, contributing to a strong startup culture and facilitating technology transfer.

Information for International Students at University of Latvia

University of Latvia in Riga, Latvia welcomes international students.

  • Visa support available
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available (~$100/month)
  • Work placement / internship opportunities available
  • Teaching languages: Latvian, English

Admissions Requirements for University of Latvia

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Latvia:

  • IELTS minimum: 5.5
  • TOEFL minimum: 80
  • GPA minimum: 2
  • Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
  • Application deadline: 20.06.2024 (non-EU/EEA, visa-free countries); 23.07.2024 (EU/EEA citizens)

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Scholarships & Tuition at University of Latvia

Annual tuition for international students: $4,500 – $10,000/year

✅ University of Latvia offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of University of Latvia

  • National Ranking: #1 in Latvia
  • QS World University Ranking: #801
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #1001
  • Ranking tier: Top 500
  • Research output: High

Campus & Facilities at University of Latvia

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • No disability support info
  • Campus type: Urban
  • Housing cost: ~$100/month

Key Highlights

  • Oldest and largest national research university
  • Leading center for higher education
  • Modern Academic Center in Torņakalns
  • Wide range of accredited study programs
  • High ranking in international university lists
  • Significant contribution to Latvian science

Accreditation

  • European University Association (EUA)
  • Utrecht Network
  • UNICA
  • IAU
  • AUF
  • Talloires
  • Educause
  • Campus Europae

Fields of Study at University of Latvia

  • Computer Science
  • Medicine
  • Law
  • Economics
  • Humanities

Notable Alumni

  • Māris Čaklais
  • Valdis Dombrovskis
  • Ivars Godmanis
  • Mikhail Tal
  • Evika Siliņa

Frequently Asked Questions about University of Latvia

What is University of Latvia?

University of Latvia is a public university located in Riga, Latvia, founded in 1919. It has approximately 12,055 students.

How much does it cost to study at University of Latvia?

Tuition fees at University of Latvia for international students range from $4,500 – $10,000/year. Student housing costs approximately $100/month. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for University of Latvia?

IELTS minimum: 5.5. TOEFL minimum: 80. GPA minimum: 2. Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%). Application deadline: 20.06.2024 (non-EU/EEA, visa-free countries); 23.07.2024 (EU/EEA citizens).

What language are courses taught in at University of Latvia?

Courses at University of Latvia are taught in Latvian and English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 5.5.

What is University of Latvia ranked?

#1 in Latvia · QS World #801 · THE World #1001.

Does University of Latvia offer scholarships?

Yes, University of Latvia offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

Does University of Latvia provide visa support?

Yes, University of Latvia provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.

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