Go for higher studies in Latvia, one of the greenest countries in the world! Latvia lies between Lithuania and Estonia and even though it is a very small Baltic state boasts of many attractions. Art Nouveau architecture, UNESCO World Heritage & beautiful landscapes merge together here. The country’s landscape is dotted with extensive beaches as well as dense, sprawling forests. As one of the fastest growing economies in Europe, Latvia is all set to make its economy more knowledge-based with its long-term goals on science and technology.
Latvia boasts of diverse cultural and education traditions being a multi-ethnic country. International students get to enjoy many leisure activities that the country offers. There are many places for students to visit like Museums, Theatres, Concert halls, Operas, Parks and Galleries to visit. In winters, winter sports like Ice Skating and skiing are held in Latvia.
The higher education institutions in Latvia are members of international cooperation having many diverse study fields. Latvia offers many grants and scholarships for researchers and teaching staff from several countries for studies as well as research work. English is being taught both for academic and professional bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Latvian Universities. Tuition fees and living costs are generally lower in Latvia when compared to costs in other western countries. Universities in Latvia are reputed for producing high quality IT and engineering graduates and it is easier to get credentials recognised as a degree from Latvia is equivalent to degree from other EU countries.
Quality Education: State-financed and fee-paying higher education colleges & universities exist in Latvia where public grants and scholarships are accessible for top ranking students. There are two levels of higher education programs available in Latvia– academic and professional (for instance translators, bank staff, business legal advisors, pilots and so forth). Colleges for higher education offer both academic and professional instruction, while the “non-college type” foundations offer only professional education.
The Bologna system is followed for academic higher education in Latvia. It is partitioned into three levels – Bachelor’s studies, Master’s studies, and Doctoral studies. A Bachelor’s degree usually takes three or four years and a Master’s degree will take maybe a couple of years.
General Life as a Student: Student life in Latvia is quite enjoyable! You can stay at one of the most secure and greenest nations on the planet. The capital city Riga and other beautiful urban areas which lie close to nature are good for staying in Latvia. You can appreciate the study environment and the picturesque landscapes and friendly environment of the little urban communities. The colleges of Latvia offer you an advanced education system and they consider their establishments of advanced education being sufficiently small to work practically and successfully this way. This guarantees each student gets good attention in studies.
Working while Studying: The labour market circumstance in Latvia has been highly impacted by the worldwide budgetary constraints. But individuals talking different languages can discover employment in spite of the fact that Latvian and additionally Russian language aptitudes are quite often mandatory if you are to land a position in Riga. International students can work part time 20 hours every week without requiring a work permit in Latvia. Once a student gets a residency permit, he/she may apply for a work permit. EU residents may work openly in Latvia as they come under the window of development arrangements of the European Union. Teaching English is a good employment opportunity here.
Working after Graduation: Latvia is one of the fast-growing economies of the European Union. The country boasts of assorted top divisions, with many work opportunities for students especially in global ventures.
A permit to work in Latvia depends upon your nationality. EU nationals won’t require a permit to work in Latvia but they should apply for a residence permit to remain for longer than the traveller visa time (90 days).
Non-EU nationals need a work permit before they can start working in Latvia legally. You should show confirmation of your planned work in Latvia with an enlisted Latvian business to acquire a work permit. Now and again, you may likewise need to secure a long-haul residency permit.
Culture: Latvia has a rich history that has shaped its unique culture. Being located at the crossroads between Western and Eastern cultures, several foreign nations have left significant footprints in Latvia. Traditional culture & customs embedded in Latvian folklore can be best experienced during the Summer Solstice or “Jani” holiday, and the massive Song and Dance festivals in Latvia. Traditional crafts and handiwork & events organised by museums, and a lot of other activities can be found in Latvia. You can explore the city by walking or on bicycle. Student life in Latvia is quite enjoyable!
Requirements vary from program to program and from school to school, but this is generally what you’ll need to apply to a program in Latvia:
.A copy of your passport
.Transcripts of your high school education
.English or Latvian proficiency test results. You can find out more about Latvian proficiency tests here.
.Proof of payment of the application fee - roughly €160 ($180)
.Letter of motivation
.Letters of recommendation
If you’re applying for postgraduate or doctoral studies, you’ll also need to submit transcripts from your prior degree(s) as well as a professional CV. For doctoral studies, you’ll also need to submit an academic CV.
If you’re admitted, keep hold of your proof of payment of the application fee and your admission letter. You’ll need them when you apply for your visa.
The costs of study in Latvia for higher education is different for each course and university, thus there is no definite number for the international students. However, these are some average tuition fees for different levels of studying for International students:
Latvia University Fees for International Students: Average Tuition Fees
Bachelor’s Degree €3000 - €5000
Medicine Degree €15000
Master’s Degrees €1700 for EU and Swiss Students & €3700 for International Students
the average cost of studying in Latvia is some of the lowest in Europe. Not only in Europe, one can compare it to other countries offering English Taught courses, and these are some of the lowest numbers for the international destinations for Education. The medicine and management are on the higher end of the spectrum when compared to other courses.
International students can work part-time jobs anywhere in Latvia for 20 hours per week as long as they maintain their normal study schedules. There are several jobs where students can work part-time for some extra cash or as an additional requirement for the completion of their degree programs. Students can find work with just their residence permit as no extra work permit is required.
Part-time jobs in Latvia are mostly centered in Riga, the economic center of the country however, students can find jobs in smaller towns and cities. The minimum wage in Latvia as of 2020 stands at €430 for 20-40 hours of work per week depending on the job description and the establishment.
Studying abroad helps you to learn new languages, appreciate other cultures, overcome challenges of living in another country and gain a greater understanding of the world. These are all things that modern businesses look for when hiring, and such traits will only become more important in the future.
When can I start applying for study abroad programs? Considering your application as early as possible is the best way to go. After all, the sooner you gain acceptance into a university, the sooner you can arrange your travels.
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When can I start applying for study abroad programs? Considering your application as early as possible is the best way to go. After all, the sooner you gain acceptance into a university, the sooner you can arrange your travels.
The costs associated with studying at a university or school abroad vary greatly. It depends on the nature of your chosen program, the length of your stay, the distance you travel and the kind of lifestyle you want when you get there.
Be aware that some student visas require you to have a certain amount of funds available in your bank account when you arrive in your chosen country. It is best to review the immigration websites for the country you wish to study in or speak to one of our counsellors.
Working while you study can complement your educational and living experience when studying abroad. If you pursue a course at a degree level or above you may be permitted to work while on an international student visa. But before you undertake any paid work, make sure that your visa permits it. The opportunity for students to work part-time during their studies varies from country to country.
Many universities have a dedicated job centre on campus for students that advertises job opportunities and internships to help students develop various skills. The university careers service is also a useful source of information.
