Top 20 Affordable Universities in Latvia for International Students (2025)

Latvia, a little-known gem in the Baltics, is becoming super popular with international students. Why? It offers a great education without costing a fortune! This country has a cool history, a fun culture, and a growing economy, making it a fantastic place to study.

If you’re like me and want a good education that won’t break the bank, Latvia is definitely worth checking out. It’s a unique place where you can get a quality education and have an awesome experience.

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Top 20 Affordable Universities in Latvia (2025)

Okay, so you’re thinking about Latvia? Awesome! Let’s dive into the 20 most affordable universities there for international students in 2025.

I’ve put together a list that compares tuition fees, scholarships, and popular courses. You’ll see that Latvia is serious about education and has lots to offer in different fields.

University Name	Average Tuition Fee (EUR/Year)	Scholarship Availability	Popular Courses
University of Latvia	3,000 – 7,000	Yes	Computer Science, Medicine, Business
Riga Technical University	3,500 – 8,000	Yes	Engineering, Architecture, IT
Turiba University	2,500 – 5,500	Yes	Tourism Management, Business Administration, Communication
BA School of Business and Finance	3,200 – 6,500	Yes	Finance, Management, Economics
Liepaja University	2,000 – 4,500	Yes	Information Technology, Art, Education
Ventspils University College	2,200 – 5,000	Yes	Translation, Computer Science, Business
Rezekne Academy of Technologies	1,800 – 4,000	Yes	Engineering, Economics, Education
Latvian University of Life Sciences and Technologies	3,000 – 6,000	Yes	Agriculture, Forestry, Veterinary Medicine
Daugavpils University	2,000 – 4,800	Yes	Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences
Information Systems Management Institute (ISMA)	3,500 – 7,500	Yes	Business, Management, IT
Transport and Telecommunication Institute (TSI)	4,000 – 8,500	Yes	Logistics, Telecommunications, Aviation
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences	2,800 – 5,800	Yes	Business, Tourism, Media
EKA University of Applied Sciences	3,300 – 7,000	Yes	Law, Business, IT
Baltic International Academy	3,000 – 6,200	Yes	Management, Marketing, Finance
Latvian Maritime Academy	3,800 – 7,800	Yes	Maritime Transport, Logistics, Engineering
Riga Graduate School of Law	8,000 – 12,000	Yes	Law, International Law, Human Rights
Art Academy of Latvia	3,200 – 6,800	Yes	Fine Arts, Design, Architecture
Jazeps Vitols Latvian Academy of Music	3,500 – 7,200	Yes	Music Performance, Composition, Musicology
Latvian Christian Academy	2,700 – 5,500	Yes	Theology, Social Work, Psychology
College of Law	3,000 – 6,000	Yes	Law, International Law, Business Law

Why Study in Latvia as an International Student?

Latvia is an awesome choice for international students for lots of reasons! It mixes great academics, cool culture, and prices that won’t empty your wallet.

Trust me, studying in Latvia can change your life, both personally and in your career. The number of international students has been going up for years, so its clear people are catching on to how great it is.

1. Unmatched Quality of Education

Latvian universities offer education that’s recognized around the world. They have modern stuff and teachers who know their stuff!

Plus, many programs meet international standards, so you’ll be ready for a job anywhere. Lots of these universities also work with schools in other countries, which makes the education even better.

2. Affordable Tuition Fees and Living Costs

Compared to places in Western Europe, Latvia is way cheaper for tuition and living expenses. This means you can study even if you’re on a tight budget. Consider exploring options for affordable masters programs if you are looking to further your education.

You’re looking at around €2,000 to €8,000 a year for tuition, and you can live on as little as €500 a month. That makes it one of the most affordable places to study in Europe! To understand better the costs of living see Complete Guide to Living Cost in Latvia for International Students 2025.

3. Scholarship Opportunities for International Students

There are tons of scholarships out there for international students. The Latvian government and the universities themselves offer them.

These scholarships can cover your tuition, room, and even living expenses, making it even easier to study there. It’s like they’re paying you to get an education!

4. Part-Time Work Options to Support Expenses

If you want to earn some extra cash, international students in Latvia can work part-time. This not only helps with expenses but also gives you valuable work experience and a chance to meet locals.

You can work up to 20 hours a week during the school year, which is perfect for balancing work and studies. It’s a win-win!

5. Safe and Inclusive Student Communities

Latvia is a safe and friendly place with lots of different cultures mixed together. This helps international students feel right at home.

The country has a low crime rate, and the people are super nice, so you’ll feel comfortable and secure. Many universities also have special services just for international students.

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Top Reasons to Study at Affordable Universities in Latvia

Choosing a cheaper university in Latvia is a smart move for international students. You get a good education without spending all your money, which is a huge plus!

1. High-Quality Education at Low Cost

Just because they’re affordable doesn’t mean they skimp on quality. You’ll get great teaching and resources without paying crazy prices like you would in the West.

Many of these universities have a solid reputation and offer programs that are recognized. It’s the best of both worlds!

2. Scholarship and Financial Aid Programs

Lots of universities have scholarships and aid just for international students. This can seriously cut down on how much you have to pay.

These programs can cover tuition, room, and other stuff, making it way easier to afford college. The Latvian State Education Development Agency (Valsts izglītības attīstības aģentūra) even has scholarships for international students.

3. Lower Living Costs Compared to Other Countries

Living in Latvia is way cheaper than in many other European countries. Think about it you’ll save on rent, food, transportation, and even fun stuff!

This makes it much easier to handle your money while you’re studying. Numbeo says that things in Riga cost almost 40% less than in cities like London. That’s a huge difference!

4. Multicultural Environment with International Student Support

Latvian universities are full of students from all over the world, which is awesome. You’ll meet people from different backgrounds and learn a lot.

They also have people who are there to help you get used to things, like language courses, programs to learn about the culture, and advisors to help you with your classes.

5. Work Opportunities During and After Studies

You can work part-time while you’re in school, which is great for earning some extra cash. And after you graduate, there are chances to stay and work, especially in certain fields.

The Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) says that IT, engineering, and healthcare are all growing, so there are jobs to be had. For more on this, check out Post-Study Work Visa in Latvia: Eligibility, Requirements, and Process.

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Admission Requirements for Affordable Universities in Latvia

To get into a cheaper university in Latvia, you’ll need to meet certain requirements for your grades and English skills. Make sure you get all your documents ready so you can apply without any problems.

1. Academic Qualifications (High School Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree)

If you’re applying for a bachelor’s degree, you need a high school diploma. For a master’s, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree. Your qualifications should be equal to what they expect in Latvia.

Get your transcripts and diplomas officially translated and certified. This is super important!

2. English Proficiency Test (IELTS/TOEFL)

Since many programs are taught in English, you have to prove you’re good at it. Usually, that means taking the IELTS or TOEFL test.

The scores you need depend on the university and program, but usually, they want at least a 6.0 on IELTS or a 79 on TOEFL. Also, you might want to check Study in Latvia HSA- Internal link.

3. Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation (LOR)

You’ll need to write a statement of purpose that explains what you want to study and why. You’ll also need letters from teachers or professors who know you and can talk about your skills.

These documents help the university see if you’re a good fit for their program. Take your time and make them good!

4. Valid Passport and Identification Documents

You absolutely need a valid passport if you’re an international student. You might also need other IDs, depending on what the university or government asks for.

Make sure your passport won’t expire while you’re studying. It’s a hassle to deal with that from another country!

5. Proof of Financial Stability

You have to show that you have enough money to pay for your tuition and living expenses in Latvia. This could be bank statements, letters from sponsors, or proof of a scholarship.

The Latvian government wants to make sure you can afford to live there while you study.

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Cost of Studying in Latvia

It’s really important to know how much it will cost to study in Latvia so you can plan your finances. This includes tuition, room, and other expenses.

If you’re careful with your money, you can definitely make it work. Let’s break down the costs:

Expense Type	Average Cost (EUR/Year)
Tuition Fees	2,000 – 8,000
Accommodation	2,400 – 4,800
Food	1,800 – 3,000
Transportation	300 – 600
Miscellaneous (Books, Personal Expenses)	1,000 – 2,000
Total Estimated Cost	7,500 – 18,400

Living Expenses in Major Cities of Latvia

Where you live can make a big difference in how much you spend. Riga, being the capital, is usually more expensive than other cities.

Knowing this can help you pick a city that fits your budget. Also, you might want to find budget universities Latvia.

City	Average Monthly Living Cost (EUR)	Notes
Riga	600 – 1,000	Capital city, higher costs for accommodation and entertainment.
Daugavpils	450 – 750	Second-largest city, more affordable accommodation options.
Liepaja	500 – 800	Coastal city, moderate living costs.
Ventspils	480 – 780	Port city, reasonable living expenses.
Rezekne	400 – 700	Eastern Latvia, lowest living costs.

Scholarships for International Students in Latvia

Getting a scholarship is a huge deal because it can really lower the cost of studying in Latvia. There are different kinds of scholarships, and each one has its own rules.

Make sure you check out How to Study in Latvia with Scholarships HSA- Internal link.

1. Merit-Based Scholarships: Academic excellence rewards.

These scholarships go to students who have amazing grades. They look at your GPA, how well you did in certain subjects, and your test scores.

These rewards are there to help students who are doing really well in school. If you’re a top student, definitely apply!

2. Need-Based Scholarships: Financial assistance based on need.

If you don’t have a lot of money or you’re facing some financial problems, these scholarships are for you. They look at your family’s income and other things to see if you need help.

The goal is to make sure everyone has a chance to study, no matter how much money they have. It’s all about giving talented students a fair shot.

3. Government Scholarships: Sponsored by the government for international students.

The Latvian government offers scholarships to international students to encourage people from other countries to come and study there.

The rules and benefits depend on the specific program and agreements between Latvia and your home country. Check the website of the Latvian State Education Development Agency (VIAA) for more information.

4. University-Specific Scholarships: Offered directly by the institutions.

Many universities in Latvia have their own scholarships for international students. These might be based on your grades, your financial situation, or what you’re studying.

The rules, how to apply, and what you get vary from school to school, so it’s important to check what each university requires.

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Student Visa Requirements for Latvia

If you’re planning to study in Latvia, you’ll need to get a student visa. There are a few things you need to do to make sure you get it without any problems.

You can find information about Latvia Student Visa for Indian Students: Comprehensive Step-by-Step Guide for 2025 HSA Internal link.

1. Valid Passport and University Acceptance Letter

First off, you need a passport that’s not expired. You also need a letter from a Latvian university that says they’ve accepted you into their program.

Your passport should be good for at least three months longer than you plan to stay in Latvia. Don’t wait until the last minute to check!

2. Proof of Financial Stability and Bank Statements

You have to show that you have enough money to cover your tuition, living expenses, and other costs while you’re in Latvia. You can do this with bank statements, scholarship confirmations, or letters from people who are sponsoring you.

Basically, they want to know you won’t run out of money while you’re there. Makes sense, right?

3. Medical Examination Certificate

You’ll probably need a medical exam to make sure you don’t have any health issues that could be a problem. The exam has to be done by a doctor who’s recognized, and you have to send the certificate with your visa application.

4. English Language Proficiency Certificate

To prove you can study in English, you need to show an English language certificate like IELTS or TOEFL. The scores you need depend on the university and the program you’re taking.

It’s super important to meet these requirements so you can do well in your classes. You don’t want language to be a barrier! If you are looking for countries where you can study without IELTS then review guide on Study in Latvia without IELTS: Your Ultimate Guide 2025.

5. Completed Visa Application Form and Fees

You need to fill out the visa application form carefully and send it in with the fees. You can usually find the form on the website of the Latvian embassy in your country.

Make sure all the information you give is correct, so you don’t have any problems or delays. Double-check everything!

Top Student Cities in Latvia

Where you choose to live can really affect your experience studying abroad. Latvia has some great cities for international students, and each one has something special to offer.

City	Key Features	Student Life
Riga	Capital city, cultural hub, numerous universities.	Vibrant nightlife, cultural events, diverse student community.
Daugavpils	Second-largest city, historic architecture, affordable living.	Quiet and affordable, close-knit community, cultural activities.
Liepaja	Coastal city, beautiful beaches, maritime atmosphere.	Relaxed beach life, music festivals, active student organizations.
Ventspils	Port city, modern infrastructure, family-friendly environment.	Safe and clean, sports facilities, cultural events.
Rezekne	Eastern Latvia, cultural center, natural beauty.	Close to nature, traditional events, small student community.

Post-Study Work Opportunities in Latvia

After you graduate, Latvia has some options for international students who want to work there. Knowing what’s available and which industries are growing can help you plan your career.

Aspect	Details
Post-Study Work Permits	International graduates can apply for a residence permit to seek employment after graduation. This permit is typically valid for a specific period, allowing you time to find a suitable job.
High-Demand Industries	IT, engineering, healthcare, and logistics are among the industries with high demand for skilled professionals in Latvia. Graduates with expertise in these fields have good job prospects.
Job Search Tips	Network with professionals in your field, utilize online job portals, attend career fairs, and seek guidance from university career services to enhance your job search efforts.

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