Thinking about studying in Latvia? Riga is the country's largest centre for higher education and offers international students a wide choice of bachelor's, master's and doctoral programmes, including programmes taught in English.
Alongside your studies, Riga offers an international student community, accommodation options, public transport and opportunities to work and build your career. Whether you are coming from the EU or further abroad, preparing for admission, relocation and everyday life in advance will help make your move easier.
Why study in Riga?
Riga is Latvia's main centre for higher education and home to 14 of the country's 19 higher education institutions, with the other five located in other major cities across Latvia. Students can choose from a broad range of fields, including business, IT, engineering, medicine, social sciences and the arts, with bachelor's, master's and doctoral programmes available.
Higher education in Latvia is open to both EU and non-EU students, and many institutions have dedicated international offices that can assist with admissions and practical relocation matters. Scholarship opportunities are also available, with Latvia cooperating with more than 40 countries to provide scholarships for eligible international students.
The majority of universities offer accommodation for both international and local students. Additionally, the cost of living in Latvia is more affordable than in many other popular EU study destinations.
To discover all study-related relocation processes in detail, visit the Study in Latvia page. There you will find information about visas, residence permits, the admission process and so on.
Living in Riga as a student
Many universities offer student accommodation, while private apartments and shared housing provide additional options. Before moving, consider your accommodation costs, public transport, healthcare and other everyday expenses when planning your student budget.
Riga's relatively compact size also makes student life convenient. Universities, libraries, cultural venues, restaurants, parks and entertainment can often be reached easily by public transport, bicycle or on foot.
Can international students work in Latvia?
International students can work while studying in Latvia, although the conditions depend on the study level and residence status.
Full-time bachelor's students can generally work up to 20 hours per week during their studies and full-time during holidays. Full-time master's and doctoral students have broader employment rights. Always check the conditions attached to your visa or residence permit before starting work.
Working alongside your studies can provide additional income as well as valuable professional experience and an opportunity to build connections in the Latvian job market.
Staying in Latvia after graduation
If you would like to continue your career in Latvia after graduating, there are options that may give you additional time to look for employment.
Bachelor's students receive a residence permit covering their study period plus an additional four months after graduation, allowing time to look for work or apply for master's studies. Master's and doctoral graduates also receive an additional four months and may request a further nine-month extension to look for work. The additional extension must be requested before the existing permit expires and is assessed individually.
Preparing to move to Latvia
Relocation requirements differ for EU and non-EU students. Depending on your citizenship and length of stay, you may need to arrange a visa or residence permit, register your residence, organise health insurance and provide proof of sufficient financial resources.
Start the process early and contact the international office at your chosen university for guidance on admission and relocation requirements. Once your place is confirmed, you can begin planning accommodation, travel and your first weeks of student life in Riga.