Higher education

What are the opportunities for higher education in Latvia?

Latvia has both public and private universities. There are two ways to study – academic or vocational. Academic education focuses on theoretical knowledge and research, while vocational education prepares for the demands of a specific profession. Both programmes may be available at colleges and universities.

To enter university, you need a secondary school graduation certificate or a vocational diploma. Some study programmes may have entrance exams.

Study programmes can be available in Latvian or English.

Accreditation of study programmes and universities is an important guarantee of the quality of studies. Universities must be licensed to admit students and offer study programmes.

Third-country nationals can enrol in Latvian universities if their education documents meet Latvian standards. University requirements can vary and often require knowledge of the national language. Education documents obtained abroad must be submitted for examination Alignment of education documents issued abroad and alignment must be carried out

A list of accredited higher education institutions in Latvia