Study in Latvia for Indian Students : Universities, Courses

If you’re planning to pursue your Master’s degree abroad in 2025, Latvia is a destination that should be first on your list. From affordable tuition fees and internationally recognised degrees to a peaceful environment and high-quality education, Latvia has much to offer. This blog will cover everything you need to know to study in Latvia, especially if you’re an Indian or international student. 

Why Study in Latvia? 

For a country of just over two million inhabitants, Latvia boasts a surprisingly rich higher education landscape. With 59 universities and colleges, students can choose from various programmes, many of which are taught in English or Russian.  

Whether you’re interested in Architecture, Social Sciences, Medicine, or Aviation, Latvia offers modern, internationally oriented degrees. 

Here are some top reasons why students choose to study in Latvia: 

• Low Tuition Fees: Tuition costs range from 1,550* to 6,000* EUR per year, in Indian rupees ₹139,500* to ₹540,000*. Even specialised fields like Medicine cost less compared to other countries. Business degrees like Executive MBAs may exceed 25,600* EUR/year in indian rupees ₹23,04,000* per year, but these are exceptions. 
• Research & Innovation Hub: Latvia invests heavily in innovation. This country could be your launchpad if you’re into innovative materials, biomedicine, or cancer treatment research. 
• Natural Beauty: Over half the country is forested. Latvia also features 500 km of coastline, national parks like Gauja and Kemeri, and scenic lakes like Lake Razna. 
• Welcoming for Indian Students: Latvia is becoming a popular choice for students worldwide. The number of international students grew by 25% in one year, and around 2,000 Indian students are already studying here. Universities offer support, and student groups help you easily feel at home and make friends. 

Study in Latvia for Indian Students 

Latvia is increasingly becoming a top choice for Indian students. Why? With affordable education, a streamlined visa process, and strong post-graduation job prospects, Latvia is a top choice for Indian students. 

Moreover, Indian students find adapting easy due to the multicultural environment and growing South Asian communities. 

Advantages: 

• Affordable tuition and living costs 
• Many English-taught Master’s programmes 
• Easy application process 
• Part-time work is allowed during studies 

Study in Latvia for International Students 

Latvia welcomes international students with open arms. The education system is modern, degrees are globally recognised, and many universities offer full-time English-taught programmes. 

Whether you come from the EU or non-EU countries, you’ll find the experience smooth and enriching. Top choices for international students in Latvia include Riga, Jelgava, and Liepaja. 

Study in Latvia Requirements 

To apply for a Master’s degree in Latvia, you’ll typically need: 

• A recognised Bachelor’s degree 
• Academic transcripts (translated into English) 
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.0, TOEFL 500, or equivalent) 
• A copy of your passport 
• Motivation letter 
• CV/Resume 

Note: Some universities in Latvia may require you to take subject-specific entrance exams or participate in an online interview (e.g., via Skype) as part of the admissions process.  

Most Latvian universities charge a non-refundable application fee ranging from €50 to €150 for processing international applications. This fee is typically paid online by credit card or bank transfer at the time of application submission. Be sure to budget for this as it’s mandatory to apply. 

General Steps: 

• Submit your documents to the university 
• Receive Conditional Acceptance 
• Pay your tuition fees 
• Apply for your Resident Permit and Study Visa 
• Inform the university of your arrival details 
• Register after arrival and get your student ID 

Study in Latvia Fees 

If Latvia isn’t already on your study-abroad radar, it should be. This Baltic nation is gaining serious attention for offering quality education at prices that won’t bury you in debt. Here’s what you need to know about tuition costs 2025—broken down clearly, by program type. 

Undergraduate Programs 

Latvian universities are friendly to Indian students, especially regarding cost. 

• Humanities & Arts: Want to study history, philosophy, or languages? These programs can start at just €1,600*/year or ₹144,000*/year. 
• STEM & Business: More technical degrees, such as engineering, IT, or finance, cost around €3,000*—€5,000*/year or ₹277,590*/year-₹462,650*/year, which is still affordable compared to Western standards. 

Master’s Programs 

Graduate degrees here deliver both academically and financially. 

• Most standard master’s programs range from €3,000*–€6,000* per year or ₹277,590*/year-₹555,180*/year, with a typical duration of 1–2 years. 
• Specialised degrees like Executive MBAs can cost €20,000*—€25,000* or₹1,850,600*-₹2,313,250*, but these are niche and often tied to business schools with global partnerships. 

Medical & Dental Studies 

Medicine and dentistry are exceptions to Latvia’s low-cost rule, but still cheaper than in many countries. 

• Expect to pay between €8,000 and €15,000 or ₹740,240*-₹1,387,950* annually. 
• These degrees take 5–6 years to complete, with heavy clinical components built in. 

Business Degrees & MBAs 

Business education in Latvia comes with flexible pricing, depending on the level. 

• Undergraduate business programs like BBA: €3,500–€6,500/year or ₹323,855*- ₹601,445* 
• MBAs: Around €10,000*/year or ₹958,800*/year on average 
• Elite MBAs (with global ties or customised for executives): Can exceed upto €20,000* or ₹1,911,600*.  

PhDs 

• Many PhD students pay little to no tuition, thanks to public funding, scholarships, or paid research roles. 
• If you’re self-funded, some programs might charge a modest fee, a few hundred euros per year. 

Whether starting your academic journey or upgrading your career with a master’s or PhD, Latvia gives you room to grow without draining your bank account. 

Scholarships for Indian Students in Latvia 

Studying in Latvia is already affordable, and there are ways to make it even cheaper! You can apply for different types of scholarships and support as an international student. 

Latvian Government Scholarships 

• The Latvian government offers scholarships for students from certain countries. 
• These are usually for 1 year, for exchange or full-time study. 
• Applications open in the spring for the next academic year. 
• Check the official Study in Latvia website to see if your country is eligible. 

University Scholarships 

• Many universities in Latvia offer their own scholarships: 
• For students with top grades (usually after their first year). 
• For students from specific countries. 
• For students active in university life. 
• These can be partial tuition fee discounts or small financial awards. 
• Ask the university’s international office when you apply. 

Erasmus+ Grants

• If your program includes study or internship time in another EU country, you might get Erasmus+ support. 
• This helps pay for travel and living costs during your time abroad. 
• It’s not a direct scholarship for tuition, but it helps reduce expenses. 

Scholarships from Your Home Country

• Some governments give scholarships to students who want to study abroad, including in Latvia. 
• For example, India’s ICCR scholarships or programs from some African countries. 
• You can also check out Erasmus Mundus, which offers fully funded Master’s programs (sometimes partly in Latvia). 

Education Loans

• Some countries offer student loans with low interest rates. 
• You can repay the loan after you finish studying and get a job. 

Cost of Living in Latvia 

On average, living in Latvia costs around €700*–€800* per month or ₹63,000*-₹72,000*, covering rent, food, transport, and other daily expenses. Here’

Accommodation (Rent) 

s a simple breakdown to help you plan your budget: 

• €100*–€400*/month or ₹9,440* to ₹37,760*/month 
• Student dormitories: €100*–€200* or ₹9,440* to ₹18,880*. (shared room), a bit more for a single room. 
• Shared apartment (Riga): €200*–€300* or ₹18,880* to ₹28,320*. For a private room. 
• Studio flat: €300*–€400* or ₹28,320* to ₹37,760* depending on location. 
• Outside Riga: Cheaper options are available in smaller cities. 

Utilities & Internet 

• €50*–€150*/month or ₹4,720* to ₹14,160*. 
• Dorms often include utilities in the rent. 
• Private apartments may see higher bills, especially during winter (heating). 
• The Internet is fast and affordable. 

Food & Groceries 

• €200*–€300*/month or ₹18,880* to ₹28,320*. 
• Save by cooking at home or eating at university canteens. 
• Grocery prices are reasonable; fresh produce is available at local markets. 
• Eating out: A basic meal costs €7*–€10* or ₹661* to ₹944* at a low-cost restaurant. 

Public Transport 

• €15*–€30*/month or ₹1,438* to ₹2,876* with student discount (Riga). 
• In smaller towns, transport might not even be necessary—walking or biking is everyday. 

Leisure & Miscellaneous 

• €50–€100/month or ₹4,720 to ₹9,440 month.  
• Gym, movies, student events, occasional nights out. 
• Movie ticket: ~€6, Beer in a bar: ~€3. 
• Budget €50 if you’re frugal; go higher if you enjoy clubbing or trips. 

Total Monthly Estimate 

• €700*–€800* or ₹67,095* to ₹76,680*. (can vary based on city, housing choice, and lifestyle) 

Latvia Student Visa Guide: Process, Fees, and Requirements 

Latvia Study Visa Fees 

The visa fees for studying in Latvia vary based on visa type and nationality. Typical fees are: 

• Short-term (C) Visa: €60 
• Long-term (D) Visa: €120 

(Note: Fees may vary slightly depending on your country of residence and the embassy you apply through.) 

Latvia Student Visa Application Process 

Complete the Application Form 

You can download and fill out the visa application form from the official OCMA (Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs) website. 

Prepare Your Documents 

Collect all necessary documents, ensuring they are in English or Latvian as required. 

Submit Your Application 

Submit your completed application, supporting documents, and visa fee to OCMA or the nearest Latvian embassy or consulate. 

Biometric Data Collection 

 You will be asked to provide fingerprints and a digital photograph as part of the process. 

Wait for Processing 

The decision on a visa typically takes 15 to 30 days. Processing times may vary depending on the embassy and the time of year. 

Latvia Student Visa Requirements for Indian Students 

Below is a checklist of common documents Indian students need when applying for a Latvia student visa: 

• Signed study agreement or admission letter 
• Passport with 2 blank pages minimum 
• Confirmation slip or receipt of application 
• Visa fee €60 (exempt for Masters/PhD) 
• Recent passport photos (35x45mm) 
• Invitation letter approved by OCMA 
• Valid travel insurance (€42,600 coverage) 
• Copies of previous visas (if any) 
• Proof of accommodation in Latvia 
• Proof of financial means 
• Sponsorship proof (if applicable) 
• Confirmed travel tickets/reservation 
• Education qualification documents 

How Shuraa Education Can Help 

Applying to study abroad can be complicated. That’s where Shuraa Education steps in. Studying in Latvia is easier than ever—we care for the details so Indian and international students can focus on their future.  

Services We Offer: 

• Free counselling sessions 
• University shortlisting 
• Application assistance 
• Visa guidance and documentation 
• Pre-departure support 
• Post-arrival assistance in Latvia 

Whether you’re looking for scholarship guidance or need help understanding study requirements in Latvia, we’re here to support you. 

Latvia offers the perfect mix of quality education, affordability, and a peaceful lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to explore Europe, enhance your career, or immerse yourself in advanced research, a Master’s in Latvia could be the opportunity you’re looking for. 

Start your journey today — study in Latvia and open the door to a world of possibilities! Need help? Contact Shuraa Education today to make your dream of studying in Latvia a reality!