Education in Latvia for US citizenship

In Latvia, there are three levels of higher education programs – bachelor, master and doctor. Universities and colleges implement academic and professional programs of higher education, as well as scientific activities, research and artistic creativity. Colleges provide first-level professional higher education programs. 

Academic higher education programs are based on fundamental and applied science. The purpose of academic education is to ensure the acquisition of theoretical knowledge and skills for conducting scientific research, which gradually prepare for independent scientific research in the chosen scientific field or sub-sector. Passing exams and mastering a bachelor's or Master's degree is an integral part of academic higher education. Due to successful completion of the academic program of study, students receive a bachelor's or Master's degree.

Professional higher education programs are based on fundamental and applied science, which provides an opportunity to prepare for professional activities. Passing state exams is an integral part of the professional higher education program. Upon completion of second-level professional higher education programs, students receive a professional bachelor's or professional master's degree and appropriate professional qualifications.

A bachelor's degree is awarded to a group of related fields of science. In Latvia, students can obtain the following Bachelor of science degrees: Bachelor of Science in education, Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Social Sciences, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Engineering, Bachelor of Science in agriculture, Bachelor of Science in health, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Environmental Sciences.

The Ministry of education and science of Latvia has defined the principles of good practice in attracting foreign students and conducting training. 

In according to this agreement, higher education institutions have committed to adhering to the criteria and principles of the agreement, encouraging best practices in attracting international students and ensuring that a high-quality educational process is provided. 

In particular, the agreement on best practices for attracting foreign students and conducting training was signed:

• Daugavpils University, 

• ECA University of Applied Sciences,

• Stradins University of Riga, 

• Riga Technical University, 

• University of Latvia, 

• Latvian Academy of Arts, 

• BA School of business and finance, 

• Jazeps Vitols Latvian Music Academy, 

• Latvian Academy of culture, 

• Latvian Maritime Academy, 

• Latvian University of Natural Sciences and technology (LLU),

• Riga Higher Law School, 

• RISEBA University of Applied Sciences, 

• Stockholm School of Economics in Riga, 

• Turiba University College, 

• Liepaja University, 

• Ventspil high school, 

• Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences.

You can read more about admission and the necessary documents on the official websites of the University.

Is it possible to get a scholarship to study?

Yeah. Depending on the purpose of funding, there are three types of state scholarships for foreigners in Latvia:

• study scholarships;

• scholarships for research and teaching;

• scholarships for participation in summer schools.

Who can apply for state scholarships in Latvia?

At the time of applying for the scholarship (february - march of the current year), the applicant must have already studied for at least one year at a higher educational institution. This can be any accredited university in your country or, for example, completing one course in Latvia. If we are talking about admission to the master's program, your bachelor's degree received in your country is quite sufficient, and you can receive a scholarship from the first year of study in the master's program.