Are you an international student dreaming of studying in Europe without the financial burden? The Latvian State Scholarships for the 2025/2026 academic year offer a golden opportunity to pursue higher education in Latvia. These scholarships, funded by the Latvian government, provide financial support to students across various levels—Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD. Applications are open from February 1, 2025, to April 1, 2025.
This Blog Includes:
Why Choose Latvia for Your Studies?
Latvia, located in Northern Europe, is known for its rich cultural heritage and high-quality education system. Studying in Latvia offers a unique blend of academic excellence and vibrant student life. The country boasts several reputable higher education institutions that provide a wide range of programs in English, making it an attractive destination for international students.
Scholarship Benefits
The Latvian State Scholarships offer the following financial support:
- Monthly Stipend:
- €500 per month for Bachelor’s and 2nd level professional higher education students.
- €600 per month for Master’s students and 2nd level professional higher education students starting from the 4th study year.
- €700 per month for PhD students.
Please note that while the scholarship provides substantial support, it may not cover all expenses related to your studies and living costs in Latvia. Additional personal funds might be necessary.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Latvian State Scholarships, applicants must:
- Citizenship: Be a citizen of one of the eligible countries that have an agreement with Latvia or offer scholarships for Latvian citizens.
- Academic Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Level: Have successfully completed at least one academic year of studies at a higher education institution.
- Master’s and PhD Levels: Hold a relevant undergraduate or graduate degree.
- Language Proficiency: Provide proof of proficiency in the language of instruction (English or Latvian), as required by the chosen study program.
Also Read: Discover How International Scholarships are Transforming Education and Promoting Global Equity
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for the scholarship:
- Registration: Create a profile on the online application system provided by the State Education Development Agency (SEDA).
- Application Form: Fill out the application form accurately, ensuring all information is correct.
- Required Documents: Upload the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) in the Europass format.
- Motivation letter detailing your reasons for choosing Latvia and the specific study program.
- Certified copies of diplomas or transcripts of records.
- Two letters of recommendation from academic staff members, signed within the last six months.
- Confirmation letter from a Latvian higher education institution indicating your acceptance or provisional acceptance into a study program.
- Study plan outlining your intended coursework or research during the scholarship period.
- Proof of language proficiency.
- Copy of your passport or ID.
- Submission: Submit the completed application and all required documents through the online system by April 1, 2025.
Important Considerations
- Single Application: Each applicant may submit only one application per call.
- Non-Concurrent Funding: The scholarship cannot be awarded concurrently with other grants or scholarships.
- Travel Expenses: The scholarship does not cover travel expenses to and from Latvia.
- Insurance: Scholarship holders are required to arrange their own health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay in Latvia.
Also Read: New Zealand’s Student Visa Shake-Up: What You Need to Know Before Applying in 2025
Top Latvian Universities for International Students
Here are some of the leading universities in Latvia that offer programs for international students:
University Name | Location | Notable Programs |
University of Latvia | Riga | Humanities, Natural Sciences, Business Administration |
Riga Technical University | Riga | Engineering, Computer Science, Architecture |
Rīga Stradiņš University | Riga | Medicine, Dentistry, Public Health |
Daugavpils University | Daugavpils | Education, Arts, Social Sciences |
Stockholm School of Economics in Riga | Riga | Economics, Business |
Application Timeline
- February 1, 2025: Application period opens.
- April 1, 2025: Application deadline.
- June 2025: Notification of scholarship awards.
- September/October 2025: Commencement of studies in Latvia.
FAQs
You can apply for the scholarship with a provisional acceptance letter from a Latvian higher education institution. However, final scholarship approval requires confirmed enrollment.
There is no specific age limit for applicants. Eligibility is primarily based on academic qualifications and citizenship.
International students in Latvia are allowed to work part-time, but it’s essential to balance work commitments with academic responsibilities.
The cost of living in Latvia is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. On average, students may need between €500 to €800 per month to cover accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses.
For more insights on exploring new updates in international education trends, visit Leverage Edu News Updates.