Masters & MBA in Latvia 2026 — Visa D & Riga University Guide

Why Choose Latvia for Masters or MBA?

Top Universities in Latvia for International Students

These institutions consistently rank in QS, Times Higher Education and ARWU global tables and actively admit international Masters and MBA students.

• University of Latvia
  National Flagship

  Riga-based; Sciences, Humanities, Economics and Law.

• Riga Technical University (RTU)
  Est. 1862

  The Baltics' oldest technical university — Engineering, IT, Aviation.

• Riga Stradiņš University (RSU)
  Medical Leader

  English MD and Dentistry; one of Europe's most international medical schools.

• Stockholm School of Economics in Riga
  Top Business (Baltics)

  Elite economics and business school with Swedish heritage.

• Latvia University of Life Sciences
  Agri & Food Science

  Agriculture, Food Technology, Veterinary Medicine in Jelgava.

• RISEBA University
  Business & Media

  Audiovisual Media, Architecture and Business — 'university of business, arts and technology'.

Tuition Fees and Cost of Living in Latvia (2026)

Most Popular Courses for International Students in Latvia

The highest-demand Master's and MBA programs at top Latvia universities, ranked by international enrolment volume.

• Medicine
• Dentistry
• IT & Computer Science
• Aviation Management
• Business Administration
• Pharmacy
• Engineering
• Finance
• Logistics & Supply Chain
• International Business
• Communications
• Architecture

Step-by-Step Application Process for Latvia

The standard timeline runs 9–14 months from shortlisting to landing in Latvia. Start at least one intake cycle ahead of your target start date.

1. Shortlist universitiesResearch English-medium Master's and MBA programs at top Latvia institutions and identify 4–6 target universities by fit and ranking.
2. Take English language testIELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT as required. Many universities accept PTE Academic or Duolingo English Test.
3. Prepare and submit applicationSubmit transcripts, CV, Statement of Purpose, recommendation letters, and any GRE/GMAT scores required.
4. Receive admission letter and pay depositUniversities issue an admission/offer letter after evaluation. Pay the tuition deposit to confirm your seat.
5. Apply for the student visaFile the Latvia student visa application with the embassy/consulate; bring admission letter, financial proof, accommodation proof, health insurance and passport.
6. Travel and register on arrivalWithin the first weeks of arrival, register your address with local authorities and apply for a residence permit if required.

Student Visa Requirements for Latvia

Non-EU students apply for Latvia's long-stay (D) visa or a temporary residence permit: university admission letter, proof of funds (about €620/month), accommodation proof, health insurance, passport and biometrics, filed at the embassy or via OCMA in Riga. Universities' admissions teams pre-check documents, which keeps refusal rates low.

Top Scholarships for International Students in Latvia

Government and university scholarships open to international applicants — most are merit-based and require a separate application alongside admission.

• Latvian State Scholarships
• University Merit Awards
• Erasmus+ Mobility
• SSE Riga Scholarship Fund

Post-Study Work and PR Pathway from Latvia

Students in Latvia may work up to 20 hours/week during studies. After graduation, Latvia grants a residence permit of up to 9 months for job searching under EU graduate rules; employment or founding a startup (Latvia has a dedicated startup visa) converts your status. Riga's IT, fintech and aviation employers hire English-speaking graduates.

FAQs — Study in Latvia for International Students