Fully Funded Latvia Government Scholarships For International Students 2025

Latvia, a dynamic and culturally rich nation in Northern Europe, is fast becoming one of Europe’s most attractive study destinations. With a blend of strong academic traditions, modern innovation, and vibrant cultural life, the country is investing heavily in education to attract outstanding global talent. For 2025, the Latvian government has announced its Fully Funded Scholarships Programme, offering international students the opportunity to pursue undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate studies in Latvia without financial burden.

In this article, we will explore the background of Latvia’s higher education system, the features and benefits of the scholarship, eligibility requirements, the application process, and expert tips for a successful application.

About Latvia

Located on the eastern shores of the Baltic Sea, Latvia is a small yet forward-looking nation that has built a reputation for innovation, resilience, and openness. Its capital city, Riga, is home to world-class universities, cutting-edge research centres, and a vibrant student life that blends history with modernity. Over the past few decades, Latvia has transformed itself into a modern hub for education, research, and cultural exchange. With its growing reputation as an academic destination, the Latvian government is strategically positioning its universities to compete globally. As part of this effort, the 2025 Fully Funded Latvia Government Scholarships are designed to eliminate financial barriers and give deserving international students access to top-tier academic opportunities.

These scholarships are expected to cover tuition fees, monthly living stipends, travel costs, health insurance, and additional support for research or academic projects. With opportunities available across all disciplines—from engineering and natural sciences to business, humanities, and creative arts—the programme welcomes talented students who aspire to advance their careers and contribute to global knowledge.

What the Scholarship Covers

The Latvia Government Scholarship provides monthly stipends to cover part of the living and study expenses of international students. While the scholarship is often described as “fully funded,” applicants should note that tuition fees and other costs may vary by institution and programme.

Monthly Allowances

  • Bachelor’s students: ~ €500 per month

  • Master’s students: ~ €600 per month

  • PhD students: ~ €700 per month

Additional Support

  • Duration: Scholarships are typically awarded for one academic year (two terms). Extensions are possible depending on performance and programme.

  • Coverage: Stipend is meant to support accommodation, meals, study materials, and daily living expenses.

  • Research/Short Visits: Academic staff, researchers, and PhD students may also apply for short-term visits (1–10 months).

 Note: Tuition fees, travel expenses, and health insurance are generally the responsibility of the student, unless otherwise specified by the host institution.

Areas of Study

The scholarships cover a wide range of academic fields, ensuring opportunities for students with diverse goals:

  • Engineering & Technology – computer science, civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.

  • Natural Sciences – physics, chemistry, biology, environmental sciences.

  • Business & Economics – international business, economics, finance, and management.

  • Humanities & Social Sciences – history, political science, sociology, international relations, and cultural studies.

  • Health & Life Sciences – nursing, biomedical sciences, and public health.

  • Arts & Creative Disciplines – fine arts, design, architecture, and media studies.

Eligible Levels of Study

The scholarships are open to applicants across multiple academic levels:

  1. Bachelor’s Degree

    • Applicants must have completed at least one year of undergraduate study at a recognized institution.

    • Open to those studying humanities, sciences, technology, social sciences, and more.

  2. Master’s Degree

    • Open to graduates of recognized universities.

    • Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.

  3. PhD Studies

    • Open to candidates already enrolled in doctoral programmes.

    • Applicants can receive support for study, research, or mobility opportunities.

  4. Short-Term Research or Academic Visits

    • PhD students, researchers, or academic staff may apply for 1–10 month visits to conduct research, participate in academic projects, or deliver lectures in Latvian universities.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  1. Nationality

    • Open to citizens of countries that have signed agreements on education and science cooperation with Latvia.

    • As of 2025, students from over 30–39 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas are eligible.

  2. Academic Requirements

    • Bachelor’s applicants: must have completed at least one academic year in their home country or elsewhere.

    • Master’s applicants: must hold a recognized undergraduate degree.

    • PhD applicants: must be enrolled in a doctoral programme at the time of application.

  3. Language Proficiency

    • Applicants must provide proof of proficiency in the language of instruction (English or Latvian).

    • Some programmes do not require IELTS/TOEFL if prior education was conducted in English.

  4. Admission to a Latvian HEI

    • Applicants must secure a letter of confirmation or admission from a Latvian higher education institution.

    • Students already studying in Latvia must also present confirmation if they wish to extend their stay or change programme.

  5. Character & Motivation

    • Applicants must submit a motivation letter outlining study goals, academic interests, and reasons for choosing Latvia.

    • Strong academic records and recommendation letters are highly valued.

Application Process

The application process is competitive and requires careful preparation.

Step 1: Choose a Programme and University

  • Research Latvian universities and select your preferred programme (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD).

  • Contact the institution to confirm eligibility and request an admission or confirmation letter.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Applicants must typically submit:

  • Completed online application form (Apply here).

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV) (Europass format recommended).

  • Motivation letter (maximum 1–2 pages).

  • Two recommendation letters from academic staff.

  • Certified academic transcripts and diplomas.

  • Copy of passport/ID card.

  • Admission or confirmation letter from the Latvian HEI.

  • Proof of language proficiency (English or Latvian).

Step 3: Submit Online Application

  • Upload all required documents to the official application portal.

  • Documents should be in English or Latvian; certified translations are required for other languages.

Step 4: Selection & Evaluation

  • Applications are reviewed by an expert commission.

  • Selection is based on:

    • Academic merit and achievements

    • Motivation and study plan

    • Quality of recommendation letters

    • Relevance of chosen programme to applicant’s academic/career goals

Step 5: Results

  • Successful applicants will be notified by June 2025.

  • Scholarships will begin from the Autumn semester of 2025/2026.

Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 1 April 2025.

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Start Early – Begin researching programmes and preparing documents months before the deadline.

  • Write a Strong Motivation Letter – Clearly explain why you want to study in Latvia, how it benefits your career, and your long-term goals.

  • Secure Strong Recommendations – Choose professors or supervisors who know your academic capabilities well.

  • Highlight Achievements – Mention academic awards, research experience, or extracurricular leadership.

  • Double-Check Documents – Incomplete or incorrectly formatted applications are often rejected.

  • Plan Finances – Even with the stipend, check if tuition or travel costs need to be covered separately.

  • Apply to Multiple Programmes (if eligible) – Increases your chances of acceptance.

Why Study in Latvia?

  • Affordable Living Costs compared to Western Europe.

  • High-Quality Education with internationally recognized degrees.

  • Growing number of English-taught programmes.

  • Safe and welcoming environment for international students.

  • Rich cultural heritage and vibrant student life in cities like Riga, Daugavpils, and Liepāja.

  • A gateway to Europe, offering easy travel opportunities within the EU and Schengen Area.

Conclusion

The 2025 Fully Funded Latvia Government Scholarships for International Students are a golden opportunity for those aspiring to pursue higher education in Europe. By covering living expenses and providing access to quality institutions, the scholarship makes studying in Latvia accessible to talented students worldwide.

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