If you want to study international relations in Lithuania, you will usually look at bachelor's or master's programmes taught in English. The process is fairly standard: check entry rules, prepare documents, apply on time, and confirm costs on the university's official page.
What you can study
International relations is usually offered as a social sciences degree. In Lithuania, you may find it under names like international relations, political science, diplomacy, global studies, or European studies.
- Bachelor's level - for students who finished secondary school.
- Master's level - for students who already have a bachelor's degree.
Some universities focus more on politics and diplomacy, while others add economics, security, law, or regional studies. Always read the programme page carefully, because the course content can differ a lot.
Typical entry requirements
Entry rules depend on the university and the degree level. For exact rules, always check the university's admissions page for your chosen programme.
- Bachelor's: a secondary school diploma or equivalent.
- Master's: a recognised bachelor's degree in a related field, or in some cases a wider social science background.
- English: proof of English may be needed, often through IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted certificate. Some universities accept school results or interview-based proof.
- Documents: passport, transcript, diploma, motivation letter, CV, and sometimes recommendation letters.
Some programmes ask for an interview. Some may also want a short essay or statement of purpose. If your documents are not in English, you may need certified translations.
English-taught options and how to choose
Many Lithuanian universities offer English-taught programmes in international relations or closely related subjects. The number of options is smaller than in big study destinations, so it helps to compare carefully.
- Check the teaching language on the programme page.
- Look at the course list, not only the title.
- See whether the programme includes an internship, exchange semester, or research project.
- Check if the university has support for international students.
Useful official places to check are the university website, the admissions office page, and the national study portal if the school uses one. Do not rely only on third-party listings, because requirements can change.
Tuition and living costs
Tuition in Lithuania depends on the university, the degree level, and whether you are an EU or non-EU student. Do not use old numbers from blogs. Check the programme page for the current fee.
As a general guide, social science and humanities master's and bachelor's programmes in English often fall into a moderate European range. Public universities may charge less than private ones, and fees can differ between programmes even within the same university.
- EU students: may pay lower fees in some cases, especially if the programme is state-funded or has special conditions.
- Non-EU students: often pay full tuition, which is usually higher.
- Living costs: plan for housing, food, transport, insurance, books, and personal expenses. Vilnius is often more expensive than smaller cities.
A realistic student budget should include rent or dormitory fees, monthly food costs, local transport, and health insurance. To estimate your total cost, use the university's own cost guide if it has one, and compare it with current prices from official city or student sources.
Application timeline
Deadlines can change from year to year, so treat any online dates as examples only. Always confirm on the university's admissions page.
- 6-12 months before studies: shortlist programmes and check entry requirements.
- 4-8 months before: prepare translations, English proof, and other documents.
- 3-6 months before: submit your application.
- After applying: wait for document review, interview, or additional requests.
- Before arrival: arrange housing, health insurance, and, if needed, a residence permit.
If you are a non-EU student, start early. Visa and residence permit steps can take time, and you should check the official migration authority in Lithuania for the latest rules.
How universities find candidates
Many universities do not wait for students to contact them first. They search admissions databases, student platforms, and profile registers for candidates who match the programme.
- Your field of interest.
- Your education level.
- Your English level.
- Your documents and study goal.
If your profile is clear and complete, an admissions office can see whether you fit their programme and contact you first. This does not mean you are admitted. It only means you may get faster, more direct contact.
Common questions
Do I need perfect grades to study international relations in Lithuania?
No single grade rule fits every university. Some programmes are selective, while others focus more on meeting the formal entry requirements. Check the admissions page for the exact academic profile they want.
Can I study international relations in English?
Yes, many universities in Lithuania offer English-taught programmes or courses. Always confirm the language of instruction on the official programme page, because not every track is taught in English.
Can I work while studying?
Many international students can work part-time, but the rules depend on your nationality and residence status. Check the official Lithuanian immigration authority and the university's international office before you make plans.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first. You stay in control, and you decide which offers or contacts to reply to.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.