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How to Study Public Health in Latvia

3 min read · 2026-10-21

Studying public health in Latvia gives you access to EU-standard degrees taught in English at affordable rates. Universities in Riga and other cities welcome international students who want to build careers in health policy, epidemiology, and healthcare management.

Degree levels in public health

Latvian universities offer structured higher education aligned with the Bologna process. You can choose from bachelor and master programmes depending on your previous schooling.

  • Bachelor degrees typically last three years and build a foundation in health sciences.
  • Master degrees take one to two years and focus on advanced policy, research, or management.
  • Some universities offer integrated long-cycle programmes or doctoral studies in medical and health sciences.

English-taught options and language tests

Several public and private universities in Latvia offer public health degrees fully in English. You do not need to speak Latvian to study or live on campus.

  • Check the university admissions page for accepted English tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
  • Some institutions accept previous secondary education taught in English as proof of proficiency.
  • Basic local language courses are often available during the first year to help with daily life.

Tuition fees and living costs

Latvia remains one of the more affordable study destinations in the European Union, with clear cost ranges for local and international students.

  • EU and EEA students usually pay lower tuition rates set by state regulations.
  • Non-EU students typically face higher tuition fees, ranging from 2,500 to 6,000 euros per year. Check the programme page for exact figures.
  • Monthly living costs in Riga, including rent, food, and transport, typically fall between 500 and 800 euros.

Entry requirements and application timeline

Admission processes are straightforward, but you must prepare your documents early to meet visa and enrolment deadlines.

  • You will need a high school diploma for bachelor studies or a bachelor degree for master studies.
  • Transcripts must often be translated into English or Latvian and officially recognized.
  • Application deadlines typically fall between spring and early summer for autumn intake. Always check the national immigration authority for visa processing times.

Common questions

Can I work while studying in Latvia?

International students with a valid residence permit for studies generally have the right to work up to a specific number of hours per week during the academic year.

Do I need health insurance?

Yes, all international students must hold valid health insurance coverage for the entire duration of their stay in Latvia to secure a residence permit.

Are scholarships available?

State scholarships and university-specific tuition waivers exist for eligible international applicants. Check the scholarship own site for current eligibility criteria and deadlines.

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.

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.

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