If you want to study nursing in Latvia, you usually start with a bachelor's degree or, if you already have a health-related background, a master's degree. The exact entry rules, language options and fees depend on the university, so you should always check the programme page and the university's admissions office.
Latvia can be a practical choice if you want a European degree, a clear application process and the chance to study in English in some programmes. Here is what you need to know before you apply.
1. Study levels in nursing
In Latvia, nursing is usually offered at these levels:
- Bachelor's level - this is the main starting point if you want to become a nurse.
- Master's level - this is for deeper clinical, management, teaching or research paths, and usually needs a relevant first degree.
Some universities may use different programme names, such as nursing, health care, or nursing science. Read the programme description carefully to see what the degree leads to.
2. Typical entry requirements
For a bachelor's programme, universities usually ask for a secondary school diploma and transcripts. They may also want:
- proof of English level if the programme is taught in English
- passport copy
- motivation letter
- CV, especially if you have work or volunteer experience
- sometimes a biology or chemistry background from school
For a master's programme, you usually need a relevant bachelor's degree, transcripts and proof of language level. Some programmes may ask for work experience in health care.
Because nursing is a regulated field, a university may also check whether your previous education matches local academic and professional standards. If you are applying from outside the EU, the admissions office may ask for certified translations or recognition of your diploma.
3. English-taught options and language
Some Latvian universities offer nursing or related health programmes in English, but not all do. Always check the programme page for the current teaching language.
If the programme is in English, the university will usually ask for one of the following:
- IELTS, TOEFL or another accepted test
- a previous degree taught in English, if the university accepts that as proof
- an internal language test in some cases
If the programme is in Latvian, you will likely need Latvian language skills. For clinical placements and patient contact, language matters a lot, so make sure you understand the level needed before you apply.
4. Tuition and living costs
Tuition fees in Latvia vary by university and programme. For nursing and other health programmes, fees are often different for EU and non-EU students, but the gap is not always huge. A realistic way to plan is to expect annual tuition in a mid-range European level and to confirm the exact amount on the university's admissions page.
As a general guide, many international students should expect:
- tuition - often somewhere in the low thousands of euros per year, but health programmes can be higher than many other subjects
- living costs - rent, food, transport and insurance together are often lower than in many Western European countries, but your actual budget depends on the city and your housing choice
Riga is usually more expensive than smaller cities. Student dormitories can lower your costs, but places are limited. Check whether the university offers housing and what it costs.
Do not rely on old forum posts for prices. Fees can change every year, and the official source is the programme page or admissions office.
5. Application timeline and documents
Most universities open applications months before the start of the academic year. If you are applying from abroad, start early because document checks, translation, and visa steps can take time.
A simple timeline:
- 9 to 12 months before start - choose programmes and check entry rules
- 6 to 9 months before start - prepare documents and language proof
- 3 to 6 months before start - submit the application and pay any application fee if required
- after acceptance - arrange housing, insurance and, if needed, a residence permit or visa
Common documents include:
- diploma or school certificate
- transcripts
- passport
- CV
- motivation letter
- language certificate
- translated and certified copies, if required
If you need a visa or residence permit, check the official national immigration authority in Latvia and your nearest Latvian consulate. Rules can change, and the university cannot replace immigration advice.
6. How universities choose candidates
Many nursing programmes use a document-based selection process. This can include academic results, language level, motivation and whether your background fits the programme.
Some universities may also do one or more of these:
- online interview
- entrance test
- motivation assessment
- check of prior science subjects
If places are limited, stronger grades and a clear motivation letter can help. It is useful to explain why you want nursing, whether you have volunteer or care experience, and how you plan to use the degree.
Universities do not usually decide only by one single number. They look at the whole application package.
Common questions
Can I study nursing in Latvia in English?
Sometimes yes. Some universities offer English-taught nursing or related health programmes, but not all. Check the current programme page for the teaching language and the exact language proof they accept.
Is nursing in Latvia expensive for international students?
It can be moderate compared with many Western European countries, but health programmes are often more expensive than other subjects. Check the university's official fee page and plan for living costs as well.
Do I need a visa for Latvia?
If you are not an EU or EEA citizen, you may need a visa or residence permit. The exact rule depends on your nationality and length of stay, so check the Latvian immigration authority and your local Latvian embassy or consulate.
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.
This saves time and helps universities contact you directly when your profile matches their nursing programme.
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