Latvia Government Scholarships 2026 (Latvian State Scholarships) provide international students with a valuable opportunity to study in Europe, offering monthly financial support at top Latvian universities. Citizens of 39 eligible countries are welcome to apply for a Latvian State scholarship for studies in Latvian higher education institutions.
Basic Information about the Latvian Government Scholarships 2026
The Latvia Government Scholarships 2026 (often called Latvian State Scholarships) are funded by the Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia and administered by the State Education Development Agency (VIAA). These scholarships support international students, researchers, and teaching staff for full-time studies, research, or summer schools at Latvian higher education institutions.
- Academic year: 2026/2027.
- Open to citizens of around 39 eligible partner countries (exact list on the official portal).
- Levels: Bachelor’s (after at least 1 completed year), Master’s, and PhD studies.
- Funding type: Monthly stipend; in some cases, partial tuition support depending on host institution or parallel offers.
Application period and deadline (2026 intake)
- Online application system opens: 1 February 2026.
- Application deadline: 1 April 2026 (midnight Latvian time).
You must submit all documents through the official electronic system on time; late or incomplete applications are not evaluated.
Universities and Institutions in Latvia
The Latvia Government Scholarships 2026 can be used at accredited Latvian higher education institutions (HEIs) that participate in the state scholarship scheme. Some well‑known universities that regularly host scholarship holders include:
- University of Latvia (UL), Riga – major public research university with programs in sciences, humanities, IT, and social sciences.
- Riga Technical University (RTU) – strong in engineering, architecture, IT, and technical sciences, with English‑taught programs.
- Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) – specializes in medicine, health sciences, public health, and social sciences.
- Other Latvian universities and professional higher education institutions that appear in the VIAA scholarship list for a given year.
The scholarship is linked to your admission: you must either already be enrolled or have an official acceptance from a Latvian university before or by the time you apply for the state scholarship.
Available Study Areas and Example Programs
Latvia Government Scholarships 2026 are not limited to one field; they can be used for a wide variety of disciplines as long as the program is offered by a participating Latvian HEI. Typical study areas include:
- Engineering and Technology (Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electronics, IT, Computer Science).
- Natural Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science).
- Social Sciences (Economics, International Relations, Political Science, Sociology).
- Business and Management (Business Administration, Marketing, Finance).
- Humanities (History, Philology, European Studies, Philosophy).
- Health and Life Sciences (Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Public Health – depending on the university).
- Education and Pedagogy, as well as arts‑related fields in some institutions.
Always cross‑check that the specific program and language of instruction (English/Latvian) are listed on your chosen university’s website.
Latvia Government Scholarships Benefits
The core benefit of the Latvia Government Scholarships 2026 is a monthly stipend that helps you cover living expenses while studying.
Approximate monthly amounts:
- Monthly Scholarship Amount
- €500/month – Bachelor’s students (2nd–3rd study year)
- €600/month – Master’s students (from 4th study year for professional programs)
- €700/month – PhD students
- In USD (approximate, depending on exchange rate):
- Bachelor’s: around 540–560 USD per month.
- Master’s: around 650–670 USD per month.
- PhD: around 750–780 USD per month.
- Scholarship Duration
- Up to 10 months – Bachelor’s and Master’s students
- Up to 11 months – PhD students
- A student may receive the scholarship for a maximum of two study terms in total
- Eligibility to re‑apply for another term (not more than two consecutive terms for one person).
- Opportunity to study in an EU country with recognized degrees and modern programs.
- The scholarship does not fully cover all expenses.
What the Scholarship Does Not Cover
Latvian State Scholarships are not fully funded in the strict sense and usually do not cover all expenses. Typical exclusions include:
- The scholarship does not fully cover all expenses.
- Students must personally cover part of tuition fees, living costs, and other expenses.
- International travel costs (flight tickets to and from Latvia).
- Visa fees and residence permit costs.
- Full health insurance; students normally must arrange valid health insurance themselves.
- Study materials, books, and personal expenses beyond the monthly stipend.
Eligibility Criteria for Latvia Government Scholarships 2026
While details may vary slightly by call, general eligibility criteria for Latvian State Scholarships include:
- Citizenship: You must be a citizen of one of the eligible partner countries listed by VIAA for the 2026 call (usually around 39 countries).
- Academic level:
- Bachelor’s students who have completed at least one academic year at any HEI
- Master’s and PhD students from any recognized HEI
- Admission status: You should have official admission or confirmation of studies from a Latvian higher education institution.
- Academic performance: Good academic record and satisfactory progress in previous studies (universities and VIAA may set minimum GPA or similar quality criteria).
- Language proficiency: Ability to study in the language of the program (usually English or Latvian), often proven by a language certificate.
- Applicants must choose a study program at a Latvian HEI before applying
- A confirmation letter from the Latvian HEI is required before submitting the application
- Students already studying in Latvia must also submit a confirmation letter
- The confirmation letter must be issued by the designated contact person of the HEI
Others
- Average tuition fees range from €2,800 to €15,000 per year.
- Medical and executive business programs may cost up to €15,000 per year.
- A Latvian state scholarship cannot be combined with other scholarships or grants.
- Scholarship holders must arrange their own health and insurance coverage.
- If a student stays in Latvia for less than 15 calendar days, no scholarship is paid.
List of Eligible Countries:
- Azerbaijan,
- Austria,
- Belgium (Federation Wallonia-Brussels),
- Bulgaria,
- China,
- Croatia,
- Cyprus,
- Czech Republic,
- Egypt,
- Estonia,
- Finland,
- France,
- Georgia,
- Germany,
- Hungary,
- Iceland,
- Indonesia,
- Israel,
- Italy,
- Japan,
- Kazakhstan,
- Kyrgyzstan,
- Lithuania,
- Mexico,
- Moldova,
- Mongolia,
- Peru,
- Poland,
- Slovakia,
- South Korea,
- Spain,
- Switzerland,
- Tajikistan,
- Turkmenistan,
- Turkey,
- Ukraine,
- United States,
- Uzbekistan,
- Vietnam.
Required Documents for the Application
For the Latvia Government Scholarships 2026 online application, expect to prepare and upload documents such as:
- 1. Copy of a letter by the higher education institution (HEI)
- 2. Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Use the CV Europass templat: europass.cedefop.europa.eu
- 3. Letter of motivation
- Include activities outside studies related to the study fi eld in Latvia or in the home country.
- 4. Proof of education
- Diploma and supplements or transcript of records of the last 2 semesters.
- ! First year Master’s students must provide their bachelor diploma copy and its supplement!
- 5. Letters of recommendation
- Copies of two letters of recommendation from academic staff members, signed within the last 6 months.
- 6. Study plan
- Find the study plan form HERE
- 7. Copy of language certificate
All documents must usually be submitted in English or Latvian, and incomplete or incorrectly prepared applications are not assessed.
Latvia Government Scholarships Application Process: Step‑by‑Step
Follow this step‑by‑step guide to apply for Latvia Government Scholarships 2026:
- Research programs and universities
- Explore Latvian universities and choose a suitable study program taught in English or Latvian.
- Secure admission or confirmation
- Apply to the chosen university and obtain an official admission letter or confirmation of studies, as it is required for the state scholarship.
- Create an account in the VIAA scholarship system
- Register on the official Latvian State Scholarships electronic application portal.
- Fill in the online application form
- Log in, choose the relevant scholarship call for studies 2026/2027, and fill in all fields carefully.
- Upload required documents
- Attach your CV, motivation letter, transcripts, passport, acceptance letter, language certificate, and other required documents (in English or Latvian).
- Review and submit before the deadline
- Double‑check all information and documents, then submit your application between 1 February and 1 April 2026 (Latvian time).
- Wait for evaluation and results
- Applications are assessed by the responsible bodies; decisions are typically announced around June via email and visible in your online profile.
- Confirm acceptance and prepare for arrival
- If selected, confirm your scholarship, arrange your visa/residence permit, health insurance, and accommodation in Latvia.
Tips for a Successful Application
To increase your chance of winning the Latvia Government Scholarships 2026, consider the following practical tips:
- Start early: Begin searching for programs and preparing documents several months before February 2026.
- Write a strong motivation letter: Clearly explain why you chose Latvia, how the specific program fits your career goals, and how you will contribute academically and culturally.
- Show academic excellence: Emphasize good grades, research experience, publications, or relevant projects.
- Align your study plan: Make sure your proposed study or research plan in Latvia is realistic, specific, and matches your chosen program.
- Follow instructions strictly: Respect file size limits, language requirements, and document formats; incomplete or incorrect applications are not assessed.
- Attend information sessions or webinars: VIAA and Study in Latvia sometimes host webinars on “tips for better applications” close to the deadline, which can clarify doubts.
Monthly Living Expenses in Latvia (in USD)
Latvia is generally more affordable than many Western European countries, but you still need to budget carefully. Typical monthly living expenses for international students in Latvia (especially in Riga) are approximately:
- Accommodation (shared flat or dormitory): 250–400 USD.
- Food and groceries: 200–250 USD.
- Local transport: 30–50 USD (student discounts available).
- Utilities and internet: 60–90 USD.
- Miscellaneous (phone, clothing, entertainment, study materials): 80–150 USD.
In total, most students can live modestly on 600–900 USD per month, depending on lifestyle and city. The Latvian State Scholarship stipend (approximately 540–780 USD, depending on level) can cover a significant share of basic living costs, especially when combined with careful budgeting or extra personal funds.
Why Choose Latvia Government Scholarships 2026?
Here are strong reasons why the Latvia Government Scholarships 2026 are attractive for international students:
- Affordable European education
- Latvia offers EU‑standard degrees and Bologna‑aligned programs at significantly lower living costs than many Western European countries.
- Monthly financial support
- The scholarship provides consistent monthly stipends (500–700 EUR) to help cover rent, food, and essential living expenses, reducing financial pressure.
- Wide choice of study fields
- From engineering and IT to business, social sciences, humanities, and health sciences, scholarship holders can select from many English‑taught programs.
- Gateway to Europe and Schengen
- Studying in Latvia often allows easier travel in the Schengen Area for tourism or conferences, giving strong international exposure.
- Cultural and academic diversity
- Latvia hosts students from various countries, and the scholarship scheme itself aims to promote international cooperation and cultural exchange.
- Opportunities for research and summer schools
- Beyond regular studies, Latvian State Scholarships also support research visits and participation in academic summer schools, which can enhance your profile.
- Simple online application process
- The entire application is done via an electronic system, making it accessible from anywhere as long as you prepare documents correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the Latvia Government Scholarship 2026 fully funded?
No. The Latvian State Scholarship mainly provides a monthly stipend to support living costs (500–700 EUR per month) and usually does not fully cover tuition fees, travel, or all personal expenses.
2. What is the application deadline for Latvian State Scholarships 2026?
For studies in the 2026/2027 academic year, the online call is expected to open on 1 February 2026, and the application deadline is 1 April 2026 (midnight Latvian time).
3. Who can apply for the Latvia Government Scholarships 2026?
Citizens of eligible partner countries (about 39 states) who meet academic and language requirements can apply, including Bachelor’s students (after at least one completed year), Master’s students, PhD students, researchers, and sometimes teaching staff.
4. Do I need an admission letter from a Latvian university before applying?
Yes. You must have confirmation of admission or enrollment from a recognized Latvian higher education institution to submit a valid scholarship application.
5. Can I renew the Latvian State Scholarship for the next year?
Scholarships are normally awarded for up to one academic year (or 10–11 months) at a time, and you may re‑apply for another term, but not for more than two consecutive terms in total.
6. What language do I need for studying in Latvia?
Most international programs are taught in English, so an English language certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) is typically required; programs in Latvian require proof of Latvian language skills.
