Stradin's University
Riga, Latvia

Study programmes & study languages

The University of Riga offers two English-language study programmes:

Human medicine:

• Duration: 6 years

• Conclusion: Medical Doctor (MD)

• Language: English

Dentistry:

• Duration: 5 years

• Conclusion: Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)

• Language: English

Entry is possible in both the winter and summer semesters, which offers international applicants additional flexibility.

Application & admission procedure at the Riga Stradiņš

The application process at Riga Stradiņš University is clearly structured - but it is still worth preparing well to ensure you have the best chance of getting a place. The university emphasises an individual assessment of your documents and motivation - not just your grades.

Requirements & procedure

1. submit an online application

You can apply directly via the RSU application portal or via our partner platform futuredoctor. Required documents are:

• Completed application form

• Letter of motivation

• School-leaving certificates (incl. transcript of grades)

• Proof of English language skills (at least B2)

• Passport copy

• Medical certificate if necessary

2. entrance examination

To check your aptitude and level of knowledge, you will have to take a multiple-choice test in biology, chemistry and physics (A-levels). Your results will play a decisive role in the acceptance or rejection of your application.

3. personal selection interview (interview)

Many applicants are invited to a short digital interview to assess their motivation, communication skills and understanding of the programme. At futuredoctor, we prepare you intensively for this interview - with practice runs and tips.

4. decision & enrolment

The university will review your application individually. You will receive feedback within a few weeks. If your application is successful, you will be enrolled and receive all the information you need about starting your studies, obtaining a visa (if necessary) and finding accommodation.

For more information about the admission procedure and your chances of getting a place at Stradins University in Riga, we recommend a personal interview with our student advisors.

Study medicine with a vocational baccalaureate

In Latvia, you also have the opportunity to study medicine with a vocational baccalaureate. For more information, please arrange a personal counselling appointment with us.

Financing & study costs - Your study budget in Riga

Studying medicine in Riga is not only of high quality, but also easy to plan financially. The tuition fees for human medicine and dentistry are at a medium, fair level - particularly attractive compared to other EU locations:

Study costs for human medicine

• Approx. € 13,500 per year (corresponds to € 6,750 per semester)

• The total amount is approx. 81,000 €, including exams, teaching & skills labs

Costs of studying dentistry

• Approx. €15,500 per year (equivalent to €7,750 per semester)

• The total amount is approx. 77 500 €, including exams, teaching & skills labs

The annual tuition fee is paid on a semester basis as standard. For both degree programmes, there is also a one-off registration fee of €100 and an administration fee of €1,800.

Cost of living in Riga

Overall, Riga is significantly cheaper than many Western European university towns - with a very good infrastructure at the same time. Here you have an approximate overview of other monthly costs:

• Shared flat near the university: 300-400 €/month

• One-room flat: from € 450 - 550/month

• Everyday life (food, transport, leisure): 300-350 €/month

• Total budget including rent: approx. 600-900 €/month

Financial aid & support

A Studying medicine abroad has its price. For many students and their families, these costs are not easy to bear. Therefore, there are various options for financial support:

• Scholarships & funding programmes: Latvia-specific, EU-funded and international funding options

• International BAföG & student loans: Available for students from Germany and other countries

• Jobs alongside your studies: part-time jobs such as tutoring, campus work or academic assistance possible

Studying & living in Riga - balance between research and culture

With a population of over 632,600, the Latvian capital Riga is the political, economic and cultural centre of Latvia. Latvia has been a member of the European Union and NATO since 2004, and its capital was designated European Capital of Culture in 2014.

Campus & teaching conditions

• The central campus is located in Königsberg, close to the university hospital and public transport routes

• Practical teaching begins in the 3rd year of study with direct patient contact and group projects

• The student atmosphere is characterised by teamwork, discussions and interactive learning formats

Leisure & Culture

• Prague's Old Town with its Art Nouveau architecture, markets, cafés and the river - attractive for tourists and diverse for students

• A vibrant nightlife, art scene & festivals, for example at the Riga Black Nights Film Festival

• Close access to the Baltic Sea and national parks offers a wide range of leisure options

• Many events, language meetings and student networks strengthen social ties

Career paths & prospects after graduating from the Riga Stradiņš University (RSU)

With a degree in human medicine or dentistry from Riga Stradiņš University, you will open many doors for yourself - both in Europe and worldwide. Your qualification as an MD (Medical Doctor) is widely recognised and assessed according to EU Directive 2005/36/EC with worldwide validity.

Your career options after graduation

1. specialised medical training in the EU

• The MD licence from Latvia allows you direct recognition in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and other EU/EEA countries - without additional state examinations.

• The EU-compliant study programme enables a smooth transition to specialist training in accordance with the directive.

2. international entry options

• RSU is accredited by the Medical Board of California - ideal for graduates with career aspirations in the USA (but USMLE required).

• Opportunities are also available in the UK, Australia and other international healthcare systems - depending on successful exam participation (e.g. USMLE, PLAB).

3. research & science

• The university offers you access to current research projects - in biomedical research, Oncology and clinical studies.

• Scientific work during your studies is possible and strengthens your CV in a targeted manner.

4. networks & alumni

• RSU has a strong alumni network with graduates in over 20 countries.

• The network supports entry into internationally active clinics, research institutes and start-ups in the healthcare sector.

Study medicine with a vocational baccalaureate

In Latvia, you also have the opportunity to study medicine with a vocational baccalaureate. For more information, please arrange a personal counselling appointment with us.