Medical studies Riga UOL: University of Latvia
Riga, Latvia

The University of Latvia is not only the oldest and largest university in the country, but also a real hotspot for international students. Over 15,000 students from more than 60 countries study here on a campus that combines teaching, research and clinical practice. Particularly popular are:

• Human medicine degree programme (6 years, in English)

• the dentistry programme (5 years, in English)

Both programmes follow the EU-wide Directive 2005/36/EC and are therefore fully recognised in Germany, Austria and all member states - including for specialist training. Teaching is research-based, practice-oriented and organised in small groups. This gives you an early insight into everyday clinical practice.

Studying in Riga - your advantages at a glance

• No NC - admission without selection limits, but with proof of performance and motivation

• EU-recognised qualification - enables specialist training in Germany

• Flexible entry options - study possible in summer and winter semesters

• Favourable cost of living compared to other EU cities

• Studying in English - in a modern environment with a multicultural focus

• Individual support from lecturers and structured study organisation

• Future-proof training with a focus on digital technologies and research

Study programmes, language & recognition

The University of Latvia offers two medical degree programmes that are in high demand internationally: Human Medicine (6 years) and Dentistry (5 years). Both programmes are characterised by modern teaching methods, an English-language curriculum and a close integration of theory and practice. The medical content is based on EU-wide standards and is continuously adapted to the latest scientific findings.

Clinical training in Riga
The clinical section of the medical degree programme begins in the third year. This takes place directly at the teaching hospitals of the University of Latvia, including the renowned Pauls Stradiņš Hospital and the Riga East University Hospital - one of the largest medical care centres in the Baltic States. Working closely with doctors, you will carry out your first clinical examinations there, familiarise yourself with everyday life in the hospital and prepare for your medical work in a practical way.

Clinical traineeship & Nursing internship in Germany

If you wish, you can also complete clinical placements or nursing internships during your studies in Germany, and we will help you to find suitable institutions and ensure that your time is recognised.

Programme structure at a glance:

• Fields of study: Human medicine and dentistry studies

• Language: English

• Degree: "Medical Doctor" or "Doctor of Dental Medicine"

• Duration: Human Medicine 6 years / Dentistry 5 years

• ECTS points: 360 (human medicine) or 300 (dentistry)

• Recognition: EU-wide in accordance with Directive 2005/36/EC - including Germany, Austria and all member states

The English-language degree programme offers international applicants an ideal entry platform into the European medical landscape. As the degree is fully recognised, direct entry into the profession or a licence to practise medicine in Germany is possible without additional examinations.

Tuition fees & cost of living in Riga

Studying medicine at the University of Latvia Riga not only offers a sound education at an EU-recognised top university, but also long-term financial planning security - thanks to a clear tuition fee structure, moderate living costs and comprehensive support from futuredoctor.

• Tuition fees for human medicine: €11,850 per year - i.e. €5,925 per semester (total: €71,100 for 6 years)

• Tuition fees for dentistry: €17,310 per year - i.e. €8,655 per semester (total: €86,550 for 5 years)

• One-off enrolment & administration fees: approx. 170 €

• Living costs: approx. 300 - 400 € per month (plus rent)

• Rent shared room: from € 300, one-room flat: € 350 - 450, student residence: from € 130

We support you early on in your search for accommodation, give you tips on suitable neighbourhoods and help you to create a realistic budget for your start in Riga.

Note: Prices may vary depending on the season and location. Riga is a growing university city with increasing popularity among international students - especially those studying human medicine and dentistry.

Funding & support from futuredoctor for studying medicine abroad

We not only offer you guidance in the application process, but also support you in the financial planning of your study place at the University of Riga. Our student advisors provide individual advice on:

• Financing options via educational loans

• Grants & scholarships (depending on country of origin)

• Payment plans for tuition fees

• Organisation of the documents and request to the university

In addition, we offer you a transparent overview of all necessary costs and guide you through the application process so that you can reach your goal safely.

Application and requirements of the Top University of Riga

The University of Latvia is a top university whose medical faculty is one of the most sought-after study locations in the Baltic States. Anyone applying for a place to study human medicine or dentistry does not have to go through a classic NC procedure, but must fulfil certain requirements and go through an individual application process.

Prerequisites:

To apply successfully, you need:

• A school-leaving certificate (e.g. Abitur or Fachabitur, depending on the degree programme)

• Good grades in biology and chemistry

• Proof of English language skills (e.g. B2 level)

• Valid passport

• If required: Letter of motivation and medically relevant CV

For international applicants from Germany and abroad, it is important to start the application process early. Our student advisors will help you every step of the way - from the link to the website to the translation of your documents.

Application process:

The process is clearly structured:

1. Consultancy & document check by futuredoctor

2. Submission of application documents to the University of Latvia

3. Possible invitation to a selection interview

4. Decision on the start of the programme (winter or summer semester)

The entire process is accompanied digitally - you will receive timely information on deadlines, requirements and the status of your application.

TipAs places at the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Latvia Riga are in high demand, it is advisable to apply at least 4 - 5 months before the planned start of your studies. This leaves enough time for formalities, finding accommodation in Riga and preparing for the admission procedure.

Admission procedure - Procedure, preparation & chances of success for the University of Latvia (UOL) in Riga

Applications to the University of Latvia Riga (UOL) are not based on the traditional NC, but on an individualised admission procedure that assesses your aptitude and interest in studying medicine as a whole. We accompany applicants step by step - from the initial enquiry to successful admission.

Procedure of the application process:

After submitting your documents, you will be invited to a personal selection interview if your application is accepted. Depending on the degree programme (human medicine or dentistry), this may include the following elements:

• Online selection interview via Zoom or Microsoft Teams

• Questions about motivation, your preparation and your career to date

• Short subject test or knowledge test in biology/chemistry (depending on degree programme and year)

• In some cases: written essay on a medical topic

Preparation with futuredoctor

We prepare you specifically for the application process:

• Individual coaching for your selection interview

• Knowledge checks & learning materials for biology and chemistry

• Feedback on your presentation, language and demeanour

• Help with all formal steps of the application

Many applicants benefit from the structured process: You can build up your knowledge in a targeted way, present your motivation convincingly and significantly increase your chances of getting a place at university.

Chances of success & recommendations:

The selection procedure at the Faculty of Medicine in Riga is considered fair, but demanding. The better you prepare yourself, the better your chances of getting a place - both on the Human Medicine degree programme and the Dentistry degree programme.

Futuredoctor will help you get started professionally - with a combination of specialist support, application assistance and personal counselling. If you have any further questions, our student advisors are available at any time - also by email or via the contact form on our website.