MBBS at University of Latvia — 9 questions answered
These are the most common questions Indian students and families ask before applying for MBBS at University of Latvia, Riga. Covering admissions, fees, recognition, eligibility, hostel, career outcomes, and the India-return pathway — everything you need before making your decision.
Is the Medicine programme direct-entry after high school?
Yes. It is a single-cycle, 6-year, 360-ECTS programme -- admission follows completion of secondary education, with no separate bachelor's stage required first.
What qualification is awarded on graduation?
Graduates receive the Medical Doctor's Degree (arsta diploms), a Latvian qualification listed under EU Directive 2005/36/EC Annex V for automatic recognition across the EU/EEA.
What entrance requirements does the university use?
Admission is based on secondary-school grades (Biology and Chemistry minimums differ for EU/EEA/Swiss versus other applicants), a weighted score (English 20%, Chemistry 40%, Biology 40%), an SAT score of at least 1200 for applicants whose secondary education was outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland, and a mandatory short online interview for non-EU/EEA/Swiss applicants.
What is the current tuition fee?
Tuition rises each year: EUR 11,850 in year one, increasing to EUR 12,120, 12,720, 12,720, 13,320 and 14,610 in years two through six, for a EUR 77,340 total. The same schedule applies to EU/EEA/Swiss and non-EU applicants.
Are there additional fees besides tuition?
Yes -- a non-refundable EUR 170 application fee, and for non-EU/EEA/Swiss applicants, a EUR 500 deposit paid on arrival, which is refundable on request after graduation.
When does the academic year start, and what are the deadlines?
Studies begin in early September. For the 2026/27 intake, deadlines varied by nationality group: 1 May 2026 for a higher-scrutiny country list, 21 June 2026 for most other countries, and 26 July 2026 for EU/EEA/Switzerland, the UK, the USA and several other listed nationalities. Confirm the applicable deadline for your nationality directly with the university for future cycles.
Is a scholarship available for international Medicine students?
No scholarship specifically for the fee-paying English-medium Medicine cohort was confirmed; all 35 places in this track are fee places, with no state-funded route. A general university foundation scholarship exists but has no confirmed Medicine-specific stream.
What visa and residence documents do non-EU students need?
Non-EU students need a visa and temporary residence permit, requiring proof of at least EUR 780 per month in subsistence funds, health/life insurance, and a state processing fee of EUR 160-560 depending on processing speed; the process typically takes 40-45 days or more.
Do Indian students need NEET to join this programme?
The university's own admissions criteria do not reference NEET. Separately, India's National Medical Commission requires Indian citizens and OCI holders who obtain a primary medical qualification abroad to have qualified NEET-UG, whose result serves as the mandatory Eligibility Certificate.
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