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Are you considering studying in LITHUANIA? Have you ever thought about studies in the Baltic region of Europe? If yes, then you why not study in Lithuania? Lithuania or Lietuva is one of the three Baltic countries along with Latvia and Estonia and lies on the eastern shore of the Baltic Sea. Lithuania is a small country but will definitely leave you satisfied, as you will find yourself walking in a country full of colourful houses, castles, fortresses and cobblestone streets.
But what makes Lithuania unique? First of all, if you are looking for a budget-friendly European study destination then Lithuania is a great place for you as a European or international student! The tuition fees and housing and living costs are among the most affordable in Europe. Studying in Lithuania will enable you to explore northern Europe thanks to its central location. You can easily visit nearby countries like Sweden or Finland and also Lithuania’s sister countries Latvia and Estonia, as their capital cities Riga and Tallinn are only a few hours away by bus.
Lithuania is a developed country and is an active member of the European Union, the Council of Europe, the Nordic Investment Bank, the Nordic-Baltic Eight (NB8), NATO and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). If you choose to study in Lithuania, you will have the opportunity to explore more about this beautiful country’s history by visiting unique historical sites and museums and also learn about the country’s independence from the Soviet Union in the early 1990s.
Country Information – Benefits to be in LITHUANIA
Studying in Lithuania, Visiting Lithuania or moving for work to Lithuania! In recent years, Lithuania, one of Europe’s overlooked studies abroad destinations, has experienced a huge boost in interest from prospective students, and we think we know why.
Lithuania is a modern northern European country. Lithuania is a member of the European Union. Foreigners are welcome and English is widely spoken. Lithuania is a country of the fastest and cheapest internet connection in the European Union! Comfortable location to travel and sightsee the entire region.
- Why Lithuanian Universities: Over 500 study programmes taught in English or Russian. Internationally recognized diplomas. Long-standing tradition of higher education and openness for innovations. Affordable living and great value for money. Working opportunities during studies and possibility to stay in the country for 15 months afterwards to look for a job.
- Location: Lithuania (or Lietuva) is a country in Northern Europe. It is the largest country of the three Baltic states located along the southeastern shores of the Baltic Sea.
- History: The name of Lithuania was first mentioned in the written account back in 1009. In the Middle Ages, Lithuania had already had its state: the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. By 15th century the Grand Duchy of Lithuania reached the peak of its power, with its territory stretching from the Baltic to the Black Sea. At the end of the 18th century the Constitution was adopted, which makes it the first constitution in Europe (even preceding the French Constitution), and the second in the world. Throughout its history Lithuania has developed a unique culture, which encompasses both–deep respect for traditions and robust desire to innovate.
- Lithuanians: Lithuanians are one of the ethnic groups in the Baltic region. Seemingly a bit cold at first, Lithuanians are hospitable and welcoming once you get to know them. They, also, tend to express their passion for basketball loudly and proudly. While Lithuania has a population of about 3 million people, there are at least another million living in other countries – USA, Brazil, Canada, Columbia, Russia, the United Kingdom, Ireland, etc.
- Language: Lithuanian language is one of the oldest languages in the world. It is one of two presently living Baltic languages, which retains archaic features otherwise found only in ancient languages such as Sanskrit. Some might say that it is a difficult language to learn because of some aspects of its grammar and phonology, but you can try yourself!
Details about Educational institutes, Colleges, Universities
Student have lots of institutions to choose from for education in Lithuania. A desire to pursue higher education and earn a degree doesn’t have to be stressful, boring or something to trudge through especially if you vault over one of the top universities or colleges in Lithuania.
So why study in Lithuania? Lithuania offers excellent academic institutions, innovative facilities and more than 350 English-taught study programs for international students. The country is valuing education as the literacy among young Lithuanians above 15 years old is 100%.
In Lithuania you can study in English full-time or part-time. You can prove your English language proficiency through a TOEFL language test. The degrees are offered in three cycles: The undergraduate Bachelor’s cycle, the graduate Master’s cycle and the postgraduate Doctorate cycle. A number of Lithuanian universities like Vilnius University and Vytautas Magnus University are included among the top universities in the world.
In Lithuania you can find 15 public universities and 6 privates as well as 16 public colleges and 11 private ones. The largest university in the country and one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe is Vilnius University.
Kaunas University of Technology is the largest technical university in the Baltics. All educational institutions are administered by the Ministry of Education, Science and Sports of the Republic of Lithuania.
List of Top Lithuania Universities:
- Vilnius University
- Lithuanian University of Health Sciences
- Vilnius Gediminas Technical University
- Kaunas University of Technology
- Vytautas Magnus University
- Klaipeda University
- Lithuanian Sports University
- ISM University of Management and Economics
- European Humanities University
- Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre
- Vilniaus University of Applied Sciences
- Mykolas Romeris University
- SMK University of Applied Social Sciences
- Siauliai University
- Utena College
- Vilnius Co-operative College
- Aleksandras Stulginskis University
- Lithuanian University of Educational Sciences
- Vilnius College of Technologies and Design
- Panevezys College
- A. Graiciunas School of Management
- West Lithuania Business College
Language Tests or Language requirements
Do I need to pass and ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEST to study in Lithuania? Is the question you must be having in your mind. Let us make it clear and precise for you. If your first language is not English, you’ll need to show excellent language proficiency to apply to a Lithuanian university.
You will be required to prove your level of command of the language of instruction, whether it is Lithuanian or any other language. In general, higher education institutions in Europe request students to prove they have a level of command of the language of instruction corresponding to the B1/B2 level (intermediate) according to the European language passport.
English Language Tests for International Students: Every university in Lithuania accepts IELTS Academic as well as TOEFL iBT or PBT, and almost all also accept the Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic), and Duolingo.
- IELTS: IELTS is a commonly accepted English test all over the world. The most common requirement to study in Lithuania in an English-language Masters or Bachelor’s degree programme. an IELTS score of 5.5 (with no section below 5.0), an IELTS score of 6.0 (with no section below 5.5), and/or an IELTS score of 6.5 (with no section below 6.0). When applying to universities in Lithuania, keep in mind that the minimum IELTS score required may vary depending on the institution and program.
- TOEFL: TOEFL or Test of English as a Foreign Language is accepted by most Lithuania universities and colleges. A TOEFL PBT overall score of 380–423, a TOEFL iBT an overall score of 65–80, and/or a TOEFL cBT score of 218–287 in the written test with an overall score of 80, When applying to universities in Lithuania, it’s important to research which English proficiency tests are accepted by your desired institutions and programs. The minimum required TOEFL score varies depending on the institution, with a typical range of 55 to 70.
- DUOLINGO: Going a bit virtual, Duolingo English Test is an online English proficiency test gaining popularity among Lithuanian universities. The Duolingo test also measures the same four language skills but in an adaptive format. Universities accepting Duolingo scores are the University of Eastern Lithuania and Metropolia University of Applied Sciences. The minimum accepted score varies, but most universities require at least 70. But as compared to the other two, Duolingo offers an affordable and accessible option for students who need to prove their English proficiency.
- PTE: PTE is accepted by 60% of Lithuanian schools and universities. It is usually available in over 50 countries. However, it is currently available in 10 countries, including India and Nepal. Results are available immediately. The minimum PTE score required in Lithuania is 51 and it may go up to the highest depending on the course level.
VISA types and Its Understandings
A student visa is a type of visa required by foreign nationals to study and stay in Lithuania for the duration of their studies. A student who is not a citizen of Lithuania but wants to study in Lithuania requires a Lithuania Student Visa to fulfil this purpose. Any foreign student who enrols on a course lasting three months or more in Lithuania will require a student visa.
There are two different types of visas meant for people intending to pursue educational activities in Lithuania. The type of visa that you require to travel or migrate to Lithuania depends on your purpose of visit and the number of days you intend to remain there. The length of your study program will determine which type of student visa you should apply for.
Type of Visa for Lithuania
- National – D Visa (Student Visa):International students will need to apply for a Student Visa for courses to be studied in Lithuania. A national D visa allows you to stay in Lithuania if your study program lasts up to a year.
- Temporary Residence Permit (Student Visa): A temporary residence permit allows you to stay in Lithuania if your study program lasts longer than a year. Please note that if you require a temporary residence permit, you will still receive a national D visa first to allow you to enter Lithuania. In the meantime, your application for a permit is processed.
Admission & VISA Application Process
Admission process explained in a simplified way. If you’re from a country outside the EU, you need to have a recognized high school certificate. This certificate serves as a confirmation that your diploma is valid according to the requirements in Lithuania. You can easily have your diploma validated at the Lithuanian embassy in your country
- Apply for a school in Lithuania.
- Receive Offer Letter & Pay Initial Fees.
- Submit Visa Application & Book Biometric at VAC.
- Attend Visa Interview.
- Visa Approve or Decline.
1. Apply for a school in Lithuania
- Before you apply for a student visa you will need to apply for admission into the Undergraduate or Graduate program. Before starting your study abroad in Lithuania, you will have to be admitted and get a study visa. As a potential future student in Lithuania, the first thing you need to do is find a university there that suits your study program. As soon as you have a school in mind then you should apply at the university. If you are not accepted, you won’t receive a student visa. Proof of enrolment is obligatory.
2. Receive Offer Letter & Pay Initial Fees
- Now that you have been admitted and you receive a document called Letter of Acceptance from the institution’s international student office. You will be instructed to pay the entire course annual fees to confirm your admission to the institution. Pay the fees from your bank account for safer transactions and then get Final Offer Letter from the college.
- Once you receive your Final Acceptance Letter then you can apply for a student visa. In this case, you actually need a visa on the basis of studying. The application process for the visa starts by creating a user account. Once you create an account select the application form for a visa on the grounds of a study program in the e-service.
- Fill in the MIGRIS online application with the correct information and submit your application. You must attach scanned copies of the required documents to your application. If by any chance you can’t fill in an online application then you can visit a local embassy or consulate and fill in a paper application in person.
3. Submit Visa Application & Book your Biometric at VAC
- You must submit the student visa application to the Lithuanian Agency or the VAC. Once you submit your application through the e-service then you have to go to the embassy or VAC for your biometrics to prove your identity and submit your fingerprints. Bring all the documents you submitted in the online service with you. Additionally, you must pay the application fee at the embassy/consulate. If you apply in person then similarly you will be asked to submit your fingerprints and pay the fee.
4. Attend Visa Interview
- Now is the time to wait for reply from High Commission and based on your application, biometric and details you will be asked to submit documents (if required). You will be informed by mail about your interview schedule, and attend the interview as scheduled. The embassy will ask you to show up for an interview to ask questions related to your application process and education. Then, you must wait to receive an answer whether your application has been accepted or rejected.
5. VISA Approve or Decline
- Once you submit your application you must patiently wait for an answer. The Lithuanian Immigration Office evaluates students’ applications as a top priority so the processing time will be done as soon as possible.
- The time will vary especially if you are missing anything from your application and the embassy contacts you to submit the missing documents, but, the usual time it takes to review an application is usually sometime between 1 to 3 months. As soon as your application has been approved the Lithuanian Immigration Office will send your residence card to the embassy where you can then pick it up and leave for Lithuania.
Applying for Student Visa?
Understand the procedure and then only start the visa application process. You are expected to apply six months in advance of your trip. It takes about four to eight weeks to get your visa if you do not forget to submit any documents or have to re-submit them. Here are the steps for applying for your Lithuania student visa:
Eligibility Criteria for Lithuanian Student Visa: To be eligible for a visa to study in Lithuania you must fulfil the following conditions. These are some of the documents you need to submit during the application for a residence permit:
- A valid passport to be current throughout the whole time of stay in Lithuania
- Letter of acceptance from the university
- A copy of all the passport’s pages
- A recent passport-style colour photo
- Confirmation of school or university registration issued by the academic institution in Lithuania
- Proof of health insurance
- Proof of accommodation in Lithuania
- Students must possess sufficient economic funds to maintain themselves in the country
- A medical certificate issued by a doctor
- A negative criminal record checks from the countries students have lived in for the past five years.
- If there is a lack of income, you should present a sponsorship letter from your parents stating they will cover all costs.
- Copy of marriage certificate with notarized translation into English. (if applicable)
- Visa Fee will not be reimbursed in case of visa refusal
Dos and Don’ts for Lithuania Student Visa Application: You need to remember the following dos and don’ts while applying for Lithuania student visa.
Dos
- Apply for a student visa at least 5 weeks in advance of your planned travel date to allow enough time for the application procedure to be completed on time for you to join your course
- Remember that if you are applying online, you can only apply for your visa a maximum of 180 days before your course starts
- Fill up your visa application form carefully with all accurate details
- Submit all the required supporting documents along with your visa application form
Don’ts
- Do not present false documents for your visa
- Do not provide any false information
- Do not hide or misrepresent facts in your visa application
Financial requirements, Finances & Cost of Living
How much does it cost to study in Lithuania? Lithuania remains the most preferred among most international students when it comes to popular study-abroad destination options. However, proof of clear available funds is required to pursue studies in Lithuania to cover tuition and living expenses.
- How much are the tuition fees in Lithuania?
- How to prove funds for Lithuania?
- How much does student accommodation costs in Lithuania?
- How much does it cost to live in Lithuania?
- What financial support is available to international students in Lithuania?
- How much are the TUITION FEES in Lithuania?
- Lithuania is one of the most popular destinations for university study but, like the UK, Australia, Canada and the US, it is not much expensive rather is too budget friendly.
- Tuition fees in Lithuania are considered very affordable for international students. Each institution has their own tuition fee regulations, depending on the study cycle and the discipline. As a result, it is better to contact the university of your choice directly for additional information.
- If you choose to study at a public university, then you are expected to pay 3,000–5,300 EUR per year for a Bachelor’s degree, 4,200–8,500 EUR per year for a Master’s degree and 7,500-9,900 EUR per year for a Doctorate degree.
- Medical degrees and degrees offered by private institutions tend to cost significantly more. For more information about the exact cost of degrees, visit the official website of the institution and program you are interested in.
- How to prove FUNDS for Lithuania?
- In order to pursue your studies in Lithuania, proof of sufficient funds is required to cover tuition and living expenses. You can prove to fund with the following:
- You’ll need to show that: 1) You have paid for your studies. A receipt from your university or institution or a letter showing that a scholarship or endowment will cover fees.
- 2) You can support yourself. You’ll need at least €500 per month of study, And so you have to show a minimum bank balance of 6000 in your bank statement and bank balance certificate.
- If someone else is covering your costs (like your parents), you’ll need a notarized letter assuming financial responsibilities.
- A savings book or deposits in a bank (the account has to be accessible from Lithuania). Proof of purchase of traveller’s cheques. A letter of guarantee from a person living in Lithuania or an institution domiciled in Lithuania. A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 6 last months).
- How much does the student ACCOMMODATION costs in Lithuania?
- The cost of living in Lithuania is inexpensive and the average international student spends around 300-900 EURO per month. A survey carried out has shown that 56% of the students in Lithuania spend 300-500 EURO per month and also 38% spend only 300 EURO per month. Of course, everything depends on the amount you are willing to spend for student accommodation, food and lifestyle.
- You can minimize your cost of living in Lithuania if you use student cards for discounts and special offers. These include the Lithuanian Student Identity Card (LSP), International Student Identity Card (ISIC) or Erasmus Student Network card (ESN). You can ask the student services department at your university to find out more.
- How much does it cost to LIVE in Lithuania?
- The cost of living in Lithuania varies by location, but in general it is easy to live well in Lithuania on a student budget. Overall, your expenses in Lithuania would be 90-300 EURO for student accommodation, 150-300 EURO for food and drink, 20-50 EURO for study materials and 100-300 EURO on your activities and interests. Transportation is very expensive as well, around 30 EURO per month, but it can even be cheaper by using your student discount.
- Lithuania is an affordable country. As a student in Lithuania, you get many discounts. There are student discounts available for getting around the country through public transport, for eating at restaurants, etc.
- The cost of living varies depending upon the lifestyle, facilities and location. On an average, a student can expect to pay between LTL 1000 and 2500. Public transportation is cheap in Lithuania. A monthly ticket for public transportation is about 15 EUR.
- Accommodation costs: Dormitories are inexpensive and the rent ranges from 55 to 60 EUR per month. For apartment, the rent varies depending upon the location- city centre or outside city centre and number of rooms- one or three. On an average, you can expect to pay between 500 LTL and 2,150 LTL per month.
- What financial support is available to INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS in Lithuania?
- Financial aid comes in many formats: Scholarships, Grants, Assistantships, and Work–Study Schemes. In Lithuania, there are 2 main ways that students can fund their studies–scholarships and financial aid. There are a few scholarships that students can apply for which can help towards living expenses and tuition fees.
- Lithuanian Scholarships: If you are a European citizen you can apply for a state-funded study place and receive a Lithuanian scholarship, meaning that you can study for free! You just need to meet particular requirements. The same applies if you are a non-European student, as governmental agencies and private institutions offer multiple Lithuanian scholarships for international students as well. For more information about the scholarships offered by each university and the application procedure, navigate through the official websites of the universities you want to apply.
- Here are some examples of Lithuanian scholarships:
- The Erasmus+ programme mobility grant in cooperation with the ALYTAUS KOLEGIJA/University of Applied Sciences.
- Scholarships for full-time Master’s studies by the Education Exchanges Support Foundation.
- Scholarships for Lithuanian short-term studies by the Education Exchanges Support Foundation.
- Scholarships for short-term studies by the Education Exchanges Support Foundation.
- Student Discounts: Discounts are available for students in the Republic of Lithuania. In order to get the discount, students must hold a Lithuanian student identity card (LSIC) along with an international student identity card (ISIC). The International student identity card is not compulsory, but allows you to get access to more discounts. The Lithuanian student identity card is issued by the Lithuanian student union (LSS) and this card is valid only in Lithuania. This card is compulsory for all the students in the Republic of Lithuania. LSIC benefits: Discounts at teaching centres, few restaurants and eatery joints, theatres, public transport, etc. To get a Lithuanian student identity card, students must fill out application form and submit it to the Lithuanian national union of students (LSS).
Work Opportunities and Work environment
Currently, Lithuania has announced that there will be a temporary lift in the current work hour restrictions placed on international students in Lithuania. Working in Lithuania as an international student.
- Career Opportunities in Lithuania: Students enrolled in a full-time program in Lithuania can also work part-time at different establishments in the country. This is a very good way to rake in more income towards their tuition and living expenses.
- For EU citizens, the process of employment in Lithuania is quite simple, while those arriving from non-EU countries must go through certain procedures.
- Non-EU students who are willing to work during their studies in Lithuania must obtain a Temporary Residence Permit, which will then allow them to work up to 20 hours per week during their studies. No additional work permits are required. PhD students can work full-time.
- After graduation, non-EU students can apply for a Temporary Residence Permit, which would provide them with additional 12 months for job searching and self-employment purposes. During these 12 additional months no additional work permit is required from the recent graduates.
- Later, if employment in Lithuania continues, the graduate should apply in time for the renewal of his/her Temporary Residence Permit on the grounds of an employment contract and obtain a work permit from the territorial Employment Services office. Both an employer or a graduate himself can apply for a work permit. More information is available in the territorial Employment Services office.
- More information related to legal stay in Lithuania, social guarantees, health care, work, and employment is provided in the Migration Information Centre (MIC) “I Choose Lithuania”. Here you also can get a consultation in Lithuanian, English or German languages, free of charge. More information available on the website of “I Choose Lithuania”.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lithuania Visa
- Are there application fees at Lithuanian Universities?
- Yes, there are application fees at Lithuanian universities. As in many other countries, universities charge a fee to process student applications. Most of the time, the application fee will be around €100. However, not all students will have to pay an application fee. EU/EEA undergraduate students who want to apply for a state-funded place (see below) will need to apply through the Lithuanian Higher Institutions Association for Organizing Joint Admission and they normally won’t pay an application fee. Students from the EU/EEA who don’t wish to apply for a state-funded place will apply to the individual university, but they still may not have to pay an application fee. Non-EU/EEA students will need to apply to the individual university instead and pay an application fee. The application fee usually needs to be paid when you are applying online, and it’s non-refundable.
- Can you study in Lithuanian for free?
- Some students can study for free at universities in Lithuania: Students from the EU/EEA, Lithuanian nationals residing abroad and people with Lithuanian origins can apply for a state-funded study place. The application process is done through the Lithuanian Higher Institutions Association for Organizing Joint Admission and will consider the eligibility of the student depending on their grades. Universities will generally offer support to apply for state-funded places through their international recruitment office. EU students can also apply for a state-supported loan. This is also not available to non-EU students unless they have permanent residency in Lithuania. Both options above are not available for non-EU students, however there is a high number of scholarships and fee waivers that are open to all international students.
- Are there scholarships for international students in Lithuania?
- Yes! The good news is, there are scholarships for international students in Lithuania – and they are open to both EU and non-EU students. Some scholarships are awarded by the individual university. For example, Kaunas University of Technology has a scholarship programme awarding full or partial tuition waivers open to all international students. And Vytautas Magnus University has a number of programmes that award full or partial fee waivers for both bachelor’s and master’s students. Some are for students enrolled in for full-time English-taught degrees, while others target specific nationalities. Other scholarships are awarded by organisations such as the Education Exchanges Support Foundation, with different calls for applications covering different types of studies (including short-term) and nationalities.
- What is the monthly cost of living in Lithuania?
- Another piece of good news: the cost of living in Lithuania is very affordable compared to other European countries. While your expenses will, of course, depend on your lifestyle, the average cost of living is about 20% lower than in the UK. Rent in Vilnius is 60% lower than in London, 38% lower than in Amsterdam and 34% lower than in Rome. In very general terms, most international students will spend between €300 and €700 a month, but this will depend on a variety of factors.
- There will be plenty of opportunities to find a dorm room for below €100 a month, but if you prefer a room in a student residence, the price may go up to over €250. Remember to request and use your student ID. A monthly pass with a student ID will only cost you about €5.80 in Vilnius and in Kaunas, and you will have access to many other discounts.
- For food, expect to spend between 150 and 300 a month, and keep in mind that a quick lunch out may set you back at least €4-5, so cook at home and bring a packed lunch. Maybe it’s time to try and make some nice Lithuanian dishes and snacks – another good way to get to know your host country a little better!
- Can I work while I study in Lithuania?
- International students can work while studying at university in Lithuania. Lithuania has a generous policy for work rights for international students. During their studies, both EU and non-EU students can work full time (up to 40 hours a week). Non-EU students will have to get their work permit first. After graduation, non-EU students can stay for up to 15 months to find a job. There are no residency and work restrictions for EU graduates.
- How long is my Student Visa valid in Lithuania?
- For courses under a year, your visa will be valid for the duration of the course. For courses one year and longer, a one-year visa is issued. You can renew the visa as long as you continue to meet the conditions.
- Can I work on a Student Visa in Lithuania?
- Yes, you can work while in Lithuania on a student visa, but you need a Lithuanian Student Work Permit. There are conditions for any work. You can only work a maximum of 30 hours per week. The job can be either part-time or in casual positions. This restriction includes holidays or vacations. The work must not interfere with your studies. Your employment contract cannot be for longer than your student visa. An exception is an internship that is a part of your studies. For these roles, you do not need a work permit.
- Can I study in Lithuania in English (and other languages)?
- Many universities in Lithuania offer programs entirely in English, particularly at the graduate level. However, having a basic understanding of Lithuanian is beneficial as it can enhance your overall experience and help with daily life in Lithuania.
- Is English Proficiency Test required for English courses on a Lithuania Student Visa?
- You only need these qualifications if you are looking to study an English language course at a Lithuanian institution. The English language requirement may be a part of the course admissions process. You should find out any language requirements from your chosen educational institution. The visa requirement is for a successful application to your choice of course. You meet the visa requirements as long as you meet the course requirements.
- Can my family come with me if I have a study visa in Lithuania?
- Yes, the Student Visa Lithuania allows direct family members to be included on a joint visa application. You can also add family members to your visa while it is still valid. This provision only covers direct family members. You must submit a marriage certificate, civil partnership record, or birth certificate as appropriate. 1) Your spouse. 2) Your registered civil partner. 3) Dependent children under 18 years. 4) You’ll need to show that you can support the family members. 5) Your dependents cannot legally work on this visa.