Graduate Studies in Lithuania: Opportunities and Benefits

Published on November 11, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Studying in Lithuania is an academic adventure full of promise for students eager to discover new educational and cultural perspectives.

This Baltic country, recognized for its academic excellence and innovative programs, attracts a growing number of international students seeking an enriching experience.

Lithuania offers not only high-quality education but also an affordable and welcoming living environment, where history and modernity meet harmoniously.

Additionally, language immersion opportunities will allow you to dive into a multilingual environment, broadening your academic and professional horizons while offering the chance to develop essential intercultural skills in today’s world.

Understanding the University System in Lithuania

Higher education in Lithuania has its roots in the 16th century, with the founding of Vilnius University in 1579, one of the oldest in Central Europe. Over the centuries, the system has undergone numerous transformations, particularly under the influence of Russian then Soviet rule, characterized by strong centralization and academic rigor. After the restoration of independence in 1990, Lithuania deeply reformed its educational system to align with European standards, introducing a three-cycle model (bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate) and promoting democratization and international openness.

Types of University Institutions

• Public universities: main research institutions offering comprehensive academic programs (e.g., Vilnius University, Kaunas University).
• Private universities: often offer vocational or specialized training, with free tuition setting.
• Colleges/Universities of Applied Sciences: focused on professional practice, award bachelor’s degrees in three to four years, sometimes called “specialized colleges” or “universities of applied sciences.”

Admission Process and Criteria for International Students

• Submission of a high school diploma (or recognized equivalent).
• Entrance examination organized by each institution.
• Application file including diploma recognition by the relevant Lithuanian ministry.
• Specific admission quotas for international students are set each year.
• Language test: for programs in English, proof of sufficient level (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) is required; for studies in Lithuanian, a language proficiency certificate may be requested.

Structure of University Degrees

Cycle	Degree Awarded	Typical Duration
1st Cycle	Bachelor’s Degree	3 to 4 years
2nd Cycle	Master’s Degree	1.5 to 2 years
3rd Cycle	Doctorate (PhD)	3 to 4 years (or more)

Languages of Instruction and Language Learning

Many programs are offered in English, especially at the master’s and doctoral levels, facilitating the admission of international students.

Opportunity to learn Lithuanian through integration courses or modern language programs.

Some institutions also offer courses in Russian, German, or other European languages.

International Recognition and Benefits for International Students

Lithuanian degrees are recognized throughout the European Union thanks to the Bologna Process, allowing for further studies or employment in other European countries.

International students benefit from a multicultural environment, promoting cultural exchange, personal development, and the acquisition of intercultural skills.

Lithuania actively participates in many exchange programs (Erasmus+, Utrecht Network), facilitating academic mobility.

The Lithuanian university system combines a strong historical tradition, international openness, and an academic structure compliant with European standards, thus offering foreign students an attractive and recognized study framework.

Admission Procedures and Degree Recognition

Eligibility Criteria for Lithuanian Universities

• A recognized high school (or higher) diploma.
• Sufficient language level, generally:
  • English: minimum B2 (for programs in English). Proof may be required via a test (IELTS, TOEFL, equivalent certificate, or institutional test).
  • Lithuanian: only for programs taught in Lithuanian.
  • Some universities also accept Russian for specific programs.
• Academic results suitable for the chosen specialty (some fields, like health or engineering, require high grades in sciences or mathematics).
• For selective fields (medicine, health, engineering, arts), entrance exams, interviews, or portfolios may be required.

Documents Required for Application

• Completed application form (often online via the university’s website).
• Translated and legalized diploma(s) and transcript(s) if necessary.
• Language certificate (depending on the program).
• Curriculum Vitae.
• Motivation letter.
• Passport copy.
• ID photos.
• Proof of application fee payment.
• Bank statement proving sufficient resources to cover living expenses.

Differences by Specialization

Specialization	Specific Requirements
Health (medicine, pharmacy, etc.)	High grades in biology and chemistry, sometimes interview or aptitude test
Engineering/Sciences	Good level in mathematics, physics
Arts	Portfolio or audition
Economics, management	Transcript, sometimes English test

Foreign Degree Evaluation Process

All foreign degrees must be evaluated and recognized.

• The main body is the Lithuanian Centre for Quality Assessment in Higher Education (SKVC).
• Some universities (ISM, Kaunas University of Technology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, etc.) evaluate degrees themselves.
• Evaluation may require sworn translation of documents and can take up to a month or more.

Admission Procedure and Deadlines

Applications are made online, directly on the chosen university’s website.

Main deadlines:

• Fall semester: generally in June.
• Some universities or programs have different dates—always check the program’s website.

It is advisable to apply as early as possible to anticipate degree recognition and visa application.

After acceptance, a national D visa must be requested (for non-EU/EEA students).

Associated Fees

Type of Fee	Indicative Amount
Application Fee	$100 to $300 depending on the university
SKVC Evaluation Fee	included or billed separately (variable)
Tuition Fees	$1,500 to $3,500/year depending on the program
Student Visa	approximately €120

Resources for International Students

• Study in LT: national information and guidance center, information on programs, procedures, visas, scholarships.
• University welcome services: support for housing, administrative procedures, integration.
• SKVC: for degree recognition.
• Scholarships and grants: some available for non-EU students.
• Specialized consultants: individual support for admissions, visas, and settlement.

Important:
Be sure to consistently check the university’s website and the SKVC website for specific requirements related to your situation and specialty. Deadlines and procedures may vary from one institution to another.

Remember to start the procedure as soon as possible: academic recognition and visa application can take several weeks.

Study Funding and Scholarships for Expatriates

Cost of Studies in Lithuania

Study Level	Annual Fees at a Public University
Bachelor’s Degree	€1,000 to €5,300
Master’s	€2,200 to €7,300
Doctorate	€7,000 to €8,400
Medicine	€8,000 to €14,000

Fees vary by program, language of instruction, and institution. Private universities and some specialized degrees (especially in health) are significantly more expensive.

Cost of Living and Daily Expenses

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Range
Housing	€90 to €700
Food and Drinks	€150 to €300
Study Materials	€20 to €50
Activities/Leisure	€100 to €300
Transport (Student Card)	€6 to €30
Total Expenses	€300 to €900

A student can therefore live on a reasonable budget, especially by choosing university or shared housing.

Funding Sources and Available Scholarships

• Lithuanian Government Scholarships: Several scholarships are offered to international students, particularly for master’s and doctoral degrees. Some are awarded based on academic or social criteria.
• Erasmus+ Program: Offers mobility grants for students from EU countries. Scholarships partially cover living expenses and sometimes travel.
• Specific University Scholarships: Many Lithuanian universities (e.g., Vilnius University, Kaunas University of Technology) offer excellence, merit, or integration scholarships for international students.
• Complementary Aid: Some local authorities in your home country may grant international mobility aid.

Part-Time Work Options

International students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during class periods and full-time during university vacations.

Income generated can cover part of the cost of living but rarely the full tuition fees.

Scholarship and Financial Aid Application Procedures

1. Scholarship Search: Visit the website of the targeted Lithuanian university and the official Study in Lithuania portal to check scholarship offers.
2. Application Preparation: Prepare a file typically including:
   • Translated diplomas and transcripts
   • Motivation letter
   • CV
   • Recommendation letters
   • Proof of financial resources (for visa)
3. Application Submission: Online submission via the university’s platform or scholarship program.
4. Respect Deadlines: Schedules vary, but it is recommended to start the process several months before the academic year begins.
5. Interview or Language Test: Some programs require an interview or proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS).

Common Eligibility Criteria

• Excellent academic results
• Clear motivation consistent with the study project
• Proficiency in English or Lithuanian according to the program
• Respect of nationality conditions specified for each scholarship
• Sometimes, social or community engagement criteria

Tips to Optimize Your Chances

• Tailor the motivation letter to each institution or scholarship.
• Highlight your engagement, academic achievements, and future projects.
• Apply early for university housing and the most competitive scholarships.
• Use student cards to reduce transport and leisure costs.

Contacts and Useful Resources

• International Relations Department of each university
• Official portal: Study in Lithuania
• Erasmus+ office in your home country
• Student services for support in housing and student job search

Impact of International Training on Career

Impact of International Training on Career – The Case of Lithuania

Positive Aspects of Training in Lithuania

• Excellent employability of international graduates: In 2023, Lithuania showed an employment rate of 73.2% for 15-64 year olds, higher than the European average. Over 150,000 foreigners work in Lithuania, including in highly skilled positions like software development, logistics, or sales.
• Recognized and valued degrees: 57.4% of 25-34 year olds are higher education graduates, a rate well above the EU average (43.1%). Lithuanian degrees are recognized throughout the European Union, facilitating international professional mobility.
• Competitive salaries and career progression: The average gross monthly salary reaches €2,196, with regular increases. International graduates easily find well-paid jobs, particularly in technology, industry, and service sectors.
• Development of intercultural skills: Living and studying in Lithuania allows for the acquisition of multicultural experience valued by employers worldwide. Companies seek profiles capable of working in international and multicultural environments.
• Strong professional networks: Lithuanian universities foster network creation between students, professors, and local/international companies, opening access to numerous job opportunities.

Statistics and Key Indicators

Indicator	Lithuania	EU 27 Average
Employment Rate (15-64 yrs, 2023)	73.2%	70.4%
Higher Education Graduates (25-34 yrs, 2023)	57.4%	43.1%
School Dropout Rate (2019)	4%	~9.5%
Average Gross Salary (Q2 2024)	€2,196	—
Average Net Salary (Q2 2024)	€1,352	—

Testimonials from Former Students

“The training I followed in Vilnius allowed me to quickly join an international company in Brussels. The skills acquired and openness to other cultures clearly played in my favor during recruitment.”

“Thanks to the internships offered by the university in Lithuania, I was able to expand my professional network. I was recruited by a tech company based in Berlin right after finishing my master’s.”

“The recognition of the Lithuanian degree opened doors for me to an MBA in London, then to a responsible position in an international NGO.”

Role of Networks and Access to International Employment

• Lithuanian universities regularly organize forums, job fairs, and collaborations with European companies, allowing students to meet recruiters and seize opportunities abroad.
• Belonging to an alumni network of Lithuanian schools offers valuable support in job search, mentoring, and international career development.

Valuation of Intercultural Skills

• Employers value the ability to work in an international context, adapt to multicultural environments, and communicate effectively in English or other languages.
• Skills acquired in Lithuania – adaptability, project management, problem-solving in varied contexts – are particularly sought after in international organizations.

Impact on Salaries and Career Evolution

• International experience, combined with a recognized Lithuanian degree, allows access to responsible positions more quickly and with remuneration above the local market average.
• Career evolution is facilitated by European mobility and recognition of skills acquired in Lithuania.

Summary of Key Benefits

• Degrees recognized in Europe and internationally
• Facilitated access to employment and professional networks
• Valued intercultural skills
• Accelerated salary and professional progression
• Openness to global career opportunities

Studying in Lithuania means investing in an international career, developing a strong network, and acquiring skills sought after in the global job market.