Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) is the leading and most international medical education institution in Latvia. Its Faculty of Medicine is the largest and most sought-after, attracting thousands of students from across Europe (particularly Germany, Scandinavia, and Italy) due to its high standards, modern facilities, and English-taught programs.
Established: 1950 (Continuing the medical traditions of the University of Latvia since 1919).
Location: 16 Dzirciema iela, Riga, Latvia.
Primary Program: Medicine (MD).
Duration: 6 years (12 semesters).
Degree: Medical Doctor.
Language of Instruction: English (for international groups).
Note: While the course is in English, learning basic Latvian is required as part of the curriculum to communicate with patients during hospital rotations.
Accreditation: Fully recognized in the EU/EEA and listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS). RSU graduates are eligible for USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), and medical practice across Europe.
Infrastructure: The main campus at Dzirciema iela is a modern hub featuring the anatomical theater, high-capacity lecture halls, and a world-class 24/7 library.
Medical Education Technology Center (METC): One of Northern Europe's most advanced simulation centers. It includes a "simulated hospital" with surgery wards, ERs, and delivery rooms where students practice on high-fidelity mannequins before clinical training.
Research Focus: Students are encouraged to join scientific groups early on, and the university hosts the prestigious "International Student Conference" (ISC) annually.
Leading tertiary care hospital attached to the institution
RSU partners with the largest multi-profile clinical hospitals in Latvia:
Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital: A historic and vital medical center for tertiary care.
Riga East Clinical University Hospital (RAKUS): The largest hospital in the country, specializing in emergency and oncology care.
Children’s Clinical University Hospital (BKUS): The only specialized pediatric hospital in Latvia.
Clinical Exposure: Rotations begin in the 3rd year, covering everything from internal medicine and surgery to infectious diseases and gynecology.
State University Affordability
Tuition fees at RSU are competitive for European standards.
Annual Tuition Fee (Medicine): €13,500 per year.
Annual Tuition Fee (Dentistry): €15,500 per year.
Application Fee: €100 (non-refundable).
Registration Administration Fee: €1,800 (one-time, non-refundable, required for Medicine/Dentistry).
Atmosphere: Riga is the largest city in the Baltics, famous for its UNESCO-listed Old Town, Art Nouveau architecture, and green parks. It is a safe, bustling metropolis with a rich cultural scene.
Transport: Excellent public transit (trams, trolleybuses, buses). Students receive a 70% discount on monthly passes (approx. €15/month).
Legal Stay: Non-EU students must provide proof of living expenses (approx. €9,400 per year as of 2026) to obtain their residence permit.
University Dormitories: "Dzirciems" (next to the main building) and "Mārupe."
Cost: €150 – €350 per month (depending on room occupancy and amenities).
Private Housing: Riga has a vibrant rental market.
Shared Room in Apartment: €250 – €400 per month.
Private Studio: €450 – €700 per month.
Utilities & Food: Budget approximately €300 – €400 per month for groceries and bills.
Intakes: RSU is unique for offering two intakes per year: September (deadline July 1) and February (deadline December 1).
Academic Requirements: High school diploma with strong grades in Biology and Chemistry (English-translated and legalized).
Language Proficiency: IELTS (6.0+) or TOEFL (80+).
Documents: Two letters of recommendation, a motivation letter, and a health certificate are mandatory.
NEET (For Indians): Mandatory for students intending to return to India to sit for the FMGE/NExT exams.
Well-equipped Library
Experienced Faculty
Computer Lab
Sports Activities
Heritage Campus