How to apply to university: step by step

How applying to universities in Latvia works: the joint application at latvija.gov.lv, priorities, documents, fees and the key dates.

Updated 4 October 2026

Where to apply

Most state universities (for example LU, RTU, LBTU and the universities in Daugavpils, Rēzekne, Ventspils and Vidzeme) take applications through the joint system at latvija.gov.lv. Some schools – for example RSU and several private universities and colleges – use their own system. Each program page on KurTālāk shows how to apply to it.

What you'll need

A passport or ID card and access to latvija.gov.lv – through online banking, eParaksts or Smart-ID.
Your secondary school certificate and results – if you studied in Latvia, they usually load automatically.
Olympiad diplomas and other proof, if they give extra points – you upload these yourself.
Application fee: 45 € in the joint system, 30 € at RSU.

Step by step

Choose your programs – up to 10 programs and 20 in one application.
Check each program's requirements: which CE count and whether there's an .
Log in to latvija.gov.lv and fill in the application during the application period (in 2026: 9–20 July).
Order your priorities – the first is the one you want most.
Pay the fee and upload any extra documents.
Follow the results (1st round at the end of July) and sign the study contract in time.

How priorities work

You're admitted to the highest priority you have enough points for, and all lower priorities are cancelled. So you can safely put your dream program first – if you don't get in, it doesn't hurt your chances in the next ones.

If you get a lower priority in the 1st round, you can still move up in the 2nd round when someone gives up their place.

If you didn't get in

After the main admission, schools hold extra admission for the places left – each with its own dates. Keep an eye on the schools' websites in early August.

Sources

Information can change – check it on the school's website before applying.