The Study in Latvia team is delighted to welcome you to our vibrant and opportunity-rich country! We are thrilled that you have chosen Latvia as your study abroad destination.

Make the most of this incredible opportunity and maximize your study abroad experience. Discover the beauty of Latvia, enjoy every moment, and create lifelong memories!

Weather:

Latvia, situated in the temperate climate zone, offers a unique opportunity to distinctly experience all four seasons. You will enjoy a real winter with sub-zero temperatures and snow, spring floods, warm summers, and colourful autumns. Remember to bring a sturdy umbrella for year-round use, warm clothes, and durable, waterproof boots.

Winter – Latvia, as a northern country, experiences fairly long, dark winters from November to February. The average temperature is around -10°C, but it can drop to -20°C. While it is not extremely cold or snowy, there are a few days each year with significant snowfall.

Spring – from March to May, is often marked by significant flooding due to rivers overflowing. However, it also brings beautifully blooming flowers, fruit trees, and shrubs. Average temperatures range from 0°C to +15°C, occasionally reaching +25°C by the end of May.

Summer – the favourite season for many Latvians, features long ‘white’ nights and warm temperatures. From June to August, temperatures average a pleasant +20°C, occasionally reaching around +30°C.

Autumn – popular among nature lovers due to the colourful leaves and abundant wild mushrooms in the forests. Latvia, a lush green country, experiences considerable rainfall. The average temperature drops from +15°C in September to 0°C by November.

Language:

Latvian is the official state language of Latvia, belonging to the Baltic branch of the Indo-Europea language family. While Latvian serves as the primary language, many people in Latvia also speak Russian and English, facilitating communication in these languages as well.

In public higher education institutions, the primary language of instruction is Latvian. However, there are numerous programmes specifically designed for foreig students that are taught in English.

Typical Latvian DNA:

Introvert: Latvians value personal space, often standing a few feet apart. They avoid small talk, are comfortable with silence, and form deep, lifelong friendships.

Nature Lover: With forests covering half of Latvia and plentiful lakes and rivers, Latvians are deeply connected to nature. They enjoy gardening, foraging, and appreciate the natural beauty.

Hardworking: Historically peasants, Latvians have a strong work ethic rooted in their past.

Patriot: To honour Latvia’s freedom fighters and show national pride, Latvians wear a small carmine-white-carmine ribbon close to their hearts from 11th to 18th November, marking Independence Day.

Ice Hockey Lover: Ice hockey is Latvia’s national sport, and it excels remarkably for a small country. The national team’s fans are among the loudest and most passionate in celebrating their successes.

Singer/Dancer: A typical Latvian can either sing or dance, and in some cases, both. It is common for Latvians to be members of dance groups, choirs, or music troupes.

Kind: Latvians are generous, helpful, and considerate, embodying kindness in their interactions.

Multilingual: Most Latvians speak at least three languages: Latvian, English, and Russian, with German also being common among older generations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)