Lithuania is one of the three Baltic countries and is known for its ancient language, natural landscapes, and love of basketball. The country is also known for its cuisine, beer, and even its own perfume, called “The Scent of Lithuania.”
Besides its unique culture, Lithuania also has high levels of educational attainment, making it an appealing study destination for international students. International learners can find many English-taught programs, and English proficiency is relatively high compared with many non-native English-speaking countries.
For aspiring students considering Lithuania as their study destination, this article will be a helpful guide. We have compiled some of the best institutions in the country, so read on to learn more about these universities.
Top Universities in Lithuania for International Students
1. Vilnius University
Vilnius University is the first and largest university in Lithuania, founded in 1579, and one of the oldest higher education institutions in Central and Eastern Europe. Today, the university comprises 12 faculties, seven institutes, two university hospitals, and four interfaculty study and research centers. Students at VU also have access to the oldest library in Lithuania, the Botanical Garden, the Astronomical Observatory, and other academic and cultural resources.
Vilnius University is strongly connected with the historic city of Vilnius and also has branches in Kaunas and Šiauliai. As of October 1, 2025, the university had 26,553 students, including 3,424 foreign students. It is also ranked #=465 in the QS World University Rankings 2027, placing it among the top 500 universities in the world.
2. Vilnius Gediminas Technical University
Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, also called VILNIUS TECH, is one of Lithuania’s leading universities for engineering, technology, and university-business cooperation. It is a public technical university with 11 faculties: the Antanas Gustaitis Aviation Institute, the Faculty of Environmental Engineering, the Faculty of Architecture, the Faculty of Electronics, the Faculty of Fundamental Sciences, the Faculty of Creative Industries, the Lithuanian Maritime Academy, the Faculty of Mechanics, the Faculty of Civil Engineering, the Faculty of Transport Engineering, and the Faculty of Business Management.
VILNIUS TECH has more than 8,600 students, more than 1,720 international students, and over 470 partner universities abroad. The university is ranked #791–800 in the QS World University Rankings 2027 and reports that it is the national leader in Lithuania in the engineering discipline group.
3. Kaunas University of Technology
Kaunas University of Technology had its beginnings on February 16, 1922, when the University of Lithuania and its technical faculties were established. Its development continued through the first Lithuanian independent technical higher education school, later known as Kaunas Polytechnic Institute. Today, KTU is a public research university with nine faculties and eight institutes. Its academic areas include chemical technology, civil engineering and architecture, electrical and electronics engineering, informatics, mathematics and natural sciences, mechanical engineering and design, social sciences, arts and humanities, technologies and business, and economics and business.
KTU is ranked #=696 in the QS World University Rankings 2027. The university also has cooperation agreements with more than 350 higher education institutions in 50 countries, supporting international exchange, study, and research opportunities.
FAQs about Studying in Lithuania
Is Lithuania a Good Place to Study for International Students?
Lithuania has universities and colleges that offer degree and non-degree study programs. Its higher education system is part of the European Higher Education Area, which helps make qualifications more comparable and recognizable across Europe.
Studying in Lithuania is relatively more affordable than in many popular study destinations such as the US or UK. Tuition fees are more affordable than in many Western European countries, with official Study in Europe guidance listing average tuition from €1,300 per year for bachelor’s studies, from €2,300 per year for master’s studies, and from €8,400 per year for doctoral studies. Living costs are estimated at around €500 to €800 per month, depending on the city and lifestyle.
Can International Students Work in Lithuania While Studying?
International students can work in Lithuania, but the rules depend on their citizenship, residence status, and level of study. EU students follow the same employment procedures as local students. For non-EU students, recent rules limit first- and second-year bachelor’s students to 20 hours of work per week, except during summer holidays and practical training periods. Students in later years, master’s students, doctoral candidates, residents, and graduates may generally work up to 40 hours per week. Non-EU students should hold the required visa or temporary residence permit and should always check the current Migration Department rules before accepting work.
Can International Students Stay in Lithuania After Graduation?
The easiest way for international graduates to stay in Lithuania is to find qualifying employment or apply for a post-study residence option. Citizens of European Union countries can work in Lithuania under the same general procedures as local residents.
Non-EU graduates who completed studies in Lithuania can apply for a temporary residence permit valid for 12 months for job search, employment, or self-employment. A temporary residence permit issued or renewed for the final year of studies also remains valid for three months after the expected end of studies, allowing graduates to continue their transition into the labor market.
Compared with larger European study destinations, Lithuania has a smaller higher education sector, but this should not discourage you from studying in the country. Lithuanian universities offer opportunities such as scholarships, internships, exchange programs, and international partnerships.
We hope that this article has encouraged you to study in Lithuania. If you are interested, make sure to also check out the Available Programs in Europe!
