Lithuania is one of the three Baltic States and is known for its ancient language, stunning natural landscapes, and the love of Basketball. The country is also famous for its cuisine, beer, and even its own aroma, called “the Scent of Lithuania.” Besides this unique culture, Lithuania is also one of the most bilingual and educated countries in Europe, making it a perfect study destination for international students. In this article, we will be looking at the best universities in Lithuania for international students.
Is Lithuania good for international students to study in?
Lithuania is home to 22 universities where four are regularly included in global university rankings. These universities conform with the Bologna Process, ensuring students have internationally recognized degrees.
Studying in Lithuania is relatively more affordable than in the US or UK. Tuition fees are lower than in other European nations, while the cost of living is reported to be cheaper than 54% of the countries in the world. Yet, the quality of life in the country has been ranked first in Central and Eastern Europe in the Green City Index and likened to Copenhagen, Cape Town, and Barcelona.
Check Also: Programs in Europe for International Students
Can international students work in Lithuania while studying?
International students who wish to work during their studies in Lithuania can start with browsing national daily papers or inquire about their university’s services. Lithuania allows foreign university students to work up to 20 hours per week on regular semesters, and up to three months of full-time work on holidays. However, Non-EU students must secure a valid residency permit or a Residence Card for full-time work.
Can international students stay in Lithuania after graduation?
The easiest way for international graduates to stay in Lithuania is to find employment in their chosen degree or industry. Lithuania has a high demand for Teaching English as Foreign Language (TEFL) teachers, as well.
Citizens of the European Union countries can directly work in the country after graduation. Non-EU nationals must apply for a Temporary Residence Permit that grants fresh graduates 12 months for job searching or self-employment. Upon successful employment, the Lithuanian company or the graduate can process an official Work Permit.
Top Universities in Lithuania for International Students
1. Vilnius University (VU)
Vilnius University is the oldest and the best higher education institution in Lithuania for international students and one of the oldest in Eastern Europe as well. It has been an integral part of the country’s culture since its foundation in 1579. Today, the university comprises 14 faculties across the sciences, humanities, and social sciences, and manages centers for information technology, e-learning and examination, health and sports, and property management and services. Students at VU also enjoy a botanical garden, a cultural center and museum, an extensive library, and a publishing house.
Most parts of the Vilnius University are situated in the scenic Old Town of Vilnius, where students can feel the history of the university. The campus is home to more than 1300 professors and staff and over 20000 students, including around 1200 international learners.
2. Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (VGTU)
Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, also called Vilnius Tech, is a top university in Lithuania when it comes to technological sciences. It is a public university composed of ten faculties: Architecture, Civil Engineering, Electronics, Mechanics, Environmental Engineering, Fundamental Sciences, Transport Engineering, Business Management, Creative Industries, and the Antanas Gustaitis Aviation Institute. Vilnius Tech also manages 13 institutes, 23 research laboratories, and three research centers, of which the university publishes 100 scientific research annually.
Today, Vilnius Tech has over 9400 students, 13.5% of which are international degree-seeking and exchange students. The university, ranking among the top 50 in Europe and Central Asia and 2.1% globally, has over 450 partner institutions in 67 countries for research and study projects.
3. Kaunas University of Technology (KTU)
The Kaunas University of Technology was the first independent institution for higher education in Lithuania when it was established in 1922. It is a public research university that specializes in civil engineering, electrical engineering, mechanics, and chemical technology. The other faculties are economics and business, informatics, mathematics and natural sciences, technologies and business, and social sciences, arts, and humanities. The university also manages eight research institutes across the same subject areas, as well as aviation and materials science, among others.
Among the 9000 students at this top university in Lithuania, 6.5% come from foreign countries. To strengthen this mobility, the university became a member of the International Association of Universities and the European University Association.
I hope that this article on the best universities in Lithuania for international students was helpful. Make sure to also check out the Available Programs in Europe!
