13 by Karolis

ESTONIA LATVIA

LITHUANIA

Sisukord Contents Introduction ............................................... 4

Latvia

Lithuania

Baltic region in brief .................................. 6

1 . Higher education system .....................36

1 . Higher education system .....................52

2 . Organization of studies........................39

2 . Organisation of studies .......................54

Estonia

2.1

Academic calendar

2.1

Academic calendar

1 . Higher education................................. 12

2.2

Admission procedure

2.2

Admission procedure

1.1

Academic higher education

2.3

Tuition fees

2.3

Tuition fees

1.2

Professional higher education

2.4

Assessment and grading system

2.4

2 . Organization of studies........................ 15

2.5

Recognition of Foreign Degrees and Diplomas

Forms of assesment and grading system

2.5

Recognition

Languague of tuition

2.1

Academic calendar

2.2

Admission procedures

2.3

Tuition fees

3 . Scholarships/grants ...........................44

3.1

Lithuanian national scholarships

2.4

Assessment and grading system

4. Higher education institutions ............. 45

3.2

2.5

Recognition

5 . Useful links ........................................49

Lifelong learning programme/Erasmus

3.3

Erasmus Mundus

3 . Scholarships/grants ...........................26 4. Higher education institutions ..............29 5 . Useful links ........................................32

2.6

3 . Scholarships and grants......................57

4. Higher education institutions ..............60 5 . Useful links ........................................66

Dear reader, The three three Baltic Balticcountries countriesEstonia, Estonia,Latvia Latvia and Lithuania are are rather rathersmall smallcountries countries and not too too many many people people know know about about them. Thus, we are are pretty pretty sure sure we we can can surprise you in in aa really really positive positive way. way.We We welcome all the the eager eager students, students,who whoare are interested ininthethe degree programmes and degree programmes shorter courses, or would maybe likelike to and shorter courses, or would maybe visit an enlightening summer school with to visit an enlightening summer school the of brilliant academics withcombination the combination of brilliant academand fabulous ics and fabulouscultural cultural programmes. programmes. The Baltic Baltic higher higher education education institutions institutions participate actively actively in in different differentEuropean European educational programmes, programmes,including including the the EU education training flagship EU education and and training flagship proprogramme Erasmus.There There are are several gramme Erasmus. several national and European European support supportschemes schemes available for international students.

The region has has aalong longtradition traditionof The Baltic region of providinghigh-quality high-quality education. For providing For young young people people ititisisaavibrant vibrantand andinternainternational tional environment environmentwith withthe thepossibility possibilitytoto make make use use of of the thelatest latestdevelopments developmentsinin different different study study fields fields which which makes makesthe the region region an an attractive attractiveplace placefor forliving livingand and studying. studying. Of course, aastudent’s student’slifelife is more Of course, is more than than just studying. Estonia, and just studying. Estonia, LatviaLatvia and LithuLithuania EU Member States ania beingbeing also also EU Member States offer offer good for value for with money its good value money its with relatively relatively lowand tuition and living for low tuition living costs forcosts recognrecognised education. After the ised qualityquality education. After the classes classes young people can wander around young people can wander around in the in the medieval the attend towns,a medieval streetsstreets of the of towns, attend a concert, enjoynight-life a lively night-life concert, enjoy a lively in modern

in modern clubs bars into or escape into clubs and bars orand escape the riches thepreserved riches of preserved nature –fo-rests, endless of nature – endless forests, picturesque lakes, long beaches picturesque lakes, long beaches of white of white sand, of tranquillity of country sand, tranquillity country roads. roads. We have a common history and much in We have in a common historyand andmentality, much in common culture, nature common in culture, nature and mentality, and we share our common Baltic sea, at andshores we share our common Baltic at the of which we have beensea, living for several thousand years. And yet, we

the which we things have been haveshores many of interesting thatliving differ for several thousand years. And yet, we from one country to the other. have many interesting things that differ from theout other. Comeone andcountry see, andtofind by yourselves! We hope you find the information in this Come and helpful. see, and We findhope out byyou yourselves! brochure find your We find the information in this wayhope to theyou Baltics! brochure helpful. We hope you find your way tosincerely, the Baltics! Yours

Yours sincerely, AnneToompere, Hütt, Rait Director of Estonian Centre for Educational Programmes Foundation Archimedes

Dita Traidās, Alberts Prikulis, Director DirectorofofState Academic Education Development Programme Agency, Latvia Latvia Agency,

Daiva Šutinytė, Director of Education Exchanges Support Foundation, Lithuania

BALTIC REGION IN BRIEF BALTIC REG ION IN BRIEF BALTIC REGION IN BRIEF B BALTIC REGION IN BRIEF BALTIC REGION IN BRIEF BALTIC RE GION IN BRIEF BALTIC REGION IN BRIEF BAL TIC REGION IN BRIE 2

HISTORY HISTORY History

Politics countries has declared itself to be the HISTORY restoration of the thesovereign Baltic nations Stateswhich had restored The Baltic States became sovereign After TheThe Baltic States became sovereign nationsnations existedinalready in 1918-1940. Baltic States became sovereign the aftermath of World War I for Western integration with in theof aftermath of World War I independence, innations the aftermath World War I for the first The Baltic States became sovereign nations in the the first time since the 13th century (Estonia and Latvia) and the 18th century time sincefirst the time 13th century (Estonia Europe chosen as the main strafor aftermath the since the 13th century of World War Iindependence for theand first time since the was (Lithuania). They declared in 1918 and were recognised as HISTORY Latvia) and the 18th century (Lithuania). POLITICS tegiccentury goal. Membership of NATO was (Estonia and Latvia) and the 18th century 13th century (Estonia Latvia) and the 18th independent countries inand 1920. HISTORY They declared independence in 1918 and HISTORY (Lithuania). declared independence inthe 1918 and achieved Marchhad 29, restored 2004, and acces(Lithuania). They declared independwere recognised asThey independent countries After Baltic The Baltic States became sovereign nations in the onStates were recognised as independent countries in 1920. inence 1920. sion to the tookwith place on May 1, 2004. in 1918 and wereWar recognised as independence, integration Western Independence relatively short-lived, however. In June 1940, following The became sovereign aftermath of World IBaltic for theStates first time since theinEU Thewas Baltic States became sovereign nations the Europe was chosen as the main strategic Furthermore, onI December independent countries 1920. the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact ofWar 1939, the Soviet Union occupied the whole 21, 2007, nations in the aftermath of World War 13th century (Estonia and Latvia) and the 18th century aftermath ofinWorld I for the first time since the Independence was relatively short-lived, goal. Membership of NATO was achieved Independence was relatively short-lived, however. In territory of the Baltic States, and installed new, pro-Soviet governments in all for the first time since the 13th century They declared in and Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania 13th century (Estoniaindependence and Latvia) and the 18th however.(Lithuania). In June 1940, following the on March 29,1918 2004, andcentury accession to the EU entered June 1940, following the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact of three were countries. (Estonia andcountries Latvia) and the recognised independent inSchengen 1920. Molotov-Ribbentrop pactrelatively of as 1939, theshort-lived, Soviet the zone. Independence was took place on May 1, century 2004. (Lithuania). They declared independence in18th 1918 and Furthermore, 1939, the Soviet Union occupied the whole territory Union occupied the whole territory of the (Lithuania). They declared independence on December 21, 2007, Estonia, Latvia and as independent however. In were Junerecognised 1940, following the countries in 1920. ofStates, the Baltic States, and installed new, pro-Soviet Baltic and installed new, pro-Soviet Lithuania entered the Schengen zone. The annexation of the Baltic States lasted from 1944 (re-occupation by the in 1918 and were recognised as Independence was relatively short-lived, however. In Molotov-Ribbentrop pact countries. of 1939, the All three Baltic States are parliamentary governments in all three countries. governments in all three Soviets after the following Nazi German invasion) till 1990. independent countries in 1920. June 1940, the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact of In was relatively democracies, which have unicameral Soviet UnionIndependence occupied the whole terriAll short-lived, three Baltichowever. States are parliamentary 1939, the Soviet Union occupied the whole territory June 1940, following the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact of The annexation of the Baltic States lasted democracies, which have unicameral parliaments elected popular vote. tory ofthree the Baltic States, and installed The of the Baltic States lasted from 1944shortThe Baltic their independence in 1990. Eachby of the Independence was relatively ofannexation the Baltic States, and installed new, pro-Soviet from 1944 (re-occupation byre-declared theUnion Sovietsoccupied parliaments elected by popular vote. In 1939,nations the Soviet the whole territory (re-occupation by the Soviets after the Nazi German In Latvia and Estonia, President is new, pro-Soviet governments inhowever. all three three countries has declared itself to be the restoration of the sovereign nations after the Nazi German invasion) till 1990. lived, In June 1940, following Latvia and Estonia, President is elected governments in all three countries. of the Baltic States, and installed new, pro-Soviet invasion) tillalready 1990. in 1918-1940. elected by parliament countries. by parliament while has awhile semi- Lithuania which existed the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact of Lithuania 1939, TheHISTORY three Baltic nations re-declared their presidential system and the President is and the has a semi-presidential system theBaltic SovietStates Union occupied the whole The annexation of the lasted from 1944 independence inBaltic 1990. Each of the three elected by popular vote. The three nations re-declared their independence territory the the Baltic States, and (re-occupation the Soviets Nazi German President is elected by popular vote. The annexation of theby Baltic Statesofafter lasted in 1990. Each of the three countries has declared itself to of World Country ESTONIA LATVIA LITHUANIA The Baltic States became sovereign nations in the aftermath installed new, pro-Soviet governments in War I for from 1944 (re-occupation by the be the restoration of the sovereign nations which existed the firstafter time the sinceNazi the 13th (Estonia andRiga Latvia) and the 18th century allcentury three countries. Capital Tallinn Vilnius Soviets German invasion) (Lithuania). They declared independence in 1918 and were recognised as till 1990. (2007) Population 1,340,602 2,270,700 3,369,600 independent countries in 1920. Area

45,227 km2

64,589 km2

65,200 km2

0.860

0.855

0.862

The three Baltic nations short-lived, re-declared was relatively however. In June 1940, following +372 +371 +370 their independence in 1990. Each of the the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact of Union occupied the.ltwhole Internet domain .ee1939, the Soviet .lv three countries has declared itself to benew, pro-Soviet governments in all territory of the Baltic States, and installed Currency Estonian crown Lithuanian litas the restoration nations Latvian lat three countries. of the sovereign GDP per existed capita (2007) €15,310 €11,826 €10,472 which already in 1918-1940. Independence Calling code

HDI* (2005) * Human Development Index

3 7

Location The Baltic States are situated on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea, bordering Russia (Estonia and Latvia) and Byelorussia (Latvia and Lithuania) in the east, Poland and the Kaliningrad region of Russia (Lithuania) in the south. The landscape of the countries is marked by lowland plains and rolling hills, with thousands of rivers and lakes. Most of the countryside is less than 100 metres above sea level.

Climate The climate of all three countries can be described as transitional between maritime and continental. Summers are pleasantly mild, whereas not every winter offers an abundance of snow. Average temperature in July is +22°C, in January –5°C.

guages make up the group of the Baltic languages which belongs to the IndoEuropean language family. The Estonian language is not an Indo-European language and instead belongs to the Baltic-Finnic subgroup of the FinnoUgric languages, sharing close ethnic and historical ties with the Finnish language and people.

Languages The languages of the Baltic nations Local time belong to two distinct language fami- Local time is the Eastern European lies. The Latvian and Lithuanian lan- Time (GMT +2 hours, e.g. Helsinki, Budapest and Athens).

Statistics Country

ESTONIA

LATVIA

LITHUANIA

Capital

Tallinn

Riga

Vilnius

1,340,341

2,254,653

3,349,872

45,227 km2

64,589 km2

65,300 km2

+372

+371

+370

.ee

.lv

.lt

Estonian kroon

Latvian lat

Lithuanian litas

€11,987

€10,119

€9,590

0.883

0.866

0.870

Population (2009) Area Calling code Internet domain Currency GDP per capita (2008) HDI* (2007) * Human Development Index

HIGHER EDUCATION IN ESTONIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN ESTONIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN ESTONIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN ESTONIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN ESTONIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN ESTONIA HIGHER EDUCATIOONIA 11

1. Higher education The Estonian higher education system consists of academic and professional higher education. Higher education is provided mainly by universities and professional institutions of higher education. Recent trends in higher education implemented in accordance with the objective to create a European higher education area, have lead to the adoption of a higher education system based on two main cycles - undergraduate and graduate studies.

higher education is to increase students’ level of general education, their acquired basic knowledge and skills in the specialty necessary for master’s level studies and for commencing work. The nominal length of bachelor’s studies is usually 3 years, and the capacity of studies is 180 credits in the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System – ECTS. In exceptional cases the nominal length of bachelor’s-level studies reaches four years (240 ECTS credits). After graduation from bachelor’s-level programmes, the bachelor’s degree bakalaureusekraad, is awarded.

professional knowledge. Master’s level studies in universities are continued studies after bachelor’s level studies, and a bachelor’s degree or equivalent level of qualification is a prerequisite for admission. Persons who hold a professional higher education diploma can also commence master’s programmes in a university under the conditions and pursuant to the procedure established by the university. The nominal length of master’s level studies is 1 – 2 years and the volume of the studies is 60 – 120

ECTS credits, but together with bachelor’s level studies not less than five years (300 ECTS credits). In addition to the two-cycle general structure, the study programmes of medicine, dentistry, pharmaceutical, veterinarian, architectural and civil engineering training are single long-cycle studies with a nominal length of 5 – 6 years and a capacity of 300 – 360 ECTS credits. Such single long-cycle studies are called integrated bachelor-master studies based

After graduation from bachelor’s-level programmes, students can continue in the second cycle leading to the Master’s degree magistrikraad. Master’s level studies are the studies of the second cycle of higher education in the course of which, knowledge and skills in the speciality are acquired, preparing a student for independent work after graduation. The The purpose of the bachelor’s level main purpose of master’s level studies studies of the two-cycle structure of is to educate a specialist with thorough 1.1. Academic higher education The academic branch of Estonian higher education has two cycles, following the bachelor-master model. Bachelor’s level studies form the first cycle, and master’s level studies the second. In some specialties the study programmes have been integrated into a single long cycle.

on an integrated study programme that contains both basic studies and deep specialisation. The completion of studies provides qualifications that correspond to a master’s level degree. Existing legislation establishes that the master’s level qualification is a prerequisite for the commencement of doctoral studies. The nominal length of doctoral studies is 3-4 years after which the postgraduate research degree (doktorikraad) is conferred. 1.2. Professional higher education Professional higher education institutions and a small number of vocational education institutions offer non-academic first cycle higher education, rakenduskõrgharidus, or professional higher education, aimed at providing skills and knowledge required to work in a certain profession or continue one’s studies at the master’s level. Depending of the subject area, the nominal length of first cycle professional higher education studies is 3 – 4 years, and the volume

of studies is 180 – 240 ECTS credits. Persons who have completed professional higher education studies are awarded a diploma called a rakenduskõrgharidusõppe diplom. A diploma of professional higher education corresponds to a bakalaureusekraad awarded by universities, and graduates are entitled to continue studies towards the magistrikraad on conditions laid down by the university council.

2. Organization Of studies 2.1. Academic calendar The academic year at institutions of higher education is divided into two semesters: autumn and spring. The autumn semester usually runs from the last week of August to December, with examinations in January. The spring semester lasts from the end of January or the beginning of February to the end of May, but exams can be taken until the middle of June. As a general rule a semester contains 20 weeks of

lectures, seminars, practical training, independent work and an examination period. Institutions of higher education operate five days a week for full-time studies. 2.2. Admission procedures International students seeking a degree from an institution of higher education in Estonia must usually apply for admission on the same terms as Estonian students. There are general and specific requirements for admission to institutions of higher education. The general requirements are binding on all institutions of higher education and concern all study programmes. Admission to the study programmes is administered by the institution of higher education, and candidates apply directly to the institution of their choice. It is wise to contact the respective institution well before commencing one’s studies, in order to obtain detailed information on application procedures, accommodation possibilities and other important facts.

General requirements Undergraduate students – applicants wishing to pursue first cycle higher education studies are required to have completed their secondary or equivalent level education. International applicants must be eligible for higher education in their own country. In a country where the certificate of completion of secondary school is in itself sufficient for admission to higher education, additional qualifying examinations may also be required for admission to institutions of higher education in Estonia. Graduate and postgraduate students – applicants wishing to pursue master’s level studies are required to have completed the first cycle of higher education, and those wishing to pursue doctoral studies must have completed master’s level studies. Exchange students – student exchanges take place on the basis of bilateral agreements between partner institutions. There are also different exchange pro-

grammes to facilitate student mobility. Further information on conditions and procedures for application is available at the student’s home university.

application materials. Exchange students and visiting students should also contact the appropriate office at their home university.

Visiting students – visiting students are international students who plan to study at the host institution for up to one year at either the graduate or postgraduate level. Further information on conditions and procedures for application is available at the student’s home university and/ or at the prospective host university.

Language requirements All the applicants need to provide proof of the proficiency in the language of a respective study programme. Most of the international students apply for the programmes taught in English, but there are also those, who prefer to study in Estonian or Russian languages. The documented proof of proficiency is not required from native-speakers or from the applicants who have completed their previous education in a respective language. In most cases results of internationally accepted foreign language tests are accepted. Some institutions carry out their own language tests and/or interviews. Many universities offer language courses for international students as a pre-study possibility or as part of the study programme.

Specific requirements Specific requirements depend on the requirements of the institution of higher education and on the specialisation. Specific requirements may include entrance examinations, an interview or minimum marks on the secondary-level school-leaving certificate. All prospective international students should contact the International Relations Office or another appropriate office of the higher education institution of their choice for more detailed information before mailing their

2.3. Tuition fees Study costs may include application fees, tuition fees directly covering the course or programme offered and the purchase of textbooks and other study materials. Since universities reserve the right to revise fees, study costs may differ from one university to another. In addition to study costs, students should also take into account living expenses. Therefore the most reliable source of

information on tuition fees is the higher education institution in which a student is interested. Generally the fees vary from 1280 EUR (20 000 EEK) to 5100 EUR (80 000 EEK) per year for English taught programmes. Some of the more expensive specialities are medicine, law, business administration and social sciences. Some higher education institutions may differentiate tuition fees for students from EU and from outside EU.

Citizens of EU member states are eligible to apply for the state-commissioned places on undergraduate and graduate level together with the applicants possessing a diploma from an Estonian educational institution to the programmes taught in Estonian language. A number of state-commissioned places is available for all the doctoral students.

system of credits1,5 is a cumulative calculacorresponded ECTS). Since acation of credit based on demic year points 2009/2010 thea student’s European workload. One credit corresponds Credit Transfer and point Accumulation Systo 40 is hours one study week tem fullyorimplemented as of a studies national performed by a student. A credit acronym point is credit system. The Estonian not to the lecturing or any other for related the European Credit Transfer and workload of a member Accumulation System of is the EAPacademic (Euroopa staff. The normal workload of an average Ainepunktisüsteemi ainepunkt). One student duringcorresponds a full academic wouldof ECTS credit to year 26 hours include forty weeks – ofamounting studies andtoentail study by a student 1,560 40 national Credit points hours or 60credit ECTSpoints. credits for an acaare awarded demic year. only for successfully completed courses.

2.4. Assessment and grading system Credit system Till 31 August 2009 a system in of credit EstoAcademic progress is measured nian Credit points or wasAP). in force (one AP In the ECTS system of credits the volume points (ainepunkt, The national

The description all study programmes of one academicofyear is 60 ECTS credits. defines the nominal length of studies, The valid legislation enables parallel the balance of compulsory andnational optionusage of both systems – the al subjects, number of credits for system and the ECTS credits. The full specific courses together withofa credits genertransition to the ECTS system al of the available willdescription be completed by 1content, September 2009. majors within the study programme and requirements graduation. In the description of for all study programmes the nominal length of studies, the balance Tests and exams of compulsory and optional subjects, the All institutions of higher education are number of credits for specific courses required enda courses examinatogether to with general with description of tions (eksam) or preliminary examinathe content, available majors within the tions may be several study (arvestus). programmeThere and requirements for independent examinations or tests in graduation are determined. separate parts of a subject. Usually, the Testsand andwritten exams examinations are held oral Allthe institutions of higher education at end of each semester during are the required to examination end courses session. with examinafour-week In an tionsexamination, (eksam) or preliminary examinaoral a student gets one or tionsspecific (arvestus) . There at may several two questions thebe beginning independent examinations or tests in of the session, and after preparation, separate parts of a subject. the answers the examiner. TheUsually examiner oral and examinations arewhich held may ask written additional questions, at the end of each semester during the are required to pass the examination. four-week examination session. In an Oral examinations usually last longer, oral examination a student gets one or from thirty minutes to one hour.

Oral examinations are at sometimes also two specific questions the beginning organised in suchand a manner that a small of the session, after preparation, group of students may answer quesanswers the examiner. The examiner tions at the same time. In a written may ask additional questions which exare amination, a group of students receive required to pass the examination. Oral one or severalusually questions the examinations lastrelated longer,tofrom subject area that must thirty minutes to one hour.be thoroughly answered. There may also be written tests that include questions with mulOral examinations are sometimes also tiple answers, and the students must organised such that a small group of stuselect the answer right answer from given dents may questions at the the same list. A written examination usually takes time. In a written examination a group of from one to two hours. The results of students receive one or several questions an examination and preliminary examirelated to the subject area that must be nation are given in the form of marks or thoroughly answered. There may also be may be tests evaluated as pass (arvestatud) written that include questions with or fail (mitte arvestatud). multiple answers, and the students must select the right answer from the given list. A written examination usually takes from one to two hours. The results of an examination and preliminary examination are given in the form of marks or may be evaluated as pass (arvestatud) or fail (mitte arvestatud).

Grading According to government regulation, all Estonian institutions of higher education use a standardised 6-point scale of grades based on the percentage of aquired knowledge: Grade

Description

Percentage of expected knowledge and skills

5 or A

suurepärane/excellent

91 – 100%

4 or B

väga hea/very good

81 – 90%

3 or C

hea/good

71 – 80%

2 or D

rahuldav/satisfactory

61 – 70%

1 or E

kasin/sufficient

51 – 60%

0 or F

puudulik/insufficient

0 – 50%

Some institutions use letters (A – F) in assessment, while other have opted for numbers (5 – 0), the principles of grading are still similar regardless of which of these is used. With grades A/5, B/4, C/3, D/2 and E/1, an examination is considered passed, whereas with grade F an examination is not considered passed. The grades with which an examination is considered passed begin from 51% of the acquired volume of the subject, and the distribution of grades between the students who pass the examination is not determined.

It is important to emphasise that the grades awarded according to the Estonian grading scale are not directly transferable to the ECTS rating scale, regardless of their striking resemblance. According to the Estonian national grading scale, each student’s knowledge and skills are assessed independently, and not in comparison to each other. The ECTS rating scale aims at the evaluation of students’ abilities in relation to other students in the same study group. As the basis for assessment is different, the transfer of grades from one system to another is problematic.

2.5. Recognition Before making the final decision on what university or study programme to choose, it is important to check whether the institution of higher education and the selected study programme is officially recognised in Estonia. Pursuant to the laws of Estonia, accreditation is not compulsory; it is, however, the only possibility for an institution of higher education to acquire the right to issue officially recognised documents certifying higher education. Recognition by the Republic of Estonia is the basic requirement for the recognition of studies in the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home country. Information about the accreditation of higher education institutions and their programmes can be found on the databases of Estonian higher education institutions (Ă&#x2022;ppekavade andmebaas) on the web site of the Estonian Accreditation Centre. Students wishing to continue their studies in Estonia on the basis of a foreign academic certificate, diploma or

degree must apply directly to the higher education institution or ENIC/NARIC Centre in Estonia for admission, as well as for recognition of their periods of study. The Estonian ENIC/NARIC belongs to the Council of Europe and UNESCO ENIC (European Network of National Information Centres on Academic Recognition and Mobility) network, and is a member of the European Commission NARIC (National Academic Recognition Information Centres) network. The main activities of the Centre in Estonia are the evaluation of foreign educational qualifications (certificates, diplomas, degrees etc.), and the provision of information on education systems and recognition. Foreign students who have been awarded a degree by an Estonian education institution but wish to continue studies or start working in either their home or another foreign country must approach the appropriate authority in that country in order

to evaluate the equivalence of the the home and host institutions. The Estonian credential in a particular educa- Learning Agreement is an informal contract that indicates precisely what tion system. modules and courses a student would Students studying in Estonia in the be studying. At the end of the study framework of the Erasmus programme period abroad, the host university shall do not have to check upon the study pro- provide both the exchange student grammes offered in their host institution, and the sending university a transcript as only institutions with accredited study reporting the results obtained in the programmes are eligible to participate agreed programme of study. in the Erasmus programme. To facilitate the comparability and recognition of Estonian Accreditation Centre acquired credits and grades, students http://www.ekak.archimedes.ee/ are advised to complete a Learning Estonian ENIC/NARIC Centre Agreement to be signed by them and http://www.archimedes.ee/enic/

performance. As of 2008, a similar grant for doctoral students coming from third countries can be applied for through the Archimedes Foundation, although it must be emphasised that application must be made by the institution and not the individual student.

scholarships cover tuition fees, health insurance, the cost of a residence permit and an allowance for living and travel. Only students wishing to pursue their studies at the bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s level can benefit from the support offered under this scheme, however.

Descendants of Estonians living abroad Hundreds of exchange student study in may apply for a student scholarship of Estonia with the support of an Erasmus the compatriots program. Compatriotsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or Erasmus Mundus student grant. In

3. Scholarships/grants New scholarships for international students have been envisaged for the coming years, and it would be worthwhile consulting our www.studyinestonia.ee portal for the latest news. Most of the scholarships are available for outstanding graduate and postgraduate students. Thus, some institutions provide scholarships also for the

undergraduate students. Citizens of EU member states accepted to the state-commissioned student places (mostly Estonian taught study programmes) do not have to pay tuition fees and are eligible to receive national grants awarded on the basis of academic

the framework of these European Union programmes, one can study abroad only as an exchange student. The amount of the scholarship varies considerably, depending mainly on the length of study and the student’s home institution or country. There are currently 24 institutions of higher education in Estonia that participate in the Erasmus European Community action programme (see pp. 29–31). Every participating higher education institution has its own Erasmus co-ordinator who provides academic information for prospective Erasmus exchange students.

the international office of the respective institution of higher education. Study in Estonia portal: http://www.studyinestonia.ee Archimedes Foundation: http://www.archimedes.ee European Commission educational programmes: http://ec.europa.eu/education/ index_en.html

Study loans - All the full-time degree students coming from EU countries are able to apply for a study loan. The loan will be granted after the student has Almost all the universities offering been officially enrolled to the institution international degree programmes have of higher education. More details can scholarship schemes for outstanding be obtained from the banks offering the applicants and continuing students. loans. More information can be obtained at

4. Higher education institutions*

* Institutions participating in the Erasmus programme are marked with (EUC)

Public universitites Estonian Academy of Arts (EUC) Eesti Kunstiakadeemia Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre (EUC) Eesti Muusika- ja Teatriakadeemia Estonian University of Life Sciences (EUC) Eesti Maaülikool

www.ema.edu.ee www.emu.ee

Tallinn University (EUC) Tallinna Ülikool

www.tlu.ee

Tallinn University of Technology (EUC) Tallinna Tehnikaülikool

www.ttu.ee

University of Tartu (EUC) Tartu Ülikool

www.ut.ee

Private universities Estonian Business School (EUC) EuroAcademy (EUC) Euroakadeemia Theological Institute of the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church (EUC) /EELK Ususteaduste Instituut

www.artun.ee

www.ebs.ee www.eurouniv.ee www.eelk.ee

Private professional institutions of higher education

State professional higher education institutions Estonian National Defence College t Kaitseväe Ühendatud Õppeasutused Estonian Maritime Academy (EUC) Eesti Mereakadeemia Lääne-Viru College (EUC) Lääne-Viru Rakenduskõrgkool Estonian Public Service Academy (EUC) Sisekaitseakadeemia

www.ksk.edu.ee www.emara.ee www.lvrkk.ee www.sisekaitse.ee

Estonian Information Technology College (EUC) Eesti Infotehnolooga Kolledž

www.itcollege.ee

Mainor Business School (EUC) Mainori Kõrgkool

www.mk.ee

Tallinn College of Business Administration (EUC) Tallinna Ärijuhtimise Kolledž

www.tcc.ee

Eesti Ameerika Äriakadeemia Estonian-American Business Academy

www.eabc.edu.ee

Tallinn College of Engineering (EUC) Tallinna Tehnikakõrgkool

www.tktk.ee

Baltic Methodist Theological Seminary Eesti Metodisti Kiriku Teoloogiline Seminar

Tallinn Health Care College (EUC) Tallinna Tervishoiu Kõrgkool

www.ttk.ee

Tartu Academy of Theology Tartu Teoloogia Akadeemia

www.teoloogia.ee

Tallinn Pedagogical College (EUC) Tallinna Pedagoogiline Seminar

www.tps.edu.ee

Theological Seminary EEKBL Kõrgem Usuteaduslik Seminar

www.kus.tartu.ee

Tallinn School of Economics (EUC) Tallinna Majanduskool

www.tmk.edu.ee

Institute of Economics and Management ECOMEN (EUC) Majanduse ja Juhtimise Instituut ECOMEN

Tartu Art College (EUC) Tartu Kõrgem Kunstikool

www.art.tartu.ee/uuem/web

Estonian Aviation Academy (EUC) Eesti Lennuakadeemia

www.eava.ee

Tartu Health Care College (EUC) Tartu Tervishoiu Kõrgkool

www.nooruse.ee

Võru County Vocational Training Centre (EUC) Võrumaa Kutsehariduskeskus

Computer Science College Arvutikolledž Higher School I Studium Kõrgkool I Studium Institute of the Humanities and Social Sciences Sotsiaal-Humanitaarinstituut

www.emkts.ee

www.smjinstituut.ee www.iati.ee www.istudium.ee www.shi.ee

www.vkhk.ee

5. Useful links Studying in Estonia Study in Estonia portal: http://www.studyinestonia.ee Estonian Ministry of Education and Research: http://www.hm.ee/ Archimedes Foundation: http://www.archimedes.ee European Commission educational programmes: http://ec.europa.eu/education/index_ en.html Estonian ENIC/NARIC Centre: http://www.archimedes.ee/enic/ Estonian Accreditation Centre: http://www.ekak.archimedes.ee/

Student life Federation of Estonian Student Unions: http://www.eyl.ee/ Erasmus Student Network: http://www.esn.ee/ AIESEC Estonia: http://www.aiesec.org/estonia Estonian ISIC web site: http://www.isic.ee/ Living in Estonia Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs http://www.vm.ee Citizenship and Migration Board: http://www.mig.ee Estonian Tourist Board http://www.visitestonia.com/en/

HIGHER EDUCATION IN LATVIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN LATVIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN LATVIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN lATVIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN LATVIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN LATVIA HIGHER EDUCATIOONIA 35

1. Higher education System Latvian system system is structured Latvian education higher education has at four levels: embraced pre-school,the basic, (upper) successfully three cysecondary, higher education. Basic cle systemand – Bachelor (undergradueducation is compulsory nine ate), Master (graduate)and andit lasts Doctoryears, after –which pupils can with choose al studies in accordance theto continue studies in either seconBologna their process. However, in some dary or vocational education studyschools fields such as medicine, pharinstitutions. macy, dentistry and veterinary medicine, long studies involving qualifiStudy varies according thestill type cationperiod or residency periods to are of institution: three years in a secondary provided. school or one to three years in a vocational education is institution. any Higher education provided After as acaof the and typesprofessional of secondary education is demic programmes completed, students can choose either to in two types of institutions: non-unienter marketdegree) or continue versitythe (uplabour to Masters’s and their studies(up at atohigher education instiuniversity Doctoral degree). tution. Graduates of general secondary, Most higher education institutions pro secondary, and 4-year runfessional both academic and professional vocational secondary programmes are programmes. Short-cycle profeseligible for admission intoprogrammes higher educasional higher education tion are institutions. offered by colleges. The qualification obtained after completing any The Lawlong on Higher Institutions of the studyEducational programmes (e.g.

(1995) sets the framework for the higher education system in Latvia. The Law defines two types of institutions: nonuniversity level 5) university medicine)(ISCED is equated to and Master’s de(ISCED level 6). Universities and other gree, according to Latvian legislation. institutions of higher education mostly run both academic and programmes professional Academic education programmes. in Latvia last three or four years for Bachelor’s academic degree, one or Academic programmes two years education – for Master’s academiclast dethree or four years for Bachelor's degree; scientific activities last three or gree, one orfor two years – scientific for Master's four years Doctoral dedegree; scientific activities last three or gree. Bachelor’s degree gives access four years for Doctoral to Master studies and degree. Master’s degree Professional higher education is divided or its equivalent – to Doctoral prointo first level (college programmes) and grammes. Professional higher educasecond professional education is level divided into first higher level (college tion. First leveland programmes leadproto programmes) second level Level IV professional qualifications; they are called ‘college programmes’ and are mainly established to prepare specialists for the labour market. College programmes last two or three years.

Second level professional higher education programmes lead to Level V professional qualifications (the highest professional qualification that ensures planning and fessional higher education. First level research skills in the respective branch). programmes are mainly aimed at preThese programmes last at least four paring specialists for the labour maryears. ket. These short-cycle programmes last two or three years. 1.1 Qualifications The following qualifications can edube Second level professional higher received in state-accredited procation programmes lead study to highest grammes provided by higher education professional qualifications (this level institutions: ensures planning and research skills 1.in the Academic education leads toand Bachelor's respective branch) profesand Master's academic degree and sional Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees. Doctoral scientific degree. These programmes last at least four 2.years. Professional higher education leads to level IV or level V professional qualification and professional Bachelor's and Master's degrees. Bachelor's degree gives access to Master studies and Master's degree or its equivalent – to Doctoral programmes.

2. Organization of studies

Semester Examinations Examination sessions take place at the end of each semester (i.e. in January/ 2.1. Academic Calendar Although the organization academic February and June-July). Students are The academic year begins inofSeptember yearends depends each institution, is usually given 3â&#x20AC;&#x201C;5 days to prepare for and in theonsecond half of Juneit or usually divided al- each examination. in the first half in of two July. semesters As a general together comprising ten months (40 rule, it comprises 40 weeks of lectures, weeks) of lectures, seminars anddivided prac- Students are individually tested in each seminars, and practical work, tical 2work, starting in the beginning of subject, and the total number of exinto semesters â&#x20AC;&#x201C; autumn and spring. September and ending at the end of June. In some universities students also have aminations in a semester usually ranges January and June are devoted to undergo practical training in to thetaking form between four and six. Candidates who fail semestersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; examinations. of an internship during the Recently, summer. an- in a course (semester) examination may other system of examination has been be allowed to repeat it in the same sesintroduced by some institutions that sion or later, depending on the instituwhen a course (subject) does not last tion. In principle, an examination cannot till the end of semester the examination be repeated more than twice. If the stuis held shortly after the course is com- dent fails, he/she has to repeat the study pleted, even in the middle of a semester. course. Some institutions allow their There are Christmas and Easter holi- students to continue the studies even if days for students during the year. The they have failed in one or two subjects. summer break lasts at least 8 weeks. In However, the student must pass the some universities students also have to examination before the beginning of the undergo practical training in the form of next academic year. an internship during the summer. Final Examinations Final exams are usually arranged as joint examinations covering several subjects relevant to the main field of study.

2.2. Admissions procedure Allhigher highereducation educationinstitutions institutions require All require an a secondary education diploma. Starting (upper) secondary education leaving cerfrom 2004, students enrolled on the tificate. Students fromare Latvia are enrolled basis the results centralised examion theofbasis of the of results of centralised nations whichwhich are passed at secondary examinations are passed at secondschool leaving. However, higher ary school leaving. However, highereducaeducation institutions may still organize one tion institutions may still organise one or or several additional entrance examinaseveral additional entrance examinations tions or aptitude tests an emphasis or aptitude tests with anwith emphasis on subon subjects pertinent to the chosen projects pertinent to the chosen programme.

gramme. The standards to pass The standards required required to pass entrance the entrance examinations aresecondary aligned examinations are aligned with with secondary education standards. education standards. Admission to study programmes is organized according to the 2.3. Tuition fees principle of competition. The government sets the number of places in Latvian public sector to instiInternational students are required prestutions which are financed from the ent a secondary school leaving certificate state budget, Stateinand are advisedaccording to contactto thethe chosen Procurement in the respective academic stitution duly to be well informed about all year. Each higher education institution the other requirements and procedures.

2.3. Tuition fees The government sets the number of places financed from the state budget in Latvian public sector higher education institutions according to the State Procurement in the respective academic year. Students from EU countries are eligible for state-financed places on the same terms as national students. Each higher education institution may set a tuition fee for the rest of study places. The amount of tuition fees varies considerably in different study areas, types of programmes and institutions, and in academic year 2009/10 ranged from around one to several thousand EUR per study year in both state and private sector institutions. However, in accordance with the Regulations on Compulsory Provisions to be Included in the Study Agreement the fee for the programme in total shall be specified in the agreement thus preventing the possible increase of the fee during studies. Tuition fees in institutions located in the capital Riga are significantly higher than in the respective study programmes offered by institutions in smaller towns.

concluded with the respective institution. In cases when foreign citizens study in Latvia under an exchange programme and an equivalent number of Latvian students study abroad, the foreignersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; studies in Latvia are financed from budget resources of the Republic of Latvia allocated to the respective institution of higher education. The tuition fee for the citizens of European Union countries is determined and covered according to the same procedure as for the citizens and permanent residents of the Republic of Latvia. Recently, higher education institutions have started to implement the so-called rotation principle. Rotation is a possibility to transfer from a tuition fee paid place to a study place financed from the state budget, and is held as annual competition. Usually students with higher marks get the right to study in a state-financed place. Each institution develops its own regulations concerning rotation.

Registration fee is stipulated by all higher education institutions, its amount depends on the institution and varies from 5 to 20 lats (LVL) (extra payment Students themselves or other legal or natural per- may be required if a person submits documents sons pay tuition fees if the place is not financed for several programmes). from the state budget. On the average, 75% of stu2.4. Assessment and grading system dents pay for their studies. Examinations are written or oral. In some fields, All paying students, including foreigners, pay for e.g. medicine, practical examinations are held. Stutheir education in accordance with an agreement dents are examined by a single examiner or by an

examination board. If the studentofsuccessand an equivalent number Latvian fully passes all examinations in the session, students study abroad, the foreigners’ he/she is allowed continue studies in the studies in Latviato are financed from the following semester. Final examinations are budget resources of the Republic of conducted by an examination board chaired Latvia allocated to the respective institubytion an academic or a professional from of higher education. The tuitionoutfee side the institution. In some cases, especially for the citizens of European Union counif tries the programme prepares theand student for shall be determined covered work in a regulated profession, final examiaccording to the same procedure as for nations may be arranged as State Examinathe citizens and permanent residents of tions. the Republic of Latvia.

academic hour by is aa unit of study time or lasting are examined single examiner by 45 minutes. The nominal study year coman examination board. If the student sucprises 40 credits. credit pointin system cessfully passesLatvian all examinations the isexamination compatible with ECTS and is used for both session, he/she is allowed accumulation andstudies transfer its impleto continue the in since the following mentation. The number of corresponding semester. Final examinations are conECTS credits may be estimated by multiplyducted by an examination board chaired ing number of or Latvian credit points by a by the an academic a professional from factor of 1.5. outside the institution. In some cases,

especially if the programme prepares Full-time studies correspond to 40 procredit the student for work in a regulated points in the an academic year and atmay least fession, final examinations be40 a week. The of studies is measured 2.4.capacity Assessment and grading system in academic arrangedhours as State examinations. Latvian credit points (credits). Latvian credit Examinations can be written or point oral. higher education system uses a ten-point uses a tenisIn defined a full-time weekly study load Latvian some as fields e.g. medicine, practical gradinghigher scale,education where 10 system is the maximum grading wherepassing 10 is thegrade. maximum comprising 40 academic hours of which up point examinations are important. Students grade and 4 scale, the lowest to 50% are expected to be contact hours. An grade and 4 is the lowest passing grade. Grade

Explanation

Approx. ECTS grade

Izcili (Outstanding)

Teicami (Excellent)

Ļoti labi (Very good)

Labi (Good)

Gandrīz labi (Almost good)

Viduvēji (Satisfactory)

Gandrīz viduvēji (Almost satisfactory)

E/FX

3-1

Negatīvs vērtējums (Unsatisfactory)

Fail

2.6. Languague of tuition Studies in higher education institutions are mainly offered and held in the Latvian language. There are three cases, when it is, however, possible to use foreign languages (the first two refer to the use of official languages of the European Union, and the last one, to any foreign language): • in study programmes acquired by foreign students in Latvia, and study programmes implemented within the scope of co-operation provided for European In case the document assessed does not correspond to the standarts of the certificates/diplomas or academic degrees awarded in Latvia, the assessment report states additional requirements to be met to achieve the required compliance. On the basis of assessment report, the higher education institution to which the student has applied may take a decision on enrolment. 2.5. Recognition of Foreign Degrees and Diplomas On the basis of data provided by the European Commission’s diploma recognition network ENIC/NARIC, the Academic Information Centre of Latvia determines whether a certificate/diploma or an academic degree awarded in a foreign country can be equated to a document of education or an academic degree in Latvia.

Information on recognition procedures is provided by the Academic Information Centre. Address: Brivibas 33, 4th floor, Riga, phone: +371 67225155; http://www.aic.lv

“Pass” and “Not pass” are used for assessing tests and internship.

Union programmes and international agreements; • it is rather common to invite a guest lecturer from a cooperation university of another country to deliver a lecture, or to offer several courses in foreign language taught by local teaching staff. In such a case, it may not exceed one-fifth of the credit point amount of a study programme (in this part final and state examinations, as well as the writing of qualification, bachelor and masters thesis may not be included); • in study programmes where implementation in foreign languages is necessary for the achievement of their aims, for example for language and cultural studies or language programmes. It is recommended to contact your chosen higher education institution directly for further information.

3. Scholarships/grants and other types of support Students are provided financial support in the form of scholarships, grants and loans as well as indirectly by discount of travelling costs in public transport.

Studies for visiting students in Latvia are regulated according to the agreements (bilateral, exchange etc.). Several institutions offer grant competitions for outstanding students. It is advised to contact the respective institution on possibilities to apply for scholarships/grants. International students are entitled to receive a loan for covering living expenses. A monthly scholarship for personal expenses based on examination grades is available for students financed from the state budget. Dormitories are available close to the chosen higher education institution for students whose actual place of residence is too far to travel. Scholarships for two summer schools are available for international students in Vidzeme University College and Riga Technical University. More information on scholarships in Latvia for the current academic year is available at http://izm.izm.gov.lv/ministry/4885.html In Latvia, 40 universities and colleges participate in Erasmus programme.

4. Higher education institutions* * All higher education institutions listed below participate in LLP/Erasmus programme

Daugavpils University Daugavpils Universitāte

www.du.lv

University of Latvia Latvijas Universitāte

www.lu.lv

Riga Technical University Rīgas Tehniskā universitāte

www.rtu.lv

BA School of Business and Finance Banku Augstskola

www.ba.lv

Latvian Maritime Academy Latvijas Jūras akadēmija

www.latja.lv

Latvian Academy of Art Latvijas Mākslas akadēmija

www.lma.lv

Latvia University of Agriculture Latvijas Lauksaimniecības universitāte

www.llu.lv

Riga Stradiņš University Rīgas Stradiņa universitāte

www.rsu.lv

Liepaja University Liepājas Universitāte Latvian Academy of Music Jāzepa Vītola Jāzepa Vītola Latvijas Mūzikas akadēmija Latvian Academy of Culture Latvijas Kultūras akadēmija

www.lieppa.lv www.music.lv/Academy www.lka.edu.lv

More information about Erasmus in Latvia: http://www.viaa.gov.lv

Latvian Academy of Sports Education Latvijas Sporta pedagoģijas akadēmija

www.lspa.lv

Stockholm School of Economics in Riga Rīgas Ekonomikas augstskola

www.sseriga.edu.lv

Riga Teacher Training and Educational Management Academy Rīgas Pedagoģijas un izglītības vadības augstskola Vidzeme University College Vidzemes augstskola

www.va.lv

Higher School of Social Work and Social Pedagogics “Attīstība” Sociālā darba un sociālās pedagoģijas augstskola “Attīstība” Transport and Telecommunication Institute Transporta un sakaru institūts International Higher school of Practical Psychology Starptautiskā praktiskās psiholoģijas augstskola

www.psy.lv www.attistiba.lv www.tsi.lv www.sppa.lv

School of Business Administration “Turība” Biznesa augstskola “Turība”

www.turiba.lv

University College of Economics and Culture Ekonomikas un Kultūras augstskola

www.eka.edu.lv

Liepaja medical College Liepājas Medicīnas koledža

www.lmk.edu.lv

www.kra.lv

Riga Building College Rīgas Celtniecības koledža

www.rck.lv

Riga Business College Rīgas Uzņēmējdarbības koledža

www.ruk.lv

Latvian Christian Academy Latvijas Kristīgā akadēmija Riga International School of Economics and Business Administration Rīgas Starptautiskā ekonomikas un biznesa administrācijas augstskola Rēzekne Higher Education Institution Rēzeknes Augstskola

www.rsebaa.lv www.ru.lv

Riga Graduate School of Law Rīgas Juridiskā augstskola

www.rgsl.edu.lv

Ventspils University College Ventspils Augstskola

www.venta.lv

Baltic International Academy Baltijas Starptautiskā akadēmija Graduate School of Information Systems Informācijas sistēmu menedžmenta augstskola

www.rpiva.lv

Higher School of Psychology Psiholoģijas augstskola

www.bsa.edu.lv ww.isma.lv

Latvia Bussiness college Latvijas Biznesa koledža

Alberts College Alberta koledža Daugavpils Medical College Daugavpils Medicīnas koledža Latvia Culture college Latvijas Kultūras koledža P. Stradiņš Health and Social Care College P. Stradiņa Veselības un sociālās aprūpes koledža Riga Medical College Rīgas Medicīnas koledža

www.biznesakoledza.lv

www.alberta-koledza.lv www.medkol.lv www.kulturaskoledza.lv ww.psk.lv www.rmkoledza.lv

Red Cross Medical College Sarkanā Krusta medicīnas koledža

www.redcrossmedicalcollege.lv

Riga 1st Medical College Rīgas 1. medicīnas koledža

www.rmk1.lv

College of Accounting and Finance Grāmatvedības un finanšu koledža

www.koledza.lv

Riga Technical College Rīgas Tehniskā koledža State Border Guard College Valsts Robežsardzes koledža

www.rtk.lv www.vrk.rs.gov.lv

5. Useful links Latvia on the Web Welcome to Latvia www.lv

List of higher education institutions www.aiknc.lv/en/list.php

The Latvian Institute www.li.lv

Academic Information Centre (responsible for validating foreign diplomas in Latvia) www.aic.lv

Riga in Your Pocket www.inyourpocket.com/latvia/ en/

Ministry of Foreign Affairs directory of Embassies: www.am.gov.lv/en/ministry/mission

Riga Municipality www.riga.lv Countryside Traveller www.celotajs.lv Ministry of Education and Science www.izm.gov.lv State Education Development Agency www.viaa.gov.lv

Student Union Each higher education institution has its own student union that organizes seminars, competitions, festivals, concerts, job markets, and parties. Almost every University has an active student club. The Latvian Student Union can be found at: Baznīcas iela 5–20, Rīga, LV-1050 phone: +371 67034673 e-mail: lsa@lsa.lv www.lsa.lv; www.studentnet.lv Online business directory: www.1188.lv

HIGHER EDUCATION IN LITHUANIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN LITHUANIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN LITHUANIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN LITHUANIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN LITHUANIA HIGHER EDUCATION IN LITHUANIA HIGHER EDUCATIOONIA 51

1. Higher Education System There are two types of higher education institutions in Lithuania: universities and colleges. The Lithuanian higher education institutions are either state or non-state. Non-state higher education institutions can pursue their activities according to a licence issued by the Government of the Republic of Lithuania. Higher education can only be acquired in higher education institutions. Non-university studies are undergraduate (professional Bachelor), one-cycle, aimed at acquiring professional Bachelor’s degree and / or the professional qualification, testified by the professional Bachelor diploma or higher education diploma. University studies are organised in three cycles: first cycle – under-graduate (Bachelor), second cycle – graduate (Master’s or specialised professional) and third cycle – postgraduate (doctoral, residency or postgraduate art). Integrated studies are aimed at acquiring qualification of

the second cycle, when studies of the first and second cycles are combined in succession. Upon the completion of undergraduate university studies, Bachelor diploma is awarded, testifying Bachelor’s degree or Bachelor’s degree and professional qualification. Upon the completion of integrated studies, the Master’s qualification or Master’s qualification and professional qualification, testified by Master’s diploma, is acquired. Sometimes only professional qualification is awarded testified by the higher education diploma. Upon the completion of graduate Master’s studies, Master’s diploma is awarded, testifying Master’s qualification or Master’s and professional qualification. Specialised professional second cycle

studies are aimed at acquiring professional qualification in a specific field, testified by the higher education diploma. Postgraduate art studies are the third cycle studies designed for the training of higher education institution art teachers and specialisation of artists. Residency is in the third cycle studies designed exclusively for training of specialists in the specific study fields (Medicine, Odontology and Veterinary Medicine) in order to follow their individually chosen careers. Lithuania uses its national credit system based on student workload with an average of 1,600 working hours per academic year. One credit corresponds to 40 hours of student work (in classes, laboratories, independent work etc.), or to one working week. There are are two three modes of studies: fullmodes of studies: continutime daytime, part-timestudies. evening and ous studies and extended part-time extramural.

2. Organisation of Studies 2.1. Academic calendar The academic year is divided into two semesters: autumn (beginning in September) and spring (beginning in February). Each semester usually covers 20 weeks. The last 4 weeks are allotted to examination sessions.

aminations (one or two weeks), summer holidays – after the spring semester (up to two months). In summertime some students undertake a practical course during which they train working as professionals.

second cycle university programmes, individuals should hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification (usually in the respective field). In order to enter the third cycle university studies, an applicant should have either Master’s or a corresponding degree in the selected study field. A foreign national seeking access to studies in Lithuania has to be proficient in the language of instruction. As a rule, the language of instruction is Lithuanian, and the applicant has to pass the pass/fail test of the Lithuanian language (www.lsk.flf.vu.lt/). In cases of international programmes, when the

language of instruction is other than Lithuanian, the applicant must pass a test to demonstrate his/her proficiency in that language. The test is taken at the institution offering the programme. As a rule of thumb, admission to regular studies is carried out in July. However, foreign citizens planning to study in Lithuania are advised to start the application procedure as early as possible due to the fact that document recognition and subject equivalence identification procedure may take up to one month and sometimes longer.

2.2. Admission procedure Admission to all Lithuanian institutions of higher education is subject to competition. There is a fixed number of applicants admitted to study programmes. Holidays: Christmas holidays from 25 In order to enter the first cycle university December till the beginning of January, studies, a Maturity Certificate (school Easter holidays from five to nine days, leaving certificate) or comparable qualiwinter holidays – after the winter ex- fication is required. To be admitted to the

2.3. Tuition fees The amount of tuition fees varies from LTL 3,500 (approx. EUR 1,010) to LTL 12,000 (approx. EUR 3,500) per academic year for undergraduate studies and from LTL 8,500 (approx. EUR 2,500) to LTL 20,000 (approx. EUR 5,800) per academic year for graduate studies depending on the institution and the programme chosen. Marking system

2.4. Forms of assessment and grading system Every course in a subject should be assessed by one of three means: examination, graded credit test or credit test (pass/fail). Either of the three can be oral or in writing. An examination is evaluated by a mark. A graded credit test is similar Definition

PASS 10 (excellent)

Excellent performance, outstanding knowledge and skills

9 (very good)

Strong performance, good knowledge and skills

8 (good)

Above the average performance, knowledge and skills

7 (highly satisfactory)

Average performance, knowledge and skills with inessential shortcomings

6 (satisfactory)

Below average performance, knowledge and skills with substantial shortcomings

5 (sufficient)

Knowledge and skills meet minimum criteria shortcomings

FAIL* 4 (insufficient) 3 (highly insufficient) 2 (poor)

Knowledge and skills do not meet minimum criteria / below minimum criteria

1 (very poor) *Failed exams (marks from 1 to 4) must be retaken.

to an examination, only less time is allowed for preparation, and the scope of the material covered is usually much narrower than in an examination. As for credit tests, they are either pass or fail, and even less time is given for preparation. Only in exceptional cases students may choose the means of assessment. Usually it is unequivocally determined by the curriculum. Students at institutions of higher education are evaluated on a ten point scale, although actually on a seven point scale, because examinations with 1, 2, 3, 4 points received are considered failing and must be retaken.

3. Scholarships and Grants

3.1. Lithuanian national scholarships The Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Lithuania offers the following national scholarships under bilateral agreements in the field of culture, science, education and sports: • state scholarships for undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate level students’ 5-10 months’ studies; • state scholarships for researchers’, teachers’ short term (1-5 months) research or lecturing stays in state higher education and research institutions of Lithuania; • state scholarships for participation 2.5. Recognition in language and culture summer A foreign citizen must have his/her schools. education documents organised in Lithuania. The evaluation and recognition procedures of school-leaving certifi- The opportunity is given for advanced cates and higher education qualifications students, researchers and teachers of are provided by the Centre for Quality higher education institutions to enable Assessment in Higher Education (www. them to study or carry out research at a Lithuanian institution of higher education skvc.lt). and science. Applications from students

and researchers researchers of from different fields of Method of application different study or restudies or research are welcome. search fields are welcome. Applicants for the scholarships must be nominated by the authorised All applicants have to be enrolled in co-ordinators in their home country higher education institution in their observing the deadlines, requirements home country (or employment in a higher and quota established in bilateral agreeeducation and research institution). ments and exchange programmes The scholarships are not intended for More information is available on the a full course of study. Normally, an website: academic degree or diploma cannot be www.smpf.lt/scholarships obtained during the tenure of the scholarship. 3.2. Lifelong learning programme / Erasmus Lithuanian (Baltic) Studies In Lithuania, universities The Lithuanian (Baltic) studies organised In Lithuania, 48 more than 40 and universities colleges participate in the by higher education and research institu- and colleges (which constituteErasmus the vast programme which is the vast majority tions of Lithuania attract foreign students majority of all Lithuanian institutions of of all Lithuanian of the higher who learn Lithuanian or Baltic philology, higher education) institutions participate in Ereducation. Hundreds of foreign students Indo-European linguistics or Lithuanian asmus programme. Hundreds of foreign come as Erasmus Lithuania literature. These studies may be attrac- students come as students Erasmus to students to every year. tive for researchers and lecturers who Lithuania every year. are interested in the scientific Lithuanian For more literature, history, culture, ethnography, For more information information see see also: also: www.smpf.lt/erasmus_en folklore, political and economic www.smpf.lt/erasmus_en processes in the Baltic region.

3.3. Erasmus Mundus Erasmus Mundus is a cooperation and mobility programme, intended to enhance the quality of higher education in Europe and cooperation throughout the world by organising high-quality Masters Courses at the European universities. Lithuanian institutions actively participate in number of various Erasmus

Mundus projects as coordinators and partners. More information is available on the website: http://ec.europa.eu/education/ external-relation-programmes/ doc72_en.htm

4. Higher education institutions* *All institutions of higher education listed below are participating in LLP/Erasmus programme.

Universities

ISM University of Management and Economics ISM Vadybos ir ekonomikos universitetas

www.ism.lt

Mykolas Romeris University Mykolo Romerio universitetas

Kaunas University of Technology Kauno technologijos universitetas

www.ktu.lt

Siauliai University Šiaulių universitetas

Klaipeda University Klaipėdos universitetas

www.ku.lt

Vilnius Gediminas Technical University Vilniaus Gedimino technikos universitetas

www.vgtu.lt

LCC International University LCC tarptautinis universitetas

www.lcc.lt

Vilnius Academy of Fine Arts Vilniaus dailės akademija

www.vda.lt

www.mruni.eu www.su.lt

Lithuanian Academy of Physical Education Lietuvos kūno kultūros akademija

www.lkka.lt

Vilnius University Vilniaus universitetas

www.vu.lt

Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre Lietuvos muzikos ir teatro akademija

www.lmta.lt

Vilnius Pedagogical University Vilniaus pedagoginis universitetas

www.vpu.lt

Lithuanian University of Health Sciences Lietuvos sveikatos mokslų universitetas

www.lva.lt www.kmu.lt

International Business school at Vilnius University Vilniaus universiteto tarptautinio verslo mokykla

www.tvm.lt

Lithuanian University of Agriculture Lietuvos žemės ūkio universitetas

www.lzuu.lt

Vytautas Magnus University Vytauto Didžiojo universitetas

www.vdu.lt

Colleges Alytus College Alytaus kolegija

Colleges www.akolegija.lt

Marijampolė College Marijampolės kolegija

www.marko.lt www.panko.lt

College of Social Sciences Socialinių mokslų kolegija

www.smk.lt

Panevėžys College Panevėžio kolegija

International Law and Business Higher School Tarptautinė teisės ir verslo aukštoji mokykla

www.ttvam.lt

Siauliai College Šiaulių kolegija

Kaunas College Kauno kolegija

www.kauko.lt

Northern Lithuania College Šiaurės Lietuvos kolegija

Kaunas College of Forestry and Environmental Engineering Kauno miškų ir aplinkos inžinerijos kolegija Kaunas Technical College Kauno technikos kolegija

www.kmaik.lm.lt www.ktk.lt

Žemaitija College Žemaitijos kolegija Utena College Utenos kolegija

www.siauliukolegija.lt www.slk.lt www.zemko.lt www.utenos-kolegija.lt

Klaipėda State College Klaipėdos valstybinė kolegija

www.klvtk.lt

West Lithuanian Business College Vakarų Lietuvos verslo kolegija

www.vlvk.lt

Klaipėda Business Higher School Klaipėdos verslo aukštoji mokykla

www.klvk.lt

Vilnius College Vilniaus kolegija

www.viko.lt

Vilnius Co-operative College Vilniaus kooperacijos kolegija

www.vkk.lt

Kolping College Kolpingo kolegija Lithuanian Maritime Academy Lietuvos aukštoji jūreivystės mokykla

www.kolping.lt www.lmc.lt

Colleges Vilnius College of Technologies and Design Vilniaus technologijų ir dizaino kolegija Vilnius Business College Vilniaus verslo kolegija V.A. Graičiūnas school of Management V.A. Graičiūno aukštoji vadybos mokykla

Scientific Institutes participating in LLP/Erasmus programme www.vtdko.lt www.kolegija.lt www.avm.lt

Institute of Mathematics and Informatics Matematikos ir informatikos institutas

www.mii.lt

Semiconductor Physics Institute Puslaidininkių fizikos institutas

www.pfi.lt

The complete list of the Lithuanian higher education institutions can be found at www.aikos.smm.lt/aikos/svietimo_ir_mokslo_institucijos.htm

5. Useful links

Student life Lithuanian National Union of Students www.lss.lt

Studying in Lithuania Ministry of Education and Science of the Lithuanian National Union of Students Republic of Lithuania Representations www.smm.lt www.lsas.lt Educational Exchanges Support ISIC Lithuania Foundation www.isic.lt www.smpf.lt Lithuanian State Science and Studies Foundation www.vmsfondas.lt

Living in Lithuania Lithuanian Central Internet Gates www.lithuania.lt

Centre for Quality Assessment in Higher Education www.skvc.lt

Migration Department www.migracija.lt

Science Council of Lithuania www.lmt.lt

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania www.urm.lt

Sisukord Notes

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Notes

67 69

Notes

Compiled by: State Education Development Agency (Latvia) www.viaa.gov.lv Archimedes Foundation (Estonia) www.archimedes.ee Educational Exchanges Support Foundation (Lithuania) www.smpf.lt ÂŠ 2010 State Education Development Agency (VIAA), Archimedes Foundation, Educational Exchanges Support Foundation

ISBN 978-9985-9936-4-4

This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This publication re ects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.