Lithuania : Postgraduate study

How does the higher education system work?

Higher education in Lithuania takes two forms - university-based, academic programmes and college-based, vocationally orientated programmes. A mix of privately and publicly funded higher education establishments exist in Lithuania.

In order to pursue postgraduate study, a student must have an undergraduate Bachelor degree. They may also be required to take a university entrance examination.

What courses are available?

The main types of postgraduate courses are:

• Masters studies;
• specialised professional studies;
• Doctoral studies;
• residency studies.

Masters programmes take 18 months to 2 years to complete. Specialised professional studies are more vocationally orientated, focusing on acquiring practical skills for specific jobs. These courses last approximately 1 year to 18 months. As in the UK, Doctoral programmes generally take four years to complete. Residency studies are aimed at graduates of medicine, dentistry and veterinary medicine and focus on practical training.

The majority of programmes are in Lithuanian, but some university courses are now taught in foreign languages - mostly English, French, German and Russian - in order to equip home students with language skills and to attract international students and staff. 

Where can I study?

State universities and colleges are generally focused on one or more specific areas of expertise, so the course you are interested in may only be offered in one or two locations.

AIKOS  (a Ministry of Education and Science of Lithuania website) has a searchable database of courses as well as a full list of universities and colleges.

Almost all Lithuanian universities have English language versions of their websites, which you should consult for up-to-date information.

Applying for postgraduate study

Applications are made direct to your chosen institution. The academic year runs from September to July and you should apply well in advance. Visit individual websites for details of entry requirements and closing dates, and speak to admissions departments for more advice.

Applicants are expected to show copies of qualifications and will usually be required to sit an entrance examination. Most universities also require applicants to complete an application form and submit a statement about their reasons for joining the programme and reflections on any previous study. This is submitted directly to the university along with an academic reference.

Applicants need to submit proof that their qualifications are recognised in Lithuania. Contact the Lithuanian Centre for Quality Assessment in Higher Education  for advice on the value of your UK qualification for the purpose of entering higher education.

Fees and scholarships

EU citizens are charged the home rate for tuition fees. Fees vary, depending on the institution and course studied. Check with individual institutions for details of fees, the availability of scholarships and eligibility criteria.

In general, living costs are substantially lower than in the UK, and many students will be housed in university accommodation meaning their costs are lower still. Vilnius University estimates that students need around 1,200 litas a month to cover all expenses (including accommodation).

Are there any exchange programmes?

UK students on undergraduate degree programmes or postgraduate Masters and some PhD programmes may be interested in spending time studying in Lithuania through the Erasmus scheme. This programme covers all subject areas, but check with your institution’s Erasmus coordinator first (usually based in the international office) to see which countries they have links with and in what subjects.

Will my qualification be recognised in the UK?

As part of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) , a Lithuanian postgraduate course should be directly comparable to the UK equivalent. Full details on comparing international qualifications are also available from the UK NARIC (National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom) , which gives information and advice on vocational, academic and professional qualifications from over 180 countries.