Riga Stradiņs University (RSU) is a leading medical education school in Europe.

Located in the heart of Latvia’s capital, the university has earned a reputation as one of the region’s premier institutions for health sciences programmes. With a strong focus on research, clinical training, and international collaboration, RSU attracts students from over 70 countries, allowing to study medicine and dentistry in English. Known for its modern facilities, diverse student community, and globally recognized degrees, it provides a dynamic and supportive environment for future healthcare professionals seeking a high-quality education in Europe.

Why Study Medicine and Dentistry at Riga Stradins University?

Latvia's Riga Stradins University is one of the most respected med school in the Baltics with a long history of training doctors, dentists, and healthcare professionals.

For international students, this medical university is a popular choice because it offers English-taught Medicine and Dentistry programs, two intakes each year (September and February), high quality facilities and strong recognition of degrees across the EU and beyond.

Many students search for the University world ranking and are reassured to see RSU consistently listed among the best medical universities in Europe. According to global listings, University QS ranking continues to rise, showing its growing reputation.

Medicine Programme in Latvia

The Faculty of Medicine is one of the largest in Latvia, hosting thousands of international students. The Riga University Medicine programme is six years long, taught entirely in English, and follows European standards.

• Degree: Doctor of Medicine (MD)

• Duration: 6 years

• Recognition: EU and internationally (subject to local licensing requirements)

Dentistry Studies in Latvia

The Riga Stradiņs University Institute of Stomatology offers five-year dentistry programme, also taught in English, and graduates are eligible to practise across the EU and many other countries.

• Degree: Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS)

• Duration: 5 years

• Clinical training at university own Stomatology facilities

This makes the university one of the strongest options in Europe for students seeking dentistry studies abroad.

Medicine and Dentistry Entry Requirements

Riga Stradins University is one of the schools in Europe, offering dentistry and medicine entry without an entrance exam. But applicants usually need:

• High school diploma with strong results in Biology, Chemistry, and English

• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL if applicable)

• Motivation letter and academic references

Summarizing, entry requirements are straightforward compared to some Western European schools, making it accessible for international applicants, as long as you have high grades in science subjects.

University Fees and Tuition Costs

When considering studying abroad, medical universities tuition fees are a key factor. The university fees are competitive compared to many Western European medical schools.

• Medicine: approx. €13,500/year

• Dentistry: approx. €14,000/year

• Living costs in Riga: €750–€850/month depending on lifestyle

Acceptance Rate and Application Deadlines

The university acceptance rate is considered high compared to other European medical universities, especially for motivated students with strong academic backgrounds and high school grades.

RSU has two application periods each year, giving international students extra flexibility.

• Application deadline for September intake: typically late spring/early summer

• Application deadline for February intake: typically autumn

Because student admission deadlines can change slightly each year, applicants are encouraged to apply early to secure a place.

University Ranking and Global Reputation

Students frequently ask: Is RSU well-ranked?

The answer is a confident yes as the school has steadily built a strong reputation both within Latvia and internationally, particularly in the fields of health sciences.

World University Ranking

RSU is consistently ranked among the top universities in Latvia. It is widely recognized for its academic excellence, modern infrastructure, and international student community. According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025, Medical University of Riga is placed in the 1501+ band globally, with notable strengths in international outlook and teaching quality.

QS ranking

RSU has made consistent progress in the QS World University Rankings, where it currently ranks in the 1001–1200 bracket globally for 2026. It also holds a strong position in the QS Europe Region Rankings—377th in Europe and 128th in Northern Europe. Among universities specializing in two or fewer faculty areas, the school ranks 16th in Europe and 5th in Northern Europe. It performs exceptionally well in international student diversity, ranking 102nd globally in that category.

For anyone considering medical universities in Europe, RSU is a safe, accredited, and highly respected choice. Its English-taught programs in medicine and dentistry are recognized across US, the EU and EEA, offering graduates broad career mobility.

FAQs

How much does it cost to study medicine at Riga Stradins University?

Tuition fees are €13,500 per year.

What are the tuition fees for dentistry at RSU?

The programme costs €15,500 per year.

Does RSU have two intakes every year?

Yes, students can begin their studies either in September or in February.

Do I need to take an entrance exam to study medicine or dentistry in Riga?

No. Admission is based on your secondary school performance in English, Biology, Chemistry, and sometimes Physics.

Are RSU degrees internationally recognized?

Yes, medical and dental degrees are fully accredited in the EU and recognized in many countries worldwide.

Apply to Riga Stradins University with Desire2Study

If you’re considering Riga Stradins University to study medicine or dentistry, apply directly through Desire2Study, the official representative of RSU for international students.

At Desire2Study, we:

• Achieved a 100% admission success rate last year.

• Provide transparent advice, explaining both advantages and challenges of each university.

• Offer student-first support, guiding you from application to relocation.

• Focus on diploma recognition, ensuring your qualification opens doors worldwide.

• Encourage no-pressure decision making, so you apply only when ready.

And remember – Riga is just one choice. We work with seventeen other medical universities in nine EU countries, giving you access to the best medical schools in Europe for studying Medicine, Dentistry, or Veterinary abroad.

👉 Take the first step toward your medical career – apply with Desire2Study and book a free consultation.