Study in Lithuania: Education in Lithuania

The Lithuanian education system has a long-standing tradition of higher education and offers a warm and student-friendly environment to international students. It was developed in the 16th century and the first Ministry of Education called ‘’Education Commission’’ was established in 1773. 

The number of international students choosing Lithuania for their studies or exchange programs keeps increasing. In fact, in Lithuania there are international students from 95 different countries and, according to studies, 90% of them strongly recommend studying in Lithuania. 

In the Lithuanian education system you can find two types of higher education: colleges (Kolegija or Aukštoji Mokykla) and universities (Universitetas or Akademija). Colleges provide the skills and knowledge required for professional activities and include practical training as well. A graduate of a college after additional education and relevant working experience can be enrolled in Master's studies at a university. On the other hand, universities provide a broader theoretical knowledge, research opportunities and professional skills of the top level.

You can choose to study either in Lithuanian or in English and also choose whether you want to study full-time or part-time. Each program is evaluated according to the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). 

Studying in Lithuania will grant you access to a great variety of Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctorate degrees and the study year runs from September to June, divided into two semesters. 

The duration of Bachelor’s studies is 3-4 years, for a Master’s 1-2 years and as for a Doctorate, it mostly depends on the discipline of the degree and the institution. However, you can also choose integrated studies which combine first and second cycle degrees and joint programs as well, where you can be awarded with a double degree. 

The Lithuanian grading system is based on a 10-scale grading as follows:

• 10 (Puikiai): Excellent
• 9 (Labai gerai): Very good
• 8 (Gerai): Good 
• 7 (Vidutiniškai): Highly satisfactory 
• 6 (Patenkinamai): satisfactory
• 5 (Silpnai): Sufficient, the minimum passing grade

Bachelor Studies in the Lithuanian Education System

With the completion of the first cycle degree program after 3-4 years, students are awarded a Professional Bachelor’s degree or a Bachelor’s degree and a qualification, certified by the Bachelor’s Diploma. Bachelor’s university programs in Lithuania offer highly esteemed general theoretical education, research and also practical courses, depending on the discipline. 

How long is a Master’s degree in Lithuania?

After the completion of a first cycle Bachelor’s degree, you are eligible to apply for a Master’s degree in Lithuania which lasts between 1-2 years. Second cycle Master’s programs offer independent research work and provide scientific knowledge with the aim to improve your analytical competence and skills. After the completion of a Master’s program in Lithuania you are awarded with a Master’s degree or a Master’s degree and qualification certified by the Master’s Diploma. 

Doctorate studies in Lithuania

Third cycle Doctorate studies in Lithuania are focused on academic research and excellence. As a student you have to participate in research courses and possible laboratory work and defend your dissertation project at the end of your studies. After the completion of your studies you will receive a Doctorate degree.