As an EU member state, Lithuania offers temporary protection to people displaced from Ukraine. Over 39,000 Ukrainian refugees have crossed the country’s border between February and April, with more expected to follow.
For Ukrainians looking to continue their studies at universities in Lithuania, the Baltic country has around 30 high education institutions to choose from. Many of these universities offer support to students from Ukraine in the form of financial aid, accommodation, language courses, etc.
Below, you’ll find some of the most relevant initiatives and support programmes:
Credential evaluation
In Lithuania, most universities and colleges have the authority to recognise diplomas and certificates from other countries. Even if you don’t have documents that prove you’ve undertaken or completed previous studies, admission is possible through a special procedure.
If the university you’re interested in doesn’t have this authority, you need to submit a recognition application to the Centre for Quality Assessment in Higher Education.
The Research Council of Lithuania is responsible for the recognition of PhD degrees.
Learn more about the Lithuanian higher education system.
Scholarships and financial aid
According to the Study in Lithuania support centre, higher education institutions plan to allow Ukrainian refugees to study without paying any tuition fees or paying discounted fees. Each institution will make a decision depending on available resources and capacity.
- Vilnius University – offers exemption from tuition fees, 300 EUR monthly scholarships, and free accommodation.
- Vilnius Tech – offers tuition-free study places to Ukrainian students who’ve completed at least one semester in a higher education institution, 200 EUR monthly scholarships, and free accommodation.
- Kaunas University of Technology – provides tuition-free study programmes taught in English, social scholarships, and accommodation.
- ISM University of Management and Economics – has raised funds for scholarships that will cover the tuition fees and living costs of Ukrainian students.
- Mykolas Romeris University – prepared to offer tuition-free programmes and temporary financial aid to Ukrainian students who cannot remotely continue the studies from their home university.
- Vytautas Magnus University – may eliminate or reduce tuition fees, offer scholarships, or cover accommodation costs.
Explore the full list of universities and their support initiatives on the official Study in Lithuania website.
You can also apply for regular scholarships and grants offered by universities and national agencies.
Did you know that we also offer two scholarships? The application deadline is on 31 May.
Study programmes and opportunities
Language courses allow you to accommodate faster and continue your education, especially if your current language level doesn’t meet the admission requirements. Here are some Lithuanian institutions that provide free language courses to Ukrainians:
Universities offering free English language courses
Universities offering free Lithuanian language courses
Universities offering free English and Lithuanian language courses
Check out tips and tricks about the student life in Lithuania, including student discounts or info about public transportation.
Other support resources
On the Migration Department’s website, you can find answers to frequently asked questions about arriving in Lithuania and registering for a residence permit. The department has also opened a consultation hotline for people fleeing Ukraine.
The Ministry of Social Security and Labour has confirmed that Ukrainians can benefit from social assistance, like food cards or pensions, after receiving a temporary residence permit.
The Vilnius University Legal Clinic is ready to assist Ukrainian refugees with legal issues via email, phone calls and messages, or in person. On their website, you’ll also find guidance on free municipal accommodation and emergency medical care.
The Ministry of Education, Science and Sport has created a dedicated website with helpful information and resources for Ukrainian refugees.
The Refugee Council of Lithuania has a detailed practical guide on how to start life in Lithuania.
Many universities and colleges in Lithuania provide psychological support or counselling. Details are available on the website of each institution.
* Please note we give our best to constantly update the information posted here, but we may not be able to track all specific changes that may occur.