Your Complete Guide to Studying in Lithuania

Lithuania sits inside both the European Union and the Schengen Area, and degrees from its accredited universities are recognised across the European Higher Education Area under the Bologna Process. Over the last decade it's become a genuine favourite for international students from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and many more. The draw is English-taught programmes, modern campuses, and a safe, affordable place to live.

The main draws, at a glance:

• Degrees recognised across Europe
• English-taught Bachelor's and Master's programmes
• Tuition fees that are generally lower than many Western European countries
• Relatively affordable living costs
• Safe cities with reliable public transport
• Opportunity to work part-time while studying, subject to Lithuanian regulations
• Access to travel within the Schengen Area, subject to immigration rules

Lithuania may not be the right choice for everyone, but for students looking for quality education at a reasonable cost, it is worth considering.

Lithuania may be a good choice if you:

• Want a recognised European degree.
• Are looking for English-taught programmes.
• Prefer smaller and less crowded cities.
• Have a moderate study budget.
• Plan to experience life in Europe while studying.

You may want to explore additional countries if your priorities are significantly different, such as studying in a much larger city, accessing a wider range of English-language programmes, or pursuing highly specialised fields that are not widely offered in Lithuania.

There is no single "best" study destination. The right choice depends on your goals, budget, academic interests, and personal preferences.

Lithuania follows the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), commonly known as the Bologna Process.

This means degrees are structured similarly to many other European countries.

The most common study levels are:

Most universities have two main intakes.

Tuition depends on the university, the programme, and the study level, but here's a realistic picture (last verified July 2026):

• Most English-taught Bachelor's programmes: roughly €2,000 to €5,500 per year.
• Most Master's programmes: roughly €2,500 to €6,500 per year, often a little more than a Bachelor's in the same field.
• Medicine, dentistry, and some specialised programmes: considerably higher.

Treat these as planning figures. Fees change from intake to intake, so always confirm the exact fee on the university's own page before applying. AdmissionJourney shows current tuition fees on each university and programme page whenever available.

Besides tuition, plan for everyday living expenses. As a rough monthly guide (last verified July 2026):

• Dormitory: about €100 to €250
• Room in a shared apartment: about €250 to €450, more in central Vilnius
• Food and groceries: about €150 to €250
• Public transport: about €5 to €10 with a student discount
• Mobile phone: about €5 to €15
• Personal expenses and study materials: about €50 to €150

Most students manage on roughly €450 to €800 per month in total, depending on the city and lifestyle. Vilnius is the most expensive; Kaunas, Klaipėda, and smaller cities cost noticeably less. Verify current prices when you build your own budget, since costs drift upward over time.

International students may be able to work while studying, subject to Lithuanian immigration and employment regulations.

Many students take part-time jobs in areas such as hospitality, retail, customer support, logistics, and warehouses.

A part-time job should be viewed as a way to help with living expenses rather than as the primary source of funding for your studies.

Always make sure you understand the current work rules that apply to your residence status.

Lithuania is generally considered a safe country with a relatively low level of violent crime.

Like anywhere else, students should take normal precautions such as looking after personal belongings and being aware of their surroundings.

Universities also provide student support services for international students.

Lithuania has four distinct seasons: autumn from around September, a genuinely cold winter that often drops below freezing, a slowly warming spring, and a mild-to-warm summer.

If you're coming from a tropical climate, the winter will be your biggest adjustment, so plan to bring or buy proper cold-weather clothing before it hits.

You now know what studying in Lithuania really involves. Next comes one of the most important decisions of the whole journey: choosing the university and programme that fit your background, your goals, and your budget. Take your time with it, because the rest of the guide builds on this choice.

Don't ask "which university is the best?" Ask "what do I want to become after I graduate?" Let the answer guide your choice of programme:

• Aiming to be a software engineer? Compare Computer Science programmes.
• Headed for business? Look at Business Administration or Management.
• Into healthcare, engineering, education, or social sciences? Focus on universities recognised for those fields.

The right programme almost always beats the most famous name.

Every university is different, so before applying, compare the following side by side.

Lithuania has both public and private higher education institutions.

Public universities are generally larger and offer a wider range of programmes and research opportunities.

Private universities may offer smaller class sizes or specialised programmes.

Both types can provide recognised degrees if they are accredited.

Instead of choosing based only on whether a university is public or private, compare the programme that best matches your goals.

University rankings can be useful, but they should not be your only decision-making factor.

Also consider:

• Programme content
• Tuition fees
• Internship opportunities
• Exchange programmes
• Graduate career prospects
• Location
• Student support services
• English-language support

The best university for one student may not be the best choice for another.

Some universities offer scholarships for international students.

Scholarships vary by university and programme.

They may be awarded based on academic performance, financial need, or other criteria.

Always review the scholarship information published by the university before applying.

Receiving admission does not automatically mean you will receive a scholarship.

Yes. Many students apply to several universities, because it gives you options if one application is unsuccessful or a decision takes longer than expected.

Before applying, make sure you understand each university's:

• Application fees
• Deadlines
• Required documents
• Tuition fees

Each university manages admissions independently.

Instead of opening dozens of university websites, you can compare important information in one place.

Use our university directory to compare:

• Tuition fees
• Study programmes
• Degree level
• Intake
• English language requirements
• Application deadlines
• Required documents
• University profiles

Once you have shortlisted your preferred universities, visit each university page to review detailed admission requirements.

Most universities will ask for some or all of the following. Tick items off as you gather them; your progress is saved on this device.

• Passport
• Academic certificates
• Academic transcripts
• English language proof
• Motivation Letter (Statement of Purpose)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Recommendation Letter (if required)
• Passport-sized photograph

Some programmes may request additional documents such as a portfolio, research proposal, or entrance examination depending on the field of study.

Your passport is your primary identification document throughout the admission and immigration process.

Before applying, make sure your passport:

• Is valid.
• Has clear and readable personal information.
• Has enough validity for your planned studies.

If your passport will expire soon, renew it before submitting applications whenever possible.

Use clear colour scans when uploading your passport.

Universities need proof that you have completed the required level of education.

Examples include:

• Higher Secondary Certificate
• Intermediate Certificate
• A Levels
• Bachelor's Degree
• Master's Degree

Upload the final certificate issued by your educational institution whenever available.

If your final certificate has not yet been issued, some universities may temporarily accept provisional documents.

Always check the university's admission policy.

A transcript lists the subjects you studied and the grades you received, and most universities require official transcripts issued by your school, college, or university.

Make sure every page is complete and clearly readable, and never crop pages or hide information.

Many English-taught programmes require proof that you can study in English.

Depending on the university, accepted proof may include:

• IELTS Academic
• TOEFL iBT
• Pearson PTE Academic
• Medium of Instruction (MOI), if accepted by the university

Not every university accepts the same English qualification.

Always verify the accepted language requirements before applying.

The motivation letter explains why you want to study your chosen programme and why you selected that university.

A strong motivation letter should answer questions such as:

• Why are you interested in this field?
• Why did you choose this university?
• What are your future career goals?
• How will this degree help you achieve them?

Write honestly and use your own experiences.

Avoid copying templates from the internet.

Admission officers can often recognise generic or copied content.

Some universities ask for a CV, especially for Master's programmes.

Include:

• Personal information
• Education
• Work experience (if applicable)
• Skills
• Languages
• Volunteer work
• Certifications

Keep your CV clear, organised, and easy to read.

Some programmes require recommendation letters from teachers, professors, or employers.

Choose someone who knows your academic or professional abilities well.

A strong recommendation should describe your abilities, attitude, and potential for success rather than simply confirming that you studied or worked somewhere.

Some universities request a recent passport-sized photograph.

Use a clear photo with a plain background.

Avoid editing the image excessively or using casual photographs.

Some universities may require documents that are not in English or Lithuanian to be translated.

Translation requirements vary by institution.

If translation is required, use a professional translator where requested and follow the university's instructions regarding certified translations.

Do not translate official documents yourself unless the university specifically allows it.

Most applications are submitted online.

When scanning documents:

• Use colour scans whenever possible.
• Make sure every page is readable.
• Save documents as PDF unless another format is requested.
• Keep file names simple and descriptive.

Example:

Passport.pdf

Transcript.pdf

Motivation-Letter.pdf

Poor quality scans are one of the most common reasons universities ask students to upload documents again.

Create one folder on your computer or cloud storage for your application.

A simple folder structure might look like this:

        Admission Documents
├── Passport
├── Certificates
├── Transcripts
├── English Certificate
├── Motivation Letter
├── CV
├── Recommendation Letters
├── Photographs
      

Keeping everything organised saves time when applying to multiple universities.

Review every document carefully.

Ask yourself:

• Is every document complete?
• Is every scan readable?
• Are all names and dates correct?
• Have I uploaded the latest version?
• Does the university require certified translations?

Taking ten minutes to review your application can prevent unnecessary delays later.

Take a few minutes to confirm the following.

• You have selected the correct university.
• You have selected the correct study programme.
• You meet the admission requirements.
• Every required document is ready.
• Your passport information is correct.
• Your email address is active and regularly checked.

Universities communicate almost everything by email, so make sure you do not miss important messages.

Although every university has its own application portal, the information requested is usually similar.

You will normally provide:

• Personal information
• Passport details
• Contact information
• Educational history
• Previous qualifications
• English language qualification
• Selected programme
• Uploaded documents

Complete every field honestly.

Never upload fake or altered documents.

If you are unsure about a question, contact the university before submitting your application.

Some universities charge an application fee, while others do not.

If a fee is required, follow the university's payment instructions carefully.

Your application may not be reviewed until the payment has been received.

Keep a copy of the payment receipt until your admission process is complete.

After submitting, you will usually receive a confirmation email. That confirms the university has received your application, not that you've been admitted; the admissions team now begins reviewing your documents.

Admissions officers normally check:

• Academic qualifications
• Required documents
• English language requirements
• Programme eligibility
• Completeness of your application

If something is missing, the university may contact you and ask for additional documents or corrections.

Reply as soon as possible to avoid unnecessary delays.

Processing times vary between universities and throughout the year. Applications submitted close to deadlines usually take longer, simply because admissions offices receive many more of them at once.

Be patient while you wait; sending emails every few days won't usually speed up the review.

During the review process, universities may contact you to:

• Request missing documents
• Clarify information
• Schedule an interview (if applicable)
• Send your admission decision

Check both your inbox and spam folder regularly.

Missing an important email can delay your application.

Not every application is successful.

If your application is unsuccessful:

• Read the university's decision carefully.
• Ask whether feedback is available.
• Consider applying to another university.
• Review whether additional documents or qualifications could strengthen a future application.

Receiving one rejection does not mean you cannot study in Lithuania.

Many students receive offers from another university after improving their application.

An admission offer means the university has reviewed your file and decided you meet the academic requirements for your programme. After weeks of documents, motivation letters, and refreshing your inbox, that's your hard work paying off. Take a moment to celebrate it.

It's also the moment things get confusing for a lot of students. Tuition, visas, accommodation, immigration. The questions all arrive at once. The next few blocks walk you through exactly what to do, in order.

Not every admission offer is the same.

Before taking any action, carefully read the letter you received from the university.

Generally, you may receive one of the following.

Many students become excited after receiving their admission email and immediately focus on the tuition payment.

Instead, take a few minutes to read the entire email and every attached document.

Universities usually explain:

• Your study programme
• Tuition fee
• Payment instructions
• Deadlines
• Next steps
• Additional documents (if required)

Missing one instruction can delay the rest of your application.

Some universities require students to formally accept their admission offer before continuing.

Others automatically consider your admission accepted after tuition payment.

Always follow the instructions provided by your university.

If you are unsure, contact the admissions office before making any payment.

Most universities require payment before issuing the documents needed for your visa application.

Follow the payment instructions exactly.

Pay attention to:

• Bank account details
• Reference number
• Currency
• Payment deadline

Incorrect payment details may delay confirmation.

Always keep your payment receipt.

You may need it later during the visa or immigration process.

International bank transfers usually take several business days to reach the university, and confirmation normally arrives by email after that. Don't panic if it isn't instant.

If the normal processing time has clearly passed, contact the university politely and include your payment receipt.

Not yet. Admission doesn't mean it's time to buy tickets. Wait until you understand the visa requirements and have a realistic travel plan, because booking too early gets expensive if your visa takes longer than expected.

While waiting for payment confirmation, begin preparing documents for your visa application.

Many students wait until the last moment.

Instead, use this time wisely.

Typical preparations include:

• Financial documents
• Health insurance
• Passport copies
• Passport photographs
• Other documents required by your country's visa application process

Preparing early reduces unnecessary stress later.

Some universities provide student dormitories.

Others help students find accommodation after admission.

If accommodation applications open early, submit your request as soon as possible.

Rooms may be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Before starting your visa application, make sure you already have:

• Admission letter
• Tuition payment confirmation (if required)
• Valid passport
• Financial documents
• Health insurance
• Passport photographs (if required)

If any of these are missing, complete them before booking your appointment.

Procedures vary a little by country, but most students follow the same journey. For Lithuania, the student visa and residence permit are handled as one national process through MIGRIS.

1. 1 Receive your university admission and mediation letter.
2. 2 Complete tuition payment if required.
3. 3 Prepare your documents: financial proof, health insurance, passport, and photos.
4. 4 Submit your application through MIGRIS and book your VFS appointment.
5. 5 Attend the VFS appointment to give biometrics and hand over documents.
6. 6 Attend your online interview, usually a short video call.
7. 7 Wait for the decision.
8. 8 Collect your permit, then travel to Lithuania.

The Migris step is covered in full in the next section.

The exact list depends on your nationality and the current requirements.

Commonly requested documents include:

• Valid passport
• University admission letter
• Tuition payment confirmation
• Completed application forms
• Passport photographs
• Health insurance
• Financial proof
• Additional supporting documents requested by the embassy

Never assume another student's document list is identical to yours.

Always follow the instructions provided by the official authorities handling your application.

This is one of the most common questions students ask. The purpose of financial proof is to show you can support yourself during your studies without depending on a job.

The required amount is tied to Lithuania's official minimum monthly wage, which is revised most years, so the figure rises over time. In practice it has meant showing access to roughly €1,000 per month of your stay, so over €12,000 for a full year (last verified July 2026). Confirm the exact current amount on the Migration Department site before you prepare bank documents.

Prepare your financial documents early and make sure they are complete and consistent with everything else in your application.

Health insurance is usually required before travelling to Lithuania.

The policy should meet the requirements specified by the Lithuanian authorities.

Read the policy carefully before purchasing it and keep both digital and printed copies.

Appointment availability varies depending on your country and the time of year.

During busy admission periods, available slots may fill quickly.

Book your appointment as soon as you are eligible to do so.

Waiting too long may delay your travel plans.

Not every student has the same experience, but you should be prepared to answer questions about your studies.

Common topics include:

• Why did you choose Lithuania?
• Why did you choose this university?
• Why did you choose this programme?
• How will you pay for your studies?
• What are your plans after graduation?

Answer honestly and don't memorise long speeches; the interview is there to help the officer understand your study plans.

The full bank of real questions students report being asked, grouped by theme with guidance on how to approach them, is in the next step, Migris & TRP, since the visa and residence permit interviews cover the same ground.

After your appointment, your application will be reviewed.

Processing times differ between countries and may vary throughout the year.

During this period:

• Check your email regularly.
• Keep your phone available if the embassy contacts you.
• Avoid making irreversible travel arrangements until you know the outcome of your application.

Congratulations. Once you receive your passport with the visa, you can begin preparing for your move to Lithuania. Before travelling:

• Confirm your accommodation.
• Book your flight.
• Organise important documents.
• Inform your university of your arrival date if requested.

Sometimes the embassy requests extra documents or clarification. Don't panic: read the request carefully and submit what's asked for as soon as possible.

Delays usually happen because documents are incomplete or unclear, not because the application has been rejected.

MIGRIS is the online system run by the Lithuanian Migration Department, and it's your own immigration account. As a non-EU student, this is where you apply for your Temporary Residence Permit (TRP), the document that lets you legally live in Lithuania while you study.

Inside MIGRIS you'll:

• Submit your TRP application.
• Upload your required documents.
• Track your application status.
• Receive updates from the Migration Department.

One thing that confuses people: MIGRIS is not VFS. MIGRIS is the online account where you apply and where your case is decided. VFS is a separate, in-person centre you visit later to give biometrics and hand over documents, which it then forwards to the Migration Department. VFS does not decide your application.

For most students this is their first time using MIGRIS, and that's completely normal. Thousands of international students go through the exact same process every year.

Admission lets you study. MIGRIS lets you legally live in Lithuania while you do. They're two separate things. An admission letter alone doesn't give you the right to reside here. That's why immigration matters every bit as much as getting in.

Don't wait until the last moment. Most students begin preparing for MIGRIS as soon as they've completed the university requirements needed for immigration. Before starting, make sure you already have:

• Admission letter
• Tuition payment confirmation (if required)
• Passport
• Other supporting documents required for your application

Preparing everything before opening MIGRIS makes the process much easier.

It helps to see the whole residence permit (TRP) process in order before you start. Most students follow this path:

1. 1 Get your admission and mediation letter from the university.
2. 2 Create your MIGRIS account and fill in the TRP application online.
3. 3 Upload your supporting documents in MIGRIS.
4. 4 Once your MIGRIS application is accepted, book your VFS appointment.
5. 5 Go to VFS to give biometrics and hand over your documents. VFS is a third-party centre that forwards everything to the Migration Department; it does not decide your case.
6. 6 Attend your online interview, usually a short video call.
7. 7 Wait for the Migration Department's decision.
8. 8 Collect your residence permit (TRP) card, then travel to Lithuania.

The exact procedure depends on your nationality and where you submit your application, but the order above is what most students report.

Creating a MIGRIS account is usually straightforward. Use an email address you check regularly, since important notifications about your application arrive through the contact details on your account.

Keep your login information safe. You'll need this account again later, including when renewing your residence permit.

Complete every section carefully, using the same spelling of your name as shown in your passport. Double-check:

• Passport number
• Date of birth
• Nationality
• Contact information

Small typing mistakes can create unnecessary delays, so take your time.

Only upload clear, readable documents.

Before uploading, check:

• Every page is complete.
• Text is easy to read.
• Nothing is cropped.
• Files are uploaded in the requested format.

Poor-quality scans are one of the most common reasons students need to upload documents again.

After your MIGRIS application is accepted, you book an appointment at a VFS centre to give biometrics (fingerprints and a facial image) and hand over your original documents. Where this happens depends on your country, and some students travel to a VFS centre in a nearby third country when there's no local option.

Bring every document requested and don't assume your digital uploads replace the originals. Remember VFS only collects and forwards your file; the decision is made by the Migration Department, not at VFS.

As part of the TRP process, most students attend a short online interview, usually a video call. An officer confirms you're a genuine student by asking about your studies, your funding, and your plans, and they often ask to see your passport and even your room on camera.

This is the single step students prepare for most, so we've collected the real questions people report being asked, along with how to approach them, further down this page.

This is usually the most difficult part emotionally.

After submitting everything, there is very little you can do except wait.

Checking your account every hour will not make the decision arrive faster.

Instead, use this time to:

• Prepare for your move.
• Learn about your city.
• Arrange accommodation.
• Organise your travel plans.

Don't panic; this doesn't automatically mean there's a problem with your application. Sometimes the Migration Department simply needs additional information or a clearer copy of a document.

Read the request carefully and submit the requested documents as soon as possible.

With admission and immigration handled, the next big question is simple: where am I going to live? The good news is that most international students sort this out without much trouble. The key is starting early and knowing your two main options:

• University dormitories
• Private accommodation

Each has trade-offs, and the right pick comes down to your budget, lifestyle, and how much privacy you want.

Many Lithuanian universities offer student dormitories.

Dormitories are often the most affordable option for new international students.

Benefits include:

• Lower monthly cost
• Close to campus
• Easy to meet other students
• Utilities usually included
• Furnished rooms

Some students prefer renting an apartment or sharing accommodation with other students.

Private accommodation offers more independence but usually costs more than university housing.

Before signing a rental agreement, check:

• Monthly rent
• Deposit
• Utility costs
• Internet availability
• Distance from university
• Public transport connections

Never assume utilities are included unless clearly stated.

Many international students choose shared apartments.

Sharing accommodation can reduce monthly expenses and help students build friendships during their first months in Lithuania.

Before agreeing to share accommodation, discuss:

• Monthly expenses
• Cleaning responsibilities
• Guest policy
• Payment dates

Clear expectations help avoid misunderstandings later.

Accommodation costs vary depending on:

• City
• Property type
• Room size
• Location
• Facilities

As a rough guide (last verified July 2026): dormitories run about €100 to €250 per month, a room in a shared apartment about €250 to €450, and a one-bedroom apartment in Vilnius about €500 to €800 before utilities. Vilnius is the most expensive city; Kaunas and smaller cities cost noticeably less.

Whatever you choose, calculate your total monthly housing cost, including rent, utilities, and internet, not just the advertised rent.

When comparing accommodation, consider more than price.

Ask yourself:

• How far is it from campus?
• Is public transport nearby?
• Are supermarkets within walking distance?
• Is the neighbourhood safe?
• Are utilities included?
• Is internet available?
• Is the property furnished?

Saving a small amount on rent may not be worthwhile if you spend significantly more time and money travelling every day.

Before you send a single euro, confirm that:

• The property exists.
• The landlord is genuine.
• You understand the rental agreement.
• You know exactly what is included in the rent.

If something feels unusual or unclear, ask questions before making payment.

Once your accommodation is confirmed, have these ready:

• Passport
• Rental agreement
• Payment receipts
• Emergency contact numbers

Take photographs of the room when you move in.

This helps document the condition of the property.

Book only after your visa or residence permit is approved. Depending on your university city, you'll fly into Vilnius (VNO), Kaunas (KUN), or Palanga (PLQ); Vilnius has by far the most connections.

Once your ticket is confirmed, share your arrival details with your university or dorm contact. Some universities organise airport pickup during orientation week, and even when they don't, letting your accommodation know your arrival time avoids a locked door at midnight.

Pack the essentials below, and keep every document in your carry-on. Checked bags get delayed and lost more often than you'd think, and the one bag you can't afford to lose is the one with your passport in it.

• Passport with visa, in your carry-on, never in checked luggage
• Admission letter and enrolment confirmation (printed)
• Health insurance policy (printed and digital)
• Accommodation address and a contact phone number
• Warm layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes
• Power adapter (Type C/F plugs, 230V)
• Basic medications and prescriptions, with a doctor's note
• Some euros in cash for the first days

Before you fly, photograph your passport, visa, and admission letter and email the photos to yourself. If anything goes missing, you'll be very glad you did.

Tell your home bank you're travelling so your card isn't blocked on first use abroad, and bring a mix of cash and cards. ATMs at Lithuanian airports accept international cards, and around €200 to €400 in cash is a comfortable buffer for the first week.

At border control, answer clearly and simply: you're coming for studies, name your university, and know your accommodation address. Keep your admission documents within easy reach rather than buried at the bottom of a bag.

Declare anything over the duty-free limits, and don't carry restricted foods (meat and dairy from outside the EU are the usual problem) or undeclared cash of €10,000 or more, which must be reported.

Winter clothes are bulky, so check your airline's baggage allowance before you pack. If it's tight, remember you can buy good winter clothing in Lithuania, often cheaper than paying for an extra bag.

Download Bolt (the local taxi and ride-hailing app) and Google Maps before you fly. Airport buses and trains connect both Vilnius and Kaunas airports to their city centres cheaply.

If you're landing late at night, check your dormitory's reception hours in advance, since some close overnight, and save the after-hours contact number somewhere you can reach without internet.

After months of documents, waiting, immigration, and planning, you've finally landed. For many students this is the first time living in another country, and everything feels new at once: an unfamiliar airport, no faces you recognise, a quiet worry that you forgot some vital document.

That mix of excitement and uncertainty is completely normal, and nearly every international student feels it in their first few days. The good news is it fades fast. Within a week or two, this place starts to feel like yours.

Keep your important documents somewhere you can easily access them.

Do not pack them inside checked luggage.

You should normally carry:

• Passport
• Visa or travel documents
• University admission letter
• Accommodation details
• Health insurance
• Emergency contact numbers

It is also helpful to keep digital copies stored securely on your phone or cloud storage.

After landing, you will pass through immigration.

Answer questions honestly if asked.

You may be asked about:

• Purpose of travel
• University
• Accommodation
• Length of stay

Keep your university documents easily available.

Most students complete this process without any problems.

Before travelling, decide how you will reach your accommodation.

Common options include:

• Airport bus
• Public transport
• Taxi
• Ride-hailing services
• University pickup, if available

If your university offers an airport pickup service, check whether advance registration is required.

When you arrive, take a few minutes to inspect the room and check it matches what was agreed. Report any damage straight away, and photograph everything on day one. It saves you from awkward misunderstandings when you move out.

Having a local phone number makes everyday life much easier.

You will need it for:

• University communication
• Banking
• Food delivery
• Transportation apps
• Apartment contacts

Several mobile operators offer prepaid and student-friendly plans.

Choose the option that best suits your needs.

Most universities organise orientation activities for new international students.

During your first few days you may need to:

• Confirm your arrival.
• Collect your student ID.
• Activate university accounts.
• Receive your class schedule.
• Attend orientation sessions.

Read every email from your university carefully during this period.

Some students open a Lithuanian bank account soon after arrival.

Requirements differ between banks.

Your university's international office can usually explain which banks are commonly used by students and what documents are required.

Give yourself time to become familiar with your surroundings.

Locate:

• Nearest supermarket
• Pharmacy
• Bus stop
• University campus
• Hospital
• Bank
• Student services

Knowing these places early will make everyday life much easier.

• Move into accommodation.
• Buy a SIM card.
• Confirm your arrival with the university.
• Attend orientation.
• Learn your route to campus.
• Purchase essential groceries.
• Learn how public transport works.
• Save emergency contact numbers.

Finding a comfortable place to live is one of the biggest factors affecting your student experience.

Whether you stay in a university dormitory or a private apartment, choose accommodation that fits both your budget and your daily routine.

Living close to campus can save both time and transportation costs.

If you decide to move later, wait until you've become familiar with different neighbourhoods before signing a long-term rental agreement.

Creating a monthly budget helps avoid unnecessary financial stress.

Typical monthly expenses include:

• Rent
• Utilities
• Food
• Public transport
• Mobile phone
• Study materials
• Personal expenses

Track your spending during your first month.

This will help you understand your own lifestyle and adjust your budget if necessary.

Many students choose to open a Lithuanian bank account after arrival.

Having a local account can make everyday payments easier.

Requirements vary between banks.

Your university's international office can usually explain what documents are needed and which banks are commonly used by students.

Lithuanian cities have well-developed public transport systems.

Students may be eligible for discounted public transport depending on local rules and their student status.

Learn how buses and trolleybuses operate in your city during your first week.

Knowing your daily route to university makes life much easier.

Do not wait until you become ill to learn how the healthcare system works.

Know:

• Which insurance policy you have.
• Which clinics you can visit.
• Emergency telephone numbers.
• The nearest pharmacy.

Save important contact numbers in your phone.

Many international students look for part-time jobs while studying.

A part-time job can help with living expenses, improve language skills, and provide valuable work experience.

However, your studies should always remain your main priority.

Before accepting any job, make sure you understand the employment conditions that apply to your immigration status.

You do not need to speak Lithuanian to study in an English-taught programme.

However, learning even a few everyday phrases can make daily life easier.

Simple greetings and polite expressions are appreciated by local people and can make everyday interactions more comfortable.

One of the quickest ways to feel at home is to build a community around you.

Attend orientation events.

Join university clubs.

Participate in student activities.

Talk to classmates after lectures.

Remember that many other international students are experiencing exactly the same feelings as you.

They are probably looking for friends too.

Almost every international student experiences homesickness at some point.

You may miss your family, your food, your language, or simply the familiarity of home.

This is a normal part of adapting to a new country.

Stay connected with your family, but also give yourself opportunities to build a new routine in Lithuania.

As time passes, most students become much more comfortable.

Lithuania is generally considered a safe country.

Like anywhere else, use common sense.

Keep your belongings secure.

Be aware of your surroundings.

Know the local emergency number.

Respect university rules and local laws.

During your first few weeks you will quickly discover where to buy groceries, household items, winter clothing, and study supplies.

Ask senior students for recommendations.

They often know where to find good quality products at lower prices.

If you come from a warm climate, winter may be one of your biggest adjustments.

Temperatures can fall below freezing.

Invest in:

• A warm winter jacket.
• Waterproof shoes.
• Gloves.
• A hat.
• Warm layers.

Good winter clothing makes a huge difference.

Graduating means completing every ECTS credit, defending your thesis if your programme requires one, and clearing any administrative loose ends like library returns or outstanding fees.

Meet your study coordinator early in your final semester to confirm you're on track. Thesis deadlines are effectively immovable, so work backwards from the submission date, and register for the graduation ceremony if you want to walk across that stage. You've earned it.

Start with your university's career services, then widen out to job portals like CVbankas.lt, LinkedIn, and Erasmus+ graduate networks. Career fairs are worth attending even before you're actively job-hunting; the contacts you make in your penultimate semester often matter most.

On your CV, lead with what makes you distinctive: EU study experience, the languages you speak, and any internships or part-time work you did alongside your studies.