Vilnius University

About Us

Welcome to Vilnius University – the oldest and largest Lithuanian higher education institution.

Since its establishment in the 16th century, Vilnius University, as an integral part of European science and culture has embodied the concept­ of a classical university and the unity of studies and research.

Vilnius University is an active participant in international scientific and academic activities and boasts many prominent scientists, professors, and graduates. Scientific development and the expanding relations with global research centres have contributed to a variety of research and studies at Vilnius University.

With the support of social partners, the university educates globally-minded specialists who successfully integrate into the modern European community.

Why Choose Vilnius University

• Vilnius University is a classical university with over 445 years of academic traditions and the widest range of study programmes in Lithuania.
• The university offers an academic environment focused on excellence in research and teaching.
• Vilnius University is 1st in Lithuania according to a national ranking. It is the most popular and acknowledged higher education establishment among Lithuani­an secondary school graduates.
• Vilnius University is Lithuania’s leading academic institution, ranked among the top 400 universities worldwide (QS WUR 2022).

Mission

The mission of Vilnius University is to create, accumulate, and disseminate knowledge by ensuring the continuity of authentic university culture distinguished by the atmosphere where old traditions and new ideas enrich each other.

Freedom of thought and diversity of opinions are the main values of the University community. A unity of research and studies is the core principle of the overall activity of the University.

The University should distinguish itself by a broad spectrum of fundamental and applied research. It should seek to assume the leading position among other Lithuanian institutions in all research areas that are essential to the very nature of a comprehensive University and set itself the goal of international excellence in interdisciplinary research. The University should be committed to the mission of opening the doors and providing universal education for the most talented young people from all districts of Lithuania and educating active and responsible specialists, who demonstrate the need to expand their knowledge and improve professionally and who are able to learn throughout their lifetime. The University should seek that the quality of all forms of studies conforms to the modern culture and technologies and pertains to the needs of the state and society.

Vision

• To position and distinguish itself in European research and education area through top-level research, which should be sustained by the University’s research teams of international acclaim and new teams, as well as to ensure annually increasing involvement in European research and educational programs;
• to ensure that the balanced development and interaction of research in humanities, social, physical, biomedical, and technological sciences remains the most outstanding feature of the University, which essentially differentiates it from other Lithuanian establishments of higher education and research;
• to initiate and actively implement projects of value for the economic development of the country, which would encourage effective cooperation of scientific and educational institutions with high technology companies and create favourable conditions and environment for innovations and entrepreneurship;
• to create a well-functioning quality assurance system that would guarantee effective monitoring of the existing study programs and the development of new programmes, encouraging the implementation of advanced teaching methods and tools. The system should ensure that generic and specific competencies and skills of University graduates are consistent with the needs and tendencies in the economy, culture, and labour market of the country;
• to significantly expand non-consecutive, distance, and other flexible study forms and methods and become the centre of continuous professional improvement and lifelong learning, which plays an important role in the transition of the country toward a knowledge-based society.

Living in Lithuania

Be realistic while planning your expenses during your stay in Lithuania – it is essential that you have enough money for the whole duration of your study period!

The likely monthly living costs are provided below. These costs are based on a student who lives in Vilnius, Kaunas, or Šiauliai and has no dependents. Tuition fees, residence permit expenses, and trips to your home country are not included.

Accommodation

• Private Housing:

In Vilnius, a 1-bedroom apartment costs around €770 in the city center and €550 outside the center.

In Kaunas, a 1-bedroom apartment costs around €530 in the city center and €415 outside the center.

In Šiauliai, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs around €350, and outside the city center, it’s around €250.

• Vilnius University Dormitories:

For students of Vilnius University, dormitories are, a popular and affordable housing option, available in Vilnius and Šiauliai. The monthly rent for a room in the dormitory is around €70-€200, depending on the type of room (shared or private). The university dorms are located close to the campus, providing a convenient and cost-effective place to live while studying.

• Co-living Options:

If you prefer a more community-oriented living space, co-living options are also available in Vilnius and Kaunas. These spaces provide private rooms with shared common areas like kitchens and lounges. Co-living is ideal for students who want to meet new people and share living costs. Rent for co-living spaces ranges from €250 to €500 per month, depending on the location and amenities provided.

Food

Expect to spend between €150 and €300 per month. Eating out can be more expensive, so cooking at home is a good way to save money.

Public Transport

Public transport in Vilnius, Kaunas, and Šiauliai is affordable and convenient. In Vilnius, buses and trolleybuses run from 5:00 AM to midnight, with night buses available. A student monthly pass costs around €5.80. Kaunas operates buses and trolleybuses from 4:30 AM to 10:30 PM, with night buses on weekends. The student pass is also €5.80. In Šiauliai, public transport runs from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with a monthly student pass costing about €4. Timetables for all cities are available through apps like "Trafi."

Telephone

For those who want to use a mobile phone in Lithuania, you may choose between three mobile phone companies: Telia, Tele2, or Bite. It is much cheaper to use a prepaid card from one of these companies than to use the services of your home country.

You can get the prepaid card in most grocery stores or specialized company shops. There, you can also get information on the best ways to use your card.

Student Discounts

As a student in Lithuania, you'll have access to a variety of discounts:

• Public transport: Students enjoy reduced fares for buses and trolleybuses in all cities. A monthly student transport pass in Vilnius or Kaunas costs around €5.80, while in Šiauliai, it’s just €4.
• Museums and Attractions: Many museums, galleries, and historical sites offer discounted or free entry to students.
• Food and Dining: Restaurants, cafes, and some food stores offer student discounts or specials. Be sure to carry your student ID, as discounts may not always be advertised.
• Retail and Services: Many stores offer student discounts, especially on fashion, books, and electronic items. Some retail chains also give discounts for students during back-to-school sales.

Climate

Lithuania’s climate is transitional between maritime and continental. The average temperature is approximately +20ºC in the summertime (sometimes rising over +30ºC) and -5ºC in winter (it may fall to –15ºC or –20ºC), so be prepared for changing weather.