Vidzeme Uniersity of Applied Sciences (ViA) was honoured with the Best Practice University certificate under the Study in Latvia initiative, recognising the institution’s commitment to attracting international students and upholding high-quality educational services. This designation underscores ViA’s growing international profile and its proactive steps towards excellence in higher education.
The certificate is part of a broader framework managed by the Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia and its partner agencies, which aim to highlight higher education institutions in Latvia that meet defined criteria of good governance and quality service for international students.
By receiving this certificate, ViA affirms that it:
- Operates according to recognised principles of good management in attracting foreign students
- Provides transparent, reliable information and maintains ethical marketing practices in its international activities
- Ensures a study process that supports international students with quality services and practices
Several features of ViA support its recognition:
1. International & Practice-oriented Curriculum
ViA offers study programmes designed in close collaboration with industry and adapted to current labour-market needs.
2. International Mobility & Partnerships
ViA has active partnerships with about 100 higher-education institutions in roughly 45 countries and more than 150 internship partners worldwide. Exchange and mobility programmes (such as Erasmus+ and Nordplus) are integral to its strategy.
3. Student-Centered Support & Services
For international students, ViA provides dedicated orientation, mentoring by local students, Latvian-language and culture courses, and administrative support tailored to non-local learners. Small group sizes and close relationships between students and lecturers further enhance the educational experience.
4. Regional Impact and Institutional Strategy
Located in Valmiera (in the Vidzeme region of Latvia), ViA blends regional relevance with an international outlook. Its 2023–2028 strategy emphasises its role as a regional platform for knowledge, research and leadership of ideas.

