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Vilnius University


Overview

At a glance

The largest Lithuanian scientific institution - Vilnius University, has deservedly earned the status of a leader in science and research. European university traditions, academic freedom and diversity of opinions, the ability to deal with new challenges in the constantly changing world, and social responsibility are the fundamental values of the University. Established in 1579, the University comprises 12 faculties, 7 institutes, 2 university hospitals, 4 interfaculty centres of study and research, the oldest library in Lithuania with a modern Science Communication and Information Centre, the Astronomical Observatory, the Botanical Garden, and the Church of St. John's. The student body of the University includes 21,000 students. Year after year listed by QS World University Rankings among the top four per cent of the best universities in the world, Vilnius University attracts the best and most talented secondary school graduates of the country.


Established : 1579
Student Population : 23517
History : Vilnius University is considered to be one of the oldest universities in Central and Eastern Europe. According to many people at the time, the university of the early 19th century was equal to the most advanced universities in Europe. A new era in the history of the university began in 1990, as Lithuania regained its independence and the university regained its autonomy. However, the things that symbolises today’s Vilnius University the most are the two most important threads of its identity, which are twisted together like a DNA spiral: its passionate efforts to adapt to the needs and trends of the rapidly changing world; and at the same time, the traditions that have survived since its establishment.
Rankings : #74 QS World University Rankings: Northern Europe 2024


Overview of Facilities and campus : Vilnius is the capital and the largest city in Lithuania. The city is packed with action, art, inspiration and history, and you’ll have more than a few unexpected adventures along the way. Soak up the art in Vilnius’ theatres, galleries and street art spaces. Catch the beat at Vilnius’ festivals, open-air events and concerts. Enjoy a breath of fresh air in Vilnius’ cosy courtyards, parks and terraces.

Website and links

Website : Vilnius University

Academic information

Who can go

Students on degree programmes in the following subject areas may apply to study abroad during their Junior Honours year at Vilnius University :
  • Comparative Literature
Semesters Available
  • First Semester
  • Second Semester
  • Full Year
Note: Joint Honours students may only apply for a full year abroad if BOTH subjects are listed above. Joint Honours students applying for one semester must seek permission from both Schools.

Study abroad coordinator

Each School has a designated Study Abroad Coordinator.

Semester dates

Semester dates are as follows

2024/5
Semester 1 Sep 2024 to Dec 2024
Semester 2 Jan 2025 to Jun 2025

Your studies abroad

St Andrews academic requirements
  • Minimum Credit in Academic year : 48
  • Minimum Credit in Semester : 24
  • Maximum Credit in Academic year : 60
  • Maximum Credit in Semester: 30
  • Module Weighting : 3,5,8

Partner Course Catalogue : Course Catalogue

See our Credits and Modules Abroad webpage for information on the number of credits we expect students to take at our partner institutions. St Andrews expects students to attend all classes as part of their programme abroad. Assessment methods may vary across partners and could include class participation, continuous assessment in the form of homework and final exams. All courses must be agreed with your Study Abroad Coordinator. See our academic information webpage for further details, as well as information about credit and grade conversion.

Application and selection

Application and selection

This is a School Abroad programme.

Places available

Places available : 2 semester places (or 1 full year place) will be available at Vilnius University in the academic year 2024-2025.

Places available may vary from year to year depending on the exchange balance. Numbers for the following academic year will be confirmed at the information meeting.

Living there

Getting there and getting around

Travelling in the city by public transport is a great and convenient way to reach your destination, as well as places of interest in the city centre or suburbs. You can travel in Vilnius by bus, express and night buses, and by trolleybuses Transport

Accommodation

There are many accommodation options for international students in Lithuania. Vilnius University dormitories are situated as close to the academic campuses as possible, charge modest fees and give you a better opportunity to interact with other students. Accommodation in Vilnius University dormitories is available only for Vilnius University students during the academic year (i.e. from 29th of August until 30 June). Application for Accommodation must be submitted via online enrolment procedure (for exchange students), or via online admission procedure (for degree students). We would like to inform you that due to the limited capacity at the dormitories, the places won't be assigned to all the interested students. Please note that the places are assigned on a first come, first served basis.

Accomodation

Please note that St Andrews is unable to guarantee housing at any of our partner institutions. Guidance on finding accommodation abroad is available on the Global Office webpage.

Student services and orientation

Orientation Days are organised at the beginning of each semester for all international students. It is free of charge and all the students can join it. No registration is required. During the Orientation Days you can expect to meet faculty coordinators, to have a guided tour in VU Library, Taste of Lithuanian Language Lecture and many other interesting activities which will help you to get acquainted with many Lithuanian and international students Orientation

Please be aware that student support services will be different across all of our partner universities.

Student Services

Finance and insurance

Insurance

All students who are citizens of non-EU member countries are required to obtain health insurance either in their home country or Lithuania. The cost of health insurance obtained in Lithuania may vary from around 50 to 150 EUR per year depending on the insurance policy (mainly on what part of the treatment cost is covered). This has to be done by contacting one of the private insurance companies if the student does not have a Permanent Residency Permit (if so, local THIF has to be contacted). Students from non-EU countries applying for the visa have to prove to the Migration Office that they have valid health insurance Health Matters

St Andrews students authorised to study or work abroad as part of their degree programme will be covered by the University’s insurance policy. Please reference to our travel insurance pages for further information.

Passports and visas

Please refer to our passports and visa page for further information.

Student experience

Annual Events

See profiles and photos of St Andrews students who have studied abroad.