International students as a driving force for Latvia’s economic growth – Higher Education Export Study presentation
Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) and the Latvian Strategy and Economic Research Institute (LaSER) will present the results of the Higher Education Export Survey (Augstākās izglītības eksporta pētījums) on Tuesday, 4 March at 12 (noon) at the RSU Medical Education Technology Centre (26a Anniņmuižas bulvāris, Rīga).
RSU management and the authors of the study will share the latest data on the impact and added value of Latvia’s higher education export on the national economy.
The study is a policy review ‘Foreign students in Latvia: a source of growth?’ (Ārvalstu studenti Latvijā: izaugsmes avots?) developed by researchers from the LaSER Institute: Prof. Daunis Auers, Ivars Kraulis and Uldis Spuriņš. The study analyses the impact of international students on Latvia's education sector, labour market, and economic development. For example, it has been established that
RSU international students' contribution to Latvia’s economy reached €139 million in 2024 and is forecast to grow to €500 million between 2025 and 2027.
1,809 international students took part in the study
To assess the contribution of international students to Latvia’s economy, a comprehensive survey was conducted in cooperation with the research centre SKDS and major Latvian universities. The survey analysed the responses of 1,809 international students, providing detailed insights into their profiles, perceptions of studying in Latvia, and the opportunities they bring to the national economy and education sector. To calculate their economic impact, data was collected on student expenditures, including tuition fees, accommodation, and living costs, as well as contributions from visitors of international students. For comparison, data from a similar survey conducted in 2016, which analysed the same cost categories, was used.
Presentation of the results and discussion
The event will be opened by RSU Rector Prof. Aigars Pētersons, followed by a presentation by Prof. Daunis Auers and the panel discussion ‘The added value of education export for the Latvia’s economy?’ (Izglītības eksporta pievienotā vērtība Latvijas ekonomikā?), where experts will discuss Latvia's competitiveness on the international education market and the role of higher education export for the national development. The event will conclude with a Q&A session.
