Latvia has become an appealing study-abroad destination thanks to its European Union membership, affordable living costs and friendly culture. ISMA University of Applied Sciences – now rebranding as Riga Nordic University – offers one of Latvia’s most versatile gateways for international students. Established in 1994 on the foundations of the former Riga Aviation University, ISMA is a private higher-education institution with a motto that translates to “Where there is unity, there is victory”. It operates under Latvia’s Ministry of Education and Science and teaches programmes in both Latvian and English, awarding bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. Its acceptance rate is estimated at around 80 %, reflecting an inclusive admissions policy.
Why Choose ISMA University?
Rich traditions with a modern vision. ISMA describes itself as a Latvian higher-education institution with “rich traditions and a clear vision of its place in the European higher education area”. From its beginnings as one of several private colleges created after the breakup of Riga Aviation University, it has evolved into a university recognized for business-oriented, technology-focused programmes and forward-looking teaching methods. The university emphasises hands-on learning and real-world applications, preparing graduates to meet labour-market demands. Its accredited study directions cover Business Administration, Tourism and Information Systems, and are offered at the first-level, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral stages.
Accreditation and international status. ISMA is accredited by the Latvian Ministry of Education and Science. It offers degrees recognised throughout the European Higher Education Area and participates in the Erasmus+ mobility programme. International students study alongside Latvians in small classes and can choose English-taught programmes, making it accessible to non-Latvian speakers. The university’s motto “Ubi concordia, ibi victoria” underscores its commitment to unity and collaboration.
Innovative training with practical experience. According to ISMA’s introduction, the university continually improves its programmes to prepare highly qualified specialists who can compete on the labour market. Its innovative training system combines deep theoretical knowledge with opportunities to apply it in practice. Many programmes incorporate internships with local businesses, summer practice in foreign companies, and study-abroad options. ISMA’s Career Centre helps students plan internships, connect with employers and explore job opportunities.
Modern campus life in Riga. ISMA’s main campus is located at 1 Lomonosova street, building 7 in Riga, Latvia’s capital. The campus offers renovated classrooms, a library, free Wi-Fi and modern technical support for students. Two on-campus dormitories (Apalenis and Prima) provide affordable housing, and a student café and campus park create a welcoming environment. Students can join volleyball or other sports sections, which meet weekly and are free of charge. The university’s dynamic student community encourages collaboration and innovation.
Affordable tuition and scholarships. ISMA’s tuition is relatively modest compared with Western Europe. The Bachelor’s degree in Information Systems Management is around €3 000 per year and the Master’s degree about €3 500 per year. The university offers financial-aid programmes and scholarships; it provides dozens of scholarship opportunities and hosts multiple English-taught programmes. International students can also earn money during paid summer practice placements.
Highlighted Programmes
Business & Management
Business-oriented degrees have been at the heart of ISMA since its founding. In the early 1990s the university accredited programmes in Business Administration alongside Information Technologies and Tourism. Today students can pursue Business Administration, Economics, Management and Administration or Real Estate Management. The curriculum combines economics, finance, marketing and entrepreneurship. Students gain practical skills through case studies, internships and study tours. Graduates are prepared for careers in corporate management, financial services, entrepreneurship or project management.
Information Systems & Computer Science
The Information Systems direction emphasises digital literacy and technical expertise. Students study Information Technologies, Computer Technologies, Electronics, Telecommunications, Computer Management and Computer Science. Coursework covers programming, networks, data management, software engineering and cybersecurity. Internships with IT companies and research projects enable students to apply their skills. Graduates can work as systems analysts, software developers, network administrators or IT consultants, and the master’s degree offers specialisations in business computing or artificial intelligence.
Tourism, Hospitality & Recreation
ISMA’s Tourism and Hospitality programmes train students for careers in the fast-growing travel and services sector. Accredited directions include Hotel and Restaurant Management and Management of Tourism and Recreation. The curriculum blends business management with hospitality operations, covering topics such as marketing, event planning, customer service and sustainable tourism. Students often undertake internships in hotels, travel agencies or tourist attractions in Latvia and abroad. This hands-on experience prepares graduates for roles as hotel managers, travel consultants, event coordinators or tourism entrepreneurs.
Economics & Arts
Beyond business and IT, ISMA offers accredited programmes in Economics and Arts. Economics degrees explore micro- and macro-economic theory, public finance and development, providing analytical skills for policy or business analysis. Arts programmes focus on creative disciplines and culture, and may integrate digital media, design or cultural management. These diverse options allow students to combine business acumen with creativity.
Additional Benefits for International Students
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Career support and mobility. ISMA’s Career Centre helps students improve their competitiveness on the job market, plans and organises study practice and advises high-school students about study programmes and job opportunities. After their first year, students can participate in Erasmus+ mobility programmes and study at partner universities across Europe. Summer internships with foreign companies allow students to earn money to offset tuition costs.
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Campus facilities and services. Modern teaching facilities, free Wi-Fi and an on-campus library support academic success. Students can relax in the campus park, join sports like volleyball, and live in dormitories near campus. These amenities create a comfortable living-learning environment.
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Financial aid and scholarships. ISMA offers numerous scholarships and participates in Erasmus+ and other international programmes. Tuition fees (around €3 000–€3 500 per year) are relatively low compared with Western Europe, making the university accessible to students from Nepal and other developing countries. Financial-aid programmes and paid internships further reduce the cost of study.
Why Nepali Students Should Consider ISMA
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English-taught programmes and inclusive environment. ISMA (Riga Nordic University) offers key programmes in English and has an estimated acceptance rate of 80 %, ensuring that Nepali students can enter programmes without excessive competition. The university’s motto emphasises unity and cooperation, and its community welcomes international students from diverse backgrounds.
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Affordable European degree. Latvia’s cost of living is lower than in Western Europe, and ISMA’s tuition is only about €3 000–€3 500 per year. Scholarships and paid internships help offset costs, making ISMA an economical choice for Nepali families.
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Practical education with strong outcomes. ISMA blends theoretical teaching with practical experience, enabling students to apply their knowledge through internships and summer practice. Graduates enter the labour market with relevant skills and experience, and the university’s Career Centre supports job placement.
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Strategic location in Riga. Riga is a vibrant, historic city with about 605 000 residents. Its location provides access to cultural events, internships and travel across Europe. Nepali students studying at ISMA can explore Latvia while being only a short flight from other European capitals.
Start Your Latvian Study Journey
ISMA University (Riga Nordic University) offers an affordable pathway to a European education in business, information systems, tourism and other fields. Its accredited programmes, practical training, modern campus facilities and supportive environment make it an attractive choice for international students. Through the Universal Academic & Migration Consultants (UAMC) Nepal, you can receive expert guidance on selecting programmes, preparing applications and obtaining visas. Begin your journey today and discover how studying at ISMA in Latvia can open doors to a global career.
