Frequently Asked Questions

Information for frequently asked questions about applying for studies at the National Defence Academy of Latvia, the pre-selection stage, as well as the study process itself.

Before applying for studies, make sure you meet the basic criteria:

Are women allowed to study at the National Defence Academy of Latvia?

Definitely! The requirements for admission to the National Defence Academy of Latvia are the same for both men and women, with the exception of the physical fitness test, where the criteria are established according to age and gender groups.

If I fail one of the tasks in the physical fitness test, will I be denied admission to the National Defence Academy of Latvia? 

No. Candidates are strongly advised to achieve at least a "satisfactory" result in the physical fitness tests according to the established regulations. However, if this result is not achieved, but everything else in your selection process is in order (a positive decision from the medical commission, good academic performance, and psychological evaluation), admission is still possible, as the National Defence Academy of Latvia specialists have a plan in place to help you improve. Recommendation – train and think about your physical fitness in advance. You already have the opportunity to go to your sports teacher/instructor and ask for advice on achieving a better level of physical fitness.

Are dormitories available? 

Yes. A free service hotel (barracks) is available at the National Defence Academy of Latvia, where you can stay during your studies.

Can I receive a scholarship during my studies? 

During your studies, you are considered a soldier of the National Armed Forces, not just a cadet of the National Defence Academy of Latvia. Therefore, you are entitled to a soldier's salary, which is 1400 EUR after taxes.

Do I need to have very high grades to enter the National Defence Academy of Latvia? 

Your grades in your school diploma must be at least passing. Beyond that, everything depends on which branch you wish to join. If your plan and desire is to study in the Air Force or Naval Forces military leadership programs, your grades will be taken into account more, as cadets of these streams study concurrently at the Novikontas Maritime College (Naval Force cadets) or the Transport and Telecommunication Institute (Air Force cadets) to acquire specialized knowledge. Good grades and knowledge in mathematics and physics are important for these branches of the forces. If you wish to study in the Land Forces military leadership program, your grades in your school diploma must be at least passing, as cadets in this stream complete their studies only at the National Defence Academy of Latvia.

Where can I work after graduation? 

Graduates of the National Defence Academy of Latvia are guaranteed a job in one of the units of the National Armed Forces, so there is no need to worry about that.

Will I have to pay for my studies? 

No. The studies are state-funded.

Am I allowed to go home during my studies? 

Definitely! Keep in mind that the training schedule depends on the study course; therefore, there may be moments when the training process for specific courses, such as the Platoon Tactics Course, falls on weekends. However, for the most part, cadets have a daily routine like any other student, where you can go home after the day or on weekends.

Will I be admitted if I have tattoos? 

Yes, tattoos are allowed as long as they are not in highly visible places (face, hands, neck) and do not have offensive themes.

Is catering provided during studies? 

Yes. On a daily basis, cadets have several options available. In the service hotel (barracks), each study course has its own kitchen where you can prepare your own food. The National Defence Academy of Latvia also has its own canteen. Additionally, during active training, catering is provided (dry rations or food in thermoses).

Can I become a pilot by studying in the Air Force military leadership program? 

No. The National Defence Academy of Latvia does not train pilots. However, this opportunity exists after graduation upon joining a unit. Be aware that this opportunity is only for the best – you must have very good grades during your studies, high performance in the study process, excellent physical fitness, as well as an appropriate state of health.

Can I apply if I have had a surgery or an injury? 

The decision regarding fitness for service is made by the Medical Examination Commission of the National Armed Forces. Each case is evaluated individually.

Can I earn extra points to increase my chances of admission?

We do not have official “extra points." However, during the selection stage, we certainly take the following into account:

• If the candidate has previously served in the National Guard, any unit of the National Armed Forces, the Youth Guard, or has completed the State Defence Service.
• If the candidate has graduated from the Oskars Kalpaks Secondary School (these candidates are admitted to the National Defence Academy of Latvia without a selection stage – they begin studies immediately in February).
• Additionally – the better the results in physical fitness tests, the health evaluation process, and exams/grades.