According to the College Board, there are 2 test centers for SAT and SAT Subject Tests in Latvia. Please note that before you register either of the SAT exams, you should choose your test date and test location. Each testing location is affiliated with an educational institution, such as high school, community college, or university. The following test centers administer one or more of SAT tests in Latvia.
SAT Testing Centers in Latvia
EDUCATION USA AT RTU RIGA BUS SCH
INTL SCH OF LATVIA
2025-2026 SAT Test Dates in Latvia
Students in Latvia planning to take the SAT during the 2025-2026 academic year can choose from several international test dates. The anticipated dates for the SAT are:
- August 2025
- October 2025
- November 2025
- December 2025
- March 2026
- May 2026
- June 2026
These dates align with the global SAT schedule. Students in Latvia should verify specific test dates and availability at local test centers through the official College Board website. Test centers are generally located in major cities like Riga, and early registration is recommended to secure a seat.
SAT Test Taking Fees in Latvia
The SAT test-taking fees in Latvia follow the standard international pricing structure set by the College Board. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the costs include:
- SAT (without Essay): Approximately $60.
- SAT (with Essay): Around $85.
- International Registration Fee: An additional $43 for students taking the SAT outside the United States.
- Late Registration Fee: $30, charged for those who register after the official deadline.
- Change Fee: $25 applies for any changes to the test center, test date, or test type.
Other optional services, such as sending additional score reports or rush reporting, may incur extra costs. For accurate and up-to-date fee information, students should visit the College Board website.
How to Register for the SAT in Latvia
Registering for the SAT in Latvia is a simple online process. Follow these steps:
- Create an Account: Go to the College Board website and create a student account.
- Select a Test Date: Choose from the available SAT test dates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
- Find a Test Center: Choose a test center in Latvia, typically located in cities like Riga.
- Pay the Fees: Complete the registration by paying the required fees using a credit card or another accepted payment method.
- Receive Confirmation: After registering, a confirmation email with your admission ticket will be sent to you. Print the ticket and bring it on the test day.
Early registration is highly recommended to secure a seat at your desired test center.
Latvia Country Overview
Country Facts
- Population: Approximately 1.8 million (2024 estimate).
- Capital: Riga.
- Largest Cities:
- Riga
- Daugavpils
- Liepāja
- Jelgava
- Ventspils
- Languages: Latvian (official), Russian, English.
- Currency: Euro (EUR).
- ISO Country Code: LV (ISO 3166).
Geography
Latvia is a small country in Northern Europe, one of the three Baltic states, bordered by Estonia to the north, Lithuania to the south, Russia to the east, and Belarus to the southeast. Its western border is defined by the Baltic Sea, giving Latvia a 500-kilometer-long coastline. The country covers an area of approximately 64,600 square kilometers and is known for its low-lying terrain, consisting of plains, hills, and forests.
Latvia’s landscape is largely shaped by its rivers and lakes, with the Daugava River being the most significant, running through the capital city of Riga and flowing into the Baltic Sea. Latvia also boasts several national parks, including Gauja National Park, which is famous for its stunning river valleys, caves, and forests.
The climate in Latvia is temperate, with warm summers and cold winters. Coastal areas experience milder weather compared to the inland regions, where temperatures can drop significantly during the winter months.
Education
Latvia has a well-developed education system, with a strong emphasis on quality and accessibility. Education is compulsory for children from the ages of 7 to 16, and the system is divided into pre-primary, primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Latvian is the primary language of instruction in schools, but Russian and English are also widely taught.
Primary education in Latvia lasts for nine years, after which students move on to secondary school. Secondary education is divided into general secondary schools and vocational schools. At the end of secondary education, students take the Latvian Centralized Examination, which is required for entry into universities.
Latvia is home to several prestigious universities, the most notable being the University of Latvia, Riga Technical University, and Riga Stradins University. These institutions offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, with many courses available in English to attract international students. The country’s commitment to integrating with European educational standards, including the Bologna Process, has made it an attractive destination for higher education.
Vocational education is also an important part of Latvia’s educational system, with many schools offering specialized training in fields such as engineering, healthcare, and information technology. The government supports lifelong learning programs to ensure that adults can continue developing their skills throughout their careers.
Transportation
Latvia has a well-developed transportation infrastructure that connects its major cities and links it to neighboring countries. The system includes roads, railways, public transportation, and international airports, making it easy to travel within the country and across Europe.
- Roads: Latvia has an extensive road network, with highways connecting major cities like Riga, Daugavpils, and Liepāja. The Via Baltica highway, part of the European route E67, connects Latvia to Estonia in the north and Lithuania in the south, serving as a major transportation route for travelers and goods. Roads in Latvia are generally well-maintained, and driving is a popular way to explore the country.
- Railways: Latvia’s railway system, operated by Latvian Railways (Latvijas Dzelzceļš), connects Riga to other cities like Daugavpils and Jelgava. International rail connections also link Latvia to neighboring countries, including Russia and Estonia. While trains are slower than buses, they provide a comfortable way to travel across the country.
- Public Transport: In major cities like Riga, public transport is highly efficient, with a network of buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Riga’s public transportation system is managed by Rīgas Satiksme, and tickets can be purchased through mobile apps, at kiosks, or directly from drivers. Public transport is affordable and widely used by both locals and tourists.
- Air Travel: Riga International Airport, located about 10 kilometers from the city center, is Latvia’s main airport and the largest in the Baltic states. It serves as a hub for airBaltic, the national carrier, and offers flights to destinations across Europe and beyond. The airport is well-connected to the city by bus and taxi services.
- Ports: Latvia’s key seaports include Riga, Liepāja, and Ventspils, all of which are important for both passenger and cargo traffic. Ferry services operate between Riga and Stockholm, Sweden, while Liepāja and Ventspils serve as important cargo hubs, handling the majority of Latvia’s exports and imports.
Major Landmarks
Latvia is a country rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty, offering a variety of historical sites, national parks, and architectural landmarks. Some of the most notable landmarks in Latvia include:
- Old Town Riga (Vecrīga): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Old Town Riga is a beautifully preserved medieval area with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and stunning architecture. Key landmarks include the Riga Cathedral, St. Peter’s Church, and the House of the Blackheads. Visitors can also explore the Riga Castle, which houses the official residence of the President of Latvia.
- Gauja National Park: Located in northeastern Latvia, Gauja National Park is the country’s largest and oldest national park. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the Gauja River, deep valleys, and sandstone cliffs. Visitors can explore medieval castles such as Turaida Castle, hike through the forests, or take part in adventure sports like kayaking and zip-lining.
- Rundāle Palace: Often referred to as the “Versailles of Latvia,” Rundāle Palace is a stunning example of Baroque and Rococo architecture. Located in the southern part of the country, it was designed by the Italian architect Bartolomeo Rastrelli and features beautifully landscaped gardens, opulent interiors, and an art museum.
- Jūrmala: A popular seaside resort town located just 25 kilometers west of Riga, Jūrmala is famous for its long sandy beaches and wooden Art Nouveau villas. The town attracts both locals and international tourists looking to relax by the Baltic Sea or enjoy the region’s natural beauty.
- Aglona Basilica: Located in eastern Latvia, Aglona Basilica is one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the country. The baroque-style church, built in the 18th century, draws thousands of visitors every year, particularly during the annual Feast of the Assumption.
- Ventspils: This coastal city is known for its modern port, well-preserved old town, and scenic beaches. Ventspils is also home to the Ventspils Adventure Park and the Livonian Order Castle, a medieval fortress that now serves as a museum.