As with all IPSL programs, the Russian language program in Latvia will be tailored to fit your interests, goals, and budget. IPSL’s partner school offers courses for all levels—from beginner to advanced—as well as options for both group and private instruction. Specialized courses are also available, including Business Russian, exam preparation, and Specialty Russian for fields such as hospitality.

Riga, the historic capital of Latvia, is the largest city in the Baltic region. Although Latvia gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, the significant ethnic Russian population makes Riga a predominantly Russian-speaking city—an ideal setting for immersive language learning. Since joining the European Union in 2004, Riga has grown into a dynamic hub for businesses bridging Russia and the EU.

Riga is known for its outstanding Art Nouveau architecture, but its history reaches back centuries. The city’s medieval center, Vecrīga (Old Riga), features iconic landmarks like the Town Hall Square and the House of the Blackheads. Just outside the city lies Jūrmala, a charming beach resort surrounded by green parks—perfect for relaxing away from the bustle of the capital. The language school is conveniently located near the Latvian National Opera and the Central Railway Station. The neighborhood offers a wide variety of cafés, bars, and restaurants, and Vecrīga is just a short walk away.

All instructors are native Russian speakers who not only teach in the classroom but also take students out into the city—to markets, train stations, and other public spaces—so you can practice real-life communication and experience a range of dialects, accents, and speaking styles. These immersive experiences will not only enhance your Russian skills but also help you discover the many cultural treasures this vibrant city has to offer.

You can expect to: 

∎ Learn how to communicate in everyday situations 

∎ Develop your comprehension skills by first listening to adapted ways of speaking and then moving onto more authentic forms 

∎ Learn how to use vocabulary based on your language competence 

∎ Develop your reading and writing skills by doing exercises at home, as well as analyzing and retelling stories, literary texts or official paperwork 

∎ Learn how to give presentations and express your opinions in open discussions with fellow students 

∎ Gain a better understanding of modern Russia by developing an awareness of a range of ethical, cultural and historical issues