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A New Start in Kaunas: Students from Around the World Join KTU

Important | 2026-09-02

This year, young people from 59 countries, including India, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Nigeria, Mexico and Türkiye, are arriving at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) to begin degree studies or spend an exchange semester in Kaunas.

The new intake is geographically diverse, and KTU staff say that many students arrive with a clear idea of what they want from their studies: practical experience, internationally recognised programmes and an opportunity to become part of an active university community.

More than 500 international students have been admitted to full-time degree programmes, while the number of exchange students coming to Kaunas for a semester or several months has reached a record high.

Technology and Business Digitalisation Among the Most Popular Choices

Dr Giedrė Šadeikaitė-Gjorsheski, Director of International Relations at KTU, is pleased to see the University’s international community continuing to grow.

“The growing international community at KTU shows that the University is becoming increasingly visible in the global higher education landscape. International students bring different experiences, perspectives and ideas to our community. Their presence also helps create a more open, innovative and globally minded University,” says Dr Šadeikaitė-Gjorsheski.

Moments from KTU Welcome Week 2026
KTU staff meets new international students

She encourages new students to make the most of their time at university.

“Success is not determined by where you come from, but by the courage, curiosity and effort you invest in your future. University is about more than lectures. It is also about people, experiences and discovering your own strengths. The more actively you engage in university life, the more you will learn – not only about your field of study, but also about yourself and the path you want to take,” she says.

According to Audronė Račkauskienė, Head of the International Studies Office at KTU, one of the most rewarding parts of welcoming new students is meeting young people who have deliberately chosen both Kaunas and KTU.

This year, the greatest interest has been in artificial intelligence, mechanical engineering, mechatronics and business digitalisation.

“It shows that KTU’s strengths in technology are recognised internationally. Students come here not only for advanced laboratories and study facilities, but also for opportunities to take part in projects with Lithuanian companies and gain practical experience alongside their studies,” says Račkauskienė.

Looking Beyond the Classroom

For many newly arrived students, settling in means more than finding their way around campus or preparing for their first lectures.

Moments from KTU Welcome Week 2026
Introduction to KTU student organisations during the Welcome Week

“Students want to experience life in Lithuania,” says Monika Kačenauskienė, Incoming Student Exchange Manager at KTU, “they are interested in student organisations and events, want to try Lithuanian food, travel around the country and meet people from different parts of the world.”

According to her, KTU appeals to international students because of its multicultural environment, practical approach to studies and access to advanced technologies. Kaunas itself is also an important part of the experience.

“It is a cosy, safe and lively university city. Students can find plenty to do here, while still feeling that the city is accessible and easy to get to know,” says Kačenauskienė.

She encourages first-year students to remain open to new experiences from the very beginning.

“University is more than just lectures; it is about connections and experiences. The more actively you get involved in university life, the more valuable memories you will take with you,” she says.

Seeking Opportunities Proactively

Daniil Romanenko, a master’s student from Azerbaijan, is among those beginning their studies at KTU this autumn. Having completed his bachelor’s degree in Warsaw, he chose Lithuania for further studies because of the English-taught Data Science and Artificial Intelligence programme at the KTU Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences.

For Romanenko, the main aim is to deepen his knowledge and become an active member of the academic community.

“I hope to gain more specialised knowledge that will be essential for my future career. The study environment is also very important to me. I am looking forward to more face-to-face interaction and to getting to know other students,” says the new KTU student.

Oluwamuayomikun Isaac Oluwalana from Nigeria, an undergraduate student at the Faculty of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, knows how important the first days at university can be. A member of the Study@KTU Ambassadors programme, he volunteered during KTU’s orientation week and helped new students find their feet.

He believes the first days provide essential information, but a smooth start depends largely on each student’s initiative.

Moments from KTU Welcome Week 2026
KTU student ambassadors' team is ready to help

“Be active and do not wait for information to come to you. Reach out, check your emails regularly and follow news from both the University and Lithuania.

Sometimes, the most important information comes simply from being curious and taking the initiative. You never know which invitation or opportunity may turn out to be life-changing,” says Oluwalana.

Need a real student perspective on KTU? Chat with our students.