Established in 1996, Vidzemes Augstskola (Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences) is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the urban setting of the large town of Valmiera (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Vidzeme. Officially recognized by the Latvijas Republikas Izglitibas un zinatnes ministrija (Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Latvia), Vidzemes Augstskola (ViA) is a very small coeducational Latvian higher education institution. Vidzemes Augstskola (ViA) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 26 years old Latvian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic record and grades. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. ViA also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.