The University of Vilnius, one of the oldest and most famous establishments of higher education in Eastern and Central Europe, was founded in 1579. Functioning for a long time as the only university in Lithuania, it has been a preserver of cultural and scientific traditions as well as has played a significant part in the cultural life of both Lithuania and its neighbour countries. During the existence of more than four centuries, the University of Vilnius has faced periods of growth and decline, revival and closure. Therefore it has deserved to take a significant place in the Lithuanian history.

The University of Vilnius (VU) has 12 faculties, 8 institutes, 10 study and research centres. Also it runs the oldest Library in Lithuania, the Astronomical Observatory, the Botanical Garden, the Computer Centre, 3 hospitals and St. John's Church.

Moreover, VU always takes part in international scientific and academic activities as well as makes boast of many prominent scientists, professors and graduates. Scientific development and expanding relations with global research centres have contributed to the variety of research and studies at VU. With the support of social partners, the university educates global–minded specialists who successfully integrate into the modern European community.

The mission of VU is to create, accumulate and disseminate knowledge by ensuring continuity of an authentic university culture which is distinguished by the synthesis of old traditions and new ideas. Equally, the leading position is sought among other Lithuanian institutions in all research areas that are essential to the very nature of every comprehensive university. Also, VU assumes responsibility of opening doors and providing diverse education for the most talented young people from all districts in Lithuania, who are able to grow more active and responsible specialists. The University aims at the quality of all forms of studies conformed to the modern culture and technologies together with pertaining to the needs of the state and society.

Moreover, VU ensures that the balanced development and interaction of research in humanities, social, physical, biomedical and technological sciences remain the most outstanding feature of the University. No doubt, it marks the university among other Lithuanian higher education establishments. It also initiates and actively implements the projects of value for the economic development of the country. Therefore the state encourages effective cooperation between scientific and educational institutions and high technology companies as well as creates favourable conditions and environment for innovations and entrepreneurship. It also desires to expand significantly non-consecutive, distant and other flexible study forms and methods together with becoming the centre of the continuous improvement and the lifelong learning. As a result, VU plays an important role in shifting the country to the knowledge-based society.

To sum it up, VU is a constantly improving community. Freedom of thought and diversity of opinions are its main values. Also a unity of research and studies represents the core principle of the overall activity of the University. That’s why many students, who are full of new ideas and purposes, choose to study in the University of Vilnius every year.