Studying in Serbia

Tuition fees in Serbia depend on the type of institution, the study programme, and whether you are a student from the EU/EEA or from outside of the EU/EEA. At public institutions, studies in Serbian may be state-funded.

On average, tuition fees are:

• Bachelor's and Master's programmes: €750 - €20,000 per year
• Doctoral studies (PhD): fees are determined by each institution

Living costs in Serbia are relatively affordable. Students typically spend between €750 and €2,000 per month, covering accommodation, food, transport, utilities and personal expenses.

Cost breakdown in more detail

Citizens of many countries, including most European countries, can enter Serbia visa-free for up to 90 days. International students who plan to study longer must apply for a temporary residence permit after arrival.

If you require a visa to enter Serbia, you should apply at the nearest Serbian embassy or consulate before travelling.

All foreign citizens must register their address at the local police station within 24 hours of arrival.

More detailed guidance on visas and residence permit

Serbia fully applies the three-cycle degree system, the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) and the diploma supplement.

Higher education in Serbia is divided into:

• academic studies (mainly at universities)
• applied (vocational) studies (at colleges and universities)

Degree structure

• Bachelor's degree: 3-4 years
• Master's degree: 1-2 years
• PhD: minimum 3 years

In addition, Serbia offers:

• ntegrated programmes: 5-6 years, mainly in fields such as medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy
• specialist programmes: 1 year, for further academic or professional specialisation

Explore further

• search a list of programmes
• database of institutions
• description of academic levels

Application procedures vary by institution, but generally include:

1. choosing a programme via the Study in Serbia database
2. checking academic requirements
3. preparing documents (transcripts, ID, certificates)
4. applying directly to the institution
5. taking an entrance exam (often required)

12 steps to apply

Scholarships are available at national and international levels from:

• Serbian government scholarships
• Erasmus+ scholarships
• Bilateral exchange programmes
• Institution-specific scholarships

Explore scholarship options

Serbia offers a vibrant student experience with a mix of culture, history and affordability. Major student cities include Belgrade, Novi Sad, Niš, and Kragujevac.

Read stories from studying students

Are there programmes taught in English in Serbia?

Yes, there are more than 170 English-taught programmes across all study levels.

Search the programme database

Can I work while studying?

Yes, but international students must meet specific legal requirements. To work in Serbia, you need both a temporary residence permit and a work permit, which is issued by the National Employment Service. This applies to part-time and full-time work alongside your studies.

Read more about working while studying

Do I need to have health insurance?

You must have valid health insurance during your stay. International students in Serbia are entitled to urgend medical care, but the extent of coverage on whether Serbia has a health agreement with your home country. These agreements determine whether services are free or partially covered in public healthcare institutions. It is strongly recommended that you arrange appropriate health insurance before starting your studies in Serbia.

Read about medical care

How can I find housing?

Most students in Serbia arrange accommodation in advance, with renting a private apartment or shared flat being the most common option. Student dormitories may be available, mainly for exchange students, but places are limited and allocated through selection processes.

Learn about where to rent an apartment