Study in Serbia

About Serbia

Serbia is a landlocked parliamentary republic in the heart of the Balkans in Southeast Europe, with Belgrade as its capital and largest city. Known for its rich history, diverse landscape of mountains and plains, and vibrant culture, Serbia is a former Yugoslav republic with a population of approximately 6.6–7 million. Serbia is increasingly considered a good, affordable, and high-quality destination for higher education in Europe, particularly for international students seeking to study medicine, engineering, or computer science. It offers a unique mix of European education standards, low living costs, and a rich cultural experience and Serbia is generally considered safe, especially for tourists, with low crime rates and hospitable locals.

Key Facts:

  • Location: Serbia is a landlocked country located at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe in the southern Carpathian and Balkan mountains
  • Area: Approximately 88,361 km² or 34,116 sq mi
  • Capital: Belgrade
  • Currency: Serbian dinar (RSD)
  • Languages: Serbian
  • Total population: Approximately 6.6 million (2025–2026 estimate)

WHY STUDY IN SERBIA?

1. Affordable Education & Low Cost of Living: Tuition fees are low (approx. €2,000–€5,000/year), and monthly living expenses for students range from €400–€700, making it one of the most budget-friendly study destinations in Europe.
2. Quality English-Taught Programs: Many universities, particularly in Belgrade and Novi Sad, offer a wide range of Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in English, especially in medicine, engineering, and social sciences.
3. Globally Recognized Degrees: Serbian universities provide accredited, European-standard education recognized worldwide.
4. Prestigious Universities: The University of Belgrade and the University of Novi Sad are highly ranked, with the University of Belgrade featured on the Shanghai List as one of the best in the world.
5. Safe and Welcoming Environment: Serbia is considered a safe country, with welcoming, hospitable locals and a high level of English proficiency among the younger population.
6. Central Location in Europe: Situated at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe, Serbia is an ideal base for traveling to surrounding European countries.
7. Vibrant Student Life & Culture: Students can enjoy a rich, bustling nightlife, diverse music/film festivals, and a lively café culture, especially in Belgrade and Novi Sad.
8. Rich History and Heritage: The country boasts a mix of Eastern and Western influences, with five UNESCO World Heritage Sites to explore.
9. Modern Facilities and Research Opportunities: Universities provide state-of-the-art, developing research opportunities and modern, well-equipped campus facilities.
10. Easy Access and No IELTS Requirement: For many international students, the application process is straightforward, with some programs not requiring IELTS, and a high visa success ratio.

Is Serbia good for international students to study in?

Serbia is a good, highly affordable, and safe European destination for international students, offering quality education with over 170 English-taught programs. With tuition fees averaging around 2,500 EUR per year, it provides a cost-effective option for studying in Europe, particularly in medicine, engineering, and IT.

Best Universities in Serbia for International Students

1. University of Belgrade (Belgrade): The largest, oldest, and highest-ranked university in Serbia (often ranked within the top 1000 globally), offering a wide range of programs for international students.
2. University of Novi Sad (Novi Sad): Known for its strong engineering, agriculture, and technical sciences, with a large, modern campus and diverse international programs.
3. University of Niš (Niš): A respected institution offering strong programs in medicine, technical fields, and humanities, located in southern Serbia.
4. University of Kragujevac (Kragujevac): Features a strong research reputation and is considered one of the top institutions, rising from the first higher education institution in modern Serbia.
5. Singidunum University (Belgrade): A top-ranked private university in Serbia, popular for business, tourism, and computer science with a focus on modern, industry-aligned education.
6. University of Arts in Belgrade (Belgrade): The premier institution for arts, music, and drama in Serbia, attracting students globally.
7. State University of Novi Pazar (Novi Pazar): A state university known for its multidisciplinary approach and growing reputation in the region.
8. Metropolitan University (Belgrade): Focuses on digital technology, information technology, and creative industries, offering modern, flexible learning environments.
9. Educons University (Sremska Kamenica): A private university offering a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs with a focus on sustainability and business.
10. University Business Academy in Novi Sad (Novi Sad): Specializes in law, economics, and technical sciences, with a strong focus on practical application.

Study In Serbia Key Facts

So.No.

Key Fact

 

1.

Top Courses

  • Medicine (MBBS/MD)
  • Dentistry (BDS/DMD)
  • Information Technology and Computer Science
  • Engineering
  • Pharmacy
  • Business and Economics
  • Software and Data Engineering
  • Psycholog
  • Architecture
  • Law

2.

Duration

  • Bachelor’s: 3–4 years.
  • Master’s: 1–2 years.
  • Integrated (Medicine/Pharm): 5–6 years.
  • Doctorate (PhD): 3 years.

3.

Eligibility & Requirements

  • Academic: 4-year secondary school diploma (Bachelor’s), Bachelor’s degree (Master’s).
  • Entrance Exam: Mandatory for most programs, typically in July or September.
  • Language: Proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS) or Serbian.
  • Visa: Student visa requires proof of enrollment, funds, insurance, and a clean criminal record.

4

Minimum Qualifications

  • Completion of a 4-year secondary school (for undergraduates).
  • For Medicine, usually requires strong grades in Biology and Chemistry.
  • 10+2 with 50% (for specific medical colleges).

5.

Approximate Fees

  • Tuition Fees: Generally €500–€2,500 per year for public universities, higher for medicine,, around €5,000–€7,000 annually.
  • Living Costs: €400–€600 per month.

6.

Intake

  • Primary Intake: September/October.

7.

Top University

  • University of Belgrade (Univerzitet u Beogradu)
  • University of Novi Sad (Univerzitet u Novom Sadu)
  • University of Niš (Univerzitet u Nišu)
  • University of Kragujevac (Univerzitet u Kragujevcu)
  • Singidunum University (Univerzitet Singidunum)

 

Programs Offered at Serbian Universities

  • Computer Science
  • Law
  • Environment/Ecology
  • Engineering
  • Materials Science
  • Mathematics
  • Neuroscience and Behavior
  • Pharmacology and Toxicology
  • Physics
  • Plant and Animal Science
  • Psychiatry/Psychology
  • Social Sciences and Public Health
  • Oncology
  • Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems
  • Endocrinology and Metabolism
  • Public, Environmental and Occupational Health
  • Food Science and Technology
  • Physical Chemistry

Serbia in Higher education system

Serbia offers international students a higher education system structured under the three-cycle Bologna Process: 

  • Undergraduate 
  • Graduate
  • Doctoral studies

International students generally pay tuition fees, which can range from 750 EUR to 20,000 EUR annually. Additionally, they need to have their diplomas recognized and may be required to demonstrate proficiency in Serbian or the language of instruction.

The Bachelor in Serbia

  • Serbia, A Bachelor’s Degree Requires 3-4 Years Of Study,
  • With 180-240 Ects Credits,
  • And Can Be Obtained In Various Academic Or Applied Studies,
  • Leading To Careers In Fields Like Engineering, Humanities, Sciences, Or Arts.

Serbia IN What Bachelor program to study?

The best bachelor’s program to study in Serbia, consider your interests and career goals, as popular programs include:

DISCIPLINE

So.NO.

Computer Science

1

IT

2

Management

3

Engineering

4

Economics

5

Law and Jurisprudence

6

Arts

7

Education and Teaching

8

Business

9

Finance and Banking

10

Design

11

Administration

10

Sports

11

Health

12

Environmental Studies

13

Technology

14

Applied Sciences and Professions

15

Programming

16

Medicine

17

PR

18

Psychology

19

Media Communications

20

Mathematics

21

Accounting

22

Philology

23

 

The Master in Serbia

Studying for a Master’s in Serbia is appealing for its affordable tuition, high-quality education, and diverse range of programs, all while immersing students in a rich cultural environment with easy access to other European countries.

1. Serbia, Master’s programs, lasting either one or two years (60 or 120 ECTS),
2. Offered by universities, faculties, and colleges, requiring a bachelor’s degree and a thesis defense for completion.

Serbia IN What Master program to study?

The most popular Master disciplines in Serbia.

DISCIPLINE

So.No.

Computer Science

1

IT

2

Economics

3

Law and Jurisprudence

4

Management

5

Arts

6

Engineering

7

Education and Teaching

8

Business

9

Finance and Banking

10

Health

11

Sports

12

Programming

13

Design

14

Administration

15

Biology

16

Psychology

17

Philology

18

Physics

19

Mathematics

20

Medicine

21

Earth Sciences

22

Agriculture

23

Chemistry

24

Technology

25

 

The PhD in Serbia

Pursuing a PhD in Serbia can be attractive due to its affordable tuition, high-quality education in specific fields, cultural immersion, and opportunities for international collaboration and networking, while Serbian universities are focusing on research and innovation.
Serbia, pursuing a PhD requires a completed Master’s degree, involves extensive scientific research and publication, and typically lasts six semesters (3 years).

 

Serbia IN What PhD program to study?

Study a Master’s program in Serbia, you have many options ranging from:

DISCIPLINE

So.No

Computer Science

1

IT

2

Law and Jurisprudence

3

Management

4

Economics

5

Arts

6

Engineering

7

Programming

8

Business

9

Finance and Banking

10

Education and Teaching

11

Medicine

12

Health

13

Sports

14

Philology

15

Psychology

16

Biology

17

Physics

18

Mathematics

19

Tourism

20

Architecture

21

Chemistry

22

Natural Sciences

23

Dentistry

24

Design

25

 

Degree system In Serbia

Serbia follows a three-cycle system:
1. higher education, with Bachelor’s degrees (3-4 years, 180-240 ECTS),
2. Master’s degrees (1-2 years, 60-120 ECTS)
3. PhD studies (minimum 3 years or 180 ECTS).

  • Bachelor’s Degrees:
    Can be either three or four years in duration (180 to 240 ECTS).
    Can be at universities or colleges of academic studies.
    Upon completion, students receive a Bachelor’s degree.
  • Master’s Degrees:
    Lasting one or two years, carrying 60 to 120 ECTS credits.
    Requires a Bachelor’s degree to enroll.
    Students who want to enroll in the master degree programme of 1 year must hold a bachelor degree with 240 ECTS credits.
    Students who want to enroll in the master degree programme of 2 years must hold a bachelor degree with 180 ECTS credits.
  • Doctoral/PhD Studies: Minimum three years duration or 180 ECTS.

European Credit Transfer System

Serbia, the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) is fully implemented in all higher education institutions, serving as a mandatory credit system for all degree programs to ensure transparency, facilitate student mobility, and recognize learning achievements across the European Higher Education Area (EHEA).

Diploma supplement

Serbia, a Diploma Supplement is a document that’s issued alongside a higher education diploma, providing detailed information about the holder’s qualifications and learning outcomes, aiding international recognition of qualifications.

Academic requirements

Bachelor program’s:

1. Secondary Education: A four-year secondary school diploma is a basic requirement.
2. Entrance Exam: You’ll need to pass an entrance examination specific to the chosen program and university.
3. Diploma Recognition: If you obtained your diploma abroad, you may need to go through the diploma recognition process.

Master program’s

1. Bachelor’s Degree: A bachelor’s degree is required.
2. ECTS Credits: Depending on the program, you’ll likely need a bachelor’s degree that comprises 180 or 240 ECTS credits (corresponding to 3 or 4-year full-time studies respectively).
3. Entrance Exam: An entrance exam is required.
4. Language Proficiency: Some international programs may require proof of English language proficiency.

Doctoral studies

1. Master’s Degree: A master’s degree is required.
2. ECTS Credits: A minimum of 300 ECTS credits are required.
3. Entrance Exam: Many universities also have a separate entrance exam process for doctoral studies.
4. Other Requirements: Additional requirements can include published papers, minimum GPA, etc.

Costs of studying

Tuition Fees
1. General Programs: Tuition fees for foreign students usually range from €1,000 to €7,000 per year, with an average of around €2,500.
2. Medical Studies (MBBS): 6-year programs in English generally cost between €3,000 and €7,000 annually. Specific examples include €5,500 – €7,000 per year at various universities.
3. Language: Programs taught in English may have higher fees compared to those in Serbian.

Living Expenses
1. Accommodation: Renting a shared flat can start from around €150 per month, while dormitories are more affordable but have limited spots.
2. Food: Monthly expenses for groceries average €200-€250, while dining at student canteens can cost only €1-€1.5 per meal.
3. Transport: Public transportation is inexpensive, with monthly tickets in Belgrade costing less than €10.

Research in Serbia

Serbian universities offer a compelling blend of a strong tradition in research, particularly in fields like mathematics, computer science, and engineering, with increasing international recognition and opportunities for collaboration.

Serbia offers numerous opportunities for international students pursuing research, with universities like:
1. University of Belgrade
2. University of Nis
3. University of Kragujevac
4. Singidunum University
5. Megatrend University

Scientific research

Serbia is developing an economy driven by science and innovation, with increased investments in research and development and strong connections between science and the economy. Areas of scientific research include physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, medicine, and social sciences, supported by entities like the Science Fund of Serbia and the Ministry of Science, Technological Development and Innovation.

Student visas for Serbia

1. Application Process: Students must first secure acceptance into a Serbian educational institution. The visa application is submitted to the nearest Serbian Embassy or Consulate.
2. Type D Visa (Long-Stay): This visa is required for studies lasting longer than 90 days and allows a stay of up to one year, which is renewable.
3. Temporary Residence Permit: Upon arrival in Serbia, students must apply for a temporary residence permit, which is valid for up to 3 years and must be renewed annually.
4. Processing Time: The decision usually takes about 15 days, but can be extended up to 30 days.
5. Fees: Visa fees vary, with costs for, for example, Indian citizens ranging from 6,000 to 10,000 INR (approx. 50-85 EUR).
6. Work Opportunities: Students with a temporary residence permit may have limited rights to work to support themselves.

Requirements for Serbia Student visa

1. Valid passport (valid at least 90 days beyond the intended stay).
2. Completed visa application form.
3. Letter of acceptance from the Serbian university/institution.
4. Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay.
5. Travel health insurance.
6. Passport-sized photo (3.5×4.5 cm).
7. Proof of accommodation in Serbia.
8. Criminal record check (sometimes required).

For further guidance and assistance with visa applications, please reach out to us.

 
 
 
 

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