Study abroad
Study in Albania
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in Albania
Higher education in Albania, in South-Eastern Europe, on the Adriatic and Ionian seas, gives international students a chance to study in a new academic and cultural setting. Universities and other institutions offer programmes at different levels, from first degrees to postgraduate study, across subjects such as business, engineering, health, science and the humanities.
The economy has strengths in tourism, healthcare and agriculture, which is reflected in many study options. Many courses are taught in Albanian, and some institutions also offer programmes in English. Start with the subjects available here, then compare institutions, costs and application steps.
Why study in Albania?
There is no single reason to study in Albania. For some students it is the programme itself; for others it is the setting in South-Eastern Europe, on the Adriatic and Ionian seas, the language or links to a particular industry. It is worth being clear about what matters most to you before comparing options.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Hospitality, Tourism & Events, Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies and Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, with options differing between universities.
- Industry context: Tourism, healthcare and agriculture matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Cities and campus life: Tirana, Durrës and Vlorë each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
- Culture and language: living in Albania means everyday contact with Albanian and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
Talking to current students and reading official course pages will give you a realistic picture of what studying here is like, beyond what any general guide can say.
Top subjects to study in Albania
Students heading to Albania often start by exploring the areas listed here. The selection is editorial and does not rank one subject above another.
- Hospitality, Tourism & Events
- Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences
- Business & Management
- Computing & Information Technology
Courses connected to tourism, healthcare and agriculture can be a good fit for students who want their studies to relate closely to the local economy. Each subject has its own page for Albania on this site, with its specializations.
It helps to look at specializations within each area as well: two programmes with the same broad subject can lead in quite different directions.
Universities in Albania
- European University of TiranaTirana, AlbaniaA university located in Tirana, Albania. Listed in the THE World University Rankings 2026 data (not ranked).Explore University
- Polis UniversityTirana, AlbaniaA university located in Tirana, Albania. About 2% of students are international (THE 2026 data).Explore University
Scholarships to Study in Albania
Finding funding for Albania takes time, so start looking as soon as you have a shortlist of courses.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Albania
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Most scholarships are competitive and have their own eligibility rules, so none can be taken for granted. Read the conditions carefully, apply early and check whether funding covers tuition, living costs or both. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.
Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.
Intakes to study in Albania
Many programmes in Albania start around October, which is the main entry point for most new students. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.
Because deadlines differ between universities, keep a simple timeline for each application: when it opens, when it closes, when decisions are expected and how long the visa process may take. Leave room for delays in obtaining documents.
Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.
A simple planning checklist:
- shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
- prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
- apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
- allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation
Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.
Cost of studying in Albania
Tuition in Albania varies widely: public and private institutions, subjects and study levels can all have different fees.
When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:
- application and registration fees
- course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
- health insurance and any visa or permit costs
- accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme
Longer programmes, foundation years and placements all affect the total you will need, so build your budget from the institution’s current published fees.
It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.
Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.
Student visa requirements to study in Albania
Whether you need a visa to study in Albania depends mainly on your nationality and the length of your programme.
Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:
- an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
- a valid passport and passport photos
- evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
- health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
- proof of language ability or previous qualifications
Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of Albania in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.
Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.
Cost of living in Albania
Planning your living budget for Albania early helps you avoid surprises during your first months. Costs in Tirana can differ noticeably from those in Durrës or Vlorë and smaller towns.
The main costs to plan for are:
- Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
- Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
- Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
- Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
- Insurance and health: any required health cover
- Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life
Universities often publish current estimates of living costs; use them as a starting point and add a buffer for unexpected expenses.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.
FAQs about studying in Albania
Why should I study in Albania?
It depends on your goals. Albania offers programmes across many subjects, a location in South-Eastern Europe, on the Adriatic and Ionian seas and study in Albanian (with some English-taught options). Students interested in tourism, healthcare and agriculture may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in Albania?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Hospitality, Tourism & Events, Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences and Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences. The subjects page for Albania lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When do courses start in Albania?
Many programmes start around October. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.
How much does it cost to study in Albania?
Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.
Do international students need a visa to study in Albania?
Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of Albania.
Are scholarships available for international students in Albania?
Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.
Which cities are popular with students in Albania?
Tirana, Durrës and Vlorë are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.
Can I study in English in Albania?
Many courses are taught in Albanian. Some institutions offer English-taught programmes, but availability varies, so check the language of instruction and language requirements for each course.
Free counselling
Not sure where to begin?
Explore your study-abroad options with guidance.