Study abroad
Study in Serbia
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in Serbia
Higher education in Serbia, in South-Eastern Europe, 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 digital technology, agriculture and healthcare, which is reflected in many study options. Many courses are taught in Serbian, and some institutions also offer programmes in English. Start with the subjects available here, then compare institutions, costs and application steps.
Why study in Serbia?
Students choose Serbia for different reasons: a particular course, a university’s reputation in a field, the language, the location or the chance to experience life in South-Eastern Europe. The right decision depends on your subject, budget, preferred city and long-term plans.
- Industry context: Digital technology, agriculture and healthcare matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Computing & Information Technology, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences and Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies, with options differing between universities.
- Cities and campus life: Belgrade, Novi Sad and Niš each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
- Culture and language: living in Serbia means everyday contact with Serbian 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 Serbia
If you are not sure where to start, these areas connect well with Serbia’s economy and higher-education offer. The list is a starting point rather than a ranking.
- Computing & Information Technology
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies
- Engineering
- Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences
- Business & Management
Because digital technology, agriculture and healthcare matter locally, students in related fields may find useful context for projects and internships. Each subject has its own page for Serbia on this site, with its specializations.
Before settling on a subject, compare a few programmes side by side: their modules, how they are taught and assessed, and the options they open up after graduation.
Universities in Serbia
- University of BelgradeBelgrade, Serbia
- THE 2026 1001–1200
- University of Novi SadNovi Sad, Serbia
- THE 2026 1501+
Scholarships to Study in Serbia
Some international students in Serbia receive scholarships or grants, but availability depends on where you come from and what you plan to study.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Serbia
- 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 Serbia
In Serbia, the main intake for many programmes is usually around October. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.
Application deadlines can fall many months before the course begins, especially for competitive programmes and for students who need a visa. Start by checking the deadline for your specific course, then work backwards to leave time for documents, language tests, applications for funding and the visa process.
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 Serbia
The cost of studying in Serbia depends on the institution, the programme, the level of study and, sometimes, your nationality.
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
Check the latest fees on each institution’s website and confirm whether they can change during your course.
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 Serbia
Before you travel, check what kind of study permission Serbia requires for your nationality and course.
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 Serbia 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 Serbia
Day-to-day costs in Serbia are shaped by where you live, the type of accommodation you choose and how you get around. Costs in Belgrade can differ noticeably from those in Novi Sad or Niš 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
Ask your institution for its estimate of student living costs and plan for some extra money for arrival and emergencies.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.
FAQs about studying in Serbia
Is Serbia a good place to study?
It depends on your goals. Serbia offers programmes across many subjects, a location in South-Eastern Europe and study in Serbian (with some English-taught options). Students interested in digital technology, agriculture and healthcare may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in Serbia?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Computing & Information Technology, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies and Engineering. The subjects page for Serbia lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When do courses start in Serbia?
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 Serbia?
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 Serbia?
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 Serbia.
Are scholarships available for international students in Serbia?
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 Serbia?
Belgrade, Novi Sad and Niš 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 Serbia?
Many courses are taught in Serbian. Some institutions offer English-taught programmes, but availability varies, so check the language of instruction and language requirements for each course.
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