Education in Serbia
Serbia offers education options from public schools to international institutions, with universities gaining recognition for quality programs at affordable prices.
School System Overview
| Level | Ages | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Preschool | 3-6 | Optional, but pre-primary year mandatory |
| Primary | 6-14 | 8 years, compulsory |
| Secondary | 15-18 | 4 years (gymnasium or vocational) |
| University | 18+ | Bologna process (3+2 years) |
For Expat Children
Public schools:
- Free for residents
- Serbian language instruction
- Good for immersion and local integration
- May not accommodate English speakers initially
International schools in Belgrade:
| School | Curriculum | Fees (annual) |
|---|---|---|
| International School of Belgrade | IB, US | €15,000-20,000 |
| British International School | British | €12,000-18,000 |
| French School | French | €8,000-12,000 |
| Ruđer Bošković | IB | €5,000-10,000 |
Other options:
- German School of Belgrade
- Russian School
- Private Serbian schools (bilingual programs)
Enrollment for Foreign Children
Requirements:
- Passport
- Proof of residence
- Previous school records
- Vaccination records
- For public schools: translation of documents
Note: Schools cannot refuse children based on immigration status.
Higher Education
Serbia has 18 universities with growing international recognition:
Top universities:
- University of Belgrade (largest, oldest)
- University of Novi Sad
- University of Niš
Costs for international students:
- Public universities: €500-2,500/year
- Private universities: €2,000-5,000/year
- Far cheaper than Western Europe or US
Notable programs:
- IT and Computer Science (Belgrade, Novi Sad)
- Engineering
- Medicine (taught in English at some schools)
- Business
Student Life
Advantages:
- Very affordable living costs
- Active student social scene
- English programs available
- Good IT job market for graduates
Student budget:
- Accommodation: €100-250/month
- Living expenses: €200-350/month
- Total: €300-600/month
IT Education
Serbia has invested heavily in IT education:
- Multiple coding bootcamps
- Tech startups often recruit from universities
- High demand for IT graduates
- Many IT companies offer internships
Continuing Education
For adults:
- Language courses (Serbian, English)
- Professional certifications
- University extension programs
- Online learning (global platforms)
Free resources:
- National Library programs
- Cultural centers
- Online Serbian language courses
Foreign Credential Recognition
Foreign degrees may need recognition for:
- Employment in regulated professions
- Further study in Serbia
- Process through Ministry of Education
Tips for Expat Families
- Start international school search early (waitlists exist)
- Consider Serbian school for younger children (easier language acquisition)
- Budget €10,000-20,000/year for quality international education
- University is very affordable for studying abroad
- IT programs offer good value and job prospects
Pro Tips
- •International schools have waitlists - apply early
- •University education is extremely affordable by Western standards
- •IT and tech programs have excellent job placement
- •Younger children adapt quickly to Serbian schools
- •Student life is affordable with active social scene
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