7 Reasons to Study in Croatia
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Set between the Adriatic sea and Balkan peninsula, charming Croatia could be your next study destination: Programs in English at great universities, low tuition fees and a beautiful seaside!
Universities in Croatia offer over 50 bachelor and master programs in English for different fields of studies. Tuition fees for international Bachelors and Masters in English will vary between 1,000 and 4,000 euros per year for public faculties, whereas the private institutions might cost up to around 5,000 euros. Croatia belongs to the more affordable places to study in the EU, especially in comparison with northern and western European countries.
In 2025, 4 universities in Croatia were ranked in the world's top 1,000 universities in one of the three major global university rankings.
Some of the most popular universities offering programs in English are:
Universities in Croatia: Find Bachelors & Masters
We often take safety for granted. Croatia is one of the safest countries in the world: Top 20 according to the Global Peace Index and Top 30 in the Social Progress Index. This information could be crucial when choosing your next place to study.
Croatian weather depends on the region you live in, but generally speaking, it’s safe to prepare your spring and summer outfits. The continental part, including Zagreb, has colder winters but very warm summers. And the coastal areas including Split and Dubrovnik have the Mediterranean climate which means swimming all summer long and lots of sun. Moreover, there are over 1,200 islands to explore. On the other hand, if you need to cool off or want to go skiing, the mountains are about an hour’s drive from all the bigger cities with universities.
Croatian culture is oftentimes described as easy-going and relaxed. No matter how busy or difficult life gets, there’s always time for a long coffee with friends. The nice weather contributes to this habit. Croats know how to take a break and enjoy life to its fullest. FYI, coffee prices vary between 2 and 3 euros on average.
Croatia could easily fit in your student budget! For a room in a private accommodation in Zagreb, Split, Rijeka or Dubrovnik students will set aside on average 200 to 300 euros per month depending on the size and the location. Monthly transportation ticket costs around 20 to 30 euros. Some cities offer places in dorms for international students. Zagreb has several good student cafeterias around the city which monthly costs (with 3 meals per day) will be approximately 150 euros. Prices for cafeterias are even lower in other cities.
The distinct geographical location of Croatia has led to the creation of a unique mixture of Balkan and Mediterranean cuisines. You should try seafood meals like black risotto and brodetto, or the pastry dishes such as delicious soparnik (a flat savory pie made with swiss chard) and štrukli (boiled or baked dough with fresh cheese). Furthermore, discover delicious pasticada and shepherd’s stew. These meals will make every foodie happy. Also, don’t forget to try out some Croatian traditional wine (Malvazija and Teran) and liquor pelinkovac (wormwood liquor). Dobar tek and živjeli!
Croatia is a small nation counting only around 4 million inhabitants. The impact of western globalization has increased over the last few decades which has led to the fact that almost the entire generation of millennials and GenZ speak fluent English. All in all, it won’t be an issue finding local friends considering Croatians are very friendly and welcoming towards foreigners.
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