Croatia has over 120 higher education institutions located in all parts of the country - including more than 40 on Croatia’s spectacular Adriatic coast! Croatia’s largest university is the University of Zagreb with more than 63,000 enrolled students - making it the largest university in the region of South-Eastern Europe. Founded in 1669, the University of Zagreb is also the oldest university in the region.
For prospective students who speak Croatian (or are studying the language), a wide variety of degree programmes or exchange programmes are available for studying at higher education institutions throughout Croatia.
Study opportunities are also available to prospective students who do not speak Croatian. Many Croatian higher education institutions are offering degree-programmes or courses or summer schools for international students in English. In some cases, study programmes in other languages are available too. Some higher education institutions also offer Croatian language courses.
Finally, despite being a country of relatively small size with a close-knit community, the Croatian people are not only welcoming but are also multi-lingual. According to a survey published by the European Commission in 2024, 41% of people in Croatia speak English well enough to be able to have a conversation in that language, 15% can do so in German, and 8% in Italian. Other languages Croatians may speak are French, Russian and Spanish. Hopefully, this will also help you adjust quickly and make the most of your study experience.
For admissions and enrolment to study programmes in Croatia, check the subsection “How to apply”.
You can also check out the International Student Guide to Croatia for practical tips and essential information to help you prepare for your stay in Croatia!
