Croatia is an ideal place for students wishing to study in a country renowned for its beautiful coast, for its mix of Mediterranean and South-Eastern European charm and for its rich historical and cultural heritage.
Croatian higher education at a glance
In total, Croatia has 128 higher education institutions located in all parts of the country - including a total of 36 on Croatia?s spectacular Adriatic coast! Croatia?s largest university is the University of Zagreb with over 75,000 enrolled students - making it the largest university in the region of South-Eastern Europe. The University of Zagreb is also the oldest university in the region (founded in 1669).
Opportunities for both Croatian and non-Croatian speakers
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 (or are not studying the language). On the one hand, some higher education institutions offer Croatian language courses as semester classes, one-month courses or summer schools. On the other hand, some higher education institutions offer specific courses in foreign languages (lasting one or two semesters) and there some degree-programmes taught in English and other foreign languages.
Opportunity for travel and discovery
Croatia's geographical position in South-Eastern Europe, combined with its natural, historical and cultural diversity, makes it an ideal location for national and regional explorations. Aside from making the most of your educational experience, you can use your time in Croatia to explore the Croatian coast, mountains and natural parks. If you have time, you can even visit nearby countries such as Austria, Italy, Hungary, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia and Montenegro, which are all easy reachable by car, bus or train.
Open and multi-lingual environment
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 ordered by the European Commission in 2005, 49% of people in Croatia speak English, 34% German, 14% Italian, 4% French and Russian and 2% Spanish. Hopefully, this will also help you adjust quickly and make the most of your study experience.
