- Population: 2,066,000
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- University Students: 80,000
- International Students: 5,000
- English-taught Programs: 100
Slovenia is known for its beautiful landscapes, stunning caves, and a lovely population that welcomes visitors with open arms. Apart from the fantastic terrain and natural sites found in Slovenia, the Central European nation also offers an excellent opportunity for learning.
Slovenia has a population of 2 million people. The country has top-notch universities and colleges that provide a variety of competitive and relevant programs. The largest and oldest university in Slovenia is the University of Ljubljana. The learning institution was founded in 1919 and currently has a student population of over 60,000. The University of Ljubljana has 22 faculties, three academies of art Fine Art, Music and an Academy of Theatre, Film, Radio, and Television. The currency used in Slovenia is Euro (EUR).
The higher education structure in Slovenia is divided into two categories; Academic higher education and professionally oriented (vocational) higher education. Both public and private universities offer the former. Elite institutions of higher learning with zero affiliations to the universities also provide academic higher education. Vocational higher education is provided by higher vocational colleges that offer vocational education. The professional courses take two years to complete at the sub-degree level. This is equivalent to tertiary education.
Universities in Slovenia
- University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana
- University of Maribor, Maribor
- University of Nova Gorica, Nova Gorica
- University of Novo Mesto, Novo Mesto
- University of Primorska, Koper
- EMUNI University
- Alma Mater Europaea – Institutum Studiorum Humanitatis (AME ISH)
- International School for Social and Business Studies
- Jožef Stefan International Postgraduate School
- Academy of Visual Arts, Ljubljana
Study in Slovenia in English
Tuition Fees in Slovenia
The fee structure varies from one institution of higher learning to another. A Bachelor’s degree ranges from €2,000 to €5,000. You will need to pay between €2,500 to €7,500 for Master’s degree, and €3,000 to €12,000 for Doctorate/Ph.D.
Students who are from member states of the European Union, a part-time student who take first and second level courses, and those taking third level courses to be Ph.D. students do not pay any tuition fees. Individuals who sign up in higher learning institutions which are private are also required to pay for tuition if they do not have concession or public budget funding.
Scholarships to Study in Slovenia
The Slovenian government issues scholarships to students from different countries on an annual basis. Students from Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, China, Greece, Hungary, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Macedonia, Mexico, Montenegro, Poland, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Switzerland, and Turkey are invited to apply for the scholarships to further their studies and take part in research programs.
The scholarships are given based on a partnership between the education sector in Slovenia and foreign countries. The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarships and David L. Boren Scholarships are some of the most well-known scholarships. The Fulbright Program is given to American students to study in Slovenia for free. Some non-governmental organizations also offer scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
Cost of Living in Slovenia
The cost of living for international students in Slovenia is relatively cheap. Food, transport expenses, health services, utilities, rent, and other needs are affordable for students studying in Ljubljana and other cities. Students can rent apartments or share dormitories in universities. Student dormitories range between €80 – €160 in Ljubljana, €100 – €170 in Maribor, and around €100 in Primorska.
The rent for residential apartments that have double bedrooms cost between €100 – €130 in Ljubljana, €90 – €120 in Maribor and €100 – €150 in Primorska. Single bedroom flats go for €120 – €160 in Ljubljana, €120 – €150 in Maribor and €140 – €180 in Primorska. The main forms of transport around the city are two; walking and using public transport. Food coupons are available for students who eat in restaurants. The government pays about €2.63 for the meals, and the student tops up the remaining amount.
Internships & Company Placements in Slovenia
Companies in Slovenia put up internship slots for students to enable them to gain experience as they prepare for the job market. Every student is given an equal opportunity with employers focusing on the skills the student has. International students who have an organization in their home countries that offers positions are more privileged when it comes to internships. The Erasmus and Leonardo Da Vinci programs are among the programs that help students look for opportunities during exchange programs.
Working in Slovenia
Slovenia has a program called ‘Student Work’ that allows students to work part-time as they progress with their studies. Students who want to work under that program need to have referral forms from employment agencies that deal with student work. Student Services (SS) is another body that helps students look for employment. All you need to be enrolled in any employment agency in the country is a valid Identity card, a Slovenian bank account, Slovenian tax number, Certificate of enrolment and proof that you reside in the country. International students attached to the Student Service agencies get 22.5% deducted from their income to cater for income tax.
Applying for a Student Visa to Study in Slovenia
The following are the requirements for students who are EU citizens
- Application fee
- An ID card, passport, and copies for both.
- Two passport size photos
- Health insurance
- Admission letter from the university.
- Proof that you are financially stable and can take care of all your expenses
- A statement is giving reasons for your visit.
Requirements for students from non-EU states.
- Application fee.
- Two passport size photos
- Your fingerprints will be taken
- A passport that is valid for three more months after the intended stay in Slovenia and a copy of the first page
- copy of the page in the passport where you have the stamp of entering in Slovenia or copy of a valid visa
- A certificate or letter showing the university you are enrolled in.
- Health insurance
- Clearance certificate from your home country proving that you have no criminal record. This Certificate will be translated into Slovene and certified.
- Proof that you can cater to all your needs while in Slovenia.
Visa acquisition is different for students who come from European Union countries and those from non-EU countries. Students from EU member countries can visit Slovenia with just a passport or a valid identity card. A temporary resident permit is issued when you meet the conditions required by the state. The temporary permit is valid for one year. A permanent residence permit is issued to individuals after a fixed, lawful period of residence in the country. It has no restriction of duration.
One can apply for an opportunity as an exchange student in most universities in Slovenia. Make an application to be an exchange student for a couple of semesters through the Office of International Relations. One can also make an inquiry in the university they want to join.