Education Croatia

Kindergarten

Age and types of institutions: Kindergartens accept children from 6 months to 6 years old. There are state and private kindergartens, as well as alternative methods like Montessori and Waldorf.

Enrollment procedure: Applications for enrollment are usually submitted in May for the academic year starting on September 1st. If there are available spots, applications can be submitted during the academic year.

Required documents:

- Child's birth certificate.

- Proof of permanent residence.

- Employment certificate of the parents.

- Completed questionnaire provided by the kindergarten.

- Medical certificate of the child's health condition.

Cost:

The full cost of kindergarten services ranges from 199 to 332 euros per month.

Parents usually pay about 40% of this amount, which is from 46 to 106 euros, depending on local authorities' subsidies.

School

Age and obligation: Primary education is mandatory for children aged 6 to 15 years and lasts 8 years.

Enrollment procedure: Children are usually enrolled in the state school nearest to their residence. To enroll in another school, it is necessary to get the chosen institution's director's approval.

Required documents:

- Child's birth certificate.

- Proof of residence (e.g., rental agreement or utility bill).

- Medical card, including vaccination information.

- If available, documents confirming the completion of the previous educational stage.

General recommendations: Contact local authorities or educational institutions for detailed information and assistance in the enrollment process.

Kindergartens

Some international schools offer preschool programs in foreign languages. For example, the German International School in Zagreb provides programs for preschool children with instruction in German.

Schools

Several international schools operate in Croatia, offering education in various foreign languages:

The American International School in Zagreb: Provides education based on the American curriculum and the International Baccalaureate (IB) for senior classes.

The International British School "Bright Horizons" in Zagreb: Implements education based on the British curriculum for secondary school.

The German International School in Zagreb: Offers a full educational cycle with instruction in German, starting from kindergarten and ending with obtaining a German international diploma.

The French School in Zagreb: Provides education in French for various age groups.

Education features

International schools in Croatia usually follow the educational standards of the respective countries, ensuring high-quality education and international recognition of diplomas. Education is conducted in the language of the chosen school, with additional language courses, including Croatian, often offered to facilitate students' integration.

Recommendations for parents

Application process: Admission requirements may vary depending on the school. It is usually necessary to provide academic documents, confirmation of knowledge of the language of instruction, and undergo an interview.

Tuition fees: Education in international schools is generally paid, and costs can vary significantly between institutions. It is recommended to directly contact the selected school for current information on fees and potential scholarships. 

State institutions

Preschool education

Accessibility and funding: State kindergartens are funded by local authorities, making them more affordable for most families.

Education programs: Education is conducted in Croatian with a focus on the comprehensive development of the child.

Quality of education: State institutions adhere to national standards, ensuring consistent quality of education.

School education 

Compulsory and Free: Primary and secondary education in public schools is mandatory and free for all children, including foreigners with a residence permit.

Curriculum: A standard national curriculum taught in the Croatian language.

Resources and Infrastructure: The equipment of schools may vary depending on the region and the level of funding.

Private Institutions

Preschool Education

Cost: Private kindergartens are funded through parental fees and can be more expensive than state ones.

Educational Programs: Many private kindergartens offer education in foreign languages and use alternative methods such as Montessori or Waldorf.

Flexibility: Private institutions can offer more flexible schedules and additional services.

School Education

Tuition Fees: Tuition in private schools is charged, and the cost may vary significantly depending on the school and the programs offered.

Educational Programs: Many private schools, especially international ones, offer education in foreign languages and adhere to international standards, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) or the British education system.

Class Size and Attention to Students: Private schools are often characterized by smaller class sizes, allowing more attention to the individual needs of each child.

In Croatia, there are a number of well-known public and private schools that are popular due to the quality of education and programs offered. Below is a list of some of these schools.

Popular Public Schools

Osnovna škola Matija Gubec (Zagreb): One of the most well-known primary schools in Croatia; offers a standard national program; known for its emphasis on foreign languages, including English and German.

XV. Gimnazija (Zagreb): One of the most prestigious gymnasiums (secondary schools) in Croatia; specializes in mathematics, informatics, and natural sciences.

Osnovna škola Ivo Andrić (Zagreb): Attracts attention with a variety of extracurricular activities; emphasizes the creative development of students.

Gimnazija Lucijana Vranjanina (Zagreb): Known for strong training in humanities and natural sciences.

Popular Private Schools

American International School of Zagreb: One of the most prestigious international schools; instruction is conducted in English; offers International Baccalaureate (IB) programs and the American education system.

Bright Horizons International British School (Zagreb): Provides education based on the British curriculum; instruction in English with a focus on an individual approach.

Deutsche Internationale Schule Zagreb (Zagreb): German international school; offers programs in German and the German Abitur; known for its rigorous academic preparation.

École Française de Zagreb (Zagreb): French school in Zagreb; offers the French education system; instruction fully in French.

Kreativan razvoj International School (Zagreb): International private school with programs for children from primary to secondary level; special emphasis on individual approach and creativity development.

Private Schools with Alternative Methods

Montessori Kindergarten and School (Zagreb): Implements the Montessori method; strong emphasis on independence and child skill development.

Waldorf School Zagreb (Zagreb): School based on the principles of Waldorf pedagogy; strong connection to creativity and nature.

Recommendations for Parents

Regional Differences: In large cities like Zagreb, Split, Rijeka, the choice of schools is larger, including international and private ones.

Admission Process: For private schools, it is recommended to apply in advance as places may be limited.

Language of Instruction: If the child does not speak Croatian, it is worth considering international schools or private institutions with programs in English, German, or other languages. 

Inclusive Education

Croatia actively develops inclusive education by integrating children with special educational needs into public schools and kindergartens. This allows children with special needs to study alongside their peers, promoting their social integration and full development.

Special Educational Institutions

For children who require more specialized support, there are special schools and centers adapted to various types of disabilities such as hearing impairments; visual impairments; speech disorders; intellectual disabilities. These institutions aim to create comfortable conditions for the education and development of children with various disabilities. Below are examples of such institutions.

Schools for children with hearing impairments: The "Slavko Rudjak" Education and Rehabilitation Center (Zagreb) — a school and rehabilitation center for children with hearing impairments.

Schools for children with visual impairments: The "Vinko Bek" Center (Zagreb) — a school specializing in working with children with partial or complete vision loss.

Schools for children with intellectual disabilities: The "Vid Ožegović" Education Center (Križevci) — an educational institution for children with intellectual disabilities.

Schools for children with autism spectrum disorders: The "Mali dom - Zagreb" Center — provides specialized programs.

Centers for children with multiple disabilities: The "Stanko Nikolić" Rehabilitation Center (Split) — a school and rehabilitation center for children with multiple disabilities.

Schools with integration: The "Vladimir Nazor" Center (Zagreb) — an educational institution offering both inclusive and specialized education.

 

Support in General Education Schools

In general education schools, the following types of support are provided for children with special educational needs:

Individual education plans: Developed taking into account the specific needs of each child, determining educational goals and necessary adaptations.

Special educators and assistants: Work jointly with teachers to provide additional assistance and support to children with special educational needs in the learning process.

Teacher training: Educators undergo special training to work with children with various needs, which improves the quality of inclusive education.

Role of Parents and Community

Parents are actively involved in the process of developing and implementing educational programs for their children, collaborating with educators and specialists. Community organizations and communities also play an important role in supporting and promoting inclusive education in the country. 

Integration Programs

Croatian language integration courses: The Ministry of Science and Education of Croatia has developed programs for learning the Croatian language, history, and culture for foreign children to facilitate their successful integration into Croatian society.

Individual education plans: For children who do not speak the Croatian language, schools develop individual education plans adapted to their linguistic and educational needs.

Language Courses

Croatian language courses for foreigners: Many educational institutions and language schools offer Croatian language courses for children and adults.

Specialized programs for children: Some schools and organizations develop educational materials and conduct classes specifically designed for young foreign children to help them master the basics of the Croatian language and culture.

Role of Community Organizations

Community organizations also play an important role in supporting foreign children by providing free Croatian language and cultural integration courses. For example, in Zagreb, such courses are organized for children and adults, aiding their successful adaptation to the new environment.

Recommendations for Parents

Contacting local schools: It is recommended to get in touch with the administration of the chosen school to obtain information about the available support programs and language courses for foreign children.

Finding language courses: Many language schools and cultural centers offer Croatian language courses for children of various age groups. Information about such courses can be found on local educational portals or by contacting municipal education authorities. 

Afterschool Groups

In Croatian primary schools, afterschool groups operate, providing students with the opportunity to stay at school after regular lessons. During this time, children complete homework, participate in creative and sports activities, and receive additional educational support. This arrangement helps parents who work full day, ensuring supervision and development of the child in a safe environment.

Clubs and Activities 

Schools and local communities offer a variety of clubs and activities of interest, including:

Sports sections: Football, basketball, tennis, swimming, and other sports.

Creative clubs: Drawing, music, theater, dance.

Science clubs: Robotics, programming, ecological projects.

Participation in such clubs contributes to the development of skills, broadens the horizon, and promotes social integration of children.

Summer Camps 

During the summer period, children's camps are popular, offering educational and entertainment programs:

International Camp "Euroclub": Located in Dalmatia, offers programs in English for children aged 7-17, combining education and leisure.

Camp "Camp California": Located on the Adriatic coast, offers various activities and education for children from different countries.

Summer Camp "TLT" in Zagreb: Offers programs in English, including cooking workshops, dancing, and learning Spanish.

Recommendations for Parents:

Information: Contact the school or local cultural centers for information on available extracurricular activities.

Registration: Early booking of places in popular camps and clubs ensures the child's participation in desired programs.

In schools and universities in Croatia, a five-point grading system is used.

"5" — Excellent: This is the highest grade, indicating almost complete and accurate knowledge of the material. It is awarded for outstanding results that require no improvements.

"4" — Very good: Given for a high level of preparation with minor mistakes. The student demonstrates a deep understanding of the material, although there are small areas for improvement.

"3" — Good: Means that the student has a sufficient level of knowledge to continue studying successfully, but there are noticeable gaps or shortcomings.

"2" — Satisfactory: This is the lowest positive result. The student has met the basic requirements, but their knowledge of the material is on the borderline of a satisfactory level.

"1" — Unsatisfactory: Is a negative mark, meaning that the student did not meet the tasks and did not reach the minimum standards. Retaking or additional training is required.

In schools, grades are usually given for each subject by term, semester, and academic year, as well as for tests and exams. In universities, grades apply to interim and final exams, coursework, and thesis projects. The system allows retaking exams or reviewing results to improve grades. 

Admission to universities in Croatia for foreign students requires completing a series of standard procedures and providing certain documents. The main requirements include:

Recognition of previous education

For undergraduate studies: Foreign applicants must undergo the recognition (nostrification) procedure of their secondary education certificate. In Croatia, this is handled by relevant agencies, such as the Agency for Education and Training for graduates of general education schools and the Agency for Vocational Education and Adult Education for graduates of vocational schools.

For graduate and doctoral studies: Recognition of higher education diplomas is carried out directly by the selected university or faculty.

Language requirements

Croatian language: For programs in Croatian language, confirmation of language proficiency level B2 or higher may be required. Some universities conduct their own tests or accept certificates confirming knowledge of the language.

English language: For programs in English, a certificate of IELTS with a minimum score of 6.0 or an equivalent result of another recognized test is usually required.

Entrance Exams and Additional Requirements

Entrance Exams: Some universities conduct their own entrance exams in core subjects, especially for programs in the Croatian language. International students may be exempted from taking the state exam, but must confirm their academic preparation through alternative tests or interviews.

Additional Documents: Depending on the chosen program, a motivational letter, recommendations, a portfolio (for creative specialties), or proof of work experience may be required.

Application Process

Online Platform: Admission to programs in the Croatian language is usually carried out through the central online system www.postani-student.hr, where applicants register and select up to 10 programs for application.

Direct Application: For programs in English or in private universities, international students apply directly through the websites of the respective educational institutions.

Visa and Financial Aspects

Visa and Residence Permit: After receiving confirmation of enrollment, students from non-EU countries must obtain a long-term visa type D and, upon arrival in Croatia, apply for a temporary residence permit based on studies.

Tuition Fees: Tuition costs vary depending on the university and program. For international students, tuition may range from 1,500 to 4,000 euros per year.

Recommendations

Contact the Chosen University: Requirements and procedures may vary between educational institutions, so it is recommended to contact university admissions offices directly for current information.

Croatia offers a wide selection of universities that provide quality education and attract students from different countries. Among the leading universities, the following stand out:

University of Zagreb (Zagreb): Founded in 1669 — the oldest and largest university in Croatia. Specializations: A wide range of programs — from humanities and social sciences to engineering, medicine, and arts. Popular faculties: Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Science, Faculty of Law. Bachelor's and master's programs are offered in English, especially in the fields of business, engineering, and medicine.

University of Split (Split): Founded in 1974. Specializations: Medicine, marine biology, engineering, tourism, and hospitality. Popular faculties: Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Maritime Studies, Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management.

University of Rijeka (Rijeka): Founded in 1973. Specializations: Economics, engineering, medicine, computer science. Popular faculties: Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Engineering, Faculty of Informatics.

University of Osijek (Osijek): Founded in 1975. Specializations: Agronomy, biotechnology, art, technology. Popular faculties: Faculty of Agriculture, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing.

University of Dubrovnik (Dubrovnik): Founded in 2003. Specializations: Marine biology, communications, tourism, and information technology. Popular faculties: Faculty of Maritime Studies, Faculty of Economics and Business.

University of Zadar (Zadar): Founded in 1396 (re-established in 2002). Specializations: Humanities, archaeology, tourism, marine studies. One of the oldest universities in Europe, known for its programs in history, cultural studies, and marine studies.

University North (Varaždin): Founded in 2014. Specializations: Informatics, multimedia, engineering. A modern university with a focus on technical sciences and digital technologies.

Recommendations for International Students

The University of Zagreb is the most popular among international students due to a wide range of programs in English.

The universities of Split and Rijeka attract students interested in marine and environmental sciences.

The University of Dubrovnik is ideal for those wanting to study in the field of tourism and hospitality management.

To enroll in Croatian universities, international applicants need to undergo the recognition (nostrification) of their educational documents to confirm their compliance with Croatian educational standards.

Procedure for Recognition

Recognition of a High School Diploma:

Agency for Education and Upbringing: Foreign diplomas are subject to recognition through this agency.

Recognition of Higher Education Diplomas:

Universities and Faculties: Recognition of diplomas for admission to master's or doctoral programs is carried out directly by the chosen university or faculty.

Required Documents:

Originals or notarized copies of educational documents: Diplomas, certificates, and their attachments.

Official translation into Croatian: Documents must be translated by a certified translator.

Completed application for qualification recognition: Forms are available on the websites of relevant agencies or universities.

Copy of an identity card or passport.

Receipt of payment for the administrative fee for the recognition procedure.

Additional Recommendations

Timeframes: The recognition process may take several weeks or months; it is recommended to start the procedure in advance.

Consultations: If you have any questions, contact the chosen university or relevant agency for detailed information.

Legalization of documents: In some cases, an apostille or consular legalization of documents may be required.

Language Courses

Learning foreign languages: Numerous language schools and centers offer courses in English, German, Italian, and other languages.

Learning Croatian: Courses in the Croatian language are available for foreigners, organized by universities and private schools, which facilitate integration and adaptation in the country.

Professional Courses

Technical and vocational specialties: Vocational schools and centers offer training programs in fields such as IT technology, engineering, construction, and others.

Professional development courses: Programs aimed at updating and expanding professional knowledge and skills are available for specialists in various fields.

Educational Institutions

Universities and polytechnic institutes: Offer higher education programs as well as courses for adults wishing to receive further education or change their profession.

Private educational centers: Specialize in providing specialized courses and training in various fields.

Learning Formats

Full-time education: Traditional classroom lessons with a teacher.

Online courses: Distance programs allowing learning from anywhere in the world.

Blended learning: A combination of face-to-face and online classes for a more flexible approach to education.

Adult education in Croatia offers wide opportunities for personal and professional growth, meeting modern labor market demands and the interests of learners.