Universities in Croatia

Top 30 Universities and Colleges in Croatia
 

Top 20 Universities and Colleges in Zagreb
 

Average Tuition Fees of Universities in Croatia
 

Public Universities:

• Bachelor’s Programs:
  For EU students, the tuition typically ranges from 600 to 2,000 euros per year. Non-EU students may pay slightly higher fees, up to 3,000 euros. Some fields like medicine, pharmacy, or engineering may be more expensive, particularly in English-taught programs.

• Master’s Programs:
  Average fees range from 800 to 2,500 euros per year. Specialized or technical programs, especially those offered in English, may reach up to 3,500 euros annually for non-EU students.

• PhD Programs:
  PhD studies at public universities often cost between 1,000 and 3,000 euros per year. However, students pursuing research through funded projects or scholarships may pay reduced fees or be fully exempt.

Private Universities and Colleges:

• Bachelor’s Programs:
  Tuition is generally higher, averaging between 2,500 and 5,000 euros per year. Business, IT, and communication programs at private colleges like Algebra University, VERN', or Libertas International University are typically at the upper end.

• Master’s Programs:
  Fees for master's degrees range from 3,000 to 6,000 euros per year. MBA and international business programs often command premium prices, particularly if they involve international partners or dual degrees.

• PhD Programs:
  These are less common at private institutions, but where available, they usually cost between 3,000 and 5,000 euros annually.

Acceptance Rate of Indian and International Students of Universities in Croatia
 

General Trends for International Students (Including Indians)

Public Universities (e.g., University of Zagreb, Split, Rijeka, Osijek):

• Acceptance Rate: ~65% to 85%

• These universities are relatively open to qualified international applicants.

• Admission is merit-based, but less competitive than Western Europe or North America.

• Programs taught in English, such as Medicine, Engineering, and Economics, attract more Indian and international students.

Private Universities (e.g., Algebra, VERN', Libertas, ZŠEM):

• Acceptance Rate: ~70% to 90%

• Private institutions are generally more flexible and inclusive.

• They often actively recruit international students and offer English-taught programs.

• Admission is usually based on transcripts, motivation letters, and interviews rather than highly competitive entrance exams.

Medical Schools (e.g., University of Zagreb School of Medicine):

• Acceptance Rate: ~50% to 70%

• These are the most competitive programs due to high demand from international students, including many from India.

• English-taught MD programs may require entrance exams or interviews and a strong academic background.

Factors Affecting Acceptance Rates:

• Language of Instruction: Programs in English have more international applicants, slightly lowering acceptance rates compared to Croatian-taught programs.

• Program Type: Technical and medical programs are more selective; humanities and business are more accessible.

• Documentation: A complete and well-prepared application significantly boosts chances.

• Visa Requirements: Admission alone doesn't guarantee entry—visa approval is also needed, especially for Indian students.

Estimated Acceptance Rates by Institution Type:

• University of Zagreb: ~65–75% (for international; varies by faculty)

• University of Split/Rijeka/Osijek/Zadar: ~70–85%

• Algebra University College: ~50–60%

• Libertas International University: ~60–70%

• Zagreb School of Economics and Management (ZŠEM): ~50–65%

• Medical Faculties (English MD programs): ~50–60% (highly competitive)

Application and Admission Process of Universities in Croatia
 

1. Choose Your Program and University

• Identify whether the program is taught in English or Croatian.

• Most international students opt for programs in Medicine, Engineering, Business, or Tourism taught in English.

• Top universities: University of Zagreb, University of Split, Algebra University College, Libertas International University, etc.

2. Check Entry Requirements

Each program has its own academic and language requirements. Generally, you'll need:

For Bachelor’s:

• High school leaving certificate (12th grade)

• Equivalence certificate issued by Croatian authorities (NARIC)

• English proficiency: IELTS (5.5–6.5), TOEFL, or proof of English-medium schooling

For Master’s:

• Recognized bachelor's degree

• Transcript of records

• Language certificate (IELTS/TOEFL if program is in English)

For PhD:

• Master’s degree

• Research proposal

• Academic references

3. Recognition of Prior Education (NARIC Certificate)

• Required for all students with foreign qualifications

• Apply through the Croatian ENIC/NARIC Office

• Submit copies of academic transcripts, diplomas, and translations into Croatian or English

• Processing time: 4–8 weeks

4. Submit Application

For Public Universities:

• Apply via Central Applications Office: (Croatian only) or directly through university faculties for English-taught programs

• Non-EU students often apply directly to the university

For Private Universities/Colleges:

• Apply directly via the institution’s website

• No centralized system

5. Required Documents (Typical):

• Completed application form

• Passport copy

• Proof of previous education (diplomas + transcripts)

• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)

• Motivation letter or Statement of Purpose

• Letters of Recommendation (Master’s/PhD)

• CV or Resume (Master’s/PhD)

• NARIC recognition certificate or application receipt

6. Application Deadlines

• Public Universities (Winter Semester): April to July

• Private Institutions: Rolling admissions or until seats are filled

• Some medical programs have early deadlines (March–April)

7. Entrance Exams / Interviews (If Required)

• Some programs, especially Medicine, Engineering, and Art, may require entrance exams or interviews

• Business or social sciences typically do not require exams

8. Receive Admission Letter

• If accepted, you will receive a Letter of Admission or Offer, which is required for visa application

• May need to pay a deposit to confirm your place

9. Apply for Student Visa (D Visa)

• Apply through the Croatian Embassy or Consulate in your home country

• Submit: passport, admission letter, proof of accommodation, financial proof, police clearance, travel insurance

• Processing time: 30–60 days

10. Travel and Residence Permit in Croatia

• Upon arrival, register your residence at the local police station

• Receive biometric residence permit for the duration of your study

Top 20 Public Universities in Croatia
 

1. University of Zagreb (Sveučilište u Zagrebu)
   Founded: 1669
   City: Zagreb
   Oldest and largest university in Croatia with extensive faculties in humanities, sciences, engineering, and medicine.

2. University of Split (Sveučilište u Splitu)
   Founded: 1974
   City: Split
   Known for engineering, medicine, maritime studies, and natural sciences.

3. University of Rijeka (Sveučilište u Rijeci)
   Founded: 1973
   City: Rijeka
   Strong in law, biotechnology, engineering, and social sciences.

4. Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek (Sveučilište u Osijeku)
   Founded: 1975
   City: Osijek
   Offers a wide range of disciplines with a strong focus on agriculture and economics.

5. University of Zadar (Sveučilište u Zadru)
   Re-established: 2003 (originally founded in 1396)
   City: Zadar
   Specialized in humanities, social sciences, and maritime studies.

6. University of Dubrovnik (Sveučilište u Dubrovniku)
   Founded: 2003
   City: Dubrovnik
   Focused on tourism, media, maritime studies, and IT.

7. University North (Sveučilište Sjever)
   Founded: 2015
   Cities: Koprivnica and Varaždin
   Application-oriented programs in media, tech, and social sciences.

8. University of Pula – Juraj Dobrila University (Sveučilište Jurja Dobrile u Puli)
   Founded: 2006
   City: Pula
   Strong in economics, humanities, and tourism.

9. Polytechnic of Zagreb (Tehničko veleučilište u Zagrebu)
   Founded: 1996
   City: Zagreb
   Public university of applied sciences specializing in engineering and IT.

10. Polytechnic of Rijeka (Veleučilište u Rijeci)
    Founded: 1998
    City: Rijeka
    Offers practical programs in logistics, IT, and engineering.

11. Polytechnic of Međimurje in Čakovec (Međimursko veleučilište u Čakovcu)
    Founded: 2002
    City: Čakovec
    Popular for sustainable tourism, eco-agriculture, and IT.

12. Polytechnic of Požega (Veleučilište u Požegi)
    Founded: 1998
    City: Požega
    Specialized in food technology, viticulture, and business.

13. Polytechnic of Šibenik (Veleučilište u Šibeniku)
    Founded: 1998
    City: Šibenik
    Known for maritime management and IT studies.

14. Polytechnic of Slavonski Brod (Veleučilište u Slavonskom Brodu)
    Founded: 1999
    City: Slavonski Brod
    Engineering and technology-focused institution.

15. Polytechnic in Karlovac (Veleučilište u Karlovcu)
    Founded: 1997
    City: Karlovac
    Offers applied sciences in engineering, tourism, and management.

16. Polytechnic of Velika Gorica (Veleučilište Velika Gorica)
    Founded: 2003
    City: Velika Gorica
    Specialized in aeronautics, crisis management, and public administration.

17. Polytechnic in Virovitica (Veleučilište u Virovitici)
    Founded: 2005
    City: Virovitica
    Focused on business, tourism, and informatics.

18. Polytechnic of Bjelovar (Veleučilište u Bjelovaru)
    Founded: 2006
    City: Bjelovar
    Offers nursing, IT, and public administration programs.

19. University Centre for Croatian Studies (Hrvatski studiji Sveučilišta u Zagrebu)
    Founded: 1992 (part of University of Zagreb)
    City: Zagreb
    Focus on Croatian language, philosophy, history, and sociology.

20. Faculty of Theology in Đakovo (Katolički bogoslovni fakultet u Đakovu)
    Founded: 1806 (part of University of Osijek)
    City: Đakovo
    Public theological institution under a public university.

Top 20 Private Universities in Croatia
 

1. Algebra University College
   Founded: 2008
   City: Zagreb
   Top-ranked private tech university in Croatia offering programs in Software Engineering, AI, Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Digital Marketing.

2. VERN' University
   Founded: 2000
   City: Zagreb
   Well-known for business, economics, tourism, and media studies. Offers many English-taught programs.

3. Libertas International University
   Founded: 2004
   Cities: Zagreb, Dubrovnik
   Specializes in international relations, business, diplomacy, and hospitality. Offers bachelor’s to doctoral programs.

4. Zagreb School of Economics and Management (ZŠEM)
   Founded: 2002
   City: Zagreb
   Offers highly regarded business and economics programs, including international MBAs and dual degrees.

5. Edward Bernays University College
   Founded: 2013
   City: Zagreb
   Focuses on communication, PR, journalism, and media management. Strong emphasis on practical skills.

6. RRiF College of Financial Management
   Founded: 2002
   City: Zagreb
   Offers finance, accounting, business law, and management programs with a practical approach.

7. Baltazar University (Zaprešić)
   Founded: 2002
   City: Zaprešić (near Zagreb)
   Business-oriented college with programs in economics, management, communication, and law.

8. University College Aspira
   Founded: 2008
   Cities: Split, Zagreb
   Popular in tourism, gastronomy, sport management, and IT. Known for innovation and industry ties.

9. Effectus University College for Law and Finance
   Founded: 2008
   City: Zagreb
   Offers specialized programs in finance, law, and business administration.

10. University College of International Relations and Diplomacy Dag Hammarskjöld
    Founded: 2007
    City: Zagreb
    Focused on international relations, diplomacy, and political science.

11. Business School PAR
    Founded: 2007
    City: Rijeka
    Private business school offering programs in management, entrepreneurship, and economics.

12. International Graduate Business School (IGBS)
    Founded: 2003
    City: Zagreb
    Offers MBA and graduate business programs in collaboration with international partners.

13. Zagreb Business School (Zagrebačka poslovna škola)
    Founded: Early 2000s
    City: Zagreb
    Provides business, marketing, and management programs.

14. University College Nikola Šubić Zrinski
    Founded: 2006
    City: Zagreb
    Offers programs in economics, entrepreneurship, and finance.

15. University College of Banking and Finance
    City: Zagreb
    Focused on professional training in financial services, banking, and risk management.

16. University College for Applied Computer Engineering (University College for Computer Science) - VŠPU
    City: Zagreb
    Offers applied programs in IT, networks, and software development.

17. University College of Inspection and Human Resource Management
    City: Split
    Specialized in inspection services, HR, law, and public sector training.

18. Kairos University College
    City: Zagreb
    Private Christian institution offering theology, leadership, and biblical studies.

19. University College for Safety (Visoka škola za sigurnost)
    Founded: 2004
    City: Zagreb
    Focuses on crisis management, civil protection, and occupational safety.

20. Logos College
    City: Zagreb
    Private theological institution with programs in religious education and philosophy.

Top 20 Universities in Croatia for Bachelor Course Program
 

1. University of Zagreb
   City: Zagreb | Type: Public
   Founded: 1669
   Key Programs: Medicine, Law, Engineering, Computer Science, Psychology
   Notes: Croatia's oldest and most prestigious university, with wide program diversity.

2. University of Split
   City: Split | Type: Public
   Founded: 1974
   Key Programs: Marine Engineering, Medicine, Architecture, Education, Philosophy
   Notes: Strong in science, engineering, and health-related fields.

3. University of Rijeka
   City: Rijeka | Type: Public
   Founded: 1973
   Key Programs: Nursing, Law, Informatics, Engineering, Psychology
   Notes: Offers English-taught bachelor's programs in selected fields.

4. Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek
   City: Osijek | Type: Public
   Founded: 1975
   Key Programs: Law, Education, Agriculture, Business, Computer Engineering
   Notes: Known for its modern facilities and accessible programs.

5. University of Zadar
   City: Zadar | Type: Public
   Re-established: 2003 (origin in 1396)
   Key Programs: Linguistics, History, Philosophy, Psychology, Tourism
   Notes: Excellent for humanities and cultural studies.

6. Algebra University College
   City: Zagreb | Type: Private
   Founded: 2008
   Key Programs: Software Engineering, Data Science, Game Development, AI, Cybersecurity
   Notes: Top private institution for IT and digital fields.

7. Libertas International University
   Cities: Zagreb, Dubrovnik | Type: Private
   Founded: 2004
   Key Programs: International Relations, Economics, Business, Tourism, Media
   Notes: Offers many bachelor’s programs in English.

8. VERN’ University
   City: Zagreb | Type: Private
   Founded: 2000
   Key Programs: Business, Communications, Management, Marketing, Economics
   Notes: Popular with international and business-oriented students.

9. University of Dubrovnik
   City: Dubrovnik | Type: Public
   Founded: 2003
   Key Programs: Multimedia, Maritime Studies, Tourism, IT, Communication
   Notes: Strong in applied sciences and tourism.

10. Zagreb School of Economics and Management (ZŠEM)
    City: Zagreb | Type: Private
    Founded: 2002
    Key Programs: Economics, Management, Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics
    Notes: Offers high-quality business programs in English.

11. Catholic University of Croatia
    City: Zagreb | Type: Private
    Founded: 2006
    Key Programs: Sociology, Psychology, Communication, History, Education
    Notes: Values-based education with modern curricula.

12. University North
    Cities: Koprivnica, Varaždin | Type: Public
    Founded: 2015
    Key Programs: Journalism, Media, Engineering, Business, IT
    Notes: Fast-growing university with applied focus.

13. University College Aspira
    Cities: Split, Zagreb | Type: Private
    Founded: 2008
    Key Programs: Sports Management, Gastronomy, Tourism, IT, Marketing
    Notes: Known for practical, career-focused bachelor’s programs.

14. Baltazar University (Zaprešić)
    City: Zaprešić | Type: Private
    Founded: 2002
    Key Programs: Law, Business, Marketing, Communication, Management
    Notes: Business-focused education near Zagreb.

15. RRiF College of Financial Management
    City: Zagreb | Type: Private
    Founded: 2002
    Key Programs: Accounting, Taxation, Business Law, Finance, Audit
    Notes: Specialized in finance and law education.

16. Polytechnic of Zagreb
    City: Zagreb | Type: Public
    Founded: 1996
    Key Programs: Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, IT, Media, Administration
    Notes: Strong technical bachelor programs.

17. Polytechnic of Rijeka
    City: Rijeka | Type: Public
    Founded: 1998
    Key Programs: IT, Transport Logistics, Business, Mechatronics, Management
    Notes: Applied sciences institution with tech emphasis.

18. Effectus University College
    City: Zagreb | Type: Private
    Founded: 2008
    Key Programs: Law, Finance, Business, Management, Administration
    Notes: Compact, practice-oriented business college.

19. University of Pula – Juraj Dobrila University
    City: Pula | Type: Public
    Founded: 2006
    Key Programs: Tourism, Economics, Italian Language, Cultural Heritage, Education
    Notes: Ideal for cultural and Adriatic studies.

20. Polytechnic of Šibenik
    City: Šibenik | Type: Public
    Founded: 1998
    Key Programs: Maritime Management, IT, Civil Engineering, Business
    Notes: Excellent for students interested in maritime and coastal business fields.

Top 20 Universities in Croatia for Master Course Program
 

1. University of Zagreb
   City: Zagreb | Type: Public | Founded: 1669
   Top Master's Programs: Computer Science, Architecture, Law, Biotechnology, Psychology
   Notes: Croatia’s largest and most prestigious university with extensive graduate offerings.

2. University of Split
   City: Split | Type: Public | Founded: 1974
   Top Master's Programs: Engineering, Maritime Studies, Medicine, Physics, Civil Engineering
   Notes: Strong emphasis on STEM and applied sciences.

3. University of Rijeka
   City: Rijeka | Type: Public | Founded: 1973
   Top Master's Programs: Biotechnology, Informatics, Law, Mathematics, Social Work
   Notes: Offers English-taught master’s programs, especially in science and law.

4. Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek
   City: Osijek | Type: Public | Founded: 1975
   Top Master's Programs: Agriculture, Education, IT, Business, Engineering
   Notes: Ideal for students seeking affordable postgraduate education in Eastern Croatia.

5. University of Zadar
   City: Zadar | Type: Public | Founded: 2003 (orig. 1396)
   Top Master's Programs: Cultural Studies, History, Philosophy, Education, Anthropology
   Notes: Excellent for humanities and interdisciplinary research.

6. Zagreb School of Economics and Management (ZŠEM)
   City: Zagreb | Type: Private | Founded: 2002
   Top Master's Programs: MBA, Finance, Marketing, Management, Business Analytics
   Notes: Offers internationally recognized MBA and master’s programs in English.

7. Algebra University College
   City: Zagreb | Type: Private | Founded: 2008
   Top Master's Programs: AI, Data Science, Digital Marketing, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering
   Notes: Best for tech-focused master's education with strong industry links.

8. Libertas International University
   City: Zagreb, Dubrovnik | Type: Private | Founded: 2004
   Top Master's Programs: International Relations, Diplomacy, Economics, Management
   Notes: Strong international orientation and English-taught programs.

9. VERN' University
   City: Zagreb | Type: Private | Founded: 2000
   Top Master's Programs: Business, Marketing, Communication, Management
   Notes: Good for career-driven students interested in business and media.

10. University of Dubrovnik
    City: Dubrovnik | Type: Public | Founded: 2003
    Top Master's Programs: Maritime Management, Tourism, Communication
    Notes: Great for tourism and maritime-focused master's studies.

11. Catholic University of Croatia
    City: Zagreb | Type: Private | Founded: 2006
    Top Master's Programs: Sociology, History, Communications, Theology
    Notes: Combines ethical values with academic rigor.

12. University of Pula – Juraj Dobrila University
    City: Pula | Type: Public | Founded: 2006
    Top Master's Programs: Tourism, Economics, Italian Studies, Education
    Notes: Excellent for Adriatic studies and cultural programs.

13. University North (Sveučilište Sjever)
    City: Koprivnica, Varaždin | Type: Public | Founded: 2015
    Top Master's Programs: IT, Business, Engineering Management, Media Studies
    Notes: Fast-growing with practical, application-based curriculum.

14. RRiF College of Financial Management
    City: Zagreb | Type: Private | Founded: 2002
    Top Master's Programs: Finance Management, Business Law, Accounting
    Notes: Strong in finance, tax systems, and regulation.

15. Edward Bernays University College
    City: Zagreb | Type: Private | Founded: 2013
    Top Master's Programs: Communication Management, Strategic Marketing, PR
    Notes: Good for professionals aiming to specialize in media or communications.

16. University College Aspira
    Cities: Split, Zagreb | Type: Private | Founded: 2008
    Top Master's Programs: Sports Management, Tourism, Hospitality, IT
    Notes: Excellent for practice-oriented business and sports programs.

17. Faculty of Political Science – University of Zagreb
    City: Zagreb | Type: Public | Founded: 1962
    Top Master's Programs: International Relations, Political Science, Journalism
    Notes: A leading institution for social and political sciences.

18. Faculty of Economics and Business – University of Zagreb
    City: Zagreb | Type: Public | Founded: 1920
    Top Master's Programs: Economics, Management, Finance, International Trade
    Notes: One of the strongest economics faculties in the region.

19. Effectus University College for Law and Finance
    City: Zagreb | Type: Private | Founded: 2008
    Top Master's Programs: Corporate Law, Finance, Business Management
    Notes: Good for law and business-oriented graduate education.

20. Business School PAR
    City: Rijeka | Type: Private | Founded: 2007
    Top Master's Programs: Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Business Management
    Notes: Entrepreneurial and small-class environment.

Top 20 Universities in Croatia for PhD Course Program
 

1. University of Zagreb
   City: Zagreb | Type: Public | Founded: 1669
   Fields: Engineering, Medicine, Law, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, Economics
   Notes: The largest doctoral education provider in Croatia with over 30+ PhD programs.

2. University of Split
   City: Split | Type: Public | Founded: 1974
   Fields: Engineering, Natural Sciences, Medicine, Biotech, Law
   Notes: Strong research in marine studies, STEM, and biomedical sciences.

3. University of Rijeka
   City: Rijeka | Type: Public | Founded: 1973
   Fields: Biotechnology, Informatics, Law, Physics, Medicine
   Notes: Research-focused institution with active international collaborations.

4. Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek
   City: Osijek | Type: Public | Founded: 1975
   Fields: Agriculture, Economics, Education, Humanities, Law, Engineering
   Notes: Diverse PhD programs, particularly in Eastern Croatia.

5. University of Zadar
   City: Zadar | Type: Public | Founded: 2003 (orig. 1396)
   Fields: Linguistics, Philosophy, History, Anthropology, Sociology
   Notes: Strong in humanities and social sciences; growing research capacity.

6. University of Dubrovnik
   City: Dubrovnik | Type: Public | Founded: 2003
   Fields: Information Technology, Maritime Studies, Media
   Notes: Limited but specialized doctoral programs in applied sciences.

7. Faculty of Economics and Business – University of Zagreb
   City: Zagreb | Type: Public
   Fields: Economics, Finance, Business Management, Quantitative Economics
   Notes: One of Croatia’s leading business research faculties.

8. Faculty of Political Science – University of Zagreb
   City: Zagreb | Type: Public
   Fields: Political Science, International Relations, Media, Journalism
   Notes: Highly regarded for social sciences and international affairs research.

9. Catholic University of Croatia
   City: Zagreb | Type: Private
   Fields: Theology, Philosophy, History, Sociology
   Notes: Doctoral studies available in philosophy, theology, and related fields.

10. Zagreb School of Economics and Management (ZŠEM)
    City: Zagreb | Type: Private
    Fields: Business Economics, Management, Finance
    Notes: Offers structured PhD programs in business with international orientation.

11. Libertas International University
    Cities: Zagreb, Dubrovnik | Type: Private
    Fields: International Relations, Economics, Management
    Notes: English-friendly PhD programs in social sciences and global studies.

12. Algebra University College
    City: Zagreb | Type: Private
    Fields: Digital Transformation, Applied Computer Science, AI (via partnerships)
    Notes: Offers doctoral-level study in tech-related fields through collaborative programs.

13. University North (Sveučilište Sjever)
    Cities: Koprivnica, Varaždin | Type: Public
    Fields: Media Studies, Technical Sciences, Business
    Notes: Emerging doctoral institution with applied research focus.

14. University of Pula – Juraj Dobrila University
    City: Pula | Type: Public
    Fields: Economics, Education, Humanities
    Notes: Growing in interdisciplinary PhD offerings.

15. Faculty of Law – University of Zagreb
    City: Zagreb | Type: Public
    Fields: Law, Legal Theory, International Law, Commercial Law
    Notes: Top law school in Croatia with doctoral studies in various legal disciplines.

16. Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences – University of Zagreb
    City: Zagreb | Type: Public
    Fields: Linguistics, History, Psychology, Sociology, Philosophy
    Notes: Highly regarded for research in social sciences and the arts.

17. University College Aspira
    City: Split, Zagreb | Type: Private
    Fields: Tourism, Hospitality, Management (limited PhD via partnership)
    Notes: May offer doctoral-level study in cooperation with other institutions.

18. Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER) – University of Zagreb
    City: Zagreb | Type: Public
    Fields: Electrical Engineering, Robotics, AI, Computing
    Notes: Leading tech faculty with excellent PhD research facilities.

19. Faculty of Medicine – University of Zagreb
    City: Zagreb | Type: Public
    Fields: Biomedicine, Public Health, Medical Sciences
    Notes: Prestigious and research-intensive in medical fields.

20. Faculty of Philosophy – University of Rijeka
    City: Rijeka | Type: Public
    Fields: Philosophy, History, Croatian Studies, Sociology
    Notes: Offers respected doctoral studies in humanities and philosophy.

Best Universities for IT and Computer Science in Croatia
 

1. Algebra University College

• City: Zagreb

• Type: Private

• Specializations: Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Game Development

• Language: English and Croatian

• Why it's top:

  • Croatia’s leading private institution for digital technologies

  • Strong industry ties (Microsoft, Google, IBM)

  • Offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English

  • Excellent facilities and practical learning

2. Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER) – University of Zagreb

• City: Zagreb

• Type: Public

• Specializations: Computer Science, Embedded Systems, AI, Software Engineering, Robotics

• Language: Croatian (some programs in English at master’s/PhD level)

• Why it's top:

  • Most prestigious public tech faculty in Croatia

  • Highly active in research and EU tech projects

  • PhD programs and international cooperation in ICT

3. University of Rijeka – Department of Informatics

• City: Rijeka

• Type: Public

• Specializations: Informatics, Data Analytics, Software Systems

• Language: Croatian & limited English courses

• Why it's top:

  • Research-driven curriculum

  • Collaborative projects with international universities

  • Expanding English-taught offerings

4. University of Split – Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture (FESB)

• City: Split

• Type: Public

• Specializations: IT, Computer Engineering, Telecommunications, Software Systems

• Why it's top:

  • Excellent in engineering and applied computing

  • Growing reputation for research in AI and maritime IT systems

  • Master’s and PhD programs with international links

5. University North (Sveučilište Sjever)

• Cities: Varaždin, Koprivnica

• Type: Public

• Specializations: IT, Software Engineering, Multimedia Computing

• Language: Mostly Croatian, some courses in English

• Why it's top:

  • Practice-based programs with strong local IT company involvement

  • Focus on media tech, game dev, and applied IT

6. Polytechnic of Zagreb (Tehničko veleučilište u Zagrebu)

• City: Zagreb

• Type: Public

• Specializations: Computer Engineering, Network Systems, Software Development

• Why it's top:

  • Strong technical training at bachelor level

  • Applied sciences focus with career-ready education

7. University of Dubrovnik – Department of Electrical Engineering and Computing

• City: Dubrovnik

• Type: Public

• Specializations: IT Systems, Telecommunications, Computer Science

• Why it's top:

  • Offers modern, practical IT degrees

  • Links to maritime computing and tourism IT applications

8. VERN’ University

• City: Zagreb

• Type: Private

• Specializations: IT Management, Business Informatics

• Why it's top:

  • IT blended with business and entrepreneurship

  • Suited for those aiming for tech leadership roles

9. University College Aspira

• Cities: Split, Zagreb

• Type: Private

• Specializations: IT and Business IT

• Why it's top:

  • Offers flexible, job-oriented IT degrees

  • Strong in digital business and tourism tech

10. University of Osijek – Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Computer Science and Information Technology (FERIT)

• City: Osijek

• Type: Public

• Specializations: Software Engineering, IT Systems, Control Systems

• Why it's top:

  • One of the best faculties for CS in Eastern Croatia

  • Supports master’s and PhD studies in computing

Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Croatia for MBA (Business, Management and Economics)
 

Top 10 Universities in Croatia and Colleges for MS (Engineering, Science and Technology)
 

Top 10 Universities in Croatia and Colleges for Health Science, Medicine and Nursing
 

Top 10 Universities in Croatia and Colleges for Art and Humanities
 

Top 10 Universities in Croatia and Colleges for Media and Mass Communication 
 

Top 10 Universities in Croatia and Colleges for Hospitality, Tourism and Events
 

Top 10 Universities in Croatia and Colleges for Art and Design
 

Top 10 Universities in Croatia and Colleges for Building, Construction and Architecture
 

Top 10 Universities in Croatia and Colleges for Law and Legal Studies
 

Top 10 Universities in Croatia and Colleges for Computer Science, AI & Data Science
 

List of Free Tuition Fees Universities and Colleges in Croatia
 

Public Universities and Colleges with Free or Low Tuition Options in Croatia

1. University of Zagreb
Offers tuition-free study in Croatian for full-time EU students; limited scholarships for non-EU students.

2. University of Split
Public funding covers tuition for most domestic and EU students in Croatian-taught programs.

3. University of Rijeka
Provides state-funded positions for Croatian and EU nationals; scholarships available for others.

4. University of Osijek (Josip Juraj Strossmayer University)
Free tuition for Croatian and EU students in many undergraduate programs.

5. University of Zadar
Offers tuition-free study for EU students in Croatian; humanities and social sciences especially accessible.

6. University of Dubrovnik
State-funded programs available for Croatian and EU students; some technical and maritime programs included.

7. University North
Free study in Croatian for EU students; applied sciences with strong employment focus.

8. University of Pula (Juraj Dobrila University)
Public university offering tuition-free study to Croatian and EU nationals.

9. Zagreb University of Applied Sciences (TVZ)
Offers free undergraduate technical programs in Croatian to domestic and EU students.

10. University of Rijeka – Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management (Opatija)
Tuition-free options for EU students in hospitality and tourism studies.

11. Polytechnic of Međimurje in Čakovec
Public polytechnic with no tuition fees for Croatian/EU students in bachelor’s programs.

12. Polytechnic of Šibenik
Provides free tuition for full-time EU students in maritime and business programs.

13. Polytechnic of Karlovac
Free study opportunities in Croatian for technical and business programs for EU nationals.

14. Polytechnic of Slavonski Brod
Offers no tuition fees for EU students in civil and mechanical engineering programs.

15. University of Zadar – Department of Teachers Education in Gospić
State-funded study places for teacher training and early education.