Studying in Croatia — what you need to know
Croatian medical universities in Rijeka and Split offer English-taught programmes with small class sizes and personal attention. Both are on the Adriatic coast — Rijeka is a working port city and university town, Split is a Mediterranean postcard with a UNESCO-listed old town. Rotations take place in regional teaching hospitals. Croatia has been an EU member since 2013, so all degrees carry automatic EU recognition.
Tuition roughly €12,000–14,000/yr; living costs €500–700/month.
Partner universities in Croatia
Frequently asked questions
How much does medical school in Croatia cost?
Tuition €12,000–14,000/yr; living costs €500–700/month. Six-year total: approximately €100,000–130,000.
Is a Croatian medical degree recognised in the UK?
Yes — Croatia joined the EU in 2013, so degrees carry automatic EU recognition and GMC eligibility via UKMLA/PLAB.
Which Croatian universities teach medicine in English?
Rijeka and Split both offer full English-taught medical programmes.
Do I need to speak Croatian?
No — the programme is in English. Basic Croatian is taught for clinical rotations.
Why choose Croatia over Hungary or the Czech Republic?
Mediterranean location, smaller programmes with more personal attention, and living costs comparable to Central Europe. Choose Croatia if coastal life matters to you.
What is the entrance exam?
Biology and Chemistry, plus an interview at some faculties. Held in June/July.
Is Split or Rijeka better for medical students?
Split has stronger tourism and coastal beauty; Rijeka is a more focused university town with lower cost of living. Both confer identical EU-recognised degrees.
Can I do rotations in the EU during my studies?
Yes — Erasmus+ mobility lets you spend semesters at partner universities across the EU.
How safe is Croatia for international students?
Very safe — Croatia is a peaceful EU country with well-developed infrastructure and English widely spoken in university cities.