Studying in Slovenia

Enrollment without entrance exams

Colleges/universities usually have no entrance exams; instruction may be in Slovenian or English (many programs are in English). The first year is often an adaptation year - you can improve your language skills.

Documents required for enrollment and the residence permit

• A certificate or diploma of previous education with an apostille + translation into Slovenian.
• A transcript of grades (for 3 years of school or the supplement to the diploma) - depends on the requirements of the specific educational institution, with a translation.
• A document confirming enrollment in a Slovenian educational institution (confirmation that you have been admitted).
• Financial guarantees: a bank statement showing funds available for living expenses - about €6,000 per year (for 2026, the amount is updated periodically). That is ~€500 per month for living - a requirement of the migration law.
• A certificate of no criminal record (apostille + translation, no older than 3 months).
• A 3.5×4.5 photo and medical insurance (as for the other categories).

The enrollment and residence permit process

I advise on choosing an educational institution (field of study, city - Ljubljana, Maribor or others) and submit your documents to the admissions committee on your behalf. After receiving the letter of admission, I prepare and submit the documents for the student residence permit. Usually a study residence permit is issued for 1 year and renewed annually upon confirmation that you are continuing your studies.

Features of the student residence permit

The holder of such a permit is allowed to work through the student service (usually up to 20 hours per week), which helps cover expenses. It should also be emphasized: time under a student residence permit counts as half toward permanent residence (that is, 5 years of study = 2.5 years credited toward permanent residence).

Option for school-age children

If parents want to give their child a secondary education in Slovenia, a study residence permit for the child is possible. The child is enrolled in a school, and on this basis the parent/guardian applies for a residence permit for the child. The requirements are similar: a letter of admission to the school, financial guarantees for the child (~€6,000/year in the parents’ account), housing, insurance. Knowledge of the language is not required for school at a young age - children adapt quickly, and schools run integration classes.