Study Abroad in Serbia
Explore a new culture, learn a new language & broaden your horizons by enrolling in a program to study in Serbia with YFU. Discover our programs today.
Study in Serbia
This landlocked country straddles the line between East and West not only geographically, but also culturally, politically, and religiously. Spend a year here and learn firsthand why Serbians are known for their hospitality, kindness, openness, and warmth!
+ More About Serbia
Dobrodošli! Welcome! About the size of South Carolina, Serbia is known for its hospitality, openness, kindness, and warmth, all of which you're sure to experience from your host family if you choose Serbia as your YFU destination!
Serbia is a country with a captivating and long history. From archeological sites dating back to prehistoric times to ruins of Roman towns and 12th century churches, you can visit places and artifacts that range throughout all of human history! During your stay, you may have the chance to experience "Orthodox Christmas," which is celebrated on January 7th instead of December 25th. The food in Serbia is as diverse as the country itself. Meats and bread are very common ingredients in Serbian meals, although each region has their specialties. Whether you're eating cevapcici, Serbia's national food, or many of their delicious smoked meats, you'll get a taste of something new and delicious!
With a 98% literacy rate, Serbia is committed to providing a quality education. While in Serbia, you will certainly be challenged academically - so be prepared to study! There are also many fun activities for you to enjoy in your spare time. Serbians love the outdoors, so you may likely go mountain biking, sailing, or horseback riding with your host family! Soccer is very popular, so you may also find yourself playing a few games after school with your new friends. If you prefer the indoors, you might want to try "kolo", a traditional folk dance in Serbia.
+ Scholarships Available
YFU USA is proud to send over 200 American students on cultural exchange with a full or partial scholarship each year. Financial assistance may be in the form of a merit-based scholarship, needs-based financial aid, or Legacy Grant for students who are previously involved in the YFU Community. Scholarships may vary in deadline, requirements, and eligibility. To learn more, please visit our Scholarships Page to find details on the following scholarships eligible for Serbia:
YFU Legacy Grant
YFU Financial Aid Fund
Karla Topolka Scholarship Fund
Passport to Equity
+ Application Deadline
Applications for tuition based programs must be submitted by April 15 for fall departures. Applications submitted after this date will be considered on a case by case basis depending upon availability.
+ Additional Information
Visa Information
Information about visas will be provided upon enrollment. To learn more about the process, you can refer to the Serbian Consulate.
Additional Costs
Students staying longer than 90 days must obtain a residence permit in Serbia. The residence permit costs approximately €150. Program tuition does not include personal spending money.
Application Deadlines
The application deadline for all winter and spring departure programs (January-March) is October 1. The deadline to apply for scholarships is December 1. The deadline for all summer or fall departure programs (June-September) is March 15. Programs can fill up before the deadline, so we encourage early submission!
Choose Your Program
+ Trimester Program
School
As an exchange student you can expect to be placed in a Gymnasium - a public high school. You will most likely be placed in the 10th, 11th, or 12th grade, depending on your age. Schools are divided into two shifts, some weeks students will go to school in the morning, other weeks they will go in the afternoon. Every class usually consists of about 30 students, and has a head teacher that is responsible for you. These classes are formed at the beginning of Gymnasium and they study all subjects together until graduation. This is nice for exchange students since it makes it easier to get to know people and make friends!
Orientations
All students applying for the semester or year program must be available for a mandatory 3-day National Pre-Departure Orientation*, which usually takes place in mid-July. This orientation is a required part of the program aimed at preparing students for their experience overseas. All students will participate in a one-day local pre-departure orientation in May or June.
*Due to COVID-19, the 3-day National Pre-Departure Orientation described above may take place on-line dependent upon recommended guidelines at the time of the event. YFU will continue to assess the situation as it develops.
There are 2 orientations scheduled throughout the year in Serbia. The first is a 4-day seminar, in which the first 2 days include a language and cultural orientation, and the last 2 days focus on intensive language courses. All students must attend this language course, and materials are included at no extra cost to the student. Students should have a desire to learn the language, and YFU Serbia does recommend starting some independent study at least three months before departure. There is also a 1 day pre-departure orientation at the conclusion of your time abroad. All orientation costs are included in program tuition.
Specal Interest Program
Sports: Serbia has been known for its excellence in sports. YFU Serbia will help students to find a suitable sports club depending on the activity of interest. The price of monthly training varies from sport to sport, from club to club, and is not included in the YFU program price. Sports equipment fees, competition fees, and club fees are not included.
| PROGRAM | DEPARTURE | RETURN | FULL TUITION |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Fall Trimester | Mid September | Early December | $7,995 |
| 2024 Fall Trimester Sports | Mid September | Early December | $8,395 |
Tuition Includes
- Placement with a host family
- Enrollment in a local Serbian high school
- Airport transfers
- Domestic and international travel
- All pre-departure and post arrival orientations
- Pre-program support by trained YFU staff
- Support from a YFU Serbia Area Representative while on program
- Comprehensive insurance
Age Requirement
- 2024 Fall Departures: Students born July 31, 2006 - July 30, 2009.
- Students who do not meet this age requirement or will graduate from high school before the start of their program will be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis.
Language
Serbian. Previous language study is not required.
Host Family Placement
Students may be placed throughout the country in urban, suburban, small town, or rural areas.