If you are an international student looking for the right Serbian city to study in, Kragujevac could be an excellent choice. This small city in central Serbia attracts many international students thanks to its low living costs, the quality of its university education and its calm environment. Studying in Kragujevac feels different from the big cities such as Belgrade: it offers a good balance between cost and quality, and a safe, friendly setting for international students.
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Study in Kragujevac: universities and a range of programmes
The University of Kragujevac is the main academic institution in the city, offering programmes in several fields, including engineering, natural sciences, medicine, social sciences and the arts. The university was founded in 1976, and it is a good option for students looking for programmes taught in English or Serbian, with lower tuition than in many other European countries.
The university offers bachelor’s and master’s programmes in subjects such as computer engineering, mechanical engineering, medicine, psychology and economics. It is also among the universities that encourage innovation and scientific research.
If you are looking for varied academic options, you can read about the University of Kragujevac and compare subject options and tuition fees by programme.
Living costs in Kragujevac: a realistic budget for international students
Kragujevac is one of the cheapest cities in Serbia for living costs: the total monthly cost is between about €345 and €750, depending on lifestyle and housing. This range makes it a strong option for students who want a balance between quality and cost.
The main monthly costs include:
- Housing: €95 to €270 a month (student housing or a flat).
- Food: about €150–250 a month, which you can reduce by shopping at local markets.
- Transport: a few euros to €20 a month depending on use.
- Phone and internet: €20–30 a month.
- Personal spending and leisure: €100–200 a month.
For more accurate cost information, see living costs in Serbia and compare Kragujevac with other cities such as Belgrade or Novi Sad.
Student housing in Kragujevac: several options
Kragujevac offers several student housing options, from university residences to rented flats in residential neighbourhoods near the campus. Student housing is a popular choice for many international students because it offers a social environment, easy access to lectures and low cost.
Student housing is available through the Student Centre (Studentski centar) in Kragujevac.
If you want a well-organised and safe housing experience, you can read the student housing guide for Serbia and compare the options in Kragujevac with other cities.
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Muslim community in Kragujevac: mosques, halal food and religious support
Although Kragujevac does not have a large Muslim population, it is among the Serbian cities that Muslim students find accepting. The Muslim community in Kragujevac is very small, places of worship are few, and the nearest mosque may be outside the city; check before you travel.
Halal restaurants can be hard to find in Kragujevac, so cooking at home and buying meat from trusted sources is recommended. Check with local shops for halal products before you rely on them.
If you are looking for a supportive religious environment, you can read Is Serbia right for Muslims? to understand the experience of Muslim life in the country in general, and compare Kragujevac with other cities.
Daily life in Kragujevac: a quiet environment
Kragujevac is a small city with a calm environment, attractive scenery and plenty of green space. The city lies on the Lepenica river and is regarded as a safe city for international students. It is relatively quiet and offers a setting suited to studying and everyday life without heavy pressure.
The city suits students who prefer a balance between study and social life, with regular cultural and arts events and opportunities to take part in student activities. Kragujevac is also a city that values cultural diversity and encourages interaction between students from different backgrounds.
For complete information about Serbian cities suited to study, you can read the best cities in Serbia for study and compare Kragujevac with Belgrade, Novi Sad and Niš.
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Good to know before you choose Kragujevac
Serbian is the mother tongue of 84.4% of Serbia’s population, so daily life outside the classroom will mostly run in Serbian, even if your programme is taught in English (Statistical Office of Serbia, 2022 census). The same census counts 278,212 Muslims out of 6,647,003 residents, about 4.2%, which is why the community in a mid-sized city such as Kragujevac is small and you should plan prayer and halal food in advance.
Working while you study
Students with temporary residence for study may work up to 20 hours a week (or 80 hours a month) without a separate work permit (source). Part-time jobs in English are harder to find outside Belgrade, so budget for your living costs as if you will not earn.
Find English-taught programmes
The official Study in Serbia portal keeps a catalogue of study programmes taught in English across Serbian universities, and a linked database of accredited programmes. Use it to confirm which subjects and levels are open to international students before you apply: catalogue of programmes and education database.
Frequently asked questions
Can I study in Kragujevac without speaking Serbian?
Yes, you can study in Kragujevac without fluent Serbian, especially if you choose a programme taught in English. The University of Kragujevac offers specific programmes in English (for example in medicine); check the faculty’s own list for other subjects. Still, it is best to learn the basics of Serbian to make daily life easier.
What does housing cost in Kragujevac for international students?
Housing in Kragujevac costs between about €95 and €270 a month depending on the type of housing. Student housing is a good option for international students because of its low cost and closeness to the campus.
Are there mosques or prayer places in Kragujevac?
The Muslim community in Kragujevac is small, so check which prayer places are available before you travel. Halal restaurants are hard to find, so cooking at home and buying halal products from trusted shops is the practical solution.
Is Kragujevac a safe city for international students?
Kragujevac is generally regarded as one of the safer Serbian cities for international students, with a calm environment suited to studying and daily life. As anywhere, take normal precautions and register your address with the police within 24 hours of arrival.
What is the best way to get to Kragujevac from abroad?
You can reach Kragujevac through Belgrade (Nikola Tesla) airport, then take a bus or train to the city. There are daily services from Belgrade to Kragujevac, a convenient and cheap way to travel.
If you are looking for a small, safe Serbian city with low living costs, Kragujevac offers a complete study experience for international students: a state university, suitable housing and a calm setting. Be sure to review all the official details before you apply, and start your academic journey in Serbia with confidence.
Official website of the City of Kragujevac
Kragujevac — Wikipedia
Official sources