Union Nikola Tesla University in Belgrade is an attractive choice for international students looking for a distinctive study experience in Serbia, especially in engineering and business. Costs depend on the study track and admission requirements vary by university and programme, so it is important to understand the details before applying. This complete guide covers everything about studying at Union Nikola Tesla University: fees, programmes, admission steps, and the academic and social environment for international students.

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Union Nikola Tesla University tuition fees: comparing the two tracks

Tuition at Union Nikola Tesla University depends on the study track, especially between the Serbian-language and English-language tracks. The English-language track, taught in Engineering Management, is the best option for international students who do not speak Serbian. Fees for the 2026-2027 academic year are set by the university’s decision; see the official fee page for the current amount.

Fees vary by programme, so check the official fee page for current amounts and ask the admissions office what the fee includes. The fee does not cover accommodation, health insurance or transport.

Study track	Language	Annual fee	Duration
Engineering Management	English	See the official fee page	3 years (bachelor’s)
Other programmes	Serbian	Set by the university’s decision	3–4 years

For exact figures, check the official fee page of the university or contact the admissions office directly. Fees vary by university and programme, so confirm official updates before applying. For exact fees, check the official website of Union Nikola Tesla University.

Study programmes at Union Nikola Tesla University – focus on Engineering Management

Union Nikola Tesla University is a private university that focuses on developing practical skills in engineering and business, with a flexible, modern teaching approach. Its flagship programme is Engineering Management in English, an integrated programme combining engineering and management skills, ideal for international students interested in industry, manufacturing or project management.

The programme lasts 3 years and covers topics such as:

• Engineering project management
• Performance and quality analysis
• Industrial engineering
• Artificial intelligence in industrial operations
• Resource and cost management
• Sustainability in industry

The programme is designed to prepare students to work in a global environment, and it encourages practical training, group projects and attendance at academic conferences. The university also cooperates with local and international industrial companies on internships and post-graduation employment opportunities.

If you are looking at other fields, see business programmes in Serbia or engineering programmes in Serbia to compare the options available.

Application and admission steps at Union Nikola Tesla University

Admission to Union Nikola Tesla University is relatively straightforward, especially for international students, but you need to prepare the required documents carefully. Requirements vary by programme, but usually include the following steps:

1. Fill in the online form on the university’s official website.
2. Submit your secondary school certificate with a certified translation into English or Serbian.
3. Attach an English proficiency certificate (such as IELTS or TOEFL) at an acceptable level, unless the programme is designed for students who are not fluent in English.
4. Attach an up-to-date CV showing your academic and professional experience.
5. Write a motivation letter explaining why you want to study this programme.
6. Pay the application fee (if any; it is usually low).
7. Wait for the admission decision, which can take a few weeks.

Apply 2-3 months before the start date, especially if you do not live in Serbia, so that you have time to apply for a student visa.

The academic and social environment – is Serbia a good choice for international students?

Belgrade, Serbia’s capital, is a modern and safe city that combines modernity with heritage, which makes it a suitable environment for international students. The city has an efficient transport network, varied housing options and an urban environment that supports international students.

Serbia is also generally religiously moderate and suitable for Muslim students, with mosques in Belgrade and halal food options available in restaurants and markets.

For detailed information on how suitable Serbia is for Muslim students, see Is Serbia suitable for Muslim students?, which discusses the challenges and opportunities of daily life.

Visas and residence – procedures for international students

International students, including those from Arab countries, need a student visa to study at Union Nikola Tesla University if their nationality requires one. The visa is issued by the Serbian embassy in the student’s country and requires official documents such as:

• An official acceptance letter from the university.
• Proof of financial means (the law does not set a fixed amount for students; check the embassy’s requirements).
• A health certificate showing the student is free from infectious diseases.
• Health insurance.

After arriving in Serbia, you must register your residence address with the police within 24 hours (usually the landlord does this), then apply for temporary residence for study. The process is relatively simple, but it is advisable to use a reliable advisory service to make sure everything is accurate.

For official visa guidance, see the Welcome to Serbia portal or ask the university’s admissions office. For official information on higher-education accreditation, visit the National Entity for Accreditation and Quality Assurance (NAT).

Academic accreditation and recognition of the university’s degrees

Union Nikola Tesla University is accredited by the National Entity for Accreditation and Quality Assurance (NAT), the official body responsible for ensuring the quality of higher education in Serbia. NAT accreditation concerns the quality of education inside Serbia; recognition of the degree in other countries is decided by each country’s equivalence authority case by case.

If you plan to work or continue to postgraduate studies after graduation, apply for degree recognition from the relevant authority in your country, especially if you want to work in the public sector or state schools.

Temporary residence, working and insurance: official facts for students in Serbia

Serbia is not part of the EU or the Schengen area. After arriving, a student applies for a temporary residence permit for study. According to the official Welcome to Serbia help page, the fees are 430 RSD at submission plus 23,450 RSD on approval, a total of 23,880 RSD (source).

A student with temporary residence for study may work up to 20 hours per week or 80 hours per month, with no separate work permit required (source: ILO NATLEX). The documentation for a long-stay (type D) visa, including health insurance, is listed on the official portal (source).

Postgraduate study in Serbia

If you plan to continue after your degree, note that a doctorate in Serbia takes three years, and admission requires a bachelor’s and a master’s degree totalling at least 300 ECTS credits (source: Study in Serbia). Check with the university which master’s and doctoral programmes it currently offers.

Frequently asked questions

Can I study at Union Nikola Tesla University without speaking Serbian?

Yes, you can study at the university without Serbian, especially if you choose the English-language Engineering Management programme. Still, learning the basics of Serbian is recommended to make daily life and interaction with locals easier.

What are accommodation and living costs in Belgrade?

Accommodation in Belgrade is estimated at roughly €200 to €400 per month depending on the type (a room in a student residence or a shared flat). Monthly living costs, including food, transport and entertainment, are estimated at €400 to €600, so Belgrade is relatively affordable for a European capital.

Does the university offer scholarships to international students?

The university offers some financial incentives to outstanding students, but they are not officially announced. Contact the admissions office to ask about any possible opportunities.

What is Union Nikola Tesla University’s ranking in Serbia?

Union Nikola Tesla University is not listed in the official international rankings such as QS or THE, but it is regarded as one of the notable private universities in engineering and business, offering practical education that meets national quality standards.

If you are looking for an education that balances quality and cost in Europe, Union Nikola Tesla University in Belgrade is a good option, especially for international students interested in engineering and business. With an English-language programme, reasonable costs and a safe environment, it suits anyone seeking a strong start to a professional career. Take your first steps by exploring studying in Serbia and visiting Belgrade as an ideal starting point.

Official sources

• Union Nikola Tesla University official website
• National Entity for Accreditation and Quality Assurance (NAT)