ENROLLMENT PROCEDURES
General principles of admission of Slovak universities:
The general prerequisite for admission to bachelor study in Slovakia is a secondary school‑leaving certificate and demonstration of skills required for the appropriate study in the higher education institution to be verified, as a rule, through admission examinations.
The entrance examinations are diverse, depending on the field of study. They may be written and oral, or just written (tests). In some fields of study, e.g., arts, the so‑called talent examinations are also conducted. A decision about admission is usually made on the basis of the previous achievements (average marks from the secondary school certificates, sometimes only the final secondary school‑leaving certificate, or only marks achieved in the so‑called profile subjects) and the results of the entrance examinations.
In some faculties, only the results of the entrance examinations are taken into the consideration. The basic condition for admission to the second level study in Slovakia is graduation from bachelor study. The basic condition for the admission to the PhD study program is graduation from second level university study.
International students
Admission requirements for international students are the same as for Slovak nationals. In justified cases the academic senate of faculty may appropriately adapt them upon the proposal given by the dean. The holders of International Baccalaureate meet general requirements for admission to higher education institutions in Slovakia. Foreign applicants who do not meet all the requirements for admission may be required to attend preparatory courses, including Slovak language courses. Such courses are offered by the Institute for Language and Academic Preparation of Foreign Students, an independent unit of the Comenius University in Bratislava. Courses of Slovak language are also organized by respective universities. Every faculty determines its own criteria for admitting of students. The students should ask for information and apply for admission at the faculty of their choice. Information on the Slovak and English study programs are available on the web pages or at the international offices of the individual higher education institutions/ faculties.
Recognition of Foreign Qualifications
International students must ensure that their previous academic qualifications are recognized in Slovakia. The process of diploma recognition, known as “nostrification,” is essential for admission to Slovak universities. This procedure is carried out by the Ministry of Education, Science, Research, and Sport of the Slovak Republic or by individual universities. Applicants should submit:
- A certified copy of their diploma and transcripts
- An official translation of documents (if not in Slovak or English)
- A request form for diploma recognition
- Additional documents as required by the university
It is advisable to start this process early, as it may take several weeks or months to complete.
Language Requirements
Most universities in Slovakia offer programs in both Slovak and English. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction. Requirements may include:
- A Slovak language certificate for Slovak-taught programs (often B1 or B2 level)
- An English language proficiency test (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge certificates) for English-taught programs
Students who do not meet the language requirements may enroll in preparatory Slovak language courses before starting their studies.
Work Opportunities for Students
International students in Slovakia can work part-time during their studies. EU/EEA students do not need a work permit, while non-EU students may be required to obtain one for certain jobs. Typically, students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during holidays. Common student jobs include:
- Working in restaurants, cafes, or retail stores
- Internships related to their field of study
- Language tutoring or freelance work
Health Insurance and Medical Care
All students in Slovakia must have valid health insurance during their stay. EU students can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), while non-EU students must arrange for private health insurance before arrival. Some universities provide assistance in obtaining insurance through local providers.
Slovakia has a well-developed healthcare system, with public hospitals and private clinics available in major cities. Students are advised to register with a general practitioner (GP) upon arrival.
Accommodation and Cost of Living
Students in Slovakia can choose between university dormitories or private housing.
- University dormitories: Affordable, but availability may be limited. Prices range from €80–€150 per month.
- Private apartments: More expensive but offer greater independence. Rent prices vary by city, typically €300–€600 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
The average monthly living expenses for students in Slovakia are around €500–€900, depending on lifestyle and location.
Student Life and Culture
Slovakia offers a vibrant student life, with numerous clubs, cultural events, and student organizations. International students can participate in:
- Erasmus+ exchange programs
- University sports teams and fitness centers
- Cultural festivals and city tours
- Student discounts on transport, museums, and entertainment
Public transportation is affordable and efficient, with student discounts available for buses, trams, and trains.
Post-Graduation Opportunities
Graduates from Slovak universities have various options after completing their studies:
- Job Market in Slovakia
- Non-EU graduates may need a work permit to stay in Slovakia.
- Some industries, such as IT, engineering, and healthcare, have high demand for skilled workers.
- Further Studies
- Graduates can apply for master’s or PhD programs in Slovakia or other EU countries.
- Entrepreneurship and Startups
- Slovakia offers support for young entrepreneurs, with business incubators and startup funding programs.
Final Thoughts
Studying in Slovakia provides a high-quality education, an affordable cost of living, and a gateway to Europe. With proper preparation, international students can enjoy a successful academic journey and valuable career opportunities in Slovakia and beyond.
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