Study in Bosnia

Where is Bosnia?

Bosnia, officially called Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a country located in Southeastern Europe on the Balkan Peninsula. Here’s where it is:

• It’s bordered by Croatia to the north, west, and south.
• It shares a small border with Montenegro to the southeast.
• To the east, it borders Serbia.
• It has a small coastline (about 20 km) on the Adriatic Sea near the town of Neum.

The capital city is Sarajevo, located roughly in the center of the country.

Bosnia and Herzegovina lies in the western Balkans region, between Central Europe and Southeast Europe.

Geography

• Location: Southeastern Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula.
• Borders:
  • Croatia to the north, west, and south.
  • Serbia to the east.
  • Montenegro to the southeast.
• Coastline: Small Adriatic Sea coastline (~20 km) near Neum, providing access to the sea.
• Area: Approximately 51,000 square kilometers (about 19,700 square miles).
• Terrain: Mostly mountainous with dense forests; the Dinaric Alps run through much of the country. The central valley around the Bosna River is less rugged.

 

Political Structure

• Official Name: Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Capital:
• Government:
  • A federal parliamentary republic with a complex political system designed to maintain peace among its three main ethnic groups.
  • The country is divided into two main entities:
    • Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (mostly Bosniaks and Croats)
    • Republika Srpska (mostly Serbs)
  • Plus, the Brčko District, a self-governing administrative unit.

 

History

• Historically part of the Ottoman Empire and later Austria-Hungary.
• Became part of Yugoslavia after World War I.
• Declared independence from Yugoslavia in 1992.
• Suffered a devastating war (Bosnian War) from 1992 to 1995 involving ethnic conflicts.
• The war ended with the Dayton Agreement (1995), which established the current political system.

 

Population and Ethnic Groups

• Approximate population: 3.3 million.
• Main ethnic groups:
  • Bosniaks (Bosnian Muslims)
  • Serbs (Orthodox Christians)
  • Croats (Catholics)
• These groups have their own languages, cultures, and religions but share many common traditions.

 

Economy

• Transitioning economy with sectors like metal processing, energy, textiles, and agriculture.
• Tourism is growing, especially in Sarajevo, Mostar, and natural sites like national parks.

 

Language

• Official languages are Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian, which are mutually intelligible.
• Latin and Cyrillic alphabets are both used.

 

Culture

• Rich cultural heritage influenced by Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic traditions.
• Known for traditional music (Sevdalinka), cuisine (cevapi, burek), and historic architecture (Ottoman mosques, Austro-Hungarian buildings).
• Sarajevo is famous for its multicultural atmosphere and the 1984 Winter Olympics.

 

Key Cities

• Sarajevo: Capital and largest city; cultural and political center.
• Banja Luka: Largest city in Republika Srpska; known for universities and industry.
• Mostar: Famous for the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) and its Ottoman-era architecture.
• Tuzla: Industrial city with a salt lake and rich cultural life.

 

Tourism Highlights

• Old Towns of Sarajevo and Mostar
• Stari Most (Old Bridge) in Mostar
• Una National Park (waterfalls and rivers)
• Jahorina and Bjelasnica mountains (ski resorts)
• Medieval castles and religious sites

Why Choose Bosnia for Studying Abroad?

1. Affordable Education
   • Tuition fees and living costs are generally much lower compared to Western Europe and North America, making it budget-friendly for international students.
2. Quality Universities
   • Bosnia has reputable universities offering diverse programs, especially in medicine, engineering, social sciences, and humanities. Many universities follow the Bologna Process ensuring European standards.
3. English-Taught Programs
   • Increasing number of courses and full degree programs are available in English, especially at universities in Sarajevo and Banja Luka.
4. Cultural Diversity & History
   • A unique multicultural environment enriched by Bosniak, Serbian, and Croatian heritage. It’s a great place to experience diverse cultures, languages, and religions.
5. Strategic Location in Europe
   • Situated at the crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe, Bosnia offers easy travel options to nearby countries, including Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, and beyond.
6. Safe and Welcoming Environment
   • Bosnia is considered safe for students, with friendly locals who are open to international visitors and learners.
7. Growing International Student Community
   • An increasing number of foreign students come here, creating a more international atmosphere on campuses.
8. Scholarship Opportunities
   • Various scholarships and financial aid options are available for international students through universities and government programs.
9. Rich Natural Beauty
   • Stunning landscapes like mountains, rivers, and national parks offer great recreational activities like hiking, skiing, and rafting.
10. Modern Facilities & Infrastructure
    • Many universities are upgrading their facilities, libraries, and research centers to meet international standards.
11. Opportunity to Learn New Languages
    • Studying here offers a chance to learn Bosnian, Serbian, or Croatian—valuable Slavic languages spoken in the Balkans.

 

 Requirements

Documents for Admission

• SSC
• HSSC        Minimum(45%)
• Bachelors 45%
• Motivation Letters
• Passport
• Photograph
• MOI or IELTS ( if have)

 

Application Fee

• 0 to 100 Euros

Tuition Fees in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Public Universities

• Tuition fees are generally affordable compared to Western countries.
• For most bachelor’s and master’s programs:
  • Around €700 to €2,500 per year (varies by university and program).

Private Universities

• Tuition fees are higher than public universities.
• Range from €3,500 to €8,500 per year, depending on the program and university.
• Example:
  • International University of Sarajevo (IUS) — between €4,000 and €8,500 per year.
  • International Burch University — approx. 10,000 BAM (~€5,100) per year

 

Documents for Visa

• Visa Application Form
• Educational Documents (IBCC,HEC,MOFA Attested)
• Passport
• Health Insurance
• Police Character Certificate (Apostille)
• Bank Statement (Not Mandatory)
• Motivation Letter / Statement of Purpose
• Visa Fee paid Receipt
• Tuition fee paid Slip
• University Acceptance Letter
• Accommodation Letter
• Ministry order
• Medical Certificate

IELTS Requirements

No

Embassy in Pakistan 

Yes

Embassy Interview

      Yes But Basic

Appointment issue

No

Intake

September intake

Spouse Allowed

No

Processing Time

2 to 3 Month

Part Time Work Allow

Yes

Temporary Residence Permit

• Upon arrival in Bosnia and Herzegovina, you must register your residence with the local authorities and apply for a temporary residence permit if your stay exceeds 90 days.

 Work Rights for Students

• International students are permitted to work part-time during their studies. However, employment opportunities may be limited, and proficiency in the local language can be advantageous.

 

Average Earning

Not Confirmed

Visa Ratio

80+%

Universities in Bosnia and Herzegovina

1. University of Sarajevo
2. International University of Sarajevo (IUS)
3. University of Banja Luka
4. University of Mostar
5. University of Tuzla
6. University of East Sarajevo
7. University of Zenica
8. University of Bihać
9. University of Travnik
10. University of Herzegovina (Mostar)
11. International Burch University (IBU)