Serbia 2016/17 - grants and loans

Student grants

Student grants are provided by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development only to 'budget-financed' students in the 1st and 2nd cycle. The state grant scheme is merit based, and only students with an average grade of at least 9 (out of 10) may apply. Specific merit-based grants for students from vulnerable groups are available, with additional needs-based criteria, like the proof of disability, certificate/proof of socio- economic status, etc. A state grant amounts to RSD 84 000 annually, paid in ten monthly instalments. In the academic year 2015/16, there were 8 914 student grantees. The Ministry of Youth and Sports provides additional merit-based grants of RSD 300 000 per year to up to 800 bachelor and 400 master students. State universities, provincial and university cities’ governments also provide funds for supporting talented students. 9.5 % of budget funded students (4.8 % of all) received grant. Students with disabilities, Roma students and students who finished secondary school in another country could apply for tuition fee exemption through affirmative measures within official call for enrolment.

Loans

Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development provides loans to students primarily based on merit, the social status of students is an additional criteria. The amounts are the same as grants – RSD 84 000 paid in ten monthly instalments. Students who finish studies with an average grade higher than 8.5 (on the 6 to 10 scale) are not obliged to return the loan. In 2015/16, 11 700 students received loans.

Local governments offer grants, loans and other benefits to students from their municipalities/cities. There is no systematic data on the range and type of grants/loans/scholarships provided.