Education system of Croatia

The Republic of Croatia’s education system includes the following levels:

• early childhood education and care 
• primary education
• secondary education
• higher education
• adult education.

Children who have been granted asylum, subsidiary protection, or temporary protection in Croatia, as well as those seeking international protection, have the right to education and inclusion in Croatian educational institutions. Applicants for international protection are entitled to primary and secondary education. Meanwhile, asylees and individuals under subsidiary or temporary protection have the right to primary, secondary, and higher education under the same conditions as Croatian citizens, in accordance with special regulations.

Early childhood education and care

The education system in the Republic of Croatia begins with preschool institutions, including kindergartens and other facilities that implement preschool programs. Children can enrol in half-day, full-day or shorter programs within kindergartens.

Although early childhood education is available for children from six months of age until they start school, most children do not enter nursery (kindergarten for infants) before their first birthday. This is because parental leave in Croatia lasts until the child is 12 months old, or 14 months if the father also utilizes the portion of leave reserved for him.

Primary education

Primary education in Croatia is compulsory and free for all children with permanent or registered residence in the country, regardless of their citizenship.

Children typically begin primary school at the age of six or seven, with enrolment in the first grade. Children who turn six by 1 April of a given year are required to start school that same year. Primary education usually lasts until the age of 15, but for students with multiple developmental disabilities, it can extend until 21 at the latest. The primary school program spans eight years and includes both regular and special programs. 

Special programs cater to children with developmental disabilities, alternative curricula and education in the language and script of national minorities. Upon completing primary education, students acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to continue their education at the secondary school level.

Additionally, children can pursue basic artistic education in music or dance alongside their primary education.

Enrolment in the first grade of basic artistic education is available to children aged seven or nine, provided they meet the criteria outlined in the curriculum of artistic education. Basic music education follows a six-year curriculum, whereas basic dance education follows a four-year curriculum, both aligned with primary school art education. For children over the age of 15 who have not completed the legally required primary education, Croatia offers a basic education system for adults.

Croatia has private kindergartens and elementary schools.
The cost of attending these institutions is not standardized nationwide; it depends on market prices and whether the local government chooses to subsidize private programs (and if so, to which extent).

Secondary education

After completing primary education, students can pursue secondary education, which provides the knowledge and skills needed for employment or further studies. 

Depending on the type of curriculum, secondary schools are categorized into gymnasiums, vocational schools, and art schools. The duration of secondary education ranges from one to five years, depending on the program.

Secondary education in Croatia is not compulsory, and the availability of programs varies across the country. Higher education Higher education in Croatia is offered at universities (faculties, academies and departments), polytechnics, and colleges, with programs delivered through university and professional study programs. 

Adult education Adult education encompasses learning processes aimed at improving employability and personal development. It can take place in various forms, including formal, non-formal, informal and/or self-directed learning.