Serbian Government Approves Tuition Fee Reduction and Budget Increase for Higher Education
According to an official press release, the Serbian Government adopted amendments to the Law on Higher Education on Tuesday. The amendments introduce a 50% reduction in tuition fees for self-financing students enrolled in higher education institutions founded by the Republic.
The amendments will result in a 20% increase in the higher education budget, amounting to 12 billion dinars (1 euro = 117 dinars), aligning with one of the key demands made by students. Additionally, 5.7 billion dinars have been allocated to fund salary increases for higher education employees, effective from March salaries this year.
Serbian Government Proposes Salary Alignment and Increased Funding for Higher Education
According to the bill, as of January 1, 2026, the salary base for higher education employees will align with those of other education levels.
The proposed amendments introduce a 50% reduction in tuition fees for self-financing students at state higher education institutions, achieved through direct budget reimbursements to students.
Additionally, the amendments allocate funds to fully cover the fixed costs of higher education institutions, increase funding for materials and operational expenses, and ensure full coverage of additional employee income under the Special Collective Agreement for Higher Education.
The bill also includes new measures to enhance the quality and relevance of higher education, strengthen university autonomy, and support the further internationalization of Serbia’s higher education system.
Serbian Parliament to Debate Higher Education Law Amendments on March 4
Serbian Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabić announced that the Parliament session to discuss amendments to the Law on Higher Education will commence on March 4. She stressed the importance of resuming university classes and holding exams, according to press reports.
