Overview of Language Standards
Slovenian (Slovenščina) is the official language of instruction at higher education institutions in Slovenia. While the number of English-taught programs is increasing, particularly at the postgraduate level, the majority of undergraduate courses are conducted in Slovenian. Foreign students must demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction to ensure academic success and administrative compliance.
For the 2025/2026 academic year, requirements are strictly categorized based on the chosen program of study and the specific university's internal regulations. Generally, evidence of language proficiency must be submitted during the application process or prior to enrollment.
Slovenian Language Proficiency Levels
Most Slovenian-taught degree programs require international applicants to prove their command of the language at the B2 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). However, specific faculties, such as Medicine, Pharmacy, and Law, may require a higher C1 level.
Accepted Certification
The standard proof of proficiency is a certificate issued by the Center for Slovene as a Second and Foreign Language. This institution conducts official exams throughout the year. The costs for these examinations are as follows:
- Standard Examination Fee: 155 EUR ($170 USD, Jan 2026).
- Preparatory Courses (varies by duration): 250 EUR - 600 EUR ($275 - $660 USD, Jan 2026).
Applicants who have completed secondary education in Slovenia or a Slovenian-language school abroad are typically exempt from providing additional certification.
English-Language Requirements
For programs taught in English, students must provide an internationally recognized language certificate. The specific score requirements are determined by the individual faculty. Commonly accepted tests include:
- IELTS Academic: Usually a minimum score of 6.0 or 6.5.
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum scores typically range between 79 and 90.
- Cambridge English: B2 First (FCE), C1 Advanced (CAE), or C2 Proficiency (CPE).
If the applicant's previous degree was fully conducted in English in a country where English is the official language, the university may grant an exemption from these tests. It is mandatory to verify this with the international office of the specific university, such as the University of Ljubljana or the University of Maribor.
The Year Plus (Leto Plus) Module
The "Year Plus" (Leto Plus) is a specific academic framework designed to help international students adapt to the Slovenian educational system. It allows students to focus on learning the Slovenian language during their first year of study while still being enrolled as regular students.
To successfully complete Year Plus, students must accumulate at least 30 ECTS credits, of which at least 6 ECTS must come from Slovenian language courses. If the student meets these criteria, they may be eligible for an extension of their student status if they do not complete all first-year requirements for their primary degree program.
Note: Participation in Year Plus is often free for students enrolled in full-time degree programs at participating public universities, though administrative fees may apply.
Exceptions and Special Cases
Language requirements may vary based on bilateral agreements and the specific status of the applicant:
- Ex-Yugoslavia Countries: Citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, and North Macedonia may face different entry requirements for certain programs due to linguistic similarities, though B2 certification is increasingly becoming standard.
- Exchange Students (Erasmus+): Requirements for exchange students are usually more flexible and are governed by the Inter-Institutional Agreement between the home and host university.
- PhD Candidates: Language requirements for doctoral candidates are often determined by the individual mentor and the faculty's research board.
Prospective students are advised to check the official "Call for Enrollment" (Razpis za vpis) published annually in February for the upcoming academic year to confirm the exact requirements for their chosen field.