Belgrade has a number of international schools that teach in English and follow international curricula. These schools are the most common choice for expat families because they provide continuity for children who may move again and because instruction is in English.
The British International School of Belgrade follows the British curriculum and is one of the most established options. It caters to children from primary through secondary school. Tuition varies by year group and is typically in the range of several thousand euros per year. The school has a diverse student body with families from many countries.
The International School of Belgrade follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. The IB diploma is recognized by universities worldwide, which is useful if your child plans to study abroad later. Tuition is comparable to other international schools in the city.
There are also smaller international schools and bilingual programs that offer a mix of English and Serbian instruction. These can be a good option if you plan to stay in Serbia long-term and want your child to learn the language while following an international program.
Public Schools in Serbia
Serbian public schools are free for residents. Instruction is in Serbian, and the curriculum follows the national education system. For children who are young enough to pick up a new language quickly, public school can be an immersive and affordable option.
Public schools are well resourced in Belgrade and larger cities. The quality of teaching varies by school, as it does in any country. Some schools have experience with non-Serbian-speaking students and can provide additional language support.
Enrollment in public school requires your child's residency documentation, birth certificate, and previous school records (translated into Serbian). The school year runs from September to June, with breaks for winter and summer holidays.
For younger children, preschool and kindergarten options are available in both public and private settings. Public kindergartens are affordable and have waiting lists in popular areas. Private kindergartens offer more flexibility and English-language programs.
Enrollment Process
Enrollment in international schools typically involves an application, supporting documents, and sometimes an assessment or interview. Contact the school directly for their specific requirements and timeline. Many international schools have rolling admissions, but it is worth applying early as places can be limited.
For public schools, enrollment is handled through the local municipality. You will need your child's residency permit or proof that you have applied for residency, along with translated documents. The school will assess your child's level and may provide language support if needed.
If your child does not speak Serbian, some public schools offer preparatory classes to help them catch up. This is not universal, so check with the specific school or municipality.
Costs and Financial Considerations
International school tuition is the biggest cost. Fees vary by school and year group. In addition to tuition, expect to pay for uniforms, textbooks, school trips, and meals. Some schools include meals in their fees, others do not.
Public school is free, but you will need to budget for supplies, uniforms (some schools require them), and extracurricular activities. After-school programs and tutoring are available and affordable.
For families on a budget, public school combined with private English tutoring can be a practical approach. Your child gets the immersion experience and picks up Serbian, while English skills are maintained through private lessons.
Extracurricular Activities
Serbia has a strong tradition of sports, music, and arts programs for children. Football, tennis, swimming, and martial arts are popular. Music schools offer instruction in instruments and singing at affordable rates. Art classes and drama groups are also available in Belgrade.
Many international schools have their own extracurricular programs. Public schools also offer after-school activities, though the range varies by school. The expat community often organizes informal groups for sports, language exchange, and social activities for children.
Settling In
Moving to a new country with children involves more than just choosing a school. Help your child connect with peers through sports teams, community groups, or school events. Many international schools have parent communities that organize social gatherings, which can be a good way for both you and your child to build a network.
Learning some Serbian, even at a basic level, helps children settle in. Many schools offer Serbian as a second language, and private tutors are available for additional support.
For more on the practical side of moving to Serbia, see our guides on cost of living and healthcare for residents.