Albania

Country snapshot

• Capital: Tirana

• Language: Albanian (English-taught programmes available)

• Dial code: +355

• Currency: Albanian Lek (ALL)

• Main intakes: October (Fall) and February (Spring), programme-dependent

Why study in Albania?

You’ll find practical, profession-oriented teaching, small class sizes, and strong value for money. The compact geography makes travel easy, and international students typically settle quickly into Tirana’s lively café culture and student scene.

Key benefits

• Competitive tuition and low living costs

• Growing number of English-taught pathways

• Friendly, student-centred campuses and safe cities

• Opportunities in regional business, tourism, IT, and healthcare

• Gateway location for exploring the Balkans and Mediterranean

Eligibility (general)

• Undergraduate: Secondary school completion meeting subject/grade requirements

• Postgraduate: Relevant bachelor’s degree (minimum GPA varies)

• Language: Proof of English for English-taught tracks (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent) or Albanian for Albanian-taught programmes

• Programme-specific: Portfolios (arts/design), interviews/entrance tests (medicine/engineering) where required

Required documents (typical)

• Valid passport

• Academic transcripts & certificates (with certified translations if needed)

• Proof of language proficiency (as applicable)

• Statement of Purpose / motivation letter

• 1–2 Letters of Recommendation

• CV/Resume (where relevant)

• Passport-size photos

• Financial evidence for tuition and living costs

Visa & residence (overview for non-EU/EEA)

• Receive an offer/acceptance from a recognised institution

• Apply for a student visa (long-stay) and, after arrival, obtain a residence permit for the duration of studies

• Provide financial proof, health insurance, accommodation details, and any required medical/bio checks

• Work during studies: Part-time work may be possible with the appropriate permissions; always follow current immigration and institutional rules

Costs (guide numbers)

(Actual figures vary by university, city, and programme.)

• Tuition — Public universities: ~€1,500 – €3,500 per year

• Tuition — Private universities: ~€2,500 – €6,500+ per year (medicine/health higher)

• Living expenses: ~€400 – €800 per month (housing, food, transport, insurance)

• Health insurance: plan-dependent; required for visa/residence

Universities (examples)

• University of Tirana

• Polytechnic University of Tirana

• University of Medicine, Tirana

• Agricultural University of Tirana

• Epoka University (private)

• European University of Tirana (UET)

• University of Shkodra “Luigj Gurakuqi”

• University of Vlora “Ismail Qemali”

Scholarships & funding (examples)

• University entrance/merit awards and fee discounts

• Programme- or faculty-specific scholarships

• Country-specific/external funding schemes

• Limited research/teaching assistantships at postgraduate level

Application steps

1. Shortlist programmes (language, prerequisites, deadlines)

2. Prepare documents (transcripts, translations, SOP, references, language test, CV/portfolio if needed)

3. Submit applications via university portals; track decisions

4. Accept offer and pay deposit (if required)

5. Apply for the student visa; arrange health insurance and accommodation

6. Travel to Albania; complete residence permit procedures and enrolment/orientation