Top universities in Slovenia for international students

The top universities in Slovenia are 6 and approx. 50 smaller institutions of higher education. Besides, they are independent institutions offering many programs in all fields.

Additionally, all higher education institutions in Slovenia are accredited and meet the required national and international standards as well.

Also learn how the higher education system in Slovenia works

Here is our list of the top universities in Slovenia and their world ranking:

1- University of Ljubljana

Firstly, it was founded in 1919. This makes the university the oldest and the largest institution of higher education and scientific research in Slovenia.

Number of Students and University Structure:

This university includes more than 40,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students. In addition, it hires around 6000 of the high education professors, researchers, assistants, and the administrative staff in 23 faculties and 3 art academies.

Location

The main building, as well as all the 3 academies and faculties, is located in the city center. The university has built some new and modern buildings on the outskirts of Ljubljana, giving the institution and its students a comprehensive presence in the city.

University Rank

The University of Ljubljana is among the best 500 universities all over the world by ARWU Shanghai, Times THES-QS and WEBOMETRICS.

In addition, it is the central and largest research center in Slovenia, where 30% of all registered researchers (according to database SICRIS).

Admission Policy

Also, this university adopts a selective admission policy based on students’ academic record and their previous grades.

Learn more about University of Ljubljana.

2- University of Maribor

Maribor University occupies the 978 position all over the world and is established in 1961. Also, it is a non-profit public institution of higher education located in a big town from Maribor, Styria.

It has 17 faculties, all of them offering study courses. But not all faculties are on the Maribor campus. Moreover, the university is one of the most international universities of Slovenia, with about 15% of its students being foreign students.

Number of Students and Programs

Additionally, Maribor University benefits from the recognition of the ministry of education, science, and sports. Also, it is a large university including approx. 25000 to 29999 students and the mixed institution of high education.

Besides, UM university provides courses and programs that lead to an official scientific degree like a bachelor’s degree in many fields of study as well.

Learn more about Maribor University.

3- University of Primorska

The University of Primorska is a non-profit institution of higher education which started to exist in 2003. It is located in urban areas in a medium town called Koper (with a population of 10000 to 49999 people).

More importantly, this institution has other academic branches in both cities, Isola and Piran.

Mission of Primorska University

In addition, The mission of Primorska University is to implement education and scientific research in a professional and creative way and to support the balanced development of Slovenia in the region, Europe and the world.

Besides, The activities of this university are in line with the national higher Education Program, the national research, and development program, and the guidelines for developing education and research in the European region, with a special focus on the Mediterranean region as well.

Faculties of Primorska University

Additionally, studies at Primorska University are organized into 6 faculties: Faculty of Humanities, Faculty of Management, Faculty of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Information Technologies, Faculty of Education, faculty of Tourist Studies – Turistica, faculty of Health Sciences, and faculty of Urban Environment.

Number of Students and Programs:

Primorska University hosts about 6000 students and offers 74 programs. Also, the faculties of this university offer high-quality and varied studies.

Learn more about Primorska University;

4- Nova Gorica University

Nova Gorica university started to exist in 1995 and located in the outskirts of the medium Nova Gorcia city (with population approx. 10000 to 49999 people). This university is a non-profit private institution of education. It is also mixed and officially recognized by the ministry of education, science, and mathematics.

Number of Students and Admission Policy:

It is a very small university, includes from 1000 to 1999 students. On the other hand, the higher education institution does not have a selective admission policy.

Mission of Nova Gorica University

In fact, the University of Nova Gorica aims to be an independent research-oriented university. It promotes the creation of knowledge within the framework of a harmonious relationship between students and researchers. So that knowledge can be passed on to younger generations and to the business environment.

Therefore, with innovative educational approaches in both Slovene and English, the University aims to develop teaching excellence in its programs of contemporary study, thereby ensuring a high level of employment for local and international students.

Learn more about Nova Gorica University.

5. New University in Nova Gorica

The New University, located in Nova Gorica with study centers in Kranj, Maribor, and Ljubljana. It originally started as a private higher education institute with elements of public-private partnership. The university aspires to elite status, focusing on quality study programs, stringent application selection, and international comparability.

Mission of the University

The New University embraces a healthy sense of competition in fostering creativity and advancing higher education. The university is committed to maintaining the highest ethical standards and places a strong emphasis on research. Its goal is to establish a notable research center at both regional and national levels, with a distinct focus on collaboration and visibility in the broader European and global scientific community.

Additionally, the university actively participates in global higher education. It encourages student and staff exchanges with partner institutions abroad, promoting collaboration in various higher education and international research projects. This international engagement is a key aspect of the university’s mission.

The New University specializes in several areas, including law, administration, international relations, European studies, conflict resolution, Slovene studies, and ethics in public life. The university also offers interdisciplinary programs in law and management, specifically in real estate, infrastructure, and sustainable development.

This diverse range of academic focuses reflects the university’s commitment to providing a well-rounded and globally relevant education.

Faculties at New University

At its inception, New University integrated three faculties:

European Faculty of Law
Faculty of Government and European Studies
Faculty of Slovene and International Studies.

Moreover, associated faculties include:

European School of Law and Governance
College of Construction Engineering Kranj, AREMA
College of Regional Management
Effectus University College for Law and Finance

Find out more on the website of New University in Nova Gorica.

6. University of Novo Mesto

Another institution from our top universities in Slovenia is the University of Novo Mesto. It started with 4 faculties coming together and aims to serve as a vital institution for higher education. Located in Novo Mesto, Slovenia, it received accreditation from the National Agency for Quality in Higher Education in 2017. The university’s mission is centered on providing quality education and cultivating practical skills to navigate an ever-changing society.

Faculties at the University

Comprising various faculties, the University of Novo Mesto offers diverse opportunities for students.

Economics and Informatics Faculty integrates informatics and computer science with management and business, preparing graduates for success in various sectors.
Business and Management Sciences Faculty focuses on environmental protection, responsible spatial and resource management, and the overall operation of economic entities.
Health Sciences Faculty adapts to the evolving healthcare landscape, offering accredited study programs to become a knowledge center in the field.
Mechanical Engineering Faculty emphasizes technology and mechanical engineering, producing sought-after professionals in the Slovenian industry.

Mission of the University

With a commitment to excellence and a global perspective, the University of Novo Mesto strives to prepare students for success in a dynamic world.

The University of Novo Mesto actively engages in international cooperation, participating in the European Higher Education and Research area. It fosters connections with universities across Europe, promoting inter-institutional and international exchanges for students, staff, and researchers.

The university, through its various faculties, encourages members to associate with other specialized higher education institutions. Overall, the University of Novo Mesto is dedicated to providing a well-rounded education and global exposure to its students.