WHEN SHOULD I ARRIVE?
The Winter semester (first semester) at the University of Sarajevo runs from October to February, and the Summer semester (second semester) extends from the end of February to July. Both semesters begin with a Welcome Day and Orientation Program held one week prior to the official start of classes. Students enrolled in Bachelor (1st cycle) and Master (2nd cycle) programs who will be attending classes are expected to arrive before the start of the semester, while PhD students, trainees, and those engaged in research should coordinate their arrival with their assigned mentors. Participation in the Welcome Day and Orientation Program is highly recommended for all students, as it supports a smooth integration into academic and social life in Sarajevo. For the most accurate and updated semester dates and planned activities, students should consult the active Academic Calendar.
ACADEMIC CALENDAR
1st Winter semester 2025/2026 (October – February)
- Welcome Days: 29-30 September 2025 (followed by orientation at the host member unit)
- Classes start: 6 October 2025
- Duration: 15 weeks, physical presence expected
- Classes end: 16 January 2026
- Exams: end of January > mid-February 2026
- Expected end of mobility: 27 February 2026
2nd Summer semester 2025/2026 (March – July)
- Welcome Days: 26-27 February 2026 (followed by orientation at the host member unit)
- Classes start: 2 March 2026
- Duration: 15 weeks, physical presence expected
- Classes end: 12 June 2026
- Exams: end of June > mid-July 2026
- Expected end of mobility: 17 July 2026
Attendance: students of 1st, 2nd and integrated study cycles should start their mobility following the academic calendar. PhD students should agree on the dates of their visit with their host mentors.
HOLIDAYS
The UNSA does not have longer breaks like many European universities (Winter break, Christmas break, Spring break, etc.). The UNSA will be closed or not have organized classes during public and religious holidays throughout the year (please refer to the list below). International students can agree with their academic hosts to spend few days with their family during some important holidays (e.g. Christmas) as long as it will not interfere with their academic activities.
Public and religious holidays that affect the working time of the University of Sarajevo (following the academic calendar):
1st / Winter semester
- 25 November – B&H’s Statehood day (university is closed)
- 25 December– Catholic Christmas (no class activities)
- 01-02 January – New Year (university is closed)
- 07 January – Orthodox Christmas (no class activities)
2nd / Summer semester
- 01 March – B&H’s Independence day (university is closed)
- 20 March – Eid Ramadan (no class activities)
- April– Catholic and Orthodox Easter (no class activities)
- 01 & 02 May – International Labour Day (university is closed)
- 27 May – Eid al Adha (no class activities)
FIND YOUR BUDDY
The International Relations Office (IRO) at the University of Sarajevo offers the Buddy Program to help international students adjust to life in Sarajevo. Your Buddy is a local student volunteer who can support you in getting to know the city and university, assist you in settling in during your first days, and help you understand everyday life in Sarajevo. They can also answer practical questions about public transportation, shopping, or local customs, and introduce you to new people and student activities. If you’re interested in having a Buddy, simply let the IRO know, and we will do our best to match you with a local student from your faculty or study field. Once a Buddy is assigned, you will receive their contact details by email. Keep in mind that Buddies are volunteers—students just like you, many of whom have participated in Erasmus themselves—and they are there to help you feel welcome and supported during your stay.
CREATING LEARNING AGREEMENT
After sending and evaluating your application form, we have learned more about your interest in what you want to do during your mobility at the UNSA. Now, we must make it official. You do this by preparing an Erasmus+ learning agreement (or traineeship agreement) – an official document for mobility showing which subjects and/or activities you will perform at the University of Sarajevo. It will be sent to you in the confirmation email, but you can also download this document from https://international.unsa.ba/coming-as-exchange-students (scroll down until the part Evaluation). Please do it electronically and do not put your information by pen. Fill in the tables in the “before mobility” part (about a student, sending institution, receiving institution, table A, web link, level of language competence, table B, and signatory page). In the Welcome email you will be informed about your assigned academic coordinator and how to fill it in, so make sure the parts of receiving institution are filled in as shown in the table below:
| Receiving institution | Name | Faculty / department | Erasmus code (if applicable) | Address | Country | Contact person name, email, phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Sarajevo | Enter assigned UNSA unit (information is given in the Welcome email) | BA SARAJEV01 | Enter assigned UNSA unit (information is given in the Welcome email) | Bosnia and Herzegovina | Enter assigned academic coordinator (information is given in the Welcome email) |
In the table A, you need to enter subjects you want to follow at the UNSA unit/s (for traineeship, you enter activities you will perform based on what you got approved in the Application form). Please copy and paste selected subjects from the Application form (after confirming once more with our academic coordinator that subjects/activities are available) into the tables in the Learning agreement. Make sure to fill in all fields that are required.
| Table A: Before the mobility | Study Programme at the Receiving Institution Planned period of the mobility: from (enter the starting month and year) to (enter the ending month and year) | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Component code (if any) | Component title at the Receiving Institution (as indicated in the course catalogue) | Semester | Number of ECTS credits (or equivalent) to be awarded by the Receiving Institution upon successful completion | |
| Here you need to enter the module code, which is given in the Excel list. If you cannot find it, enter the assigned host unit. | Enter the title of the module from the Excel list as it is written there. | Make sure that the chosen module corresponds to the semester you plan to be in Sarajevo. | Each module in the Excel list has a corresponding ECTS, so enter that number. | |
| Total: Ensure that the total sum of chosen modules has between 20 and 30 ECTS as regulated by international mobility. | ||||
| Web link to the course catalogue at the Receiving Institution describing the learning outcomes: unless different, you can put https://international.unsa.ba/modules-in-english/ | ||||
Like in Table A, in the Table B you need to enter modules/subjects/activities from your home institution that are expected to be recognized based on the results achieved at the UNSA. You will need to prepare this table with your home coordinator. Also, on the signatory page, ensure the data entered in the Receiving institution are correct and the same as in the table above:
| Commitment | Name | Position | Date | Signature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Responsible person at the Receiving institution | Enter assigned academic coordinator (information is given in the Welcome email) | Enter assigned academic coordinator (information is given in the Welcome email) | Enter assigned academic coordinator (information is given in the Welcome email) |
Please note: before returning to us, remember to sign the document and have your home academic/Erasmus coordinator sign it, too. After completing the document, please send it back to the academic coordinator at UNSA you have been assigned to (keep us in cc, too).
What if you have selected to follow classes at two or more UNSA units?
We always recommend sticking to one unit that corresponds to your study field. However, if during the application phase (while preparing the application form), you were unable to collect enough ECTS from one unit and had to enter more than one units and the host academic coordinators approved it, you must correctly add units, coordinators, and modules from the Application form into the Learning Agreement. Although all member units are part of the same university, each unit/department has a different academic coordinator that evaluates, approves and signs the study proposal. The academic coordinator from one unit cannot agree and sign modules from another unit. So, instead of having two or more learning agreements for each UNSA unit, make sure that you prepare this document as explained. In this case, some tables in the learning agreement need to look like this:
| Receiving institution | Name | Faculty / department | Erasmus code (if applicable) | Address | Country | Contact person name, email, phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Sarajevo | Enter assigned UNSA unit 1 | BA SARAJEV01 | Enter assigned UNSA unit 1 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | Enter assigned academic coordinator 1 | |
| University of Sarajevo | Enter assigned UNSA unit 2 | BA SARAJEV01 | Enter assigned UNSA unit 2 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | Enter assigned academic coordinator 2 |
Similar, to the signatory page:
| Commitment | Name | Position | Date | Signature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Responsible person at the Receiving institution | Enter assigned academic coordinator 1 | Enter assigned academic coordinator 1 | Enter assigned academic coordinator 1 | ||
| Responsible person at the Receiving institution | Enter assigned academic coordinator 2 | Enter assigned academic coordinator 2 | Enter assigned academic coordinator 2 |
PLEASE NOTE: enrolment is not centralized. Selecting more than one unit also influences your enrolment process – e.g., if you decide to go to two (or more) units, you will need to enroll twice or more (which requires the purchase of two or more separate registration documents for the price of 15€/each and a double registration procedure). Enrolment and registration at each unit ensures that you will receive your transcript of records of that unit at the end. Without enrolment and registration, you will not be in the system that allows you to follow classes and get your results, which must be officially prepared and printed for your recognition at the home institution. This, and other possible reasons (time-clashing between classes on different units, units are spread across the city, non-centralized support) can influence the quality of your mobility at UNSA for which we recommend sticking to only one corresponding-to-your-home-field unit.
PREPARING DOCUMENTS
ARRIVING TO SARAJEVO
By Plane
For most of you, arrival to Sarajevo will likely be via Sarajevo International Airport. Please check available flight options. Major airlines well-connected to Sarajevo include Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, and Austrian Airlines. Additionally, low-cost carriers such as Ryanair and WizzAir operate flights to Sarajevo. Other airports in Banja Luka, Mostar, and Tuzla also offer connections to major European cities, primarily through Ryanair and WizzAir.
By Bus
Sarajevo has good bus connections to many regional and European cities. You can check available bus routes on the following websites:
The central Sarajevo Bus Station is located near the city center, and depending on your accommodation, you can reach your destination within 10-15 minutes by walking or taxi.
Transfer to the City Centre from the Airport
- Taxi App: Sarajevo has a local taxi app similar to Uber/Bolt. You can check it at MojTaxi. However, Uber and Bolt are not available in Sarajevo.
- By Bus: A direct bus line connects the airport to the city center. More information is available on the airport’s official website.
- By Taxi: Taxis are available at the airport exit. Depending on your destination, the estimated fare is 25-30 KM (~12-15 €).
- Important: As in many cities, airport taxis tend to charge tourists more. Ensure that the taxi meter is on and agree on the price range beforehand.
FINDING ACCOMMODATION
The University of Sarajevo does not offer student dormitories or staff accommodation. However, there are private student dormitories in Sarajevo, or you may choose to rent private housing, which is widely available throughout the city. The asigned Buddy or Erasmus Student Network (ESN) in Sarajevo is a great local resource—they can provide helpful information and guidance on available private student dorms or rental options tailored to your needs. For private accommodation, both students and staff can explore listings on platforms such as Airbnb, Booking.com, or the local classified site Olx.ba.
STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
If you are a student with special needs, we encourage you to contact us in advance so that we can assess your specific requirements and make sure the necessary support and accommodations are arranged to ensure a smooth and inclusive mobility experience in Sarajevo. The University of Sarajevo has an Office for Student Support (UPS) dedicated to assisting students and promoting an inclusive academic environment. This office works on developing policies and practices that support equal access to education and provide the necessary assistance throughout your studies. For more information or to request support, you can reach the office via email at: ured@unsa.ba
ENTERING B&H – REGULATING VISA AND RESIDENCE PERMIT
If you are coming to Bosnia and Herzegovina for educational purposes, here’s a straightforward guide to help you prepare:
- Passport: Ensure that your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Visa (if required): Check whether your nationality requires a visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina. If needed, apply well in advance, as the process may take up to two months. You need to be nominated way before given deadlines as the visa process can take up to 3 months, depending on the country.
- No Visa Needed: Citizens of certain countries can stay visa-free for up to 90 days. Make sure to check the latest visa regulations before traveling.
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina provides a list of countries whose citizens require a visa to enter and those who are visa-exempt. Please check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
- Once you arrive in Bosnia and Herzegovina, you must regulate your residence permit. For detailed instructions on this process, please refer to the Guide below.
Please read this Guidance on regulating your status in B&H.
UNSA CAMPUS TOUR
The International Relations Office (IRO) has launched a project aimed at creating a digital presentation of the University of Sarajevo’s member institutions. Through a short video or visual presentation of each faculty and academy, you will get an overview of where you can study, network, conduct research, and spend your mobility period. The UNSA Campus Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse academic environment and facilities available across our university even before arriving in Sarajevo.
➡️ YouTube
TESTIMONIALS FROM PREVIOUS STUDENTS
LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
At the University of Sarajevo, we do not require official language certificates for Erasmus+ exchange students. Instead, we ask for a confirmation from the home university coordinator that the student has sufficient knowledge of the language of instruction to successfully follow classes and communicate with professors and colleagues. The minimum required level is B1 according to the Common European Reference Framework (CEFR).
WELCOME DAY AND ORIENTATION PROGRAM
In line with best practices across European higher education institutions, the University of Sarajevo’s International Relations Office organizes a Welcome Day for all incoming international students. This event takes place one week before the start of classes and is designed to provide essential academic and practical information to help students settle in and navigate their mobility experience at the University of Sarajevo. During Welcome Day, students receive guidance on various topics, including life in Sarajevo, the history and key facts about the University, necessary arrival procedures, how to regulate the White Card and residence permit, enrollment and registration steps, and an overview of the academic calendar. Host academic coordinators from the respective faculties are also invited to the event, as they will serve as primary contacts for mobility-related matters such as signing required documents, assigning academic mentors, and organizing class schedules. Additionally, the Erasmus Student Network (ESN) Sarajevo and local Buddy students—many of whom have previously participated in Erasmus—are introduced. They are available to assist with accommodation and to help ensure that your first days in Sarajevo are smooth, engaging, and enjoyable.
ENROLMENT
Enrollment is a physical process which is done upon your arrival (there is no online enrollment, yet). It is mandatory to attend courses, conduct research, participate in group studies, and take exams. Registration also ensures that you are entered into the university system, allowing for the preparation of your Transcript of Records or Final report before your departure. The Incoming Student Guide provides guidance on getting required admission documents.
BOSNIAN LANGUAGE SCHOOL
The International Relations Office, in cooperation with the Faculty of Philosophy (Department of Bosnian Language and Literature), organizes a Bosnian Language School for incoming students throughout the semester.
The school is organized based on student interest. A survey is conducted by the International Relations Office, and if at least 10 students express interest, the course will be offered.
Course Details
| Course Type | Semester |
|---|---|
| Timetable | Agreed upon in the first class |
| Participants | Minimum 10 students |
| Commitment | Once enrolled, students must attend and participate until the end |
| Duration | 12 weeks (during the lecture periods: October–February and March–July) |
| Language Level | A1–A2 |
| ECTS Credits | 2 ECTS |
| Fees for Exchange Students | FREE |
For the most up-to-date information, please contact the International Relations Office. The Bosnian Language School and its fee structure are subject to review and may change depending on the available budget.