Place guarantee to ECEC

There is no legal guarantee to a place in early childhood education and care (ECEC) in Montenegro. However, increasing participation in early childhood education and care (ECEC) is one of the objectives of the Education Reform Strategy 2025 - 2035.

In cases where demand exceeds available capacity, enrolment is prioritized according to criteria defined by preschool institutions, which may include the child’s age, socio-economic status, and parental-employment status. Waiting lists may be established in urban areas with higher demand. The Government has adopted measures aimed at expanding infrastructure and increasing the number of available places in order to improve overall participation in early childhood education and care (ECEC).

The network of preschool institutions consists of 24 public and 35 private institutions. Private providers are mainly located in larger urban areas. 

Access to preschool education is guaranteed under equal conditions to all children. Discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, disability, language, religion or socio-economic background is prohibited by the Law on Preschool Education and Upbringing.

According to national data, participation rates in early childhood education and care have been increasing in recent years. The enrolment rate is significantly higher for children aged 3 to 6, while participation of children under the age of 3 remains comparatively low. Increasing participation, particularly among younger children and vulnerable groups, remains a key policy objective.

According to data from the Montenegrin Education Information System (MEIS), 26,786 children were enrolled in preschool institutions in the 2025/2026 school year (14,010 boys and 12,766 girls), with more than 96% attending public institutions.

Affordability

Public funding covers approximately 80% of the total cost of preschool education. Parents contribute through fees, which amount to approximately 50 EUR per month for full-day programmes and 25 EUR per month for half-day programmes.

Reduced fees are available for single parents (50% reduction), while full cost coverage is provided for children without parental care, children from low-income families and other vulnerable groups, through social welfare services.

Fees in private preschool institutions are set independently by providers and vary depending on operational costs.