Study programs for obtaining education levels and higher education diplomas are aligned with the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). The scope of the study program that is carried out in one study year is 60 (ECTS) credits.

In accordance with the new Law on Higher Education programs of the first cycle (basic studies) can be realized as three-year (180 ECTS) or four-year (240 ECTS).

The programs of the first cycle can be organized as integrated basic and master's programs of 300 and 360 ECTS. Persons who obtain a diploma by completing integrated undergraduate and master's studies have the right to directly enroll in doctoral studies.

Admission requirements

Persons who have acquired the appropriate level of education required to reach sub-level IV-1 of the National Qualifications Framework are eligible to enroll in basic academic and applied studies.

The enrollment in studies is conducted on the basis of:
1) general accomplishment at the end of individual classes for obtaining the IV-1 sublevel of the National Qualifications Framework;
2) the results achieved at the external matriculation or professional exam;
3) acquired success in two third and fourth grade subjects that are important for continuing education;
4) success in national or international competitions in subjects that are important for continuing education; and
5) "Luča" diploma.

An entrance exam may be introduced for enrollment in certain study programs. For persons with disabilities and members of the Roma and Egyptian population, the principle of affirmative action is implemented when enrolling in a study program.

The matriculation or professional exam is evaluated with at least 15% of the total number of points that are obtained during enrollment by evaluating all the mentioned criteria. A candidate without a high school diploma can be enrolled in professional-art study programs of basic studies at faculties and art academies if he passes the entrance exam in accordance with the abovementioned Law.

The Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation (hereafter: the Ministry) prescribes the detailed conditions and criteria, the method and procedure for enrolling in the first year of basic academic and applied studies.

A foreigner has the right to enroll in a study programs in Montenegro under the same conditions as Montenegrin citizens, in accordance with this Law and the statute of the institution.

The student and the institution conclude a study contract, which regulates their mutual rights and obligations in more detail. Along with the study contract, students also sign declarations of compliance with the principles of academic ethics. The content of contracts for public institutions is determined by the Ministry.  The contract contains the institution's obligation to ensure the continuation and completion of education in the event of the institution or study program ceasing to operate.