International University of Sarajevo (IUS)

Medical Studies at IUS Sarajevo

The International University of Sarajevo (IUS) offers a six-year medical programme leading to the M.D. degree. The programme is conducted entirely in English and is run in collaboration with the Turkish University of Health Sciences. Upon graduation, students receive two degrees: one from IUS and one from the Turkish University of Health Sciences — both internationally recognised.

The university is located in Ilidža, a green residential suburb of Sarajevo approximately 12 km from the city centre. IUS holds ASIIN accreditation, which covers the quality standards of engineering, natural science and medical programmes at European level.

Important Note on Degree Recognition

Bosnia and Herzegovina is not a member of the European Union. Accordingly, the M.D. degree from IUS is not automatically recognised in Germany. An individual recognition procedure under § 3 BÄO (Federal Medical Licensing Act) is required. Medschool Experts advises applicants to clarify recognition prospects in detail before enrolling.

Admission & Finances

Admission to IUS Sarajevo is based on a personal interview; no entrance examination in natural sciences is required. Three separate admission quotas exist: one for domestic Bosnian students, one for Turkish nationals (under the university partnership), and one for international applicants. A Fachhochschulreife (vocational baccalaureate) is accepted as a qualifying school-leaving certificate.

Tuition fees for international students are €13,750 per year. Living costs in Sarajevo are modest; students can generally manage on approximately €600 per month for accommodation, food, and everyday expenses.

Studies & Recognition

The six-year M.D. programme follows a standard structure with pre-clinical and clinical phases. Teaching is entirely in English. The dual-degree partnership with the Turkish University of Health Sciences means that graduates hold two internationally recognised medical degrees simultaneously.

Because Bosnia and Herzegovina is outside the EU/EEA, the degree is not automatically recognised in Germany or other EU states. German applicants must apply for individual recognition under § 3 BÄO. Medschool Experts strongly recommends obtaining detailed legal advice on the recognition pathway before committing to this programme.

Campus & Student Life

IUS is situated in Ilidža, a quiet and well-connected suburb of Sarajevo. The city of Sarajevo itself offers a rich cultural mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences, with a lively café and restaurant scene, affordable prices, and a welcoming student community. Living costs are among the lowest in the Western Balkans, making Sarajevo an attractive destination for budget-conscious medical students.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the IUS degree recognised in Germany?

No — not automatically. Bosnia and Herzegovina is not an EU member state. Graduates must apply for individual recognition under § 3 BÄO. The outcome depends on individual circumstances and cannot be guaranteed.

What is the dual-degree arrangement?

IUS cooperates with the Turkish University of Health Sciences. Graduates receive an M.D. from IUS and a simultaneous degree from the Turkish university — two internationally recognised credentials.

Is an entrance test required?

No. Admission is based on a personal interview. No natural science entrance examination is required.

Is Fachhochschulreife accepted?

Yes. A Fachhochschulreife is accepted as a qualifying school-leaving certificate for admission.

What are the tuition fees?

International students pay €13,750 per year. Living costs in Sarajevo are approximately €600 per month.