The scholarships, granted by Croatia’s Central State Office for Croats Abroad, will enable participants from across the globe to attend language courses at universities in Zagreb, Split, Rijeka, Osijek and Pula during the 2026/27 academic year.
The programme is open to descendants of Croatian emigrants, members of Croatian minority communities in neighbouring countries and Croatian expatriates wishing to improve their language skills while reconnecting with their cultural heritage. In addition to tuition, scholarship recipients will receive financial support covering accommodation, meals and a monthly stipend, making it easier for participants to spend a semester studying in Croatia.
Officials said the initiative is designed not only to strengthen language proficiency among diaspora communities but also to encourage long-term cultural, educational and professional connections with the homeland.
Over the years, thousands of young people from Europe, North and South America, Australia and other parts of the world have taken part in the programme, with many later pursuing higher education, business opportunities or careers connected to Croatia.
The government considers engagement with the diaspora a strategic priority, viewing their communities abroad as an important bridge for promoting the country’s culture, economy and international presence while preserving national identity across generations.
