Studying in Trnava
Trnava is one of the education centers of Slovakia: 2 universities with faculties and study programs. Full-time study in Slovak at public institutions is free, including for Ukrainians with protection status.
Universities in Trnava 2
Student life in Trnava
An approximate monthly student budget in Trnava:
Estimated monthly costs for a student living away from home. A dormitory (~€90–130) is significantly cheaper than renting a room; proximity to Bratislava keeps housing prices higher than in smaller cities. Exact prices depend on the university and year – check before moving. · Source: Numbeo — Trnava
Studying in Trnava for foreigners
Trnava is one of Slovakia's oldest university cities: the first university was founded here in 1635, and the city was nicknamed the "Slovak Rome" for its many churches and long academic tradition. Today, Trnava has two state universities, and its compact historical center and proximity to Bratislava (about 45 km) make it a convenient city for studying.
- Trnava University (Trnavská univerzita) is a classic university with faculties of law, philosophy, education, theology, and health care; it carries on the tradition of the historical university founded in 1635.
- University of St. Cyril and Methodius (Univerzita sv. Cyrila a Metoda) is a younger university, founded in 1997, strong in mass media, marketing communication, and social sciences.
The educational landscape of Trnava is shaped by two universities with very different characters. Trnava University maintains a classic profile: law, philosophy, education, theology, and health sciences – a strong humanities school with a long tradition. The University of St. Cyril and Methodius (UCM), on the other hand, is more modernly oriented: mass media, marketing communication, social, and natural sciences. This contrast offers applicants a choice rare for a small city – from law to working with media – without having to move to the capital.
The city itself is compact and walkable: the historical center with dozens of churches, for which Trnava was nicknamed the "Slovak Rome," can be explored on foot in fifteen minutes. Student life is concentrated around these few streets – cafes, libraries, and dormitories are located nearby, so there's no need to waste time and money on long commutes. The atmosphere is rather calm and "cozy" than noisy: it's a city where you quickly start recognizing faces. For those who miss the scale, Bratislava is always nearby.
The housing situation is twofold. A place in a dormitory is relatively affordable here – approximately from ~€90 per month at UCM to ~€130 at Trnava University – but, as always, there are fewer places than applicants. Renting a room is more expensive than in the eastern part of the country because the proximity to Bratislava drives up prices; some students even commute daily from the capital by train because of this. However, the actual living expenses in Trnava for food and daily needs are lower than in the capital, and student discounts on ZSSK trains make regional travel cheap.
Frequently asked questions
What universities are in Trnava?+
Two state universities: Trnava University (law, humanities, education, theology, health care) and the University of St. Cyril and Methodius (mass media, marketing, social and natural sciences).
Is it convenient to get to Bratislava from Trnava?+
Yes, the cities are about 45 km apart, and trains run frequently – the journey usually takes about 30–40 minutes, so some errands can be done in the capital.
How much does housing cost for a student in Trnava?+
The cheapest option is a dormitory: approximately from ~€90 per month at UCM and about ~€130 at Trnava University for a bed in a room. Renting a room in an apartment is more expensive – about €250–320, because the proximity to Bratislava keeps prices high. You should apply for a dormitory right after admission, as there are fewer places than applicants.
To live in Trnava or commute from Bratislava?+
Both options are possible: the train between the cities takes about 30–40 minutes, so some people commute daily from the capital. However, living directly in Trnava is usually cheaper than renting in the capital and saves hours on commuting. If you have already settled in Bratislava – daily commutes make sense; if not – renting in Trnava itself is often more advantageous.
Is it easy for a student to find a part-time job in Trnava?+
Yes, for a small city, there are many opportunities: in and around Trnava, there is a car plant (Stellantis/PSA) with a network of suppliers, warehouses, logistics, and retail, which regularly look for people for part-time jobs. Plus, a half-hour train ride away is the Bratislava job market. Basic Slovak is sufficient for many part-time jobs.
How much does it cost a student to live in Trnava?+
Roughly 525–800 €/month depending on housing. A student dorm (internát) from about 55 €/month cuts the budget a lot; renting a room is the most expensive item. Transport with a student travel pass is around 25 €/month.
Is the study free?+
Full-time study in Slovak at public universities is free — this also applies to Ukrainians with protection status. You pay for the part-time form, for programs taught in English and for private institutions.
Is it easy to get a place in a student dorm?+
There are usually fewer places than applicants, so you apply for a dorm right after you are admitted. The alternative is sharing a rented room with other students.
Questions about studying? Ask the community
Advice on admission, student dorms, scholarships and diploma recognition — from people who have already been through it, in our Telegram channel.
Subscribe