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Prva Gimnazija Varazdin

Croatia, Varazdin

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The school at a glance
Instructs in Croatian, English
Fees €600 - 7,200
Ages 16 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 747
Type Co-educational
Opened 1636
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum
Taught languages Croatian, English, German, French, Latin
Typical class size 22
Strengths STEM, Languages, Visual and Creative Arts
Clubs Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Leadership and Professional
Stages Secondary School, Sixth Form, Senior Secondary School
Introduction

Prva gimnazija Varaždin offers a rich blend of Croatian national programmes and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Students choose among General Gymnasium, Natural Sciences and Mathematics Gymnasium, and Language Gymnasium, with a bilingual English/Croatian option for key subjects. The IB DP is taught in English, with six subjects plus TOK, EE, and CAS, providing a global context within the Croatian education system. The school also supports the German and Austrian language diploma exams and prepares students for the German language diploma (DSD), reflecting strong language pathways from early years. Facilities cover 7,600 square metres across historic and modern wings, including 29 old classrooms and 18 new classrooms with nine laboratories, plus a separate 1,200 m2 gym. A dedicated ICT Center of Excellence and Biology Center of Excellence connect students to European Talent Center initiatives. Extracurriculars span sciences, informatics, arts, and service, reinforcing collaborative, project-based learning and collaborations across partner schools.

The Essentials

Prva Gimnazija Varazdin has 747 pupils, typical class sizes of 22, instruction in Croatian, English.

Location
Located in Varaždin, Croatia, at Petra Preradovića 14, 42000 Varaždin. The school is a gymnasium (secondary school) offering general, science-mathematics, and language tracks, and it also offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

Stages
Four-year program (I–IV) within the national gimnazija framework. Programs include General Gymnasium, Natural Sciences and Mathematics Gymnasium (Program A/B), and Language Gymnasium. The school also teaches the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

Type
Gymnasium (high school).

Additional learning support
The school provides a specialist pedagogical-psychological service, including a school counselor and a school psychologist.

Country affiliation
Croatia

School day structure
The school operates four grade levels I–IV. The first foreign language is the continuation of the language learned in primary school; German and English are available, and French may be chosen as a second foreign language in General and Language Gymnasia. In the B program (Natural Sciences and Mathematics Gymnasium) only one foreign language is mandatory, with a second language available via elective courses. In the Language Gymnasium, a third foreign language may be studied instead of Physics, Chemistry or Biology in the 3rd and 4th years. All first-year students are offered elective German to prepare for the German language diploma. In the General Gymnasium with subjects taught in a foreign language, Croatian-English bilingual instruction is provided in selected subjects. Weekly hours total 32 in Year I and 33 in Years II–IV for the general program, with similar totals in the bilingual format.
Diving Deeper

Food Options
The school operates a school kitchen with an appropriate offering of meals and beverages; an alternative is organizing breaks so students can consume food brought from home. A contract with a service provider is in place when possible.

Governance and Ownership
The school is a public institution of secondary education established by act of founding and a decision of the Ministry of Education and Sports. It is governed by a School Board with members from the founder, teachers and associates, workers, and parents.
Fees

Annual tuition at Prva Gimnazija Varazdin ranges from EUR 600 to EUR 7,200 for 2026/27.

Application fees

- No application fee is charged for entry to regular programmes or to the IB Diploma Programme. Applicants complete and submit the free application form and required documents as described in the published enrolment/ admissions materials.

Tuition / annual charges (by programme and year group)

- General national programmes (regular gymnasium tracks): no annual student contribution for most programmes (annual contribution shown as EUR 0.00). Non‑EU candidates are charged an annual tuition amount of EUR 600.00.

- General programme with a group of subjects taught in a foreign language (Opća gimnazija uz skupinu predmeta na stranom jeziku): an annual student contribution is charged (EUR 600.00). Non‑EU candidates are charged EUR 600.00 annually.

- International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP): annual tuition for the first year of the DP (enrolment into 3rd grade) is EUR 1,920 for citizens of the Republic of Croatia and EU citizens, and EUR 7,200 for other foreign nationals. A one‑time fee for educational tools and platforms is payable at the start of the IB year (amount not specified in the enrolment announcement). The school supplies each enrolled IB student with textbooks, a graphing (graphic) calculator and, where needed, a laptop for the duration of the programme.

Per‑term / instalment breakdown and billing schedule

- Regular programmes: the published notices list these charges as annual student contributions (annual amount). Specific instalment schedules are not provided in the general enrolment announcement; payments are treated as yearly contributions unless alternative arrangements are published. Non‑EU annual tuition for regular programmes is EUR 600.00.

- IB DP (2026/27 intake): the published enrolment announcement specifies annual tuition (EUR 1,920 domestic/EU; EUR 7,200 other foreign nationals) and states that a one‑time fee for required educational tools/platforms is paid at the beginning of the school year. The enrolment materials do not give a per‑term amount in the announcement for 2026/27; therefore billing is stated as an annual tuition charge with an additional one‑time start‑of‑year tools/platforms fee.

Boarding / residential fees

- Boarding is not listed as a service or charged in the school's enrolment and programme notices. The school does not publish boarding (internat) fees; no boarding accommodation fees apply at Prva gimnazija Varaždin in the published enrolment documents.

Other costs and typical additional charges

- Educational tools / platforms (IB DP): a one‑time fee is payable at the start of the IB year for the digital tools and platforms used in teaching (amount not specified in the enrolment announcement). The school provides textbooks, a graphing calculator and, if required, a laptop for each IB student.

- Textbooks and course materials (regular programmes): textbooks and required materials are listed per grade; the school organises a used‑book exchange and lists required textbooks and workbooks for each year. Costs for individual new workbooks or optional materials depend on what parents choose to purchase; the school's materials list and used‑book exchange are the usual means to obtain them.

- Extracurricular trips and multi‑day excursions: separate offers and cost proposals for multi‑day school excursions are published for each year and are billed separately when organised (parents are informed of the selected provider and the trip cost).

Refunds and cancellations

- No specific refund policy for tuition or the one‑time educational tools/platform fee is published in the enrolment announcements. Refund or cancellation terms are not specified in the published enrolment documents for 2026/27; where refunds or contract‑termination terms apply they would be set out in any formal payment agreement or separate administrative guidance issued to enrolled families.

Fee payment options and billing details

- Bank transfer is available; the school's published contact block includes the school IBAN for payments: HR5123600001102718247. The enrolment materials and public documents do not list card‑payment or online card gateway options; payment by bank transfer to the school account is the documented method shown on the school's public contact/administrative information. Parents should use the school's stated account details when paying any formally invoiced tuition or contributions.

Summary of key numeric figures (2026/27 where published)

- IB DP (3rd grade / first year of DP): EUR 1,920.00 per year (Citizens of Republic of Croatia and EU). EUR 7,200.00 per year (other foreign nationals). One‑time educational tools/platforms fee payable at start of year (amount not specified). Textbooks, graphing calculator and laptop (if needed) provided.

- Regular national programmes: student contribution listed as EUR 0.00 per year for most tracks; where a programme includes an increased cost component (e.g., group of subjects in a foreign language) the annual student contribution is EUR 600.00. Non‑EU candidates: EUR 600.00 per year for regular programmes (where indicated).

(End of fee overview.)
Academics

Prva Gimnazija Varazdin teaches IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum for students aged 16 to 18.

Curriculum
National programmes: Opća gimnazija (General Gymnasium), Prirodoslovno-matematička gimnazija (Natural Sciences and Mathematics Gymnasium) and jezična gimnazija (Language Gymnasium). The first foreign language continues the language studied in primary school. German and English are offered; French can be chosen as a second foreign language in the General and Language programmes. In Program B of the Natural Sciences and Mathematics Gymnasium (only one compulsory foreign language), students may study another foreign language through elective classes. In the Language Gymnasium, students may choose to study a third foreign language instead of Physics, Chemistry or Biology in year 3 and 4. All first-year students are offered German as an elective to prepare for the German language diploma. Upon enrolment, students choose Ethics or Religion. General Gymnasium with a group of subjects taught in a foreign language (bilingual instruction) is available; eight or seven subjects are taught in Croatian and English, including History, Geography, Art, Ethics, Chemistry, Biology, Physics and Informatics. The school also offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) which is taught in English except language subjects.

Higher Education Progression
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is taught in English, except in language subjects. Students take six subjects (three at Higher Level and three at Standard Level) plus the core elements Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service. The Diploma is recognised in Croatia as equivalent to the state matura at level A, giving full access to Croatian universities, and is accepted by more than 5,000 universities in over 100 countries.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school has an Inclusion Policy that aims to increase access and engagement in learning for all students by identifying and removing barriers. Inclusion is an organizational paradigm that involves collaboration, mutual respect, support and problem solving across the whole school community. The policy describes learning support requirements, how learning needs are identified and assessed, and how support is provided. It covers recording and reporting on attainment for students with access arrangements and describes inclusive assessment arrangements. The school maintains an Inclusion Committee with defined roles and responsibilities to support learning diversity and coordinate supports. The aim is to foster an inclusive, culturally aware environment that values learner variability and supports every student to reach their potential.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
The school provides learning support and access arrangements for students with learning differences. Access arrangements (AR) are identified early, assessed, and provided for according to the Inclusion Policy. The school records and reports attainment of students with AR and offers inclusive assessment arrangements (IAA) during preparation and examinations. An individualized learning plan is created for students with AR and is developed in consultation between the student, teachers, the school psychologist, the Inclusion Committee and parents, with a written summary of strengths, interests, needs and access arrangements for each subject. Learning plans are reviewed and updated when needed, and at least annually for all students with AR. Documentation for IAA is coordinated with IB and school staff to ensure appropriate accommodations are provided.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
IB Diploma Programme in PGV is provided in English, with English having the internal status of the official language for delivering and assessing programme materials; final exams are provided in English. The exceptions are the mother tongue (Croatian for the majority of students) or other Language B (German or French). The school emphasizes language learning across mother tongue, host country language and other languages, and has teachers of additional languages (including German, French and Latin) to meet student needs. The language policy describes practices to support learners learning a language other than their mother tongue, with a focus on developing communicative competence and intercultural understanding. The school's approach aligns with IB standards, promoting multilingual learning across programs.

Mental Wellbeing
The school prioritizes students' mental well-being and provides support through its learning support framework. In times of extraordinary circumstances, including the COVID-19 pandemic, staff are vigilant to students' responses and provide flexible, supportive approaches for those facing mental health challenges. The school provides access to school counselors, pedagogy and psychology services as part of the student support system, and teachers are encouraged to monitor and respond to emerging well-being needs. The Inclusion Policy describes arrangements to promote well-being and ensure access to learning, with annual review of learning plans and accommodations as needed. The IB learner profile's emphasis on balance reinforces the importance of well-being in student development.

Safeguarding
The school has safeguarding protocols, including a Protocol for handling sexual violence. A School Safety Team has been appointed to oversee safeguarding and security matters. There are procedures for reporting safeguarding concerns and protecting student rights, including internal reporting of irregularities, with clear responsibilities for staff, students and parents. The school maintains confidentiality and follows established processes for safeguarding and rights protections as part of its governance documents.
Parent Experience

History
Prva gimnazija Varaždin traces its origins to 1636 when the Society of Jesus founded a gymnasium in Varaždin during the Counter-Reformation. A growing student body led to a new building east of the Jesuit church in 1659, and the gymnasium moved to the Preradovića Street building in 1870, where it remains today. The school has long been a center of cultural and educational activity, shaping culture and science in Varaždin and Croatia and advancing Europe's educational ties. Today the school offers three national programmes (general, scientific and languages), a bilingual English/Croatian programme, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, with German and Austrian language diploma exams also available. It participates in Council of Europe projects and European Commission programmes and is part of UNESCO Associated Schools; it is an ECDL test center and hosts the ICT Center of Excellence and Biology Center of Excellence.

Community
Extracurricular activities form a central part of school life. The school offers a range of groups and activities, including Music Group, Theatron Drama Group, Journalists, Literary Group, Debate Club, Sprachdiplom Workshop, Cultural Heritage Workshop, Protection of School Heritage Workshop, Protection of Natural Heritage Workshop, Ecology Group, Exploration Group, Photo Group, Film Group, Programming Group, and a Sports Club. These groups allow students to express their talents, collaborate with peers, and participate in cultural and sports events.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
Vijeće roditelja is established as the Parents' Council, composed of representatives from the parents of students from each class. The PTA was constituted at its first meeting on 4 October 2022 and comprises 34 members elected by class parent meetings. The council met at least twice in the 2022/2023 school year; the second meeting included presentations on Erasmus accreditation, ChatGPT and artificial intelligence, and the national matura results, and parents discussed organizational issues. The PTA operates electronically throughout the year, with regular updates to parents and opportunities for comments and suggestions. It functions under Article 191 of the Statute to strengthen the relationship among students, teachers, and parents. Ivana Godec-Vinceković serves as president of the PTA. The school provides a list of PTA members representing many classes, for example Linda Novačić (1.a) and Martina Jagačić (1.b) among others.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
The Prva gimnazija Varaždin operates in a building that partially meets the needs of the 21st-century pedagogical standard. The total usable space is 7,600 square meters, with 3,500 m2 in the old section and 4,100 m2 in the newly built section under a public-private partnership. A separate 1,200 m2 gymnasium for physical education is located away from the main building. The school serves 748 students, and the new section fully supports educational quality, including creative and innovative work. The old part has undergone upgrades to raise the pedagogical standard, including upgrading chemistry and biology labs, roof repairs, façade improvements, and central heating reconstruction, with conservation- and energy-related projects funded by Varaždin County and related ministries.

Sports Facilities
A 1,200 square meter gymnasium for physical education is located away from the main building.

Academic Facilities
Classes are conducted in specialized classrooms and laboratories, all sized appropriately for the number of students per class. The old section contains 29 classrooms and three smaller cabinets; the extension adds 18 new classrooms, including 9 laboratories for physics, biology, chemistry, computer science, and related subjects. Shared spaces include a large entrance area, a library/reading room, multipurpose rooms, a dining hall, and changing rooms.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Extracurricular activities are offered across languages, natural sciences, informatics, sports, and creative and social activities. The activities emphasize collaboration, creativity, responsibility, and social engagement. Through volunteer and ambassador programs, students can actively participate in school life, contribute to the community, and develop transferable skills. Each activity is led by a qualified supervisor who helps students develop abilities and gain new experiences. Presentation of extracurricular activities is scheduled for September 17, 2026, in the school hall; come to meet the leaders, learn about the activities, and find the one that suits you.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
The school offers three national tracks: general gimnazija, prirodoslovno-matematička gimnazija, and jezična gimnazija. The first foreign language continues from the language studied in primary school; German and English are available, and French can be chosen as a second foreign language in the general and language programs. In the B program of the science-mathematics track, students may study another foreign language through elective courses. In the language gimnazija program, students may choose a third foreign language instead of Physics, Chemistry, or Biology in the 3rd and 4th years. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) is offered, requiring six subjects plus the core (Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, and CAS). The school became an IB World School in April 2006 and began teaching the DP in September 2006. The DP comprises six subject groups across the curriculum and the core, with DP teachers involved in assessment.

Arts & Creative
Glazbena umjetnost (Music) and Likovna umjetnost (Visual Arts) are part of the curriculum in the general program. The school hosts a Literary-Scena group (LIT) as part of project activities. The school houses Centers of Excellence, including the Center of Excellence in Informatics and the Center of Excellence in Biology, which are linked to European Talent Center initiatives. In 2022 the school earned European Talent Point status and is part of the European Talent Support Network.

Cultural & Language
The first foreign language continues from the language studied in primary school; German and English are offered, and French is available as a second foreign language in the general and language gimnazija programs. In the language gimnazija, students may learn a third foreign language in place of Physics, Chemistry, or Biology in years 3–4. All first-year students have optional German language instruction as preparation for the German language diploma (DSD). The German language diploma (DSD) is offered, with the school serving as a preparation center for DSD; the DSD diploma is among the school's language offerings. The school participates in Erasmus+ projects and is part of Centers of Excellence, including Informatics and Biology, within the European Talent Center network, earning European Talent Point status in 2022. The school also collaborates with other Croatian and European schools for exchanges and joint activities.

Social & Hobbies
The school has a Student Council (Vijeće učenika) representing students from multiple classes; the 2024/2025 roster lists members across numerous sections. The Student Council plays a leading role in organizing humanitarian actions and activities, including CAS-related IB program projects. The school's project culture includes out-of-classroom activities and school-wide events supported by student involvement.

Community & Service
Community service and humanitarian actions are organized by the Student Council, with involvement in CAS activities as part of IB programs. The school emphasizes student-led community engagement and collaboration with external partners; initiatives are documented in school reports and student council materials.

Leadership & Professional
Student leadership is exercised through the Student Council, which includes members from various classes and IB participants. The council coordinates humanitarian projects and school-wide initiatives, fostering leadership and civic responsibility among students. Teachers and IB program staff also contribute to leadership development through CAS and project-based activities.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Tjelesna i zdravstvena kultura (Physical education) is offered with 2 hours per week in each year (I–IV). This schedule is consistent across the general, science, and language tracks.
Languages

Language Provision
Languages taught include Croatian, English, and German. Croatian A Literature and English A Literature are offered; English B and German B are taught as Language Acquisition, with HL/SL options. The school also offers the German Language Diploma (DSD I and II) for German proficiency. All IB students study their own language.

Bilingual Teaching
Yes. The IB Diploma Programme includes Croatian A Literature and English A Literature (Group 1) and English A, English B, and German B (Group 2: Language Acquisition). The curriculum supports study in multiple languages within the DP, with courses offered in Croatian, English, and German. This arrangement enables bilingual study across language-and-literature and language-acquisition strands.

Immersion Programs
German language immersion is supported through the German Language Diploma (DSD I and II), offered free of charge to students learning German as a foreign language. DSD I and DSD II are internationally recognized certificates issued by KMK, and the program is run in partnership with ZfA (Central Office for Foreign Education). The school provides optional German-language classes for the DSD and uses project-based approaches to develop language competencies.
Admissions

Admissions
0. Enrolment periods. The school conducts enrolment through two annual announcements: the summer announcement published in June and the autumn announcement published in August. Each announcement is published on the school website at least five working days before the enrolment begins. The summer enrolment is the main period and is typically carried out over three days. The autumn period is held only if free places remain after the summer period; if all places are filled, the autumn period is not held.

Waitlist
If the number of candidates who meet the admission conditions exceeds the number of available places, the admission committee scores candidates according to published criteria and forms a ranked list. The criteria include grades in key subjects (mother tongue, English, mathematics and relevant sciences), results of any entrance assessments, performance in the interview, and documented special achievements. The detailed point values are published in the enrolment announcement. The committee then publishes the ranked list with the points achieved, using personal passwords instead of names. Candidates ranked within the number of available places are admitted, and the list shows the admission threshold.
School Events
The school has not added events
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