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1. GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT EDUCATION PROGRAMMES

What types of adult education programmes does Obrtničko učilište provide?

Obrtničko učilište provides vocational training, professional development and various non-formal programmes for developing specific skills. A detailed list, with descriptions and entry requirements, is available on our website.

Are your programmes approved and recognised?

Formal programmes are delivered with approval from the Ministry of Science, Education and Youth and other competent authorities. On completion, learners receive an official document (an education certificate or a certificate of completion) that can be recorded in the electronic employment record and is recognised in Croatia's labour market under applicable regulations. Non-formal programmes overseen by the Ministry of Labour, Pension System, Family and Social Policy, or another competent ministry depending on the sector, conclude with a certificate of completion.

What is the difference between vocational training, professional development and specialist vocational development?

Vocational training provides basic knowledge and practical skills needed for simpler tasks in a particular field.

Professional development is intended for people who already have a profession or experience and want to extend or deepen their existing expertise and competencies in that field.

Specialist vocational development is a higher level of professional development focused on advanced, specialised and more complex professional competencies, often for more demanding or specific work.

Is there an age limit for enrolment?

There is no upper age limit. Programmes are intended for adults who want to acquire knowledge or improve existing skills.

The minimum age and other entry requirements are defined separately for each programme according to its demands.

What previous education is required for enrolment?

Requirements depend on the programme. Completed primary education is sufficient for most vocational training programmes, while professional development programmes require specified secondary education. Exact requirements are listed for each programme.

Do you recognise prior learning and work experience?

Yes. Previously acquired knowledge, skills and experience, such as earlier education, non-formal learning and work experience, may be recognised. Documentation and/or assessment of learning outcomes may allow a shorter programme or exemptions from some teaching content.

How long do education programmes last?

Duration depends on the programme type and teaching hours. Vocational training and shorter professional development programmes usually last several months; specialist vocational development may take longer, depending on the curriculum.

Are classes in person or online?

Delivery depends on the programme. Some programmes take place in classrooms and workshops, while others are online or blended, for example online theory and in-person practice, according to what is possible and required. The delivery mode is stated for each programme.

Do you help learners find placements or employment?

For programmes with practical placements, we help connect learners with employers and organise practice. We also share information about vacancies and employment opportunities when available.

2. ENROLMENT, DOCUMENTS AND CLASS ARRANGEMENTS

How can I apply for an education programme?

You can apply by email or in person at Obrtničko učilište. We will then contact you to check that you meet the entry requirements and agree the next steps.

Which documents do I need to enrol?

Usually you need an identity card and evidence of previous education, such as school certificates or a diploma. Some programmes also require an occupational medicine certificate. The exact list is provided in the instructions you receive before enrolment.

When does enrolment take place?

Enrolment takes place several times a year or continuously, depending on the programme and group formation. Current enrolment dates are published on the website and social media.

What time are classes held?

Classes are usually held in afternoons, evenings and at weekends to accommodate employed learners. The exact timetable is provided before the programme starts.

How large are the groups?

Group size depends on the programme. We aim to work in smaller groups to support quality, an individual approach and sufficient practical work for each learner.

Do I receive a certificate after completing the programme?

Yes. Successful completion of a formal programme leads to an official document (an education certificate or a certificate of completion) recorded in the electronic employment record. For non-formal programmes, Obrtničko učilište issues a completion certificate.

3. FEES AND PAYMENT METHODS WITHOUT VOUCHERS

How much does a programme cost?

The price depends on the programme type and duration. Current prices are published alongside each programme, and details are also available by email or telephone.

Can I pay in instalments?

Yes. Tuition fees can usually be paid in several instalments, for example monthly, under Obrtničko učilište's internal rules. Instalment amounts and payment deadlines are stated in the education contract.

Are discounts available?

Obrtničko učilište may offer discounts, for example for early applications, unemployed learners, several members of one family, or multiple learners from the same institution or employer. Detailed conditions are published with programmes or in the applicable price list.

4. HZZ VOUCHERS — GENERAL INFORMATION

What is an HZZ education voucher?

An HZZ voucher is a financial instrument of the Croatian Employment Service for funding or co-funding adult education in green, digital and other in-demand skills. It allows a learner to attend a selected programme with no personal contribution or with only a minimal contribution towards the cost.

Which Obrtničko učilište programmes can I take with a voucher?

Vouchers can only be used for programmes listed in the HZZ Catalogue of Skills and Programmes. You can filter the catalogue by education provider or contact us to check which of our programmes currently accept voucher applications.

Who can use an HZZ education voucher?

The source states that vouchers may be awarded to unemployed and employed people aged 15 or over who are registered with HZZ. It excludes school pupils, students, most pension recipients with certain exceptions, some foreign workers, and employees of state and public services involved in delivering voucher-funded education.

How many vouchers can I use?

The source states that one education voucher can be used through the Moj vaučer system. It is therefore important to choose a programme that fits your career development plans.

Can I use a voucher if I am employed?

Yes. Employed people can use vouchers, but they must be registered with HZZ as other jobseekers or under the appropriate jobseeker status.

Does the voucher cover the full programme price?

The voucher covers costs up to the amount HZZ sets for the skill or programme. If the programme price matches that amount, the learner pays nothing. If the price is higher, the difference may need to be paid; this is clearly specified in the offer and contract.

Can I receive travel reimbursement or financial assistance?

HZZ may pay financial assistance and travel costs to unemployed voucher users in proportion to attendance, under the applicable decision on these amounts. HZZ pays the learner directly, not the college.

5. HZZ VOUCHERS — APPLICATION PROCESS

Must I be registered with HZZ to use a voucher?

Yes. You must be registered with HZZ as unemployed or as a jobseeker if you are employed and want to use its services. Registration can be completed in person or online.

What are the requirements for submitting a voucher application?

You need to: (1) be registered with HZZ, (2) have an account on Burza rada, (3) use the e-Građani service, and (4) prepare a CV and an offer from your chosen education provider.

How do I apply for a voucher?

Applications are submitted exclusively through the Moj vaučer application on the HZZ website. Sign in through e-Građani, enter the requested information, upload the required documents such as your CV and the college's offer, and submit the application.

Where can I see all programmes available with a voucher?

All programmes available for voucher funding or co-funding are listed in the HZZ Catalogue of Skills and Programmes. You can filter by county, location, education provider and online delivery availability.

How long does a voucher application take to process?

The source states that HZZ processes an application within 10 working days of submission. You then receive a notification in Moj vaučer indicating approval or rejection, with an explanation.

Can I get help choosing a programme and completing the application?

Yes. HZZ career guidance advisers offer individual counselling, which you can request in Moj vaučer using the Zatražite usmjeravanje option. Obrtničko učilište can also explain programme content and prepare an offer for your selected programme.

6. HZZ VOUCHERS – PARTICIPANT OBLIGATIONS AND WORKING WITH OBRTNIČKO UČILIŠTE

What are my obligations after receiving a voucher and enrolling?

You must attend classes regularly, complete assignments, examinations and practical work, and finish the programme within the required period. Details are provided at the start and in the education contract.

What if I withdraw after my voucher has been approved?

Withdrawal without justified grounds may have consequences, such as being unable to use another voucher and, in some cases, having to repay part of the funding under HZZ's general conditions. Consult your HZZ adviser and Obrtničko učilište before withdrawing.

Who checks whether I meet programme entry requirements?

Obrtničko učilište must check entry requirements, such as previous education and medical fitness, before issuing an offer. Issuing an offer confirms that you meet that programme's entry requirements.

When and how do I receive an offer from Obrtničko učilište?

After you tell us which programme you wish to take with a voucher and provide basic information, including education, contact details and any necessary certificates, we prepare an offer. It includes the programme title, duration, delivery mode and total price. You upload the offer to Moj vaučer.

Can I change programme or provider after submitting a voucher application?

Changes after submission depend on HZZ rules and the application's status. Generally, changing programme or provider requires withdrawing or stopping the existing application and starting a new one after consulting an HZZ adviser.

Can I continue my education after a voucher-funded programme?

Yes. Completing a programme can support further education if you meet its entry requirements. The source states that a voucher can only be used once, so further education is usually funded privately or from other sources.

Who can answer further questions about HZZ vouchers?

For official information about voucher conditions and rules, contact HZZ at vauceri.hzz.hr. For questions about our programmes, dates and offers, contact Obrtničko učilište by email, telephone or in person.

Didn't find your answer?

Call us on +385 1 4826 012 or email us at info@obrtnicko-uciliste.hr. Radno vrijeme: Monday – Friday, 8:00 – 16:00.