PhD studies are the third and the highest level of studies, that can be enrolled in after graduating from Master studies. Upon the completion of PhD studies, students acquire a PhD and additional 180 ECTS. Knowledge of a foreign language is mandatory when applying to PhD studies in Serbia.

The Academic Counseling Program administers PhD programs available at Central European University (CEU). In addition to that, every year the Belgrade Open School in partnership with the Open Society Foundations (OSF) announces an open competition for the Civil Society Scholar Awards. The competition is a part of the Open Society Foundations Scholarship Program. This program fosters international academic mobility in order for PhD students, academics and the faculty of higher education institutions to access resources necessary for their further professional development. This open competition supports innovative projects that enrich research, facilitate the exchange of ideas and help establish and build international networks.

Thanks to the activities within the Academic Counseling Program relating to the promotion of PhD programs and continuing professional development, more than 200 students have been given the opportunity to enroll in PhD studies abroad or provided with funds for research projects.