Studying in Romania is an attractive option for international students seeking European higher education and academic programs at different price levels. Romanian universities offer degrees in English, French, Romanian, German and Hungarian, covering medicine, engineering, computer science, business and the humanities.
Romania is a member of the European Union and the European Higher Education Area. Its universities use the European ECTS credit system. Popular student cities include Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Iași, Timișoara and Brașov.
Before applying, students should verify the institution, program accreditation and recognition of the qualification in the country where they intend to work or continue studying.
Potential advantages of studying in Romania include:
Wide selection of degree programs taught in English, French, Romanian, German, and Hungarian.
Public and private universities situated in vibrant cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Iași, Timișoara, and Brașov.
Globally respected degrees in medicine, dentistry, engineering, computer science, technology, and business.
Academic qualifications structured on the European ECTS credit framework, facilitating seamless credit transfer.
Relatively low living costs (~€600/month) and highly affordable student residence options (€60–€85/month).
Part-time work rights (up to 6 hrs/day), MFA government scholarships, Erasmus+ mobility, and university grants.
Degree structure and preparatory options across accredited Romanian institutions
Provides core academic grounding, combining lectures, laboratory work, seminars, and practical projects across various fields.
Specialized postgraduate study focusing on advanced research, professional practice, and thesis development.
Advanced research degree tailored to scientific investigation, dissertation defense, and academic publication.
Direct integrated degrees in Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Architecture, and Veterinary Medicine combining bachelor's and master's level training.
Romanian universities offer English- and French-taught programs alongside degrees delivered in Romanian. Applicants may need to provide a recognized language certificate (such as IELTS, TOEFL, or DELF) or pass an examination organized by the university. Students applying to Romanian-taught programs who do not speak the language can enroll in a 1-year Romanian-language preparatory course. Note: Medical programs taught in English or French may still require Romanian proficiency during clinical placements and patient interaction in senior years.
Top fields chosen by international students in Romania
Several prestigious Romanian universities offer accredited degrees in Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy taught entirely in English or French. General Medicine programs typically span 6 years (360 ECTS credits).
Admission processes vary by university (file-based evaluation, entrance exam, or interview). Students must verify international recognition and medical licensing requirements in their home country or target country of practice before applying.
Financial planning guidelines based on official Study in Romania statistics
Step-by-step roadmap from application to student residence permit
Non-EU/EEA students require a Long-Stay Study Visa (D/SD type) issued by the Romanian embassy or consulate in their home country.
Upon arrival in Romania, students must register with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) and obtain a Student Residence Permit before their visa expires.
1. Select an accredited Romanian university and program.
2. Review admission criteria and language proficiency requirements.
3. Prepare certificates, official translations, and Apostille stamps.
4. Submit application directly through the university portal.
5. Pay application fee and complete required entrance exam/interview.
6. Receive university admission approval notification.
7. Obtain Ministry of Education acceptance letter (for non-EU).
8. Pay required tuition fee installment for visa application.
9. Apply for long-stay study visa (D/SD) at Romanian consulate.
10. Travel to Romania and obtain residence permit from IGI.
Non-EU students holding a valid study residence permit are permitted to work part-time (up to 6 hours per day) without needing a separate work permit. Students must confirm the latest regulations with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). After graduation, eligible graduates can apply for a 9-month post-study residence extension to search for employment, complete recruitment formalities, or establish a business in Romania.
End-to-end guidance for your academic journey to Romania
Identify accredited universities and degree programs matching your academic background, budget, and language preferences.
Verify transcript translations, Apostille stamps, motivation letters, and Ministry of Education acceptance requirements before submission.
Receive structured assistance for long-stay visa applications, tuition payments, dormitory accommodation, and post-arrival residence permits.
Everything you need to know about studying in Romania
Yes. Romanian universities offer degree programs taught in English and French, particularly in medicine, dentistry, engineering, computer science, and business administration.
General tuition fees range from approximately €400 to €9,000 per year, depending on the institution, degree program, and student’s nationality. Medical degrees generally sit at the higher end (€4,000–€9,000/year).
Average student expenses are estimated at approximately €600 per month. Actual costs depend on the city, accommodation choice (university dormitory vs private flat), and individual lifestyle.
Yes. Eligible non-EU students holding a study residence permit may work part-time (up to 6 hours per day) without obtaining a separate work permit.
Yes. Funding options include Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) scholarships for non-EU citizens, Erasmus+ mobility grants, and university-specific merit scholarships.
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