Study in Romania
Study in Romania – Romania is a country located in Southeastern Europe, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful natural landscapes. Romania offers a range of educational opportunities for both national and international students, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs.
Romania’s education system is undergoing reforms to improve its quality and international competitiveness. The country has several public and private universities that offer programs in various fields, including engineering, medicine, humanities, and social sciences. Many of these programs are taught in English, making them accessible to international students.
Romania’s universities provide a supportive learning environment that encourages students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students have the opportunity to engage in research and participate in various extracurricular activities, including sports, clubs, and cultural events.
In addition to its academic offerings, Romania offers a unique cultural experience for international students. Romania has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, influenced by its history and various ethnic communities. Students can explore Romania’s museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks, or participate in traditional festivals and events.
Romania offers affordable tuition fees and living costs, making it an attractive destination for students looking for a cost-effective study abroad option. There are also several scholarship programs available for international students.
Overall, studying in Romania is a unique and enriching experience, offering students an opportunity to gain a high-quality education in a diverse and welcoming environment, while exploring a fascinating culture and natural environment.
Why study in Romania?
1. Low tuition fees and living costs
In Romania, tuition costs are very affordable, especially when compared to other Western countries or even some European states. At public universities, most study programmes cost between 230 and 3,000 EUR per academic year. Additionally, if your average GPA or entry exam grade is high enough, you can occupy a state-funded place.
In terms of living costs, you should expect to pay anywhere between 300 and 600 EUR per month.
2. Active nightlife and fun events
Big student cities like Bucharest, Timisoara, Cluj, and Iasi are well-known for all-night-long parties, where people enjoy music, dancing, and having a laugh with their friends. If you’re not a party enthusiast, there are many other events or activities in which you can participate:
- national and international festivals (e.g. theatre, arts, crafting, wine making)
- mountain trekking
- road trip on Transfagarasan or Transalpina
- spending a night at the Balea Lake Ice Hotel
3. English is widely spoken in student cities
Saying that English is widely spoken in Romania is only half true. The truth is, most young people will speak it fluently and you shouldn’t have any problems in larger and more popular cities. You should also be fine at local supermarkets or while taking a train ride on well-travelled routes.
However, if you venture out to see the countryside or want to visit some of the most popular attractions, it’s not always easy to find people who can offer guidance in English.
4. Romanians are friendly and lively people
Romanians are known for their Latin blood and for having a light heart. They share a great sense of humour and are often able to see the bright or funny side even in the most difficult situations.
Romanians are also amazing hosts, who will do everything they can to ensure that their guests eat well, have fun, and enjoy their stay.
5. Visit amazing natural and human-made wonders
Romania is one of the hidden jewels of Europe, boasting a wide range of natural and man-made attractions that everyone should see at least once in their life. From centuries-old monasteries to amazing castles, from salt mines to large stone carvings, Romania has it all.
Here are some of the sites you should visit no matter what: the Bran and Peles Castles, the Palace of the Parliament, the Corvinilor Castle, the Rasnov Fortress, the Iron Gates, the Black Curch, Merry Cemetery of Sapanta, the Rock Sculpture of Decebalus, the Danube Delta, etc.
What is it like to study in Romania?
Romania has hundreds of exchange programs students. Lots of people pick it as their temporary home for the amazing nightlife and the great sightseeing they can do while here.
With clubs and bars that stay open until morning, to student discounts and youthful activities in its parks, Romania seems like a haven for the international students who want to combine a great education with a lot of fun free time.
As a major plus, many young Romanians speak (almost) fluent English, so getting around and asking for help shouldn’t be very difficult.
As far as your education goes, the Romanian teaching system revolves around group projects and laboratory work, as well as written projects and in-depth research. Of course, it all depends on your degree and field; but, usually, you won’t be left only behind a book, rotting away in the library, but taken to see and operate first-hand what your future job will imply and require.
How to Apply in Romania
If you’ve decided to study a Master’s degree at a university in Romania, you will have to gather the right documents to prove that you fit the university requirements. Provide complete personal information, previous qualifications, financial information, and a personal statement.
What documents do I need to provide to apply in Romania?
To apply to a university in Romania you will likely be asked to provide some of the following documents:
- birth certificate;
- recent photos;
- your passport or national identity card;
- one or more reference letters from past employers or teachers;
- copies of past diplomas or certificates, including your graduated Bachelor’s degree;
- academic transcripts;
- letter of intent;
- Curriculum Vitae;
- Some form of proof that you can support your stay in the country during your studies.
Depending on the subject or specialization of your chosen Master’s, you might also be asked to provide scores for additional tests like the GRE, GMAT or LSAT. Check if your programme requires any of these, or others.
The list of documents depends on the specific requirements of universities in Romania so you might be asked to include additional documents. It’s also likely you’ll have to provide official English translations of your documents, or translations in the local language.
Prove your English skills
Because you’ll study an international degree in English, you’ll have to present a language certificate. Some popular options for international students are IELTS, TOEFL or C1 Advanced language certificates. You’ll have to meet a minimum language score set by the university, and your test scores shouldn’t be older than 1-2 years. If you don’t meet the minimum language requirements, you will have to improve your skills and scores by taking an English preparation course.
Application deadlines for Romania
The deadlines for applying to a Master’s in Romania are usually during summer (June-July), or in winter (January-February). Keep in mind that some universities don’t have application deadlines, which means you can apply whenever you are ready.
To avoid delays or missed deadlines send your required documents with plenty of time in advance.
Living in Romania
Let’s take a closer look at tuition and living expenses in Romania:
Tuition fees
At Romanian universities, tuition fees vary based on a number of factors:
- the type of university: private institutions have higher fees than public ones
- your nationality: for some programmes, non-EU citizens pay more than EU citizens
- the study level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD
- the discipline: Medicine, for example, is more expensive
On average, international students can pay anywhere between 230 and 9,000 EUR per academic year. You should always check the official university website, because tuition can change every year.
Don’t forget to look for scholarships in Romania to reduce your study costs.
Living costs in Romania
Romania is located in Eastern Europe, so living costs and accommodation can be really cheap for international students. With a budget between 300 and 600 EUR/month, students can find a great room, live comfortably, enjoy the city nightlife, and buy a transport pass.
Here’s a breakdown of average living expenses in Romania:
- accommodation (university dormitory): 60–85 EUR/month
- accommodation (private rent): 80–300 EUR/month
- utilities (if you rent privately): 40–80 EUR/month
- food and groceries: 125–185 EUR/month
- public transport pass: 5 EUR/month, discounted for students
- three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: 25 EUR
- 1 cappuccino: 1.50 EUR
- 1 loaf of bread: 0.60 EUR
- 1 litre of milk: 0.95 EUR
- 1 kg of apples: 0.85 EUR
- 1 kg of bananas: 1.15 EUR
Work while study in Romania
International students are allowed to work part-time while studying in Romania. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
- Work permits: EU/EEA/Swiss citizens do not need a work permit to work in Romania while studying. Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens will need a work permit to work part-time while studying. The work permit can be obtained from the Romanian Immigration Office.
- Working hours: International students can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during the summer break (July and August). However, it’s essential to keep in mind that studies should be a top priority, and working too many hours can negatively affect academic performance.
- Types of jobs: International students can work in various fields, including retail, customer service, hospitality, and tutoring. It’s also possible to find part-time jobs on campus, such as research assistants or library assistants.
- Minimum wage: Romania has a minimum wage that applies to all workers, including international students. As of January 2023, the minimum wage in Romania is 3,300 RON per month (approximately 670 USD).
- Taxes: International students must pay income tax on their earnings. However, some tax exemptions may apply depending on the amount earned and the duration of the job. It’s essential to consult with the employer or a tax advisor for more information.
Overall, working part-time while studying in Romania can help students gain work experience, earn extra income, and cover some of their living expenses. However, it’s important to balance work and studies and comply with all legal requirements.
Romania At a Glance
| Course Duration | Intake | Application Fee | Requirements |
| Language Proficiency | Tution Fee (Yearly) | Living Cost (Yearly) | Visa Application |
| 0 | |||
| Air Ticket | Processing Time | Part Time Work | Post Study Work Permit |
