Studying in Romania: Education System, Universities, and Costs
Romania, as a member of the European Union, with its reputable universities and affordable costs, has become a popular destination for international students—particularly for those seeking to study in Europe without the high tuition fees typically associated with Western European countries.
1. Education System in Romania
Study Levels:
•Bachelor’s Degree: 3 to 4 years
•Master’s Degree: 1 to 2 years
•Doctorate (PhD): Minimum 3 years
Languages of Instruction: Romanian, English, French, German
Academic Year: Starts in mid-September and continues until July.
2. Notable Universities in Romania
Some well-known universities offering English-taught programmes include:
Prominent Fields | City | University Name |
Humanities, International Relations, Economics | Bucharest | University of Bucharest |
Psychology, Computer Science, Philosophy | Cluj-Napoca | Babeș-Bolyai University |
Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Information Technology | Bucharest | Politehnica University of Bucharest |
Medicine and Dentistry | Bucharest | Carol Davila University of Medicine |
Medicine, Pharmacy | Cluj-Napoca | University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj |
3. Advantages of Studying in Romania
•No entrance examinations required for many programmes
•Degrees recognised across Europe and eligible for equivalency
•Multicultural environment with students from over 80 countries
•Possibility of part-time student employment during studies
•Affordable dormitories and comprehensive student welfare services
•Lower tuition fees compared to Western European countries
4. Tuition Fees
•Bachelor’s and Master’s Programmes: Between €2,500 and €6,000 per year
•Medicine and Dentistry: Between €5,000 and €8,000 per year
•Programmes taught in English or French: Generally slightly higher tuition fees than Romanian-taught programmes
•Dormitory Costs: Between €60 and €150 per month
•Compulsory Student Health Insurance: Approximately €100 per year
5. Required Documents for University Admission
•Officially translated academic certificates (Diploma, Pre-university, Bachelor’s if applicable)
•Language certificate (IELTS or equivalent for English-taught courses – typically minimum B2 level)
•Curriculum Vitae (CV)
•Motivation Letter
•Valid passport
•Letters of recommendation (for certain study programmes)
•University application form
6. Romanian Study Visa
•Type of Visa: Long-Term Visa Type D
•Validity: 1 year, renewable annually until completion of studies
Required Documents for Visa Application:
•Official acceptance letter from the university
•Proof of financial means (approximately €2,500 to €3,500 per academic year)
•Health insurance policy
•Criminal record certificate
•Identification documents (passport, photographs)
•Payment of the consular fee
7. Employment and Residency Opportunities After Graduation
•International students are allowed to work part-time, up to 20 hours per week, during their studies.
•Upon graduation, students may obtain a work residence permit if they secure a job offer.
•Graduates who find employment can apply to change their residence status from study to work.
•After five years of legal residence in Romania (studies + work), individuals may apply for permanent residency, followed by citizenship.
Romanian Student Visa Services by ETE Visa
Obtaining a Romanian student visa can be a time-consuming and complex process. However, by carefully following the procedures and preparing the necessary documents, it can be completed smoothly. For further advice and assistance, you can contact our experts at ETE Visa.