When students consider studying in Europe, they often think of countries like Germany, France, the Netherlands, or Italy. However, tucked away in Southeastern Europe is a destination that offers internationally recognized degrees, affordable tuition fees, modern universities, and a lower cost of living compared to many Western European countries. That destination is Romania.

Over the past decade, Romania has become an increasingly attractive option for international students seeking quality education without the financial burden typically associated with studying abroad. Romanian universities offer a wide range of programs in fields such as medicine, engineering, business, information technology, architecture, and social sciences, available in English, French, and Romanian.

For students from Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and many other countries, Romania provides a unique opportunity to earn a European degree while experiencing a rich cultural heritage, vibrant student life, and access to the broader European Union.

Another significant advantage is affordability. Tuition fees and everyday living expenses in Romania are generally lower than those in many Western European nations, making it a practical choice for students on a budget.

If you plan to start your studies in 2027, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know, from choosing the right university and finding scholarships to understanding tuition fees, admission requirements, student visas, and the overall cost of living.

Why Study in Romania in 2027?

Romania has quietly become one of Europe’s fastest-growing destinations for international education.

Its universities continue to expand English-language programmes, strengthen research partnerships, and invest in modern learning facilities while maintaining comparatively affordable tuition fees.

Here are some of the reasons international students are choosing Romania.

Affordable Tuition Fees

One of Romania’s biggest advantages is affordability.

Compared with many universities in Western Europe, annual tuition fees are generally lower while maintaining internationally recognized academic standards.

Estimated annual tuition ranges include:

Programme	Estimated Annual Tuition (€)
Bachelor’s Degree	2,000 – 6,000
Master’s Degree	2,500 – 7,500
Medicine	5,000 – 10,000+
Dentistry	6,000 – 10,000+
Pharmacy	4,000 – 8,000
PhD Programmes	Often lower or funded

Actual tuition varies depending on the university, programme, and nationality of the student.

Internationally Recognized Degrees

Romanian universities participate in the Bologna Process, which promotes compatibility among higher education systems across Europe.

As a result, degrees awarded by accredited Romanian institutions are widely recognized internationally, although graduates pursuing regulated professions should always verify licensing requirements in the country where they intend to work.

Growing Number of English-Taught Programmes

International students do not necessarily need to speak Romanian before applying.

Many universities now offer programmes entirely in English across disciplines such as:

Medicine
Dentistry
Pharmacy
Computer Science
Artificial Intelligence
Engineering
Business Administration
Economics
International Relations
Psychology
Architecture
Public Health
Environmental Science

Students interested in learning Romanian often have opportunities to take language courses alongside their academic studies.

Affordable Living Costs

Romania remains one of the more affordable countries in the European Union for students.

Accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment generally cost less than in many popular Western European study destinations.

We’ll examine living expenses in detail later in this guide.

Safe and Welcoming Student Environment

Romania’s university cities are known for their lively student communities and diverse international populations.

Students benefit from:

Modern campuses
Libraries
Research laboratories
Student associations
Cultural festivals
Affordable public transport
Healthcare services
Sports facilities

Many universities also provide dedicated international offices to assist students with admissions, orientation, and everyday support.

Understanding Romania’s Higher Education System

Romania’s education system follows European standards and offers internationally recognized qualifications.

Students can pursue education at several levels depending on their academic background.

Bachelor’s Degree

Bachelor’s programmes usually last:

3 to 4 years

Professional programmes such as medicine have longer durations.

Master’s Degree

Most master’s programmes require:

1 to 2 years

Students undertake advanced coursework, research projects, and, in many cases, a dissertation.

Doctoral (PhD) Programmes

Doctoral studies typically last:

3 to 4 years

Candidates focus on original research under academic supervision and may also participate in teaching or university research projects.

Best Courses to Study in Romania

Romania offers a broad range of academic programmes, but several fields consistently attract international students.

Medicine

Romania has become one of Europe’s leading destinations for international medical education.

Medical universities attract thousands of students annually because of:

English-language programmes
Modern teaching hospitals
Clinical training
International recognition

Graduates must still satisfy professional licensing requirements in the country where they wish to practise.

Dentistry

Romanian dental schools combine theoretical education with practical clinical experience.

Students gain exposure to modern dental laboratories and patient care under professional supervision.

Pharmacy

Pharmacy programmes emphasize:

Pharmaceutical sciences
Clinical pharmacy
Drug development
Laboratory practice
Healthcare systems

Computer Science

Romania’s technology sector continues to expand rapidly.

Popular specializations include:

Software Engineering
Artificial Intelligence
Cybersecurity
Data Science
Machine Learning
Cloud Computing

Technology graduates benefit from growing employment opportunities both within Romania and internationally.

Engineering

Engineering remains one of Romania’s strongest academic disciplines.

Popular programmes include:

Civil Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Chemical Engineering

Many universities collaborate closely with industry partners to provide internships and research opportunities.

Business and Economics

Students interested in global commerce often choose programmes such as:

International Business
Marketing
Finance
Accounting
Human Resource Management
Economics

Graduates frequently pursue careers across Europe and other international markets.

Psychology

Demand for psychology continues to increase worldwide.

Romanian universities offer programmes covering:

Clinical Psychology
Educational Psychology
Organizational Psychology
Behavioural Science
Cognitive Psychology

Best Universities in Romania for International Students

Selecting the right university requires more than simply checking global rankings.

Consider programme quality, faculty expertise, research facilities, tuition fees, scholarship opportunities, and graduate employability.

1. University of Bucharest

Founded in 1864, the University of Bucharest is one of Romania’s oldest and most respected higher education institutions.

It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in English, French, and Romanian.

Popular Programmes

Law
Psychology
Computer Science
Mathematics
International Relations
Business Administration
Political Science

Why Choose the University of Bucharest?

Strong academic reputation
Extensive research opportunities
International partnerships
Exchange programmes
Diverse student population

2. Babeș-Bolyai University

Located in Cluj-Napoca, Babeș-Bolyai University is one of the largest universities in Romania.

It is internationally recognized for research excellence and multilingual education.

Popular Courses

Computer Science
Artificial Intelligence
Biology
Business
Economics
Environmental Science
Psychology

Highlights

Programmes taught in English, Romanian, German, and Hungarian
Modern research facilities
Strong international collaborations
Active student organizations

Cluj-Napoca itself is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most vibrant student cities.

3. Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy

Students seeking medical education frequently consider Carol Davila University among Romania’s top choices.

The university has a long history of educating doctors, dentists, and pharmacists.

Popular programmes include:

Medicine
Dentistry
Pharmacy
Nursing

Its teaching hospitals provide valuable clinical training throughout students’ academic journey.

4. Politehnica University of Bucharest

Students interested in engineering and technology often rank this institution among their top choices.

Popular disciplines include:

Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Robotics
Artificial Intelligence
Computer Engineering

The university maintains close relationships with major employers, creating valuable internship and employment opportunities.

Student Life in Romania

University life in Romania extends far beyond classrooms and examinations.

Cities such as Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Iași, Timișoara, and Brașov offer students a blend of historic architecture, modern cafés, cultural festivals, museums, parks, and active nightlife.

International students can participate in:

Student associations
Volunteer programmes
Sports clubs
Entrepreneurship competitions
Career fairs
Cultural exchange events
Academic conferences

These experiences help students build friendships, expand professional networks, and develop skills that complement their academic studies.

Why More International Students Are Choosing Romania

Romania combines several advantages that are increasingly important to today’s international students:

Affordable tuition fees
Lower living costs
Internationally recognized degrees
Growing selection of English-taught programmes
Modern research facilities
Diverse student communities
Opportunities to study within the European higher education system

For students looking to balance educational quality with affordability, Romania has become a compelling destination.

More Top Universities in Romania for International Students

Romania is home to dozens of accredited public and private universities. Many institutions have expanded their international programmes and now welcome students from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Below are more universities worth considering.

5. Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași

Established in 1860, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University is Romania’s oldest modern university and is highly regarded for academic excellence and research.

Popular Programmes

Economics
Computer Science
Mathematics
Law
Psychology
Biology
Political Science
International Relations

Why Study Here?

Strong international partnerships
Affordable tuition fees
Modern libraries and laboratories
Wide range of English-language programmes
Active student organizations

The city of Iași is often referred to as Romania’s academic capital because of its long educational tradition.

6. West University of Timișoara

Located in one of Romania’s fastest-growing cities, the West University of Timișoara offers internationally competitive programmes and a multicultural learning environment.

Popular fields include:

Business
Economics
Computer Science
Mathematics
Sociology
Psychology
Communication
Environmental Science

The university participates in numerous European research and exchange projects, giving students valuable international exposure.

7. Transilvania University of Brașov

Situated in the scenic city of Brașov, this university combines strong academic programmes with a high quality of student life.

Popular Courses

Mechanical Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Forestry
Computer Science
Medicine
Business Administration
Tourism Management

Students enjoy modern facilities, practical learning opportunities, and easy access to Romania’s mountain regions.

8. University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Iuliu Hațieganu” Cluj-Napoca

This university is among Romania’s leading medical institutions and attracts thousands of international students every year.

Popular Programmes

Medicine
Dentistry
Pharmacy
Nursing

Why students choose this university:

English-language medical programmes
Modern teaching hospitals
Strong international reputation
Extensive clinical training
Experienced academic staff

Graduates pursue careers around the world, subject to the licensing requirements of their destination country.

Scholarships for International Students in Romania (2027)

Romania offers several scholarship opportunities for international students. These scholarships are provided by the Romanian Government, universities, European Union initiatives, and other organizations.

Although competition can be strong, qualified applicants have several funding options to explore.

1. Romanian Government Scholarships

The Romanian Government awards scholarships each year to eligible international students from non-EU countries through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Depending on the scholarship scheme, funding may include:

Full tuition fee coverage
Monthly stipend
Accommodation support (subject to programme terms)
Medical insurance or access to healthcare under applicable rules
Preparatory Romanian language year (for programmes taught in Romanian, where applicable)

Eligibility, available study levels, and programme conditions are announced annually. Applicants should always consult the official call for the latest details.

2. Erasmus+ Scholarships

Romanian universities participate actively in the Erasmus+ programme.

Students may benefit from:

Exchange opportunities
Tuition support
Mobility grants
Travel assistance (where applicable)
Research collaborations

Erasmus+ is particularly valuable for students who wish to study at multiple European institutions during their degree.

3. University Scholarships

Many Romanian universities provide scholarships for high-performing international students.

These awards may include:

Full tuition waivers (limited and highly competitive)
Partial tuition reductions
Merit-based scholarships
Academic excellence awards
Research grants

Selection criteria often include academic achievement, motivation, and extracurricular involvement.

4. Faculty-Specific Scholarships

Some faculties operate their own scholarship programmes.

Examples include:

Engineering scholarships
Medical scholarships
Business scholarships
Technology scholarships
Science research grants

These opportunities may not be available across all departments, so check directly with your chosen faculty.

5. Research Scholarships

Master’s and PhD students may qualify for research funding through university projects or externally funded research initiatives.

Support can include:

Research assistant positions
Laboratory funding
Conference travel grants
Thesis support
Monthly research stipends

Fields such as engineering, biotechnology, medicine, information technology, environmental science, and artificial intelligence often have additional research opportunities.

Eligibility Requirements for Scholarships

Every scholarship programme has its own criteria, but common requirements include the following.

Strong Academic Performance

Most scholarship providers expect applicants to demonstrate consistent academic excellence.

A competitive application usually includes:

High grades
Strong academic transcripts
Academic awards (if available)
Relevant coursework

Leadership and Community Involvement

Many scholarship committees look beyond grades.

Applicants who have participated in:

Volunteer work
Student leadership
Community service
Youth initiatives
Entrepreneurship projects

often strengthen their applications.

Motivation and Career Goals

Your application should clearly explain:

Why Romania?
Why this university?
Why this programme?
How does it fit your career ambitions?
How will you contribute to your community after graduation?

A well-written motivation letter can significantly improve your chances.

Research Experience (Postgraduate Applicants)

Master’s and doctoral applicants may benefit from demonstrating:

Research projects
Publications
Conference presentations
Laboratory experience
Technical skills

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements vary by institution and programme, but most universities request similar documentation.

Undergraduate Admission

Applicants generally need:

Secondary school certificate or equivalent
Academic transcripts
Valid passport
Completed application form
Motivation letter
Proof of English or other required language proficiency (where applicable)

Certain competitive programmes may also require interviews or entrance examinations.

Master’s Admission

Master’s applicants usually submit:

Bachelor’s degree certificate
Academic transcripts
CV or résumé
Passport
Motivation letter
Language proficiency evidence
Recommendation letters (for some programmes)

Research-based degrees may also require a preliminary research proposal.

PhD Admission

Doctoral applicants typically provide:

Master’s degree
Research proposal
Academic CV
Publications (if available)
Recommendation letters
Proof of language proficiency
Interview (for some programmes)

Admission often depends on supervisor availability and research compatibility.

English Language Requirements

Many international programmes are taught entirely in English.

Universities may accept recognised English language qualifications such as:

IELTS Academic
TOEFL iBT
Pearson PTE Academic
Cambridge English Qualifications

Some institutions may waive this requirement if your previous education was completed in English. Policies vary, so confirm with the university before applying.

Documents Required

Preparing your documents early helps avoid delays and last-minute stress.

Valid Passport

Your passport should remain valid for the required period during the admission and visa process.

Academic Transcripts

Provide official transcripts showing completed coursework and grades.

If documents are not in English, Romanian, or another accepted language, certified translations may be required.

Degree Certificates

Applicants should submit copies of completed qualifications.

Students awaiting final results may be asked to provide provisional certificates or official confirmation from their institution.

Motivation Letter

This is one of the most important parts of your application.

A strong motivation letter should explain:

Why you selected Romania
Why you chose the university
Why you are interested in the programme
Your academic achievements
Career objectives
How the degree supports your future plans

Avoid generic statements and tailor each letter to the university.

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Your academic CV should include:

Educational background
Work experience
Volunteer activities
Research experience
Technical skills
Awards
Languages spoken
Publications (if applicable)

Keep it concise, well-organized, and relevant.

Recommendation Letters

Some universities require one or more recommendation letters.

Suitable referees include:

University lecturers
Professors
Research supervisors
Employers

Choose individuals who know your academic or professional abilities well and can provide detailed, personalized references.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Following a structured plan can make the application process much more manageable.

Step 1: Choose Your University and Programme

Compare universities based on:

Academic reputation
Programme content
Tuition fees
Scholarship opportunities
City and living costs
Career prospects

Select a programme that aligns with your long-term goals.

Step 2: Review Admission Requirements

Visit the university’s official admissions page and carefully review:

Academic qualifications
Language requirements
Application deadlines
Required documents
Additional entrance requirements

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all required documents well in advance.

Ensure translations and certifications are completed where necessary.

Step 4: Submit Your Online Application

Most Romanian universities accept applications through their online admissions portals.

Complete each section accurately and upload all requested documents.

Take time to review your application before submitting it.

Step 5: Attend an Interview (If Required)

Some programmes, particularly postgraduate and competitive professional courses, may include an online interview.

Be prepared to discuss:

Your academic background
Motivation for choosing the programme
Career aspirations
Research interests (where applicable)

Step 6: Receive Your Admission Offer

Successful applicants will receive either:

An unconditional admission letter, or
A conditional offer requiring additional documentation or fulfilment of specific conditions.

Follow the university’s instructions promptly to secure your place.

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Admission

Competition for scholarships and places at leading Romanian universities continues to grow.

To strengthen your application:

Start preparing several months before deadlines.
Tailor your motivation letter for each university.
Highlight leadership, volunteer work, and extracurricular achievements.
Maintain strong academic performance.
Carefully proofread all documents before submission.
Request recommendation letters early.
Demonstrate genuine interest in your chosen field and clear career goals.
Track scholarship deadlines separately from university admission deadlines.

A well-prepared application often stands out more than one submitted hastily.

Student Visa Requirements for Romania in 2027

If you are a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you will generally need a long-stay study visa before travelling to Romania for a full-time degree programme.

Although requirements may vary depending on your nationality and individual circumstances, applicants are commonly required to provide:

A valid passport
Official university admission or acceptance letter
Completed visa application form
Recent passport-sized photographs
Proof of sufficient financial resources
Proof of accommodation
Valid health insurance (where required)
Evidence of tuition fee payment, if requested
Receipt for the applicable visa fee
Any additional documents requested by the Romanian diplomatic mission

Always check the latest visa requirements with the Romanian embassy or consulate responsible for your country before submitting your application, as immigration procedures may change. (Study in Romania)

Residence Permit After Arrival

Students enrolled in long-term academic programmes are generally required to apply for a temporary residence permit after arriving in Romania if they intend to stay beyond the validity of their entry visa.

A residence permit typically allows you to:

Reside legally in Romania during your studies
Access certain public services
Continue your studies without repeatedly applying for new visas
Travel in accordance with applicable Schengen and Romanian immigration rules

Your university’s international office will normally guide you through the residence permit application process.

Financial Requirements

Romanian immigration authorities usually require international students to demonstrate that they can financially support themselves throughout their studies.

Acceptable evidence may include:

Personal bank statements
Official scholarship award letters
Financial sponsorship documents
Approved education loan documentation
Other evidence accepted by the authorities

Make sure all financial documents are genuine, recent, and meet official requirements.

Health Insurance

International students are generally expected to have valid medical insurance covering their stay in Romania.

Depending on your nationality and circumstances, this may include:

Private international health insurance
Insurance recognized by Romanian authorities
Student health coverage where applicable

Review the latest guidance before purchasing an insurance policy.

Tuition Fees Overview

Romania remains one of the most affordable higher education destinations in Europe.

Estimated annual tuition fees are as follows:

Programme	Estimated Annual Tuition (€)
Bachelor’s Degree	2,000 – 6,000
Master’s Degree	2,500 – 7,500
Medicine	5,000 – 10,000+
Dentistry	6,000 – 10,000+
Pharmacy	4,000 – 8,000
Engineering	2,500 – 5,500
Business	2,500 – 5,000

Actual tuition depends on the university, programme, and your fee category.

Cost of Living in Romania

One of Romania’s greatest advantages is its relatively low cost of living compared with many Western European countries.

Monthly expenses vary depending on your city and lifestyle.

Below is a general estimate.

Expense	Estimated Monthly Cost (€)
University Dormitory	80 – 250
Shared Apartment	180 – 400
Private Apartment	350 – 700+
Food & Groceries	180 – 300
Transportation	15 – 40
Mobile Phone & Internet	15 – 35
Study Materials	20 – 60
Personal Expenses	80 – 200

Students living in Bucharest may spend slightly more than those studying in cities such as Iași, Timișoara, or Brașov.

Accommodation Options

Finding suitable accommodation early can help you settle into student life more comfortably.

University Dormitories

Many public universities provide student housing.

Advantages include:

Lower rental costs
Convenient campus location
Utilities often included
Opportunity to meet students from different countries

Places are limited, so apply as early as possible.

Private Apartments

Students seeking greater independence often rent apartments.

Benefits include:

More privacy
Flexible location choices
Greater living space
Ability to share accommodation with friends

Remember to budget for utilities, internet, and security deposits.

Shared Housing

Sharing accommodation with other students remains one of the most affordable options.

Advantages include:

Reduced rent
Shared household expenses
Social interaction
Easier adjustment to life abroad

Always read the rental agreement carefully before signing.

Can International Students Work While Studying?

Many international students choose to work part-time while completing their degrees.

The ability to work and any conditions attached depend on Romanian immigration and labour regulations that apply to your residence status.

Students often find employment in areas such as:

Retail
Hospitality
Cafés and restaurants
Customer service
Warehousing
Administrative support
Language tutoring
Information Technology
Research assistance

Balancing work with your academic responsibilities is important to maintaining good academic progress.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Romania has a growing economy with demand in several sectors.

Graduates may find opportunities in industries such as:

Information Technology
Software Development
Artificial Intelligence
Engineering
Manufacturing
Healthcare
Financial Services
Business Consulting
Logistics
Renewable Energy
Digital Marketing

Those wishing to remain in Romania after graduation should review the latest residence and employment rules that apply to international graduates.

Why Employers Value Romanian Degrees

Romanian universities are recognized for producing graduates with practical knowledge and strong technical skills.

Key advantages include:

European-standard education
Internationally recognized qualifications
Research opportunities
Practical laboratory experience
English-language degree programmes
International exchange opportunities
Multicultural learning environment

These qualities make graduates competitive in many international labour markets.

Tips for International Students

A few practical steps can make your transition easier.

Learn Basic Romanian

Although many programmes are taught in English, learning everyday Romanian phrases can help with shopping, transportation, and daily communication.

Plan Your Budget

Track your spending each month for:

Rent
Utilities
Food
Transport
Study materials
Emergency savings

Good budgeting helps reduce financial stress.

Participate in Student Activities

University life offers more than lectures.

Join:

Student clubs
Sports teams
Volunteer groups
Professional associations
Career fairs
Networking events

These experiences build valuable friendships and professional connections.

Build Your Professional Network

Attend:

Academic conferences
Industry workshops
Employer recruitment events
Internship fairs
Entrepreneurship competitions

Networking can open doors to internships and graduate employment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many students delay or weaken their applications through avoidable errors.

Common mistakes include:

Applying after the deadline
Ignoring scholarship application dates
Submitting incomplete documentation
Writing generic motivation letters
Providing incorrect information
Forgetting certified translations where required
Not checking passport validity

Preparing early helps avoid these problems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Romania a good destination for international students?

Yes. Romania offers affordable tuition fees, internationally recognized universities, English-language programmes, and comparatively low living costs, making it a popular choice for international students.

Can I study in Romania without speaking Romanian?

Yes.

Many universities offer bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programmes taught entirely in English or other international languages.

Learning basic Romanian can still make everyday life easier.

Is IELTS required?

Not always.

Some universities accept alternative English language qualifications or may waive language test requirements if your previous education was conducted in English.

Always verify the university’s admission policy before applying.

Are scholarships available?

Yes.

International students may qualify for:

Romanian Government Scholarships
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Scholarships
Erasmus+ funding
University scholarships
Faculty-specific awards
Research grants

Availability and eligibility vary by programme and nationality. (Study in Romania)

Can international students work during their studies?

Many international students are permitted to work, subject to Romanian immigration and employment regulations.

Check the latest rules that apply to your visa or residence permit before accepting employment.

Is Romania expensive?

Compared with many other European Union countries, Romania is generally considered an affordable study destination.

Your actual expenses will depend on your city, accommodation choice, and lifestyle.

Final Application Checklist

Before submitting your application, make sure you have:

Selected your preferred university and programme
Reviewed admission requirements
Checked scholarship deadlines
Prepared a valid passport
Obtained academic transcripts
Gathered degree certificates
Written a personalized motivation letter
Updated your academic CV
Requested recommendation letters (if required)
Met the English language requirements
Planned your tuition and living budget
Prepared financial documents for your visa application
Arranged accommodation
Submitted your application before the deadline

Final Thoughts

Romania continues to establish itself as one of Europe’s best-value study destinations for international students. Its universities offer respected academic programmes, affordable tuition fees, modern facilities, and an increasingly international learning environment.

Whether your ambition is to study medicine, engineering, computer science, business, psychology, or another discipline, Romania provides an excellent balance of quality education and affordable living.

Success begins with careful planning. Research universities thoroughly, apply early, explore scholarship opportunities, prepare strong application documents, and follow official immigration guidance throughout your visa process.

With determination and proper preparation, studying in Romania in 2027 could be the first step toward an internationally recognized qualification and exciting global career opportunities.

Official Websites to Explore

These official government resources provide the latest information on admissions, scholarships, visa procedures, residence permits, and studying in Romania. (Study in Romania)