Why Should you Study in Romania?

Find all the study programs in Romania

About- Romania

Romania is a country located in southeastern Europe, bordered by Ukraine, Moldova, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Hungary. It has a population of around 19 million people and its capital and largest city is Bucharest. Other major cities in Romania include Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, Iași, and Constanța.

The official language of Romania is Romanian and the currency is the Romanian leu. Romania is a member of the European Union, the United Nations, and NATO.

Romania has a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, agriculture, and services. The country is known for its natural resources, including oil, natural gas, and minerals. Tourism is also a growing industry in Romania, with visitors coming to see its castles, natural landscapes, and historic sites.

Romania has a long history of higher education, with the first Romanian university founded in 1864. Today, there are both public and private universities in Romania, offering a range of programs in fields such as medicine, engineering, economics, and humanities. Some of the most prestigious universities in Romania include the University of Bucharest, Babeș-Bolyai University, and the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca.

If you are interested in studying in Romania, you will need to research the specific universities and programs that interest you, and familiarize yourself with the admission requirements and visa requirements for international students.

Religion

Religion in Romania is diverse, with the majority of the population being Christian. According to the 2011 census, around 81% of the population identifies as Eastern Orthodox, which is the largest religious denomination in the country. There are also significant populations of Roman Catholics, Protestants, and other Christian denominations.

Romania has a long history of religious diversity, with significant Jewish and Muslim populations in the past. Today, however, the Jewish population is small and the Muslim population is even smaller. There are also smaller populations of other religious groups, such as Buddhists and Hindus.

Religious freedom is guaranteed by the Romanian constitution, and the government generally respects this right. The Romanian Orthodox Church is recognized as a national church, but it is separate from the state and other religions are also allowed to operate freely. There is a significant degree of religious tolerance and cooperation among different religious groups in Romania.

Religion plays an important role in the daily life and culture of many Romanians, and there are many religious festivals and holidays celebrated throughout the year. Some of the most important religious holidays in Romania include Christmas, Easter, and Saint Andrew’s Day.

Tourist Attractions

Romania has a rich history and culture, with many beautiful and interesting tourist attractions to explore. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Romania:

Bran Castle – Located in Transylvania, Bran Castle is commonly associated with the legend of Count Dracula. The castle is a popular tourist attraction and a great example of Gothic architecture.

Palace of the Parliament – The Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest is one of the largest administrative buildings in the world. It was built during the communist era and is an impressive example of socialist architecture.

Painted Monasteries of Bucovina – The Painted Monasteries of Bucovina are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and feature beautifully painted frescoes depicting religious scenes.

Peles Castle – Located in the Carpathian Mountains, Peles Castle is a stunning example of Neo-Renaissance architecture and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and forests.

Corvin Castle – Located in Hunedoara, Corvin Castle is a medieval fortress that dates back to the 15th century. It is considered one of the most impressive castles in Romania.

Danube Delta – The Danube Delta is a unique natural wonder and the second-largest river delta in Europe. It is a protected area and home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Sighisoara Citadel – Sighisoara Citadel is a medieval fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Transylvania. It is one of the best-preserved citadels in Europe.

Merry Cemetery – The Merry Cemetery in Maramures is a unique and colorful cemetery that features hand-carved wooden crosses with humorous epitaphs.

These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Romania has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, nature, or culture, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Romania.

Food

Romanian cuisine is a blend of different culinary traditions influenced by its geography and neighboring countries. Here are some traditional Romanian dishes you might want to try:

Sarmale – cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat, rice, and herbs, cooked in a tomato sauce

Mici – small grilled sausages made with minced meat (usually beef, pork, and lamb), garlic, and spices

Ciorba – a sour soup made with meat, vegetables, and sour cream

Mamaliga – a type of polenta made from yellow cornmeal, served with cheese, sour cream, and meat

Mititei – small grilled minced meat rolls, usually made with a blend of beef, pork, and lamb, served with mustard and bread

Papanasi – a dessert made with fried dough and cottage cheese, served with sour cream and fruit preserves

Zacusca – a vegetable spread made with eggplant, red peppers, and onions, served with bread

Cozonac – a sweet bread with nuts and raisins, traditionally made for Christmas and Easter

These are just a few examples of the delicious dishes that you can try in Romania. The country is also famous for its wine, with many local varieties available to taste and enjoy.

Language

The official language of Romania is Romanian. Romanian is a Romance language, which means it is closely related to languages like Italian, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. It is the native language of the majority of the population in Romania and is spoken by around 24 million people worldwide.

The Romanian language uses the Latin script and has many loanwords from other languages, including Turkish, German, and French. It has a complex grammar system, including noun cases, verb conjugation, and gender agreement.

In addition to Romanian, there are also other minority languages spoken in Romania, including Hungarian, German, Romani, and Ukrainian. Hungarian is the most widely spoken minority language in Romania and is recognized as an official language in some regions of the country where the Hungarian population is significant.

Politics

Romania is a semi-presidential republic, with a president as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government. The president is elected for a five-year term and has a mainly ceremonial role, although they do have some important powers, such as appointing the prime minister, signing laws, and representing Romania in international relations.

The prime minister is appointed by the president and is responsible for leading the government and implementing its policies. They are appointed based on the support of the majority of the parliament and are accountable to the parliament.

The Romanian parliament is a bicameral system, consisting of the Senate (upper house) and the Chamber of Deputies (lower house). Members of the parliament are elected through a proportional representation system, and they serve four-year terms.

The judiciary in Romania is independent and is headed by the High Court of Cassation and Justice. The judiciary is responsible for interpreting the laws and ensuring that they are applied fairly and consistently.

Romania is a member of the European Union (EU) and NATO, and it is considered an emerging market and a regional power in Eastern Europe. The country has made significant progress in terms of political stability and economic development since the fall of communism in 1989, although there are still challenges to overcome, including corruption and poverty.

Currency 

The official currency of Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). The leu is divided into 100 bani (singular: ban), and coins are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 50 bani, and 1 leu, while banknotes come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, and 500 lei.

While the euro is widely accepted in some tourist areas, it is not an official currency in Romania, and you may receive change in lei. It’s a good idea to exchange your currency for lei before your trip, as some smaller businesses may not accept credit cards or foreign currency.

There are many banks and currency exchange offices throughout the country, including at airports and major train stations, where you can exchange your money. It’s a good idea to check the exchange rate before you go to ensure that you are getting a fair deal, and be aware that some exchange offices may charge a commission or have a minimum exchange amount.

Geography

Romania is a country located in Southeast Europe, bordered by Ukraine to the north, Moldova to the northeast, Hungary to the west, Serbia to the southwest, and Bulgaria to the south. The country has a diverse geography, with large areas of forests, mountains, plains, and coastal regions.

The Carpathian Mountains run through the center of the country, with the highest peak being Moldoveanu Peak, which stands at 2,544 meters. The Danube River flows through the southern part of Romania and forms part of the country’s border with Serbia and Bulgaria.

The Danube Delta, which is located on the Black Sea coast, is the second-largest river delta in Europe and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The delta is home to many unique species of birds and fish and is a popular destination for birdwatchers and eco-tourists.

The climate in Romania varies depending on the region, with the southern and eastern parts of the country having a more continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, while the western and northern parts of the country have a more moderate climate. The country experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters, making it a popular destination for skiing, hiking, and outdoor activities.

Studying in Romania

Romania has a long tradition of higher education, with many reputable universities offering a wide range of programs in various fields. The country is home to both public and private universities, with many programs taught in English, making it an attractive option for international students.

The academic year in Romania typically starts in October and ends in June, with a summer break from July to September. The language of instruction is primarily Romanian, although many universities offer programs in English, French, and German.

To apply for higher education in Romania, international students must have a high school diploma or equivalent, meet the language requirements for the program they are interested in, and obtain a student visa. Most universities in Romania require an entrance exam for admission, and some may also require an interview.

Tuition fees in Romania are generally lower than in many other European countries, and there are many scholarship opportunities available to international students. Living costs in Romania are also relatively low compared to other European countries.

Some of the top universities in Romania include the University of Bucharest, Babeș-Bolyai University, and the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca. Romania is also known for its strong programs in fields such as medicine, engineering, and computer science.

Why Romania for Studies?

Romania can be an excellent choice for international students who are looking to pursue higher education. Here are some reasons why:

High-quality education: Romania has a long tradition of providing high-quality education, with many reputable universities that offer a wide range of programs in various fields.

Lower tuition fees: Tuition fees in Romania are generally lower than in many other European countries, making it an affordable option for international students.

Scholarships: There are many scholarship opportunities available to international students in Romania, making it easier to finance your education.

Multicultural environment: Romania is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage, and its universities reflect this diversity. You will have the opportunity to study alongside students from different backgrounds and cultures.

English-taught programs: Many universities in Romania offer programs taught in English, making it easier for international students to study there.

Location: Romania is located in the heart of Europe, making it easy to travel to other countries and explore the continent.

Affordable cost of living: Living costs in Romania are relatively low compared to other European countries, making it an affordable option for international students.

Beautiful natural scenery: Romania is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including the Carpathian Mountains, the Danube Delta, and the Black Sea coast. It offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.

Cost of Studying in Romania

The cost of studying in Romania can vary depending on the university and program you choose, as well as your personal expenses. However, compared to other European countries, the cost of studying in Romania is relatively low.

Here are some approximate costs to consider:

Tuition fees: Tuition fees in Romania vary depending on the university and program you choose. However, on average, tuition fees for international students range from 2,000 to 6,000 EUR per year for bachelor’s programs and 2,500 to 8,000 EUR per year for master’s programs.

Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Romania can vary depending on the location, type of accommodation, and whether you choose to live on or off campus. On-campus accommodation can cost between 100 and 200 EUR per month, while off-campus accommodation can cost between 150 and 300 EUR per month.

Food: The cost of food in Romania is relatively low, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing around 5-10 EUR. However, this can vary depending on your eating habits and where you choose to eat.

Transportation: The cost of transportation in Romania is relatively low, with a monthly public transportation pass costing around 15-20 EUR.

Health insurance: International students are required to have health insurance while studying in Romania. The cost of health insurance can vary, but on average, it can cost around 50-100 EUR per year.

It is important to note that these are approximate costs and that your actual expenses may vary. It is always a good idea to research the specific costs associated with the university and program you are interested in, as well as to budget for personal expenses such as travel and leisure activities.

Educational System of Romania

The educational system in Romania is divided into several levels, including preschool, primary, secondary, and tertiary education. Here is an overview of each level:

Preschool education: Preschool education in Romania is not compulsory, but it is available to children aged 3 to 6 years. Preschool education is designed to help children develop basic skills, such as reading, writing, and arithmetic.

Primary education: Primary education in Romania is compulsory for children aged 6 to 14 years. Primary education lasts for eight years and is designed to provide students with a basic education in subjects such as language, mathematics, science, history, geography, and physical education.

Secondary education: Secondary education in Romania is divided into two parts: lower secondary and upper secondary education. Lower secondary education lasts for four years and is compulsory for all students. Upper secondary education lasts for two to three years and is not compulsory. Students can choose between general education, vocational education, or artistic education.

Tertiary education: Tertiary education in Romania is provided by universities, institutes, and academies. There are both public and private universities in Romania, with many programs taught in English. Tertiary education in Romania includes bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs.

The education system in Romania places a strong emphasis on academic achievement and is known for its rigorous standards. Romania is also known for its strong programs in fields such as medicine, engineering, and computer science.

Life in Romania

Romania is a diverse country with a rich history and culture, and it has a lot to offer for both locals and visitors. Here are some key aspects of life in Romania:

People: Romanians are known for being friendly, welcoming, and hospitable. They take pride in their cultural heritage and are often happy to share it with others.

Food: Romanian cuisine is a blend of different culinary traditions, with influences from neighboring countries such as Hungary, Bulgaria, and Turkey. Some popular Romanian dishes include sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mici (grilled minced meat rolls), and polenta (cornmeal porridge).

Music and dance: Romanian folk music and dance are an integral part of the country’s cultural heritage, with traditional dances such as the hora and the sârba being popular at weddings and other celebrations.

Nature: Romania has a diverse landscape, with the Carpathian Mountains in the north and the Black Sea coast in the east. The country is also home to several national parks and protected areas, including the Danube Delta and the Retezat National Park.

Festivals and events: Romania has a rich calendar of festivals and events, ranging from traditional celebrations such as Easter and Christmas to modern music festivals such as Untold and Electric Castle.

Cost of living: Romania is generally considered an affordable country to live in, with a lower cost of living than many other European countries. However, the cost of living can vary depending on the location, with larger cities such as Bucharest being more expensive than smaller towns and villages.

Overall, Romania offers a unique cultural experience and a high quality of life, with a mix of traditional and modern aspects that make it an attractive place to live or visit.

Accommodation Available

There are several types of accommodation available in Romania, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end luxury apartments and hotels. Here are some common types of accommodation you can find in Romania:

Student housing: Most universities and colleges in Romania offer student housing, which can be a good option for international students. These can include dormitories or shared apartments, and are often located close to campus.

Apartments: Apartments are a popular choice for people living in cities such as Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timisoara. They can range from small studio apartments to larger apartments with multiple bedrooms, and are available for rent or purchase.

Hostels: Hostels are a budget-friendly option for travelers and backpackers, and can be found in most major cities in Romania. They typically offer shared or private rooms, as well as common areas such as kitchens and lounges.

Hotels: Romania has a wide range of hotels, from budget options to luxury five-star hotels. They can be found in most major cities, as well as popular tourist destinations such as Brasov, Sibiu, and Sinaia.

Guesthouses and bed and breakfasts: Guesthouses and bed and breakfasts are a popular option in rural areas, and offer a more authentic experience of Romanian life. They often provide traditional meals and can be a good way to meet local people.

When looking for accommodation in Romania, it’s important to consider your budget, location, and personal preferences. It’s also a good idea to research different neighborhoods and areas to find the one that’s right for you.

Other Living Expenses

In addition to accommodation, there are other living expenses to consider when living in Romania. Here are some of the most common expenses you should budget for:

Food: The cost of food in Romania is generally affordable, especially if you shop at local markets and cook at home. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost around 25-30 RON, while groceries for a week can cost around 200-300 RON.

Transportation: Romania has a decent public transportation system, with buses, trams, and subway trains available in major cities. A one-way ticket costs around 2-4 RON, while a monthly pass can cost around 70-100 RON.

Utilities: Utilities such as electricity, water, and gas can be relatively affordable in Romania. The average monthly bill for a small apartment can range from 150-300 RON.

Internet and phone: The cost of internet and phone services can vary depending on the provider and package. A basic internet package can cost around 40-60 RON per month, while a mobile phone plan with data can cost around 20-30 RON per month.

Entertainment and leisure: Romania offers a wide range of cultural and entertainment activities, such as movies, concerts, and festivals. The cost of these activities can vary, with movie tickets costing around 20 RON and festival tickets ranging from 50-300 RON.

Overall, the cost of living in Romania can vary depending on your location and lifestyle, but it is generally considered to be affordable compared to many other European countries. It’s important to budget carefully and do your research to ensure you can comfortably cover all your living expenses.

Top Universities- Romania

Here are some of the top universities in Romania:

University of Bucharest: Established in 1864, the University of Bucharest is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Romania. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as humanities, social sciences, law, economics, and natural sciences.

Babes-Bolyai University: Located in Cluj-Napoca, Babes-Bolyai University is the largest university in Romania, with over 50,000 students. It offers a wide range of programs in fields such as natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, and arts.

Alexandru Ioan Cuza University: Located in Iasi, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Romania, established in 1860. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as economics, law, political science, and natural sciences.

Politehnica University of Bucharest: Politehnica University of Bucharest is a technical university established in 1864. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as engineering, computer science, mathematics, and physics.

West University of Timisoara: Located in Timisoara, the West University of Timisoara offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as humanities, social sciences, law, economics, and natural sciences. It is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Western Romania.

These universities are known for their academic excellence, research facilities, and international collaborations. They also offer a wide range of courses taught in English, making them a popular destination for international students.

Degrees Available

Romanian universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of study. Some of the most popular degree programs available in Romanian universities include:

Engineering and Technology: Romania is known for its strong technical education system, and its universities offer a wide range of degree programs in engineering and technology, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, and information technology.

Natural Sciences: Many universities in Romania offer degree programs in natural sciences, including biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.

Business and Economics: Romanian universities offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs in business, finance, accounting, and economics.

Medicine and Health Sciences: Romanian universities offer degree programs in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and other health-related fields.

Social Sciences and Humanities: Romanian universities also offer degree programs in social sciences and humanities, including sociology, political science, psychology, history, and languages.

These are just some of the degree programs available in Romanian universities. The educational system in Romania is well-developed and offers high-quality education, making it a popular destination for international students.

Study Visa- Romania

If you are a foreign national planning to study in Romania, you will need to obtain a study visa. Here are the general steps to follow:

Apply to a Romanian educational institution: First, you will need to apply and be accepted by a Romanian educational institution. This can be a university, college or any other educational institution that is recognized by the Romanian Ministry of Education.

Gather required documents: Once you have been accepted, you will need to gather the required documents for your visa application. This usually includes your passport, a letter of acceptance from the educational institution, proof of financial support, and medical insurance.

Apply for a visa: With the required documents, you can then apply for a study visa at the Romanian embassy or consulate in your home country.

Attend an interview: You may be required to attend an interview at the embassy or consulate as part of the visa application process.

Wait for the visa decision: The processing time for a study visa can vary, so it’s important to apply well in advance of your intended arrival in Romania.

Once you have obtained your study visa, you can travel to Romania and begin your studies. It’s important to note that you may be required to apply for a residence permit once you arrive in Romania, which will allow you to stay in the country for the duration of your studies.

Requirements of a Study Visa

To apply for a study visa for Romania, you will need to meet certain requirements. The specific requirements may vary depending on your country of origin and the specific program of study you plan to enroll in, so it is important to consult with the Romanian embassy or consulate in your country for detailed information. However, some general requirements for a study visa for Romania include:

Acceptance letter: You must have an acceptance letter from a recognized Romanian educational institution that confirms your enrollment in a full-time study program.

Financial support: You must provide evidence that you have sufficient financial resources to cover your living expenses and tuition fees while in Romania.

Health insurance: You must have health insurance that is valid in Romania for the entire duration of your stay.

Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the end of your intended stay in Romania.

Visa application form: You must complete and sign the visa application form, which can be obtained from the Romanian embassy or consulate in your country.

Passport photos: You must provide two recent passport-sized photographs.

Academic qualifications: You must provide evidence of your academic qualifications, such as transcripts and diplomas.

Language proficiency: If your program of study is in Romanian, you may need to provide evidence of your proficiency in the language.

Criminal record: You may be required to provide a criminal record check from your country of origin.

Again, it is important to check with the Romanian embassy or consulate in your country for specific information on visa requirements and the application process.

Applying in University

If you are interested in applying to a university in Romania, the following steps may be helpful:

Research universities and programs: Start by researching universities and programs in Romania that match your interests and academic background. You can find information online, or consult with a local educational counselor or advisor.

Check admission requirements: Each university and program may have different admission requirements, so be sure to check the specific requirements for the universities and programs you are interested in.

Prepare application materials: Once you have identified the universities and programs you would like to apply to, prepare the necessary application materials. This may include transcripts, diplomas, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores.

Submit your application: You can submit your application to the universities you have selected online or by mail. Be sure to follow the instructions for each university carefully and provide all required documents.

Pay application fee: Some universities may require an application fee, so be prepared to pay this fee as part of the application process.

Wait for admission decision: Once you have submitted your application, you will need to wait for the university to review your application and provide a decision. This may take several weeks or months.

Apply for a student visa: If you are accepted to a university in Romania, you will need to apply for a student visa. See the previous question on the requirements for a study visa in Romania.

Overall, the process of applying to a university in Romania is similar to that of other countries, and requires careful research and attention to deadlines and requirements.

Admission Requirements

The admission requirements for universities in Romania may vary depending on the specific university and program you are applying to, but some general requirements include:

Educational qualifications: You must have completed a secondary education program that is equivalent to the Romanian high school program.

Language proficiency: You may be required to provide evidence of proficiency in the language of instruction for the program you are applying to, which may be Romanian, English, or another language.

Application form: You must complete the university’s application form, which may be available online or in print form.

Application fee: Some universities may require an application fee to process your application.

Transcripts: You will need to provide official transcripts from your secondary school and any other educational institutions you have attended.

Letters of recommendation: You may need to provide letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or other professionals who can attest to your academic abilities and potential.

Standardized test scores: Some universities may require standardized test scores, such as the SAT, ACT, or TOEFL.

Statement of purpose: You may need to provide a statement of purpose that outlines your academic goals and reasons for applying to the program.

Interview: Some universities may require an interview as part of the application process.

Again, these requirements may vary depending on the specific university and program you are applying to, so it is important to consult with the university’s admissions office or website for detailed information.

Romania- Scholarships

There are several scholarship opportunities available for international students who wish to study in Romania. Some of the scholarships include:

Romanian Government Scholarship: The Romanian Government offers scholarships to foreign students for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in various fields. The scholarships cover tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly allowance.

Erasmus+ Program: The Erasmus+ Program is an initiative by the European Union that provides scholarships for students to study in European universities, including those in Romania. The scholarships cover tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs.

Fulbright Program: The Fulbright Program provides scholarships for Romanian and American students to study in each other’s countries. The scholarships cover tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs.

ASE Bucharest Scholarship: The Bucharest University of Economic Studies offers scholarships for foreign students who wish to study in Romania. The scholarships cover tuition fees and living expenses.

Babeș-Bolyai University Scholarship: Babeș-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca offers scholarships for foreign students who wish to study in Romania. The scholarships cover tuition fees and accommodation.

In addition to these scholarships, some universities in Romania may also offer their own scholarship programs for international students. It is important to check with the university’s admissions office or website for information on available scholarships and the application process.

More Study Destinations