Romania stands out as a remarkable destination for study abroad for several reasons. First and foremost, the country offers some of the lowest tuition fees in Europe, especially for non-EU students. Moreover, Romania is home to seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant student cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timisoara.
Furthermore, Romania’s higher education system is integrated into the Bologna Process, ensuring that degrees are recognized throughout the European Union. This means you can earn a globally respected qualification while enjoying a low cost of living in Romania. Additionally, many programs are offered in English, French, Hungarian, and German, making it easy for international students in Romania to adapt and succeed.
Top 30 Programs in Romania for International Students
Romania offers a diverse range of academic programs. Here are the top 30 programs you can pursue:
- Business Administration
- Economics
- Finance and Banking
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Artificial Intelligence
- Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, etc.)
- Medicine
- Dentistry
- Pharmacy
- Biotechnology
- Environmental Science
- Agriculture
- Veterinary Medicine
- Law
- International Relations
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Communication and Media Studies
- Journalism
- Architecture
- Urban Planning
- Design and Fine Arts
- Music and Performing Arts
- Languages and Linguistics
- Education
- Public Health
- Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Renewable Energy
These programs are available at top universities in Romania, ensuring high academic standards and excellent career prospects.
Top 10 Universities in Romania for International Students (With Rankings)
Romania is home to several prestigious institutions. Here are the top 10 universities for international students in Romania, along with their rankings:
| Rank | University Name | City | National/Global Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Bucharest | Bucharest | National: 1, Global: ~857 |
| 2 | Babeș-Bolyai University | Cluj-Napoca | National: 2 |
| 3 | Bucharest University of Economic Studies | Bucharest | National: 3 |
| 4 | Alexandru Ioan Cuza University | Iași | National: 4 |
| 5 | University Politehnica of Bucharest | Bucharest | National: 5 |
| 6 | West University of Timișoara | Timișoara | National: 6 |
| 7 | Transilvania University of Brașov | Brașov | National: 7 |
| 8 | Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iași | Iași | National: 8 |
| 9 | University of Oradea | Oradea | National: 9 |
| 10 | University Lucian Blaga of Sibiu | Sibiu | National: 10 |
These universities are recognized for their academic excellence and international outlook.
Admission Requirements for Top Romanian Universities
To apply to Romanian universities, you need to meet specific requirements:
- GPA: Generally, a minimum GPA of 2.5–3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
- English Proficiency: IELTS 5.5–6.5 or TOEFL iBT 70–90 for English-taught programs. Some programs may require Romanian language proficiency.
- SAT/ACT: Not typically required, but may be considered for certain programs.
- Other Requirements: High school diploma (for undergraduate), bachelor’s degree (for postgraduate), academic transcripts, medical certificate, proof of financial support, and passport copy.
Average Tuition Fees of Top Romanian Universities (in USD)
Tuition fees in Romania are among the lowest in Europe. Here are the approximate annual fees for international students in Romania:
| University Type | Bachelor’s (USD/Year) | Master’s (USD/Year) |
|---|---|---|
| Public Universities | $2,200–$5,500 | $2,200–$6,000 |
| Private Universities | $3,300–$10,000 | $3,300–$12,000 |
| Medicine/Dentistry/Pharmacy | $5,500–$8,800 | $6,000–$10,000 |
Required Documents to Apply to Romanian Universities
To apply to Romanian universities, you typically need:
- Completed application form
- High school diploma or bachelor’s/master’s degree
- Academic transcripts
- English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Medical certificate
- Passport copy
- Proof of financial support
- Birth certificate
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Statement of purpose or motivation letter (for some programs)
- Reference letters (for some programs)
Popular Scholarships in Romania for International Students
Romania offers several scholarships for international students:
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs Scholarships (for non-EU students)
- University-specific scholarships
- State-funded places (for high-achieving students)
- Erasmus+ and other EU-funded scholarships
These scholarships can significantly reduce your study abroad costs in Romania.
Application Info: Timeline and Tips for International Students
To apply to Romanian universities, follow these steps:
- Intake Periods: Most universities have two main intakes—Fall (September) and Spring (February/March).
- Application Deadlines: Fall intake: June–July; Spring intake: January–February.
- Document Preparation: Gather and translate documents at least 3 months before your intended intake.
- Early Application: Apply early to increase your chances of admission and scholarship.
- Visa Process: After acceptance, apply for a student visa at the Romanian embassy/consulate.
- Orientation: Attend your university’s international student orientation for a smooth transition.
Tips:
- Check university websites for specific requirements.
- Prepare for English proficiency tests if required.
- Apply to multiple universities to increase your chances.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Romania
Living in Romania is affordable for international students. Here is a breakdown of average monthly expenses:
- Accommodation (dormitory): $70–$100
- Accommodation (private): $90–$330
- Food: $140–$200
- Utilities: $45–$90
- Transportation: $5–$15 (discounted for students)
- Entertainment & Other: $50–$100
Total average monthly living cost: $300–$650
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Conclusion
Romania is an excellent choice for international students seeking quality education, affordable living, and a vibrant cultural experience. With low tuition fees, a wide range of best programs in Romania, and generous scholarships in Romania, you can achieve your academic and career goals while enjoying everything this beautiful country has to offer. Start your study abroad journey in Romania today and discover a world of opportunities!