Public universities in Romania for international students

Romania has become an increasingly popular destination for international students seeking affordable, high-quality education in Europe. With its rich cultural heritage, a blend of modern and traditional lifestyles, and globally recognized academic degrees, Romania offers a unique experience for students from around the world. This article explores public universities in Romania for international students, highlighting their advantages, tuition fees, and what makes Romania an attractive study destination.

Why Choose Romania for Higher Education?

Romania has emerged as a favored choice for international students due to several key factors: affordability, academic excellence, and cultural diversity. Public universities in Romania for international students offer a range of benefits that make them appealing to students from various backgrounds.

Romanian public universities provide accessible education with significantly lower tuition fees compared to many Western European institutions. This cost-effectiveness makes studying in Romania an excellent option for students who want to receive a world-class education without breaking the bank.

Additionally, public universities in Romania offer a wide range of programs, including medicine, engineering, social sciences, and the arts. Many programs are taught in English, French, German, and Romanian, ensuring that international students can pursue their studies in a language they are comfortable with.

Advantages of Studying in Romanian Public Universities

Studying at Public universities in Romania for international students, offers numerous benefits that make it an appealing choice. The universities provide high academic standards, globally recognized degrees, and opportunities to explore new cultures, all while maintaining affordable costs.

Global Recognition of Romanian Degrees

One of the main advantages of studying at public universities in Romania for international students is the global recognition of Romanian degrees. Thanks to the Bologna Process, degrees from Romanian universities are recognized across the European Union and many other countries worldwide. This ensures that graduates from Romanian universities have access to a wide range of opportunities for employment or further studies in Europe and beyond.

The Bologna Process also facilitates academic mobility, allowing students to transfer credits between institutions across Europe. This makes Romanian degrees highly portable and valuable for international students who may wish to pursue careers or further studies in other European countries or globally. Whether you’re studying engineering, medicine, business, or the humanities, a degree from a Romanian public university is widely recognized as a mark of quality.

Cost-Effective Education and Living

Another compelling reason to choose public universities in Romania for international students is the affordability of education and living expenses. Romania is known for its low tuition fees compared to other European countries, with annual fees generally ranging from €2,000 to €8,500, depending on the program and whether the student is from the EU or a non-EU country.

This makes Romania one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe, especially when compared to countries like the UK, France, or Germany. In addition to affordable tuition fees, the cost of living in Romania is also relatively low. Monthly expenses, including rent, food, and transportation, typically range between €300 and €600, depending on the city and lifestyle.

Major student cities such as Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timișoara offer affordable housing options, and daily necessities are cheaper compared to other European capitals. This low cost of living enables students to focus on their studies without worrying about high living expenses, making Romania an ideal choice for students looking to balance education and personal budgets.

Rich Cultural Experience and Student Life

Romania’s vibrant culture and dynamic student life make it an exciting destination for international students. The country combines Eastern European traditions with a modern lifestyle, offering students a unique cultural experience. From historic cities to beautiful natural landscapes, Romania provides students with countless opportunities to explore while pursuing their studies.

The student life in Romania is active, with a wide variety of social events, cultural festivals, and student organizations taking place throughout the year. Public universities in Romania for international students, often host events that celebrate both local culture and the diverse international community, allowing students to connect with others from around the world.

For international students, Romania offers a multicultural environment where students from different countries can meet, share experiences, and create lasting friendships. This multicultural aspect enriches the student experience and contributes to the global learning environment at public universities in Romania for international students.

Tuition Fees at Public Universities in Romania for International Students

Tuition fees at public universities in Romania for international students are generally much lower than those in many Western European countries. While the exact fees can vary depending on the field of study and the student’s country of origin, most universities charge between €2,000 and €8,500 per year for non-EU students.

These fees are significantly lower than the tuition fees in other European countries like the UK, France, or Germany, making Romania an affordable option for students from all over the world.

In addition to low tuition fees, Romanian universities often provide scholarships for international students. These scholarships can cover part of the tuition fees, accommodation, and sometimes even living expenses. Additionally, students from EU countries typically pay lower tuition fees, making Romania an even more cost-effective choice for European students looking to study abroad. Romanian public universities charge tuition based on the program and nationality. Here’s a breakdown:

List of Public Universities in Romania for International Students

Romania boasts an impressive array of public universities that cater to international students with diverse academic interests. With 46 public universities across the country, many offer programs in English, French, or German to accommodate international learners.

Leading institutions include the University of Bucharest, known for its wide range of humanities and science programs, and Babeș-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca, recognized for its vast student community and multicultural academic environment. The West University of Timișoara provides a vibrant setting in the cultural hub of Timișoara, while the Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași is renowned as Romania’s oldest university and a major center for research.

Medicine-focused institutions like Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Bucharest and Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Cluj-Napoca attract students aiming for healthcare professions.

University of Bucharest

Located in the nation’s capital, this institution is one of the oldest and most prestigious public universities in Romania for international students. With more than 32,000 students, it offers programs in social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. English-taught courses make it a favored choice for international students, enhancing its reputation as a hub for global education.

Babeș-Bolyai University

This university has been located in Cluj-Napoca and is one of Romania’s largest and most prestigious institutions. With a history dating back to 1581, it excels in disciplines like sciences, humanities, and arts. The university offers numerous programs in English, French, German, and Hungarian, making it a hub for international students.

Home to over 34,000 students, including a significant number of global learners, Babeș-Bolyai University is known for its inclusive, multicultural environment and commitment to academic excellence.

Politehnica University of Bucharest

The Politehnica University of Bucharest (UPB) is Romania’s largest and oldest technical university, renowned for its engineering and applied sciences programs. With a history dating back over 200 years, it has established itself as a center of academic excellence and innovation.

The university is composed of 15 faculties, offering a diverse range of programs in fields such as electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, computer science, and medical engineering. UPB is distinguished by its state-of-the-art research facilities and its strong emphasis on integrating education, research, and technological innovation to address contemporary challenges. In addition to its academic prowess, UPB has international partnerships with universities worldwide and supports a vibrant community of over 29,000 students, including international enrollees.

Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy

The University of Carol Davila, located in Bucharest, is one of Romania’s most prestigious institutions for medical, dental, and pharmaceutical education. Founded in 1857, it has earned global recognition for its rigorous academic programs and medical expertise.

The university offers degrees in medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy, with programs available in both Romanian and English, attracting a diverse range of international students. It is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories, research centers, and a network of affiliated hospitals in Bucharest, providing students with extensive clinical exposure and practical training.

West University of Timișoara

This higher education institution has been situated in the vibrant city of Timișoara and it stands as a prominent institution renowned for its diverse academic offerings and dynamic student experience. With a focus on social sciences, arts, and natural sciences, the university is committed to fostering interdisciplinary learning and research.

It offers a wide array of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs, providing international students with opportunities to engage in high-quality education in both Romanian and English. The university has built a reputation for its inclusive and multicultural campus environment, making it an attractive choice for students from around the world.

Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași

University of Alexandru Ioan Cuza, established in 1860, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Romania. Located in the historic city of Iași, the university is renowned for its strong academic traditions, especially in the fields of sciences, humanities, and law.

The university offers a wide range of programs, many of which are available in English, making it an attractive choice for international students. These programs are designed to provide high-quality education that is recognized both in Romania and internationally.

Technical University of Cluj-Napoca

This university is recognized for its robust engineering and technical programs, offering a strong foundation in fields such as automation, computer science, civil engineering, and architecture. The university places a strong emphasis on practical, industry-focused education and cutting-edge research, preparing students for careers in highly technical sectors.

It boasts a large and diverse student body, including a growing number of international students. The university’s campus is well-equipped with modern facilities and offers various student support services, including career counseling, international exchanges, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Bucharest University of Economic Studies (ASE)

University of ASE is widely recognized as a premier institution for business and economics education in Southeastern Europe. Established in 1913, ASE is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in Romania, offering a wide range of programs in fields such as business, economics, public administration, and sociology.

With a focus on fostering a global perspective, ASE provides many courses in English and French, making it an attractive destination for international students. The university maintains strong links with the business world and offers various opportunities for internships, projects, and career development.

Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy

University of Medicine and pharmacy located in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, is a prominent institution for those pursuing medical studies. Established in 1919, the university is highly regarded for its comprehensive programs in medicine, pharmacy, and dentistry. It has earned international recognition for its academic excellence and state-of-the-art facilities.

What sets it apart is its diverse language offerings, with programs available in English, French, and Romanian, making it a preferred choice for international students. The English-language programs are particularly popular among students from all over the world, offering a high level of instruction while maintaining a rigorous curriculum that meets international standards.

Transilvania University of Brașov

This university which has been located in Brașov, offers a broad range of academic programs, with more than 20,000 students enrolled in disciplines across engineering, arts, business, and sciences. It is particularly known for its diverse offerings in fields such as engineering, business administration, automotive engineering, computer science, music, and even physical education.

The university is a hub for innovation, featuring one of Romania’s largest research institutes, the Research and Development Institute, which supports multidisciplinary research and collaborations with industries like automotive and aeronautics​.

Ștefan cel Mare University of Suceava

The university of Ștefan cel Mare in Suceava is well known for its modern campus, which offers a vibrant and diverse academic environment. Ștefan cel Mare University has a strong focus on various fields, including engineering, natural sciences, and social sciences.

It promotes research-driven learning through its wide array of research centers and laboratories. The university’s collaboration with national and international academic partners provides students with extensive opportunities for mobility and professional growth.

Ovidius University of Constanța

The Ovidius university of Constanța, located by the Black Sea, stands out for its focus on maritime and medical fields. The university offers specialized programs in Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Nursing, which are supported by practical experience and modern facilities.

Additionally, its maritime programs benefit from the proximity to the sea, providing students with unique research opportunities. Ovidius University is also growing in other areas, such as Engineering and Computer Science, with advanced programs in Cyber Security and Digital Technologies.

Ranked among the top universities globally, Ovidius has strengthened its academic presence in recent years, with its faculty contributing to significant research in multiple disciplines. It attracts a growing number of international students due to its diverse course offerings, friendly environment, and emphasis on high-quality education.

Technical University of Iași (Gheorghe Asachi)

The Technical University of Iași (TUIASI), also known as Gheorghe Asachi, is one of Public universities in Romania for international students, specializing in engineering, architecture, and applied sciences. The university offers a diverse range of programs, including mechanical engineering, civil engineering, and computer science, making it a top choice for students in technical fields.

TUIASI has a strong focus on scientific research with 24 dedicated research centers, contributing significantly to advancements in high-tech engineering and innovation.

University of Craiova

The University of Craiova, founded in 1947, is a leading institution in Romania, offering a broad spectrum of academic programs across multiple fields, including sciences, humanities, engineering, and more. With 104 undergraduate programs in 53 disciplines and 98 master’s degree programs across 40 fields, the university supports a dynamic learning environment.

The institution is known for integrating research with education, particularly at the master’s, doctoral, and postdoctoral levels, helping students stay aligned with labor market demands. It emphasizes continuous collaboration with major employers to adapt its academic offerings to the evolving economic and social landscape.

University of Oradea

The University of Oradea, located in the northwest of Romania, is a leading multidisciplinary institution that offers a wide range of programs across various fields, including medicine, arts, engineering, and environmental sciences. Known for its emphasis on research and collaboration with industries, the university has become a significant academic hub for both national and international students.

It offers bachelor’s and master’s degree programs that cater to diverse academic interests, such as European Studies, Business Administration, Robotics, and Medical Physics, among others. The university is dedicated to providing students with a robust education that integrates practical skills, preparing them for successful careers in their chosen fields.

Free Public Universities in Romania for International Students

While fully tuition-free education is rare, several scholarships are available to reduce costs. Scholarships include:

• Romanian Government Scholarships: Cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses for selected students from non-EU countries.
• Erasmus+ Program: Offers financial aid for students studying abroad in Romania.

Study in Romania as an International Student: Admission Requirements

For international students looking to study in Romania, understanding the admission requirements is crucial. The general admission process for universities in Romania includes meeting a few key prerequisites:

1. Basic Academic Requirements: For undergraduate programs, students must have a recognized high school diploma or its equivalent. For postgraduate studies, applicants need a valid Bachelor’s degree.
2. Language Proficiency: Students must demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction for their chosen program, whether it is in English, Romanian, or another language specified by the university.
3. Financial Proof: Applicants must provide evidence of financial means to cover their living expenses and tuition fees during their time in Romania.

These general requirements are essential for international students pursuing higher education in Romania, whether for undergraduate or postgraduate studies. For detailed information, it is advisable to visit the official websites of Romanian universities.

Top 10 Public Universities in Romania for International Students

Romanian universities rank well internationally and offer modern facilities, research opportunities, and strong support networks for international students. Let’s revisit some of the best options:

Are you an applicant interested in studying at Public universities in Romania for international students? At Stinwo International Agency, we offer expert consultation services to guide you through the application process, help with visa requirements, and provide support in choosing the right university and program. Contact us today for personalized assistance and take the first step toward your educational journey in Romania!

Conclusion

Romania’s public universities offer a perfect blend of affordability, quality education, and cultural enrichment. Whether you’re pursuing medicine, engineering, or humanities, Romanian institutions provide excellent opportunities for growth and success. With various programs tailored to international students, studying in Romania ensures a transformative academic experience.