Romania is quickly becoming a top destination for international students, offering a blend of affordable tuition, rich history, and high-quality European degrees. Whether you are looking for medicine, engineering, or the arts, these six programs provide structured paths to academic success in the heart of Eastern Europe. From fully English-taught curricula to vibrant student cities, here are the best study abroad programs in Romania that deliver real value for your education.
1. Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy – Medicine (English Track)
Located in Bucharest, Carol Davila is the most prestigious medical university in Romania. Its program is fully accredited by the World Health Organization and recognized across the EU.
- Six-year MD program taught entirely in English
- Clinical rotations begin in the third year at major Bucharest hospitals
- Tuition fees range from €6,000 to €8,000 per year, significantly lower than Western Europe
- Over 3,000 international students currently enrolled
Students praise the hands-on training and the high pass rate for United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) preparation. One graduate noted:
“The clinical exposure here is unmatched. I was doing patient rounds by my fourth year, something that takes longer in other countries.”
2. Babeș-Bolyai University – Computer Science (Cluj-Napoca)
Babeș-Bolyai University (UBB) is Romania’s largest and most research-oriented institution. Its Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science offers a modern Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.
- Three-year program with specializations in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity
- Partnerships with local tech giants like Bosch, NTT Data, and Endava
- Tuition fees approximately €3,000 per year
- Cluj-Napoca is known as the “Silicon Valley of Romania” with a booming startup scene
3. University of Bucharest – European Studies (Bachelor and Master)
For students interested in politics, law, and international relations, the University of Bucharest offers a highly structured European Studies program. It is a solid choice for those aiming for EU institutions or NGOs.
- Three-year bachelor’s or two-year master’s taught in English
- Curriculum includes EU law, diplomacy, and regional policy
- Optional internships at the Romanian Parliament or embassies
- Tuition fees around €2,500 per year
This program is especially practical because it includes a semester-long simulation of EU decision-making. Students leave with both theory and hands-on negotiation skills.
4. Polytechnic University of Timișoara – Engineering Programs
If you prefer a technical focus in a smaller city, the Polytechnic University of Timișoara provides affordable engineering degrees in English. It is one of the best study abroad programs in Romania for mechanical and civil engineering.
- Four-year bachelor’s in Automotive Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Civil Engineering
- Modern labs with 3D printing and robotics facilities
- Tuition fees range from €2,000 to €3,500 per year
- Strong ties with Continental Automotive Group for internships
5. National University of Political Studies and Public Administration (SNSPA) – Communication and Public Relations
Based in Bucharest, SNSPA is a specialized university that excels in social sciences and communication. Its English-taught Bachelor in Communication and Public Relations is one of the most popular study abroad programs in Romania for non-STEM students.
- Three-year program with focus on digital media, corporate communication, and marketing
- Faculty includes active journalists and PR professionals
- Tuition fees around €2,800 per year
- Students produce their own media campaigns as part of the curriculum
6. Transylvania University of Brașov – Tourism and Hospitality Management
Brașov is a picturesque mountain city near the Carpathians, making it ideal for students interested in tourism. Transylvania University offers a specialized Bachelor in Tourism and Hospitality Management that is fully taught in English.
- Three-year program covering hotel management, sustainable tourism, and event planning
- Practical internships at local resorts and the Brașov Tourist Board
- Tuition fees approximately €2,200 per year
- Live case studies with real hotels in the historic Old Town
Quick Comparison Table: Top Study Abroad Programs in Romania
| University | Program | Duration | Annual Tuition (EUR) | City |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carol Davila | Medicine (MD) | 6 years | 6,000 – 8,000 | Bucharest |
| Babeș-Bolyai | Computer Science | 3 years | ~3,000 | Cluj-Napoca |
| University of Bucharest | European Studies | 3 years | ~2,500 | Bucharest |
| Polytechnic Timișoara | Engineering | 4 years | 2,000 – 3,500 | Timișoara |
| SNSPA | Communication & PR | 3 years | ~2,800 | Bucharest |
| Transylvania University | Tourism & Hospitality | 3 years | ~2,200 | Brașov |
How to Choose the Best Study Abroad Programs in Romania for You
Start by matching the program to your career goals. If you want to work in global health, Carol Davila is hard to beat. For tech careers, the Cluj ecosystem around Babeș-Bolyai offers job opportunities immediately after graduation.
Consider the city size and cost of living. Bucharest is lively and cheap by Western standards, but Cluj and Timișoara are quieter. Brașov is best for nature lovers. All these programs are recognized across Europe and many are listed in the ECTS system for easy credit transfer.
Application Requirements
- High school diploma with transcripts (translated and notarized)
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent, though some universities offer internal tests)
- Motivation letter and CV for certain competitive programs
- Entrance exam for medicine (biology and chemistry) or portfolio for arts programs
Scholarship Opportunities
Romanian government scholarships cover tuition and provide a monthly stipend for non-EU students. Many universities also offer merit-based waivers of up to 50% of tuition. The Erasmus+ program allows EU students to study for one or two semesters free of charge.
“I applied for the Romanian state scholarship and got full tuition plus accommodation. It made studying abroad possible for me.” — Former scholarship recipient
Conclusion
Choosing the right study abroad program in Romania depends on your academic interests, budget, and preferred lifestyle. The six programs listed above represent the strongest options in medicine, engineering, social sciences, and hospitality. They combine high academic standards with low cost of living and a welcoming culture. Whether you enroll at Carol Davila for medicine or at Babeș-Bolyai for computer science, you will receive a degree that opens doors across Europe and beyond. Start your application early, check specific requirements for your home country, and prepare for an enriching experience in one of Europe’s most underrated study destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are these programs fully taught in English?
Yes, every program listed in this article is delivered entirely in English, from lectures to exams.
2. Do I need to speak Romanian to study in Romania?
No, you do not need Romanian for coursework. However, learning basic phrases helps with daily life and is often offered as a free course by universities.
3. Are Romanian degrees recognized in the EU and the US?
Yes. All programs on this list are ECTS-compliant and recognized under the Bologna Process. Medical degrees are also listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools.
4. What is the cost of living for a student in Romania?
On average, students need €300 to €500 per month for rent, food, and transport. Bucharest is slightly more expensive than smaller cities like Brașov.
5. Can I work while studying in Romania?
Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during holidays with a valid residence permit.
6. How long does the visa process take?
Apply at least two months before the start date. You need an acceptance letter, proof of funds, and health insurance.
7. Is there on-campus accommodation?
Most universities offer dormitories for around €100 to €200 per month. Private apartments are also common and affordable.
8. Which program is best for medicine?
Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy is the top choice, known for its rigorous curriculum and global recognition.
9. Are there scholarships for non-EU students?
Yes. The Romanian government scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and a monthly allowance for eligible applicants from non-EU countries.
10. Can I transfer credits from a Romanian university to my home university?
Yes, through the ECTS system. Most European and many US universities accept transfer credits from accredited Romanian programs.