Romania has become an increasingly popular destination for international students due to its affordable tuition fees, high-quality education, and vibrant cultural experience. One of the most attractive aspects of studying in Romania is the availability of various scholarships for international students. These scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden and make studying in Romania more accessible.
In this guide, we will cover the types of scholarships available in Romania, their eligibility criteria, the application process, and essential tips for securing funding.
Types of Scholarships for International Students in Romania
There are several types of scholarships offered by the Romanian government, universities, and private institutions. Below are the most common ones:
1. Romanian Government Scholarships
The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) offers fully funded scholarships for non-EU students to pursue undergraduate, master’s, and Ph.D. programs in Romania.
Benefits:
• Full tuition fee coverage
• Free accommodation in university dormitories
• A monthly stipend
• Medical insurance
Eligibility:
• Open to non-EU students
• Must have a strong academic record
• Romanian language proficiency is required for most programs (one-year preparatory Romanian language course is provided)
Application Deadline: Usually between December and March every year.
How to Apply:
• Submit an application through the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Romanian embassy in your home country.
• Provide academic transcripts, a CV, a motivation letter, and a copy of your passport.
2. University-Specific Scholarships
Many Romanian universities offer scholarships for outstanding international students based on merit or financial need. Some top universities providing scholarships include:
• University of Bucharest
• Babeș-Bolyai University
• Politehnica University of Bucharest
• Alexandru Ioan Cuza University
Benefits:
• Partial or full tuition fee waivers
• Monthly financial aid
• Research grants for Ph.D. students
How to Apply:
• Check the official website of the university for available scholarships.
• Submit an application along with academic records, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose.
5. Private and NGO Scholarships
Some Romanian organizations and international NGOs offer scholarships to support students in specific fields such as engineering, medicine, and social sciences. Examples include:
• The World Bank Scholarships for students from developing countries
• Fulbright Scholarships for U.S. students studying in Romania
How to Apply:
• Research scholarship opportunities online.
• Submit an application based on the organization’s guidelines.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Romania
If you’re interested in applying for a scholarship in Romania, follow these steps to increase your chances of success:
Step 1: Research Available Scholarships
• Visit the official websites of Romanian universities and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• Contact the Romanian embassy in your home country for scholarship opportunities.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application Documents
Most scholarships require the following documents:
Academic transcripts
Passport copy
Motivation letter
Recommendation letters (from professors or employers)
Proof of language proficiency (Romanian, English, or French)
Research proposal (for Ph.D. candidates)
Step 3: Submit Your Application Before the Deadline
• Double-check the deadline for each scholarship.
• Make sure your application is complete and error-free before submission.
Step 4: Attend Interviews (If Required)
Some scholarships require an interview to assess your academic background and motivation.
Tips for Securing a Scholarship in Romania
- Maintain a high GPA – Many scholarships are merit-based.
- Write a compelling motivation letter – Explain why you deserve the scholarship.
- Get strong recommendation letters – Ask professors or employers who know you well.
- Apply for multiple scholarships – Increase your chances by applying to different opportunities.
- Learn some Romanian – Even if your program is in English, knowing basic Romanian can be an advantage.
Final Thoughts
Romania offers a variety of scholarships for international students, making it an affordable and attractive destination for higher education. Whether you are looking for fully funded government scholarships, university-specific grants, or Erasmus+ programs, Romania provides excellent opportunities for students worldwide.
If you’re planning to study in Romania, start researching scholarships early, prepare a strong application, and apply before deadlines to maximize your chances of receiving financial support.
Are you considering studying in Romania? Let us know in the comments if you have any questions about scholarships!
