Study in Romania 2026–27: Top Universities, Fees, and Admission for Indian Students

In 2025, Romania recorded one of the fastest-growing international student intakes in Eastern Europe, as reported by the Ministry of Education.  According to official data, nearly 140,000 international students from more than 160 countries registered interest in studying in Romania, reflecting a sharp rise compared to 2020. For Indian students planning affordable European education, this surge explains why more Indian students now plan to study in Romania for the 2026–27 academic year.

Romania combines EU-recognised degrees, low tuition costs, and a strong English-medium system. On average, studying here costs 40–50% less than in Western Europe, yet offers access to the same European Higher Education Area (EHEA) recognition and Erasmus+ mobility. Public universities like the University of Bucharest and Babeș-Bolyai University now host hundreds of Indian students each year, particularly in medicine, engineering, and business.

This guide will help you understand the best universities, fees, living costs, scholarships, and visa steps so you can decide if studying in Romania in 2026–27 is right for you.

Higher Education System in Romania

Romania’s higher education follows the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) and Bologna Process, ensuring its degrees are valid across Europe. As of 2025, the country had 92 accredited universities (56 public and 36 private) overseen by ARACIS, Romania’s national accreditation body.

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Degree Duration

• Bachelor’s: 3–4 years
  
• Master’s: 1–2 years
  
• PhD: 3–4 years
  

Public vs Private Universities

Public universities such as the University of Bucharest, Babeș-Bolyai University, and Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași attract most international students due to lower tuition. Private institutions like the Romanian-American University focus on business and management programs.

Recognition for Indian Students
Medical degrees from Carol Davila University and Cluj-Napoca University of Medicine and Pharmacy are NMC-approved, while other programs align with UGC and AICTE equivalence standards.

Top Universities to Study in Romania for Indian Students 2026

Romania is home to eight internationally ranked universities recognised for their affordable, English-taught programmes and EU-accredited degrees. According to the QS World University Rankings 2026, institutions in cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Iași, Brașov, and Timișoara perform well in academic reputation, research, and student satisfaction. For Indian students, these universities offer a cost-effective path to a European degree with wide recognition across the EU.

Source: QS World University Rankings 2026: Top global universities

Conversion note: 1 Romanian Leu (RON) = ₹20.18 (Indian Rupee)

Note for Indian Students: Public universities in Romania generally offer internationally recognised degrees with tuition starting at around 4,000 RON per year (₹80,720). Programs in medicine, engineering, and business taught in English are most popular among Indian students, offering strong academic value at a lower cost than Western Europe.

Cost of Studying in Romania for International Students 2026

Tuition fees in Romania depend on the type of university and course. Public universities charge around 2,000–6,000 RON per year (₹40,000–₹1.21 lakh), while private universities cost between 8,000 and 20,000 RON (₹1.6–₹4 lakh). Engineering, medicine, and business programs usually fall at the higher end of the range.

Monthly living expenses average 2,500–3,500 RON (₹50,000–₹70,000), varying by city. Iași and Timișoara are cheaper than Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca.

MBBS fees in Romania for Indian students remain lower than in countries like Poland or Hungary. Those who study and work in Romania can take part-time jobs for up to 20 hours a week, earning about 15–25 RON per hour.

A yearly budget of 30,000–40,000 RON (₹6–8 lakh) is usually enough for tuition and living expenses combined.

Popular Courses to Study in Romania for Indian Students 2026

Romania’s universities offer a wide range of internationally recognised programs that balance academic depth with employability. For Indian students planning to study in Romania or study and work in Romania, the following fields stand out for their career potential and global value.

Studying in these fields gives Indian students access to EU-accredited degrees, practical training, and growing job sectors in Romania. Medicine and IT remain top picks for high ROI, while business and engineering degrees support long-term EU career options after graduation.

Admission Requirements and Process to Study in Romania for Indian Students (2026–27)

Studying in Romania is a straightforward process for Indian students, provided documents and timelines are followed carefully. Here’s a clear breakdown of how undergraduate and postgraduate admissions work.

1. Undergraduate Admissions

• Eligibility: Class 12 with at least 60%
  
• Duration: 3–6 years
  
• Admission Basis: Academic merit (no entrance test)
  
• Application Mode: Direct or via studyinromania.gov.ro
  

2.  Postgraduate Admissions

• Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 55–60%
  
• Duration: 1.5–2 years (master’s), 3–4 years (PhD)
  
• Evaluation: Based on academics or research proposal
  

4. English Language Proficiency

• IELTS 5.5–6.5 or TOEFL iBT 70+
  
• The MOI certificate is accepted by most universities
  
• Duolingo 95+ (limited acceptance)
  
• Romanian-taught programs require a 1-year preparatory course
  

5. Required Documents

• Academic transcripts and certificates (10th, 12th, and bachelor’s, if applicable)
  
• Passport (valid for at least 18 months)
  
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
  
• Letter(s) of Recommendation(LOR)  (for master’s programs)
  
• Proof of English proficiency or MOI
  
• Medical certificate and vaccination proof
  
• Passport-sized photographs
  

6. Application Timeline

• Intake: September
  
• Apply: November–May
  
• Offer Issued: Within 4–6 weeks
  

Visa Time: 30–45 days

How to Apply to Study in Romania

1. Choose the university and course through official portals or studyinromania.gov.ro.
   
2. Prepare your documents as per university requirements.
   
3. Submit your application directly via the university portal or email.
   
4. Receive a conditional offer, then pay initial tuition or registration fees.
   
5. Apply for the Romanian D-type student visa through the Romanian Embassy in New Delhi.
   
6. Arrive and register for a residence permit within 30 days of arrival.

Tip: Apply by January to secure scholarships and housing.

Scholarships to Study in Romania for Indian Students

Several fully funded scholarships in Romania support Indian students for the 2026–27 intake. These include government and university-funded programs covering tuition, housing, and monthly stipends. Applications can be made through the Study in Romania portal or individual university websites.

Note: Applications generally open from December 2025 to March 2026.

Conversion rate used: 1 RON = ₹20.18 (2025).

Study Visa, Residence Permit & Post-Study Work Options in Romania (2026–27)

To study in Romania, Indian students must apply for a D-type student visa after securing admission. The visa allows entry for academic purposes and is followed by a residence permit once the student arrives in Romania. Both steps are mandatory to begin studies and stay legally in the country.

Post-Study Work Opportunities in Romania

After graduation, international students can extend their residence permit for up to 12 months to look for employment. Once hired, they can switch to a work visa or EU Blue Card, which offers long-term employment rights in Romania and mobility across the EU.

Graduates in engineering, medicine, and IT find strong job prospects in Romanian and multinational companies.

Note for Indian Students:

Applying early for internships during your final year improves your chances of staying back to work in Romania after studies.

Study and Work in Romania for Indian Students

Indian students who study and work in Romania can legally take part-time jobs during their studies. This helps manage daily expenses and gain European work experience.

Key Points:

• International students can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks.
  
• Average pay is 15–25 RON per hour (₹300–₹500), depending on the city and job type.
  
• Common student jobs include roles in cafés, supermarkets, and university departments.
  
• Students with strong English or technical skills can find part-time work in IT support, tutoring, or customer service.
  
• Universities often post local job openings on student noticeboards or online portals.
  

Tip for Indian Students:
Prioritize jobs that align with your field of study, as experience gained during your course can help secure full-time roles after graduation in Romania or other EU countries.

Student Life and Well-being in Romania

Romania offers a safe, culturally rich, and affordable environment for Indian students. Cities like Cluj-Napoca, Iași, Timișoara, and Bucharest are known for welcoming international communities and modern infrastructure.

Highlights:

• Accommodation: University dorms cost around 1,200–1,800 RON/month (₹24,000–₹36,000), while private apartments are slightly higher.
  
• Safety: Romania ranks among the top 15 safest countries in Europe (Global Peace Index 2025).
  
• Support Services: Most universities have international offices, counseling units, and student unions to help with adjustment and career planning.
  
• Community: Over 15,000 international students currently study in Romania, including a growing Indian population.
  

Tip for International Students:
Learning basic Romanian phrases and joining international student clubs can make cultural integration smoother and enhance your overall experience.

Tips for Indian Students to Study in Romania 2026

Adapting to Romania’s education and lifestyle can be easy with the right preparation. Here are practical tips for Indian students to succeed academically and personally while studying in Romania.

1. Adjust to the Teaching Style
Romanian universities emphasize independent research and practical work.
Tip: Attend tutorials, interact with professors, and stay consistent with coursework.

2. Stay Organized with Assessments
Continuous evaluations and oral exams are common.
Tip: Maintain a study planner and meet assignment deadlines.

3. Learn Basic Romanian
Even English-taught courses may include local interactions.
Tip: Take beginner Romanian lessons offered by your university.

4. Verify Degree Recognition
Especially for medical courses, ensure NMC and EU recognition.
Tip: Check university accreditation before applying.

5. Prepare for Climate and Culture
Romania experiences long winters and distinct social customs.
Tip: Pack suitable winter wear and participate in cultural events to adapt quickly.

Career Outcomes and Job Opportunities After Studying in Romania

Graduating from a Romanian university gives Indian students access to both local and EU job markets. Romanian degrees are recognized across the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), which helps students pursue careers or higher studies across Europe.

1. Employment in Romania

Graduates can stay up to 12 months after graduation to find work by extending their residence permit.

• In-demand fields: IT, Engineering, Medicine, and Business Management.
  
• Average starting salaries range from 4,000–7,000 RON/month (₹80,000–₹1.4 lakh) depending on industry and city.

2. Working in the EU

With an EU-recognized qualification, students can apply for the EU Blue Card, enabling long-term work in other EU countries.

3. Returning to India

Romanian degrees in medicine, technology, and business are accepted by the UGC and NMC (for accredited universities), allowing a smooth transition to the Indian job markets.

4. Career Growth and Research Options

Graduates can continue with PhD or Erasmus+ programs across Europe or work in multinational companies based in Romania.

Tip for Indian Students:
Start internships during your final year to increase employability and build professional connections for post-study work in Romania or the wider EU.

Why Study in Romania?

Romania is increasingly recognised as a smart and affordable choice for international students. According to the QS Europe 2025 rankings, it ranks among the top 10 most budget-friendly study destinations in the EU. For Indian students, Romania offers the advantage of EU-recognised degrees, low tuition fees, and a safe multicultural environment.

1. Affordable Tuition Fees

Public universities in Romania charge between 2,000 and 6,000 Romanian Leu (₹40,000–₹1.21 lakh) per year, depending on the course and university. This makes Romania one of the most economically affordable countries in Europe for higher education. (Conversion note: 1 RON = ₹20.18)

2. Low Cost of Living

The average living cost for students in Romania is about 2,500 to 3,500 RON (₹50,000–₹70,000) per month, including rent, food, and local travel. Cities like Iași and Timișoara are more affordable than Bucharest.

3. Recognised European Degrees

Romania is part of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), so degrees are valid across Europe and internationally, helping students continue studies or find jobs within the EU.

4. English-Taught Programs

More than 80 universities now offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses in English. Popular choices for Indian students include medicine, engineering, computer science, and business management.

5. Safe and Student-Friendly Environment

Cities such as Cluj-Napoca, Bucharest, and Iași are consistently ranked among the safest in Eastern Europe. Universities provide hostel facilities, student discounts, and cultural societies for international students.

Conclusion

Romania offers Indian students quality education, affordable tuition, and growing career opportunities across Europe. With English-taught programs, reasonable living costs, and several scholarships in Romania, it is one of the most budget-friendly EU study destinations.

Start your Romania study journey with LeapScholar. Get expert guidance on universities, visas, and scholarships for the 2026–27 intake.

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