Romania, with its rich history, respected universities, and welcoming culture, is becoming an increasingly popular study destination for Arab students. If you’re considering pursuing your higher education here in 2025, this comprehensive guide provides the essential information you need—from choosing a university to settling into your new life.
Why Choose Romania for Your Studies?
Romania offers a compelling blend of quality education, affordability, and cultural richness, making it an excellent choice for Arab students.
- Internally Recognized Degrees: Romanian universities are part of the Bologna Process, meaning your degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) will be recognized across the European Union and many other countries.
- Affordable Tuition & Living Costs: Compared to Western Europe or North America, Romania is significantly more affordable. Annual tuition fees range from 2,500 to 5,000 EUR for most programs, with living expenses (accommodation, food, transport) averaging 500 to 800 EUR per month, depending on the city.
- Diverse & High-Quality Programs: Romania is particularly renowned for programs in Medicine (in English), Dentistry, Pharmacy, Engineering (especially IT and Automotive), Architecture, and Business.
- Safe and Welcoming Environment: Romanian society is generally very friendly towards international students. Major university cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, and Iași are multicultural and used to welcoming students from around the world, including the Arab region.
- Strategic Location in Europe: As an EU member state, Romania serves as a perfect gateway to explore the rest of Europe during your studies.
Step-by-Step Application Process for 2025 Intake
Start your process early! For the 2025 academic year (starting in October), aim to begin in January-March 2025.
1. Choose Your University and Program
Research accredited universities on the official ARACIS (Romanian Agency for Quality Assurance in Higher Education) website. Popular choices for Arab students include the University of Bucharest, Babeș-Bolyai University (Cluj-Napoca), Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy (Bucharest), and the Polytechnic universities in major cities.
2. Check Specific Entry Requirements
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): A recognized high school diploma (equivalent to the Romanian Baccalaureate). You will need a Certificate of Equivalence issued by the Romanian National Centre for Recognition and Equivalence of Diplomas (CNRED).
- Postgraduate (Master’s/PhD): A recognized Bachelor’s or Master’s degree, along with the relevant transcripts.
- Language Proficiency: For English-taught programs, an IELTS (5.5-6.5+) or TOEFL certificate is typically required. Some universities offer preparatory language years.
3. Prepare Your Application File
This usually includes:
- Completed application form from the university.
- Legalized and translated (into Romanian, English, or French) copies of your diplomas and transcripts.
- Language proficiency certificate.
- Copy of passport.
- CV and Letter of Intent/Motivation Letter.
- Medical certificate.
4. Obtain the Letter of Acceptance
Submit your complete file to your chosen university. Upon acceptance, you will receive a Letter of Acceptance, crucial for your visa application.
5. Apply for the Long-Stay Study Visa (D/SD)
Apply at the Romanian Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Required documents typically include:
- Letter of Acceptance (original).
- Proof of tuition fee payment (usually for at least one year).
- Proof of financial means (a bank statement showing sufficient funds, often equivalent to at least 3-4 months of minimum living expenses, around 2,500-3,000 EUR).
- Medical travel insurance.
- Criminal record certificate.
- Visa application forms and passport photos.
Important: Visa processing can take 4-8 weeks. Apply as soon as you have your Acceptance Letter.
6. Travel to Romania and Obtain Your Residence Permit
Once you enter Romania with your visa, you must apply for a Temporary Residence Permit within 30-90 days (check the specific deadline on your visa) at the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). This permit allows you to stay for the duration of your studies.
Financial Planning: A Crucial Aspect
- Tuition Fees: Vary by field. Medicine/Dentistry in English can be 6,000 – 8,000 EUR/year, while Engineering or Humanities are often 2,500 – 4,000 EUR/year.
- Accommodation: University dorms are the cheapest (150-300 EUR/month). Private flats or shared apartments range from 250-500 EUR/month.
- Living Expenses: Budget for food, transport, books, and personal items. Cooking at home significantly reduces costs.
Cultural Integration: Tips for Arab Students
- Finding Community: You will find active Arab and Muslim student associations in major cities. They organize events, provide support, and can help you find halal food and prayer spaces.
- Halal Food: Major cities have halal butchers and a growing number of Middle Eastern/Turkish grocery stores and restaurants. Larger supermarkets also have halal sections.
- Prayer Facilities: There are mosques in major cities like Bucharest (the Islamic Cultural Centre), Constanța, and Cluj-Napoca. University prayer rooms are also available in some places.
- Weather: Romania has four distinct seasons. Winters (Dec-Feb) can be cold and snowy, especially in regions like Cluj or Brașov. Prepare with appropriate clothing.
- Social Life: Romanians are hospitable and value face-to-face interaction. Learning basic Romanian phrases (like “Mulțumesc” for Thank You) will be greatly appreciated and ease your daily life.
Key Challenges & How to Overcome Them
- Language Barrier: While academic life may be in English, daily life requires some Romanian. Enroll in a university-offered Romanian language course for foreigners.
- Bureaucracy: Be patient and meticulous with documents. Always ask for official requirements from the university and immigration authorities directly.
- Homesickness: Stay connected with family via technology, but also actively engage in university life and student groups to build a new support network.
Final Checklist for 2025
- Research and finalize university/program by March 2025.
- Prepare all documents and apply for the Letter of Acceptance by May-June 2025.
- Apply for the Long-Stay Study Visa upon receiving acceptance.
- Arrange accommodation (university dormitory or private).
- Plan your finances and budget.
- Join online forums/groups for Arab students in Romania.
Conclusion
Studying in Romania in 2025 presents a unique opportunity to gain a quality European education in a dynamic and affordable environment. While the process requires careful planning and adaptation, the experience of immersing yourself in a new culture, building an international network, and achieving your academic goals is immensely rewarding.
