Scholarships in Romania for International Students

In recent years, Romania has emerged as a beacon of academic opportunity, drawing a significant number of international students to its universities. The 2021-2022 academic year alone saw the enrollment of 29,113 international students in bachelor programs, marking a 34% increase since 2014-2015. This surge is attributed to the country’s competitive tuition fees, which range from 2,000 to 5,000 EUR annually for most programs, making it a relatively affordable destination for higher education. Despite these low tuition rates, the financial burden can still pose a challenge for many. While part-time employment is an option, scholarships offer a more sustainable solution to alleviate financial stress. These scholarships cover various study cycles, from bachelor’s to Ph.D. levels, and span across a wide array of fields. By exploring these opportunities, students can pursue their academic ambitions in Romania without the added pressure of managing finances, allowing them to focus solely on their educational pursuits. This article will delve into the most popular scholarships in Romania, providing a comprehensive guide for prospective international students. 

Types of Scholarships in Romania 

In Romania, there are several types of scholarships available for students, which can be broadly categorized into government, private, and university-specific scholarships. Here’s a general overview of each type:

Government Scholarships: These are scholarships provided by the Romanian government to support students in their academic pursuits. They are often funded by various ministries, such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Ministry of Education. Government scholarships may cover different levels of study, from bachelor’s to PhD, and can be available to both local and international students.

Private Scholarships: Private scholarships are funded by non-governmental entities, such as private organizations, foundations, or individuals. These scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or focused on specific fields of study. They may have their own set of eligibility criteria and application processes, independent of government-run programs.

University-Specific Scholarships: Universities in Romania may offer their scholarships to attract and support talented students. These scholarships can vary widely from one institution to another and may be based on academic excellence, financial need, or specific talents or achievements. University-specific scholarships might cover tuition fees, and living expenses, or provide a stipend for the duration of the study program.

Each type of scholarship has its own application requirements, eligibility criteria, and benefits.

Suggested Reading: Romania Study Visa for International Students

Top Scholarship in Romania 

MFA Scholarship Program 

The MFA Scholarship Program in Romania is a prestigious initiative by the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, established under Government Decision No. 288/1993. It is designed to offer foreign citizens from non-EU countries the opportunity to pursue accredited higher education in Romania. The program’s purpose is to promote Romanian language and culture, support academic excellence, and foster international relations. Each academic year, many scholarships are administered across bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD levels, with the exact number varying annually based on the ministry’s provisions.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Applicants must be foreign citizens from non-EU countries.
• For bachelor’s and master’s programs, only study programs in Romanian are available.
• At the Ph.D. level, programs in English or a foreign language set by the doctoral school are also available.
• Candidates should have good results in education, with an average score of at least 7 (seven) corresponding to the scoring system in Romania or the “Good” score.

Benefits of the Scholarship:

• Exemption from the payment of tuition fees.
• A monthly stipend for living expenses.
• Accommodation is provided in university dormitories.
• Medical insurance throughout the scholarship.
• The opportunity to study in a multicultural environment and experience the rich Romanian culture.

CEEPUS Program  

The CEEPUS (Central European Exchange Program for University Studies) scholarship program in Romania is part of a larger academic mobility network that was established in 1994. Romania joined the program in 1998. The purpose of CEEPUS is to promote cooperation in higher education within Central Europe, supporting student and teacher mobility across member states. Annually, the program administers approximately 500 grants in Romania, which are awarded by the Ministry of National Education through the CEEPUS National Office.

Eligibility:

• Applicants must be citizens of CEEPUS member countries.
• They should be affiliated with a higher education institution.
• A good academic record is required.
• Applicants should not have prior studies in Romania, except for preparatory year students.

Benefits:

• Monthly grants for bachelor’s, master’s, Ph.D., and post-doctoral courses, with amounts varying based on the level of study.
• Free accommodation in student dormitories or university spaces.
• Laboratory costs related to the study program and research are covered.
• Medical service costs are covered, by the law.

Erasmus+ Program 

The Erasmus Scholarship Program in Romania is part of the broader Erasmus+ initiative, which is the European Union’s program to support education, training, youth, and sport across Europe. With a history dating back to 1987, the program has evolved significantly over the years. The current iteration, running from 2021 to 2027, has a substantial budget of 26.2 billion EUR, nearly double that of its predecessor. The program’s primary purpose is to foster social inclusion, facilitate green and digital transitions, and encourage young people’s participation in democratic life.  While specific numbers of scholarships administered annually can vary, the program offers a range of mobility and cooperation opportunities across higher education, vocational education and training, school education, adult education, youth, and sport. The administering body in Romania is the Romanian Government through its various educational institutions that participate in the Erasmus+ program.  

Eligibility:

• Must be a citizen of an EU Member State or a third country associated with the program.
• Should be registered in a higher education institution and enrolled in studies leading to a recognized degree or tertiary-level qualification.
• Recent graduates are eligible for traineeship mobility within 12 months of graduating1.
• Good academic standing, usually with an average grade of at least 7 (seven) on the Romanian grading scale or the equivalent “Good” score.

Benefits:

• Opportunities for study or traineeship mobility in various countries, including all EU Member States and several associated third countries.
• Monthly grants to co-finance living and transportation costs in the host country, with additional support for students with fewer opportunities and special needs.
• Access to Online Language Support (OLS) specific to the Erasmus program.
• Recognition of participation through a diploma supplement at the end of studies.
• Development of transversal skills such as communication, problem-solving, and adaptability.
• Blended mobility options combining physical presence with virtual components for collaborative online learning

L’Oréal-UNESCO Women in Science Scholarship Program

The L’Oréal-UNESCO Women in Science Scholarship Program in Romania is a prestigious initiative that supports early-career women researchers in the fields of life, exact sciences, or computer science. Launched in Romania in 1999, the program aims to promote gender equality in science by recognizing and rewarding talented women scientists under the age of 40 who are enrolled in doctoral or postdoctoral research at a Romanian research institution. The program is conducted in partnership with the Romanian National Commission for UNESCO and annually awards scholarships to outstanding female researchers to aid in their scientific endeavors.

Each year, the program administers a specific number of scholarships. For instance, in one recent year, five Romanian researchers were announced as laureates, each benefiting from a scholarship worth 50,000 lei (~10,000 EUR). This number may vary annually, but it highlights the program’s commitment to fostering scientific talent among women in Romania.

Eligibility:

• Applicants must be women researchers working in Romania.
• They should be under the age of 40.
• Enrolled in doctoral or postdoctoral research at a Romanian research institution.
• Working in life sciences, exact sciences, or computer science.

Benefits:

• A monetary award to support research activities, with recent laureates receiving 50,000 lei each.
• Recognition and visibility for the researchers’ work, help to inspire other young students to consider careers in science.
• Support for projects that can have a significant impact on society and contribute to overcoming global challenges

University Specific Scholarships in Romania

• University of Bucharest: The University of Bucharest offers financial support to international students in the form of Academic Performance Scholarships,  that are available for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD students. The scholarships are awarded based on the student’s academic results from the previous year. The financial support includes a 50% reduction in tuition fees for the following academic year. The university also offers support for the Nationals of Developing Countries. This is aimed at international students from developing countries, offering a 50% reduction in tuition fees for those with an average grade of at least 7 in the previous year.
• University of Galati: The university offers financial support for international students enrolled in bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs. The support may include tuition waivers and assistance with living expenses.
• University of Petrosani: The University of Petroșani provides scholarships for international students, which include support based on the student’s academic performance and includes tuition fee reductions, and monthly stipends

Suggested Reading: Working in Romania as a Foreign Student

Tips for Applying for Scholarships in Romania 

Thoroughly Research Available Scholarships: Prioritize comprehensive research to identify scholarship opportunities that align with your academic pursuits, career goals, and personal circumstances. Explore government-sponsored scholarships, university-specific grants, and private foundations offering financial aid for international students in Romania.

Meet Eligibility Criteria: Carefully review the eligibility requirements for each scholarship to ensure you meet the criteria before investing time and effort into the application process. These criteria often encompass academic excellence, language proficiency, financial need, extracurricular activities, and sometimes specific research interests.

Prepare Essential Documentation: Gather all necessary documentation well in advance to streamline the application process. This typically includes academic transcripts, standardized test scores (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS), letters of recommendation, a well-crafted personal statement or essay, and proof of financial need (if applicable).

Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Devote ample time to crafting a persuasive personal statement or essay that showcases your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, career aspirations, and the relevance of the scholarship to your future goals. Tailor your narrative to reflect your unique strengths and experiences, effectively highlighting why you deserve the scholarship.

Seek Guidance and Feedback: Leverage the expertise of mentors, teachers, or academic advisors to refine your scholarship application materials. Solicit constructive feedback to enhance the clarity, coherence, and persuasiveness of your personal statement, essays, and recommendation letters.

Demonstrate Cultural Awareness: Emphasize your cultural adaptability, openness to diversity, and willingness to immerse yourself in Romanian culture and academic community. Showcase your appreciation for Romania’s heritage, language, and educational system, demonstrating your readiness to contribute positively to the campus environment.

Submit a Polished Application: Pay meticulous attention to detail when completing the scholarship application forms, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Submit all required documents within the stipulated deadlines, adhering to any specific formatting guidelines or instructions provided by the scholarship provider.

Follow Up and Stay Engaged: After submitting your application, maintain proactive communication with the scholarship provider, if appropriate, to inquire about the status of your application or seek clarification on any concerns. Stay engaged with the scholarship community by attending informational sessions, networking events, or virtual meetings to demonstrate your ongoing interest and commitment.

Suggested Reading: Admission and Eligibility for Medical Studies in Romania

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Romania may offer a limited variety of scholarships, but the ones available are distinguished by their exceptional quality and abundance. The scholarships in Romania are designed to cater to a wide range of academic interests and professional aspirations, ensuring that students from various disciplines can find opportunities that align with their goals. However, securing one demands meticulous preparation of applications, showcasing academic excellence and potential contributions to the chosen field. For those who find the competition stiff, it’s prudent to consider alternative destinations with similar educational opportunities. Exploring scholarships in other countries not only broadens one’s horizons but also increases the chances of receiving financial aid. For more information regarding scholarships in Bulgaria and similar destinations, contact our admission experts at Gyanberry. Book your free video call appointment now!