EDICT

This paper explores the system of international student education in Romania, focusing on its legal framework, institutional coordination, and the challenges faced by international students. It examines the admission processes for EU and non-EU students, as well as the cultural and social integration support provided by universities. Additionally, the paper highlights the role of new technologies in enhancing the educational experience for international students, particularly through online learning platforms, blended learning models, and virtual reality (VR) tools. These technologies facilitate greater flexibility, help overcome language barriers, and provide immersive learning opportunities. The paper concludes with recommendations for improving Romania’s international student education system, emphasizing the use of technology, inclusivity, and enhanced support services.

Keywords
Romania, international students, higher education, legal framework, cultural integration, education technology.

Introduction

In recent years, the education of international students has become an increasingly important aspect of higher education systems worldwide, particularly in countries like Romania, which are striving to enhance their global presence. The education of international students plays a critical role in the internationalization of universities, contributing to the diversification of academic environments and fostering cross-cultural exchange. Romania, with its rich history and diverse educational opportunities, has become a prominent destination for international students, attracting students from both EU and non-EU countries. This paper explores the framework of international student education in Romania, focusing on its legal structure, institutional coordination, admission processes, and the challenges and opportunities faced by international students. Additionally, it highlights the role of new technologies in improving the learning experience and cultural integration of these students, offering suggestions for leveraging digital tools to enhance educational outcomes. Ultimately, the paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of international student education in Romania and its impact on both the local academic landscape and the wider Central and Eastern European region.

I. The Evolution of Romania’s International Student Education System: A Historical Perspective

Romania’s higher education system for international students has undergone a significant transformation from regionalization to internationalization throughout its historical development. This evolution, influenced by a combination of social, political, and economic factors, can be categorized into four major stages: the early period, the interwar period, the socialist era, and the modern era. These developments reflect not only changes in national policies but also the role of education in fostering international relations and economic modernization (Stanef & Manole, 2013).

1.1 Early Period: Pre-1918

Before 1918, Romania’s higher education system was characterized by a focus on religious education and a limited number of higher education institutions. The number of international students during this period was extremely small, mainly comprising students from neighboring Balkan regions, with concentrations in fields such as theology and law. Historical statistics indicate that by the late 19th century, the number of international students was approximately 500, accounting for around 8% of the total student population, reflecting a low degree of internationalization within the education system at that time (Anghelache et al., 2018). Nevertheless, the establishment of institutions such as the University of Bucharest (1864) and the University of Iași (1860) positioned Romania as a regional educational hub, laying the foundation for future internationalization.

1.2 Interwar Period: Post-World War I

Following the signing of the Treaty of Trianon, Romania’s territorial expansion created opportunities for rapid development in its higher education system, particularly in fields such as medicine and engineering. During this period, Romania integrated educational resources from newly acquired territories and strengthened local universities’ academic disciplines, gradually establishing itself as an academic center in the region. This development attracted students from neighboring countries and other parts of Europe. However, the Great Depression and the outbreak of World War II significantly hindered the internationalization process. By 1938, the number of international students in Romania had decreased to only 211, representing 0.69% of the total student population (Anghelache et al., 2018). Despite these challenges, the educational advancements during this period reinforced Romania’s academic position in the region and laid the groundwork for post-war international educational cooperation. (Strat et al., 2013)

1.3 Socialist Era: 1945–1989

The socialist era marked a period of rapid growth in Romania’s international student education. As part of the socialist bloc, Romania implemented scholarship and educational aid policies to attract a significant number of students from developing countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America (Tudorel Andrei et al., 2010). A distinctive feature of this period was the use of education as a diplomatic tool to strengthen political and economic ties with developing countries. By the early 1980s, the number of international students had reached nearly 17,000, accounting for 13% of the total university population, with a focus on fields such as medicine, engineering, agriculture, and economics. Higher education policies during this era aimed not only at disseminating academic knowledge but also at fostering international cooperation and cultural exchange. These efforts solidified Romania’s position in global higher education.

1.4 Modern Era: Post-1990

After 1990, Romania transitioned from a socialist system to a market economy, ushering in a new phase of internationalization in higher education for international students. Following Romania’s accession to the European Union, the Ministry of Education introduced multilingual programs (in English, French, and German), making the country a key destination for medical education in Europe. According to the 2022–2023 Report on Higher Education in Romania, the country hosted 30,480 undergraduate international students in 2022, representing 7.4% of the total undergraduate population. Medicine and engineering remain the most popular disciplines, particularly in renowned universities located in cities such as Cluj, Iași, and Bucharest. Compared to other EU countries, Romania attracts international students due to its low tuition fees, affordable living costs, and the flexibility of multilingual programs.

II. Analysis of Romania’s International Student Landscape

2.1 The Number and Structure of International Students

2.1.1 Trends in International Student Numbers

According to the 2021–2022 Romanian Higher Education Report, the number of international students in Romania has been steadily increasing, with 35,392 international students enrolled during the academic year 2021–2022, including Romanian students from the diaspora. This figure represents an increase of over 26% compared to the academic year 2015–2016, highlighting Romania’s growing prominence in international education. Specifically, medicine, engineering, and economics are the primary fields attracting international students. The medical field, in particular, draws significant numbers of students from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East due to its rigorous curriculum and high-quality teaching. Additionally, Romania’s low tuition fees, affordable living costs, and internationally accredited academic reputation have significantly contributed to the growth of international student enrollment.

2.1.2 Primary Countries of Origin

The international student population in Romania demonstrates significant geographical and cultural diversity. During the 2021–2022 academic year, Romania’s higher education institutions hosted 35,392 international students from 149 countries. The main countries of origin include the Republic of Moldova, France, Israel, Italy, Morocco, Germany, Greece, Syria, Tunisia, Serbia, Hungary, and Jordan. The Republic of Moldova accounts for the largest share of international students due to cultural and linguistic proximity. Students from France and Italy primarily choose medical programs, while students from Morocco and Tunisia are attracted by the opportunity to study in French or English. Additionally, the number of students from Syria and Jordan has increased significantly in recent years, likely due to limited educational resources in their home countries and Romania’s scholarship policies. German, Greek, and Hungarian students are more likely to choose Romania due to its proximity and international academic collaborations.

2.2 Characteristics and Cultural Integration of International Students

2.2.1 Group Characteristics

International students represent a highly diverse group in terms of demographics and academic backgrounds. During the 2021–2022 academic year, more than 17,000 international students were enrolled in medical programs, accounting for nearly 50% of the total international student population. Engineering also remains a prominent field, particularly in areas such as information technology, mechanical engineering, and architecture. Furthermore, the number of international students pursuing studies in arts and humanities is steadily increasing, reflecting Romania’s appeal in non-technical disciplines. The socio-economic backgrounds of these students are equally varied. Students from wealthier nations view Romania as a cost-effective study destination, while those from middle- and low-income countries are drawn by scholarship opportunities and lower living costs.

2.2.2 Cultural Adaptation and Integration

The cultural adaptation process for international students in Romania varies significantly and poses several challenges, especially for students from non-EU countries, where cultural differences tend to be more pronounced. These differences can span social norms, religious practices, and educational methods. For example, many students need time to adjust to Romania’s educational system, which places a strong emphasis on theoretical knowledge.

Language is another significant hurdle. Although many universities offer programs in English, students still need to learn basic Romanian for practical, day-to-day communication. Additionally, Romania’s harsh winters, with their cold climate, as well as its traditional diet—often heavy on meat—can be difficult for students from warmer, tropical regions.

Despite these challenges, international students in Romania show a strong willingness to engage in the local culture while retaining their own traditions. In cities with higher levels of internationalization such as Timișoara, Cluj, and Bucharest, students often organize cultural activities, such as language exchanges, traditional food festivals, and cultural showcases. Romania’s multicultural setting creates a welcoming environment for such exchanges. Universities also encourage cross-cultural understanding by organizing international student events and establishing student offices dedicated to multicultural support. For instance, the University of Bucharest hosts an „International Culture Week,” where students can present their own cultures and engage with Romanian students, further promoting mutual understanding.

III. The System of International Student Education in Romania

3.1 Legal Framework and Regulations

In Romania, the education of international students is governed by a set of national and European regulations. At the national level, the National Education Law (Law no. 1/2011) is the primary legal framework that regulates all aspects of education, including higher education, the admission of international students, and their rights during their studies. Under this framework, students from European Union (EU) member states enjoy preferential treatment, having the same rights as Romanian citizens, including in terms of admission processes, tuition fees, and access to educational programs (Europa.eu, 2024).

For students from EU countries, the admission process is regulated through bilateral agreements between Romania and the respective countries, with admission conditions generally simplified, reflecting the principles of free movement of persons and diploma recognition within the EU. This system ensures a transparent and efficient administrative process, which includes the automatic recognition of higher education diplomas from EU member states.

In contrast, for students from non-EU countries, the regulations are more detailed, and the administrative process is more complex. These students are required to meet additional conditions, such as obtaining a student visa, completing additional procedures for the recognition of previous studies, and undergoing language proficiency assessments depending on the teaching language of the chosen program. Additionally, Romanian universities are required to provide appropriate facilities for the integration of international students, such as accommodation, cultural orientation, and academic counseling.

Moreover, in order to respond to the demands of the international education market and attract students from both EU and non-EU countries, Romania has specifically regulated study programs offered in English. These programs are structured to ensure educational coherence at the European and international levels, taking into account the linguistic and cultural diversity of international students.

3.2 Institutions Coordinating the Education of International students

In Romania, the education of international students is coordinated by various central and local institutions that ensure compliance with educational regulations and manage programs dedicated to them. At the national level, the Ministry of Education plays a crucial role in developing and implementing educational policies, including for international students. The Ministry coordinates the general regulations for higher education, including for students from both EU and non-EU countries, and collaborates with the National Agency for Community Programs in the Field of Education and Professional Training (ANPCDEFP), which manages international education programs and academic mobility.

In addition, each university in Romania has offices or departments dedicated to international students, responsible for managing the admission process, and providing ongoing support during their studies. These offices play a crucial role in helping international students adapt to the Romanian education system, providing information about local regulations, accommodation, healthcare services, and extracurricular activities.

To support the integration of international students into the globalized academic environment, Romanian universities are actively involved in international collaborations. These partnerships are conducted with institutions from both EU and non-EU countries through bilateral agreements, exchange programs, and joint research projects. Thus, Romania plays an important role in creating a diversified and inclusive educational space where students from all over the world can collaborate, learn, and participate in international academic activities.

Another significant aspect of coordinating international student education is the promotion of academic mobility. Romanian universities are members of international educational networks, such as Erasmus+, and a significant number of international students are attracted by these academic mobility opportunities, which contribute to increasing the international visibility of Romanian higher education.

3.3 Admission Criteria and Administrative Processes

The admission process for international students in Romania varies depending on the type of study program selected and the applicant’s residency status. For students from EU member states, the admission process is simplified and does not involve additional administrative formalities compared to those required for Romanian citizens. EU students can apply directly to universities in Romania, enjoying the same rights as Romanian citizens, including in terms of tuition fees and diploma recognition.

In contrast, students from non-EU countries must follow a more complex procedure, involving multiple administrative steps. One of the mandatory requirements is obtaining a language proficiency certificate, which can be in Romanian (for programs taught in Romanian) or in other teaching languages, such as English or French, depending on the language of instruction of the chosen program. Additionally, they must submit several supplementary documents, including translated and legalized academic records that prove their previous qualifications. In some cases, an entrance exam or interview is required.

Romanian universities offer a wide range of financial options for international students, including state scholarships, which are awarded based on academic performance and financial need, as well as scholarships sponsored by international organizations or private foundations. These scholarships aim to support the access of international students to quality education by helping them cover part of their tuition or living expenses during their studies. Depending on the program type, the admission process may include knowledge assessment exams and interviews, designed to evaluate the candidate’s academic skills and motivation.

3.4 Integration Policies and Support for International Students

In order to support the integration of international students, Romanian universities have developed offices dedicated to international students, which play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition for them into the Romanian educational system. These offices are responsible for providing assistance in various areas, including accommodation, social integration, and academic orientation. Furthermore, specialized staff offers information about local regulations, administrative procedures, as well as cultural and social life in Romania. The goal of these offices is to ensure that international students feel supported and integrated into both the university environment and society.

In addition to administrative services, Romanian universities organize cultural and social events that facilitate interaction between international and Romanian students. These activities contribute to the promotion of a diverse and inclusive educational environment, where students from different parts of the world can learn from each other and build intercultural relationships. Examples of such events include the celebration of cultural traditions from the countries of origin of international students, as well as festivals, excursions, and student meet-ups.

These integration policies significantly contribute to creating an inclusive educational environment, which not only supports cultural diversity but also promotes a more globalized education in which international students are considered a valuable resource. A multicultural and diversified learning environment helps develop global competencies, which are essential in an increasingly interconnected world.

3.5 The Role of Technology in Enhancing Learning for International Students

With the advent of digital technologies, online learning resources have become increasingly vital for international students. For many students, particularly those who may not have fluency in the local language or who face geographic and time constraints, online learning platforms offer flexible and accessible options. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and FutureLearn are widely used to supplement traditional learning methods, offering courses in various fields of study, from humanities to science and technology.

Romanian universities can improve international student learning by integrating blended learning models, combining in-person classes with online resources. This approach can address language barriers, provide additional study materials, and enable students to engage in collaborative projects with peers from around the world. Furthermore, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies could be employed to create immersive learning experiences, helping students better understand complex subjects through interactive simulations.

These technologies can also facilitate cultural integration by enabling international students to virtually explore Romanian history, culture, and geography before arriving, easing their transition into the physical environment. By offering language learning apps and online cultural workshops, universities can further support the integration of international students into both the academic and social aspects of their host country.

IV. The Impact of International Education on Romanian Universities and the Central and Eastern European Region

The education of international students significantly contributes to the internationalization of Romanian universities and the diversification of the academic environment. International studies in Romania not only bring a global perspective to educational processes but also promote cultural interaction and the exchange of ideas, enriching the academic experience of all students, both Romanian and international. These students are often involved in international research, participating in transnational collaborative projects in fields such as social sciences, medicine, engineering, and information technology, which helps build international academic networks and enhances the global visibility of Romanian universities.

Furthermore, the demographic diversification of students contributes to creating a more open and innovative academic environment, where new ideas and different perspectives can stimulate creativity and critical thinking. International students bring not only theoretical knowledge from their home countries’ educational systems but also diverse educational models that can positively influence teaching methodologies in Romania. This diversity helps enrich the curriculum and drive pedagogical evolution, offering a better learning opportunity for all participants in the educational process.

The impact on the Central and Eastern European (CEE) region is also significant. Through the internationalization of higher education, Romania strengthens its position as an educational destination in a region with great cultural and historical diversity. In this region, international education has become an essential factor in developing a knowledge-based economy and creating a more integrated and collaborative regional academic space. Student mobility and academic exchanges between Romania and other countries in Central and Eastern Europe have had a positive impact on university collaboration in the region and on strengthening the region’s position on the European educational map.

In addition to the direct benefits for education, international education in Romania also has a significant impact on the economic development of the region. International students, especially from non-EU countries, contribute substantially to the economy through their spending on accommodation, food, and recreational activities. In the long term, they can also become ambassadors of Romanian culture in their home countries. Moreover, a large number of international students may attract investments and support the internationalization of Romania’s labor market, facilitating the recruitment of international talent by local companies and contributing to the development of cross-border economic partnerships.

In this context, international education in Romania not only supports the modernization of the Romanian educational system but also plays an important role in creating a strong regional educational network in Central and Eastern Europe, promoting the continuous exchange of ideas and resources between the countries in the region.

Conclusion

This paper explored the current state of international student education in Romania, its challenges, and its role in the broader context of higher education internationalization. Despite facing challenges in language barriers, administrative processes, and cultural integration, Romania has made significant strides in creating a welcoming and inclusive educational environment for international students. By leveraging new technologies, such as online learning platforms and virtual reality, Romania can further enhance the learning experiences of international students and support their cultural integration.

In conclusion, Romania’s international student education system is a key driver of both academic excellence and economic development, contributing to the country’s global visibility and positioning in the Central and Eastern European region. Future policies should focus on improving language support, simplifying administrative procedures, and embracing innovative learning technologies to foster an even more inclusive, diverse, and globally competitive educational environment

References

1. Anghelache, C., Petrescu, I., Anghel, M. G., & Gogu, E. (2018). Evoluția centenară a învățământului în România. Bucharest: Editura Economică.
2. Tudorel, A., Teodorescu, D., Oancea, B., & Iacob, A. (2010). Evolution of Higher Education in Romania. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, 9, 963-967.
3. Romanian Ministry of Education. (2022). 2021–2022 Romanian Higher Education Report
4. Romanian Ministry of Education. (2023). 2022–2023 Romanian Higher Education Report
5. Stanef, R. M., & Manole, A. M. (2013). Educational System Gaps in Romania. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, 93, 794-798.
6. Strat, V. A., & Danciu, A. R. (2013). The Higher Education System in Romania: Past – Present – Future. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, 93, 859-863.
7. https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/education/university/fees-and-financial-help/index_ro.htm Accessed on October 15, 2024

Fund: 2023 BISU Regional and Country-Specific Studies Project
Project No. 21110014121