15 Cheapest Universities in Romania for International Students

In Romania, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in Romania without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Romania, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 73 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Romania, make sure to read more!

How do I get admission to affordable universities in Romania?

Applying to cheap universities in Romania requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in Romania for a more comprehensive guide!

What can I study at Best affordable universities in Romania?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Romania. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Romania is the Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, which offers Business Administration, Biophysics, and Computer Science to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the 1 December 1918 University of Alba Iulia offers Audit and Control of Companies, Accounting Information System in Management Decision Making, and Business Administration in Trade, Tourism and Services.

Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Romania for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Romania ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania 1,500 RON - 4,400 RON 89%
Partium Christian University 1,500 RON - 4,900 RON 89%
University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest 4,000 RON - 4,500 RON 70%
University of Bucharest 9,700 RON - 12,300 RON 26%
Polytechnic University of Timisoara 9,700 RON - 15,500 RON 26%
National University of Political Studies and Public Administration 9,742 RON 26%
Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad 9,742 RON - 18,600 RON 26%
Technical University of Cluj-Napoca 9,750 RON - 18,600 RON 26%
Dunarea de Jos University of Galati 9,750 RON - 33,300 RON 26%
Dimitrie Cantemir Christian University 9,800 RON 26%
Transylvania University of Brasov 9,840 RON - 33,300 RON 25%
Alexandru Ioan Cuza University 10,200 RON - 12,400 RON 23%
Vasile Alecsandri University of Bacau 10,900 RON - 13,300 RON 18%
Ovidius University of Constanta 10,900 RON - 24,600 RON 18%
Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu 11,100 RON - 34,600 RON 16%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 13,100 RON for universities in Romania.

1. Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania

The Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania is an autonomous higher education that was established with the purpose of preserving the Hungarian traditions in Romania. And one way of keeping its customs is by offering study programs taught in the Hungarian language. The university has a massive community welcoming students regardless of background. Guided by its Christian values and principles, it aims to cultivate individuals with qualities exhibiting respect for freedom, openness, and optimism.

The university currently operates on four campuses, with its main campus located in Cluj-Napoca.

2. Partium Christian University

Built with the goal of providing equal opportunities for the Hungarian community, the Partium Christian University embodies what it truly means to be part of an all-inclusive community. It aims to shape students with positive attitudes, lead ideal lives, and be socially responsible individuals. Whilst instilling the Hungarian principles in its curriculum, the university ensures to adapt its teaching to the current industry needs.

3. University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest

For more than 200 years, the University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest (UPB) has been in the business of training engineers and technologists. It is the oldest and most prestigious technical school in Romania, with students from all over Romania and the world competing to get into its distinguished engineering programs. UPB is also fervently dedicated to research and innovation and is home to many reputable research centers and institutes.

4. University of Bucharest

The University of Bucharest (UB) has a rich and strong history that can be traced back to 1694. Its significant contribution is providing superior education, which has become the basis of the country’s modern educational system. This elite institution offers a wide selection of academic programs ranging from natural sciences to foreign languages and literature. UB community comprising highly qualified educators and staff supports students in fulfilling their educational and personal goals. The institute provides access to countless academic resources, encourages students to enroll in exchange programs, participate in off-campus forums, and more.

5. Polytechnic University of Timisoara

The Polytechnic University of Timisoara maximizes the opportunity to expand its internationalization by participating in framework agreements with institutes and universities around the globe. The university’s main objective is to intensify high-quality European education in order to produce more outgoing and professional graduates in society. Other than its student-centered policies, the university also takes into consideration the welfare of its teachers and educators in order to preserve a healthier and more productive academic environment.

6. National University of Political Studies and Public Administration

Starting in 1991 as a postgraduate school under the University of Bucharest, the National University of Political Studies and Public Administration has developed into an independent institution but maintains its inherited structure. The university specializes in management and communication and divides itself into four faculties; public administration, public relations, political science, and management.

7. Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad

Named in honor of Aurel Vlaicu, a notable Romanian engineer, inventor, and pilot, the Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad is a comprehensive university with a strong background in engineering and technical education. The university owes its rich history in technical education to its predecessor, the Institute of Sub-Engineers, which was founded in 1972 to boost technical education in Romania.

8. Technical University of Cluj-Napoca

As a public research institution, the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca not only trains professionals in technical areas but also engages in high-value research to solve pressing global and technological issues. The university is known for making notable research contributions in topics like renewable energy, superconductivity, and nanomaterials. It aims to become one of the leading contributors to science and technology in Europe by developing revolutionary solutions and methods to tackle current problems.

9. Dunarea de Jos University of Galati

The Dunarea de Jos University of Galati is a prominent institution of higher learning in the southeast of Romania with over forty decades of providing tertiary education to local communities. It started as an agriculture and naval development institute but has since grown into a comprehensive university offering programs in diverse fields of study. However, the university is sought-after in Romania for its internationally recognized and reputable naval and agriculture programs.

10. Dimitrie Cantemir Christian University

Dimitrie Cantemir Christian University has a rich history of international collaboration with various universities, public entities, research institutions, and profit and non-profit organizations. With its experience in developing globally competitive students, the university is confident when it comes to coordinating bilateral agreements and exchange programs for its students. Throughout the years, Dimitrie Cantemir Christian University has been keen on maintaining an academic environment that is progressive to maximize the talents and skills of students enrolled.

11. Transylvania University of Brasov

Located in the historic city of Brasov, the Transylvania University of Brasov stands as a testament to Romania’s rich history and culture. The university itself has grown into a multicultural hub and accepts diverse international and European students to its various programs yearly. Students at the Transylvania University of Brasov also enjoy the privilege of schooling close to historic sites and monuments like the Black Church and Strada Sforii.

12. Alexandru Ioan Cuza University

Formerly the University of Iasi, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University is the oldest institution of higher learning in Romania and boasts a rich history of research and academic excellence. Since its establishment in 1860, the university has delivered top-class education and produced outstanding graduates, some of which go on to become notable figures in society.

13. Vasile Alecsandri University of Bacau

Known for its technical education, Vasile Alecsandri University of Bacau is a university in the historical region of Moldovia. The university has five faculties allowing it to offer a wide range of programs and keep its designation as a comprehensive university. In addition to the five faculties, the university has a doctoral school to facilitate both doctoral and postdoctoral education.

14. Ovidius University of Constanta

Named after a roman poet, Publius Ovidius Naso, who once lived in the area now called Constanta, Ovidius University of Constanta is a public university with two campuses in Constanta. The university offers programs in diverse areas of study, including theology and arts. Most of the programs come nationally and internationally accredited and span all three levels of study from bachelor’s to master’s to Ph.D.

15. Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu

Named after Lucian Blaga, a popular Romanian poet and philosopher, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu is a comprehensive research university in Sibiu, Romania. It offers numerous courses in diverse fields ranging from theology to science. However, exclusive of course or program, the university emphasizes rigorous and critical thinking as it holds to its unique belief that ‘the mind moves matter.’

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Romania for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Romania ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania 1,500 RON - 2,700 RON 88%
Partium Christian University 2,100 RON - 2,400 RON 83%
University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest 5,000 RON - 5,500 RON 60%
Bioterra University Bucharest 6,960 RON - 7,950 RON 44%
University of Bucharest 9,700 RON - 14,700 RON 21%
Polytechnic University of Timisoara 9,700 RON - 15,500 RON 21%
National University of Political Studies and Public Administration 9,742 RON 21%
Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad 9,742 RON - 18,600 RON 21%
1 December 1918 University of Alba Iulia 9,742 RON - 13,300 RON 21%
Technical University of Cluj-Napoca 9,750 RON - 18,600 RON 21%
Dunarea de Jos University of Galati 9,750 RON - 33,300 RON 21%
Dimitrie Cantemir Christian University 9,800 RON 21%
Transylvania University of Brasov 9,840 RON - 33,300 RON 20%
Vasile Alecsandri University of Bacau 10,900 RON - 13,300 RON 12%
Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu 11,100 RON - 34,600 RON 10%

* Average Master’s International Tuition is 12,300 RON for universities in romania.

1. Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania

The Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania is an autonomous higher education that was established with the purpose of preserving the Hungarian traditions in Romania. And one way of keeping its customs is by offering study programs taught in the Hungarian language. The university has a massive community welcoming students regardless of background. Guided by its Christian values and principles, it aims to cultivate individuals with qualities exhibiting respect for freedom, openness, and optimism.

The university currently operates on four campuses, with its main campus located in Cluj-Napoca.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 1,500 RON to 2,700 RON annually for their master's degree.

2. Partium Christian University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Partium Christian University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Partium Christian University is 2,100 RON to 2,400 RON.

Built with the goal of providing equal opportunities for the Hungarian community, the Partium Christian University embodies what it truly means to be part of an all-inclusive community. It aims to shape students with positive attitudes, lead ideal lives, and be socially responsible individuals. Whilst instilling the Hungarian principles in its curriculum, the university ensures to adapt its teaching to the current industry needs.

3. University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest

For more than 200 years, the University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest (UPB) has been in the business of training engineers and technologists. It is the oldest and most prestigious technical school in Romania, with students from all over Romania and the world competing to get into its distinguished engineering programs. UPB is also fervently dedicated to research and innovation and is home to many reputable research centers and institutes.

The tuition fee at University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest for incoming international master’s students is 5,000 RON to 5,500 RON. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Bioterra University Bucharest

Another affordable university to consider in Romania is Bioterra University Bucharest.

Bioterra University Bucharest is a private university that is well-equipped with good infrastructural features and facilities to facilitate the proper education of its students. The school focuses on practical teaching to ensure all students who go through the institution are well prepared to develop in their various fields as well as handle any challenges.

The tuition fee in Bioterra University Bucharest for master’s program for foreign students starts from 6,960 RON.

5. University of Bucharest

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, University of Bucharest has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 9,700 RON yearly.

The University of Bucharest (UB) has a rich and strong history that can be traced back to 1694. Its significant contribution is providing superior education, which has become the basis of the country’s modern educational system. This elite institution offers a wide selection of academic programs ranging from natural sciences to foreign languages and literature. UB community comprising highly qualified educators and staff supports students in fulfilling their educational and personal goals. The institute provides access to countless academic resources, encourages students to enroll in exchange programs, participate in off-campus forums, and more.

6. Polytechnic University of Timisoara

The Polytechnic University of Timisoara maximizes the opportunity to expand its internationalization by participating in framework agreements with institutes and universities around the globe. The university’s main objective is to intensify high-quality European education in order to produce more outgoing and professional graduates in society. Other than its student-centered policies, the university also takes into consideration the welfare of its teachers and educators in order to preserve a healthier and more productive academic environment.

7. National University of Political Studies and Public Administration

Starting in 1991 as a postgraduate school under the University of Bucharest, the National University of Political Studies and Public Administration has developed into an independent institution but maintains its inherited structure. The university specializes in management and communication and divides itself into four faculties; public administration, public relations, political science, and management.

8. Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad

Named in honor of Aurel Vlaicu, a notable Romanian engineer, inventor, and pilot, the Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad is a comprehensive university with a strong background in engineering and technical education. The university owes its rich history in technical education to its predecessor, the Institute of Sub-Engineers, which was founded in 1972 to boost technical education in Romania.

9. 1 December 1918 University of Alba Iulia

Named after the date of the Grand Union of Romania and Transylvania in Alba Iulia, 1 December 1918 University of Alba Iulia is a public university founded in 1991 with history and archaeology departments. The university offers numerous programs beyond history and humanities but holds through to its heritage by excelling in archaeology.

10. Technical University of Cluj-Napoca

As a public research institution, the Technical University of Cluj-Napoca not only trains professionals in technical areas but also engages in high-value research to solve pressing global and technological issues. The university is known for making notable research contributions in topics like renewable energy, superconductivity, and nanomaterials. It aims to become one of the leading contributors to science and technology in Europe by developing revolutionary solutions and methods to tackle current problems.

11. Dunarea de Jos University of Galati

The Dunarea de Jos University of Galati is a prominent institution of higher learning in the southeast of Romania with over forty decades of providing tertiary education to local communities. It started as an agriculture and naval development institute but has since grown into a comprehensive university offering programs in diverse fields of study. However, the university is sought-after in Romania for its internationally recognized and reputable naval and agriculture programs.

12. Dimitrie Cantemir Christian University

Dimitrie Cantemir Christian University has a rich history of international collaboration with various universities, public entities, research institutions, and profit and non-profit organizations. With its experience in developing globally competitive students, the university is confident when it comes to coordinating bilateral agreements and exchange programs for its students. Throughout the years, Dimitrie Cantemir Christian University has been keen on maintaining an academic environment that is progressive to maximize the talents and skills of students enrolled.

13. Transylvania University of Brasov

Located in the historic city of Brasov, the Transylvania University of Brasov stands as a testament to Romania’s rich history and culture. The university itself has grown into a multicultural hub and accepts diverse international and European students to its various programs yearly. Students at the Transylvania University of Brasov also enjoy the privilege of schooling close to historic sites and monuments like the Black Church and Strada Sforii.

14. Vasile Alecsandri University of Bacau

Known for its technical education, Vasile Alecsandri University of Bacau is a university in the historical region of Moldovia. The university has five faculties allowing it to offer a wide range of programs and keep its designation as a comprehensive university. In addition to the five faculties, the university has a doctoral school to facilitate both doctoral and postdoctoral education.

15. Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu

Named after Lucian Blaga, a popular Romanian poet and philosopher, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu is a comprehensive research university in Sibiu, Romania. It offers numerous courses in diverse fields ranging from theology to science. However, exclusive of course or program, the university emphasizes rigorous and critical thinking as it holds to its unique belief that ‘the mind moves matter.’


It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Romania, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Romania as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in Romania for international students was helpful!