Education Romania

Required documents:

 

- Child's passport: necessary for identity verification.

 

- Birth certificate: to confirm age and kinship.

 

- Medical certificate: confirms the child's health and includes vaccination information.

 

- Documents confirming the right to stay in Romania: visas, residence permits and other authorization documents for foreign nationals.

 

Application submission

 

Local education authority: Contact the local education authority for information on the application process.

 

Selected kindergarten/school: Many educational institutions accept applications directly, including online submission or submission by mail.

 

Interview with parents and child: In some cases, educational institutions may require an interview to assess the child's readiness for study.

 

Entrance exams or tests: Schools may require entrance exams or tests to assess the child's knowledge level.

 

Application submission deadlines

 

For kindergartens: The first phase of application submission usually takes place from the end of May to mid-June. If a place was not obtained at this stage, applications can be submitted in the second phase from the end of June to the beginning of July. Final lists of admitted children are published after each phase.

 

For schools: The application period begins in early April and continues until mid-May. Final lists of admitted children are published at the end of May. The second phase of application submission takes place in June.

 

 

 

Recommendations

 

Language courses: If the child does not speak Romanian, it is recommended to enroll them in language courses. This will help ease integration and adaptation to the new environment.

 

Consultation: Visit local consulates or cultural centers for additional advice and assistance in the enrollment process. Online expat groups and forums can also be useful sources of information and recommendations.

 

For more detailed information and specific requirements, it is recommended to contact the selected educational institutions or local education authorities directly. Also, keep an eye on official websites and announcements to stay informed about all deadlines and necessary documents.

Yes, in many major cities in Romania there are kindergartens and schools with instruction in foreign languages (English, French, German). Most of these are private educational institutions and international ones. There are also public educational institutions with advanced study of foreign languages and teaching a number of subjects in a foreign language.

 

International kindergartens

 

Verita International School, Bucharest: Programs for children aged 2 to 18, accredited by CIS, IBDP, and COBIS; instruction in English.

 

Rose Garden Kids, Popești-Leordeni / Bucharest: Includes programs for children aged 1.5 to 6; instruction in English, accredited by the Ministry of Education.

 

For more detailed information, it is recommended to visit the websites of the selected educational institutions and contact them directly. Some useful resources include International Schools Database (https://www.international-schools-database.com/) and World Schools (https://world-schools.com/).

Public educational institutions

 

Accessibility: Education in public educational institutions is free for all children, including foreigners with residency rights.

 

Language of instruction: The main language of instruction is Romanian. However, some schools offer instruction in other languages, such as Hungarian and German.

 

Quality of education: The quality of education can vary depending on the region and school. In cities, the quality of education is generally higher than in rural areas.

 

Bureaucracy: The admission process in public educational institutions can be complex and require numerous documents such as a child's passport, birth certificate, medical certificates, and documents confirming residency rights.

 

Some prestigious public schools in Bucharest

 

Colegiul Național "Sfântul Sava": Founded in 1694, renowned for its focus on mathematics, sciences, and humanities.

 

Colegiul Național de Informatică "Tudor Vianu": focuses on information technology, mathematics, and natural sciences.

 

Colegiul Național "Gheorghe Lazăr": oriented towards humanities and natural sciences.

 

Școala Centrală din București: founded in 1851; in-depth study of foreign languages.

 

Colegiul Național "Spiru Haret": strong emphasis on languages, mathematics, and natural sciences.

 

Colegiul Național Bilingv "George Coșbuc": bilingual education program (Romanian and English languages).

 

Colegiul Național "Iulia Hașdeu": oriented towards foreign languages and humanities.

 

Liceul Teoretic "Jean Monnet": quality general education with a focus on humanities and foreign languages.

 

Școala Gimnazială "Ion Heliade Rădulescu": oriented towards primary and secondary education, with an emphasis on mathematics and languages; early foreign languages learning programs.

 

Colegiul Național "Mihai Viteazul": advanced study of exact sciences and mathematics.

 

 

 

Private Educational Institutions

 

Language Diversity: Private international schools offer education in various foreign languages, including English, French, German, and others.

 

High Standards: Private schools often offer a higher level of education and modern teaching methods, including International Baccalaureate (IB) programs and the British education system.

 

Cost: Education in private schools is paid, and the cost can be quite high. In addition to the main tuition fees, there may be additional charges.

 

International Environment: Private schools usually have a more diverse international student and staff body, making adaptation easier for foreign children.

 

Popular Private and International Schools in Bucharest

 

American International School of Bucharest: Education according to the American program and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program; accepts students from 2 to 18 years old, with more than 900 students from over 60 countries; the main language of instruction is English.

 

British School of Bucharest: Education according to the British system; offers programs for children from 2 to 18 years old; the main language of instruction is English.

 

Lycée Français Anna de Noailles: Education according to the French system; accepting children from 3 to 18 years old; the main language of instruction is French.

 

Deutsche Schule Bukarest: German educational program with a focus on language training; programs for children from preschool to senior school age; the main language of instruction is German.

 

Cambridge School of Bucharest: British educational system; accepting children from 3 to 18 years old; education in English.

 

International School of Bucharest: British educational system; accepting children from 2 to 18 years old; education in English.

 

International British School of Bucharest: British educational system; accepting children from 4 to 18 years old; advanced study of foreign languages.

 

Olga Gudynn International School: Private school with an international approach to education; accepting children from 3 to 14 years old; bilingual program (Romanian + English).

 

Avenor College: Private school; offers a hybrid educational model combining British and Romanian programs; accepting children from 2 to 18 years old; Cambridge International and Romanian national programs.

 

For more detailed information, it is recommended to visit the websites of the selected educational institutions and discuss all questions with their representatives.

Inclusive Education: Most children with special educational needs are integrated into regular schools where they receive necessary support from specially trained teachers and assistants. This includes individualized educational plans developed in collaboration with psychologists, educators, and parents.

 

Specialized Schools and Classes: For children with more serious needs, there are specialized schools and classes providing more intensive support and adapted educational programs.

 

Psycho-Pedagogical Support: Schools have psychologists and special educators who assist children with special educational needs in adapting and learning effectively. They also conduct training for teachers and parents on issues of inclusion and child support.

 

Despite significant efforts and achievements, the inclusive education system in Romania faces several challenges: In some regions, there is a shortage of qualified specialists such as special educators, speech therapists, and psychologists. Funding for inclusive education remains insufficient to fully meet all the needs of children with special educational needs.

 

Some State Special Schools in Bucharest

 

Școala Gimnazială Specială Nr. 1 București: For children with developmental delays and intellectual disabilities.

 

Școala Specială pentru Surzi Nr. 2 București: For children with hearing impairments.

 

Centrul de Educație Incluzivă "Constantin Păunescu": For children with psycho-emotional disturbances and behavioral difficulties.

 

Some Private Special Schools and Centers in Bucharest

 

Centrul Horia Moțoi: For children with autism and Down syndrome.

 

EduCare România: For children with autism, attention disorders, and hyperactivity.

 

Centrul AITA (Asociația pentru Intervenție Terapeutică în Autism): Center for children with autism spectrum disorders.

 

British School of Bucharest: Private school with programs for children with special educational needs.

 

Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Centers

 

Centrul de Recuperare Neuropsihomotorie pentru Copii: For children with motor and neurological disorders.

 

Centrul Psihopedagogic "Sf. Mihail": Social adaptation programs for children with emotional and behavioral difficulties.

Free Romanian Language Courses: In major cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Brașov, free Romanian language courses are organized for children and adults. These courses include the provision of study materials, sessions with experienced teachers, and practical language use in real-life situations. Free online Romanian language courses are also available.

 

Contact in Bucharest: Institutul Cultural Român, Aleea Alexandru nr. 38, București.

 

 

 

Preparatory Year of Romanian Language: Many universities offer a preparatory year of Romanian language for foreigners. This intensive course helps children and adults master the language for further studies in Romanian educational institutions.

 

Example: Ariel Language Center at the University of Bucharest, offering courses for different levels throughout the academic year.

 

Regional Integration Centers: In various regions of Romania, such as Iași and Cluj-Napoca, regional integration centers operate. These centers offer Romanian language courses, cultural orientation, psychological support, assistance in the recognition of diplomas and qualifications, as well as aid in accessing medical services and legal status.

 

Social and Cultural Events: In addition to language courses, various cultural and educational events are held, aimed at integrating foreign children. These events include themed excursions, sports, and recreational activities that help children adapt quickly and find new friends.

 

For more detailed information, it is recommended to contact local education authorities, universities, and regional integration centers.

After-School Groups: In most state schools in Romania, there are after-school programs where children can stay after the end of their school classes. These programs include time for homework, games, and educational activities.

 

Interest Groups: Schools offer interest groups, including sports sections, music clubs, theater studios, science clubs, and art groups.

 

Private and Public Organizations: Many private centers and public organizations also offer interest-based activities, including programming, robotics, foreign languages, etc.

 

Summer Camps: Summer camps in Romania can be sports, language, creative, or educational. They provide children with opportunities to develop skills, participate in adventures, and make new friends. Examples of camps include "Tabara Nocrich," "Tabara Valea Iarului," and "Wonderland." Camps are organized by both government and private institutions. Some camps are held at schools, while others are in natural areas. For instance, mountain camps offer children the chance to go hiking, learn to navigate, and develop survival skills.

 

Sports Sections: Schools and sports clubs conduct activities in football, basketball, tennis, swimming, and other sports.

 

Cultural Events: Museums, theaters, and cultural centers often hold special events and workshops for children aimed at developing their creative abilities and cultural outlook.

In primary schools, a 4-point scale is used:

 

Foarte Bine (FB) — Very Good

 

Bine (B) — Good

 

Suficient/Satisfăcător (S) — Satisfactory

 

Insuficient/Nesatisfăcător (I) — Unsatisfactory.

 

In secondary schools and universities, a 10-point scale is applied, where 10 is the highest mark, and 5 is the minimum passing mark:

 

10 — Excellent

 

9 — Very Good

 

8 — Good

 

7 — Satisfactory

 

6 — Sufficient

 

5 — Passing

 

0-4 — Unsatisfactory.

 

Exams in school

 

Eighth grade: At the end of the eighth grade, students take the National Exams (Evaluarea Națională) in mathematics and Romanian language, the results of which affect admission to high school classes.

 

Twelfth grade: At the end of the twelfth grade, students take the baccalaureate exams (Examenul de Bacalaureat), which are crucial for university admission.

 

European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS): In some international schools and programs, the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) may be used, where grades are converted into an international format (A, B, C, D, E, FX, F).

Required documents

 

- Education documents: high school diploma; transcripts with grades for the entire study period.

 

- Language proficiency certificate

 

For programs in Romanian: a Romanian language proficiency certificate or completion of a preparatory Romanian language course.

 

For programs in English, French, or German: corresponding language certificates (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS for English, DALF for French, etc.).

 

- Passport copy: a valid passport with a certified copy.

 

- Birth certificate.

 

- Medical certificate: confirms the absence of chronic diseases and infectious illnesses.

 

- Photographs: usually 4 passport-sized photos are required.

 

- Proof of payment for the registration fee: a payment document for the transfer of the registration fee.

 

Document requirements

 

Documents must be certified by the competent authorities in the country of issue and translated into English, French, or Romanian. Some universities require an apostille or legalization of documents through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the country of issue and the Embassy of Romania.

 

Application submission: It is necessary to fill out an online application on the website of the chosen university. Some universities also require sending documents by mail or email. It is important to comply with the deadlines set by the university for document submission and payment of registration fees.

 

Selection procedure: After successfully passing the selection process, students receive an acceptance letter, which is necessary for obtaining a student visa (if applicable) and registration at the university.

 

Visa: apply for a student visa at the Romanian embassy in your country; this will require an acceptance letter, proof of tuition payment, proof of funds for living expenses, and health insurance.

 

Preparatory year: For students wishing to study in Romanian, it is possible to undergo a preparatory year to study the language.

 

Application submission deadlines: Applications are usually accepted from April to August for non-European students, but deadlines may vary depending on the university.

 

Leading universities in Romania

 

Babeș-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca: known for its programs in natural sciences and engineering.

 

University of Bucharest, Bucharest: A wide range of programs in English and French.

 

West University of Timișoara, Timișoara: Strong programs in business and arts.

 

Politehnica University of Bucharest, Bucharest: A prestigious technical university with engineering programs.

 

Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iași, Iași: The oldest university in Romania, known for its programs in humanities and social sciences.

 

Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest: A leading medical university attracting many foreign students.

To validate foreign diplomas and certificates in Romania, you must follow the established procedures that ensure their recognition and equivalence:

 

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Collection of Required Documents

 

Education Diploma: a certified copy of the secondary education diploma (certificate) or higher education diploma (bachelor's, master's).

 

Grade Transcript: certified copies and translations of all academic documents.

 

Language Preparation Certificates: for programs in Romanian, a Romanian language proficiency certificate is required; for programs in other languages (English, French, German) the appropriate language certificates (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, DALF) are needed.

 

 

Translation and Legalization of Documents

 

Translations: all documents must be translated into Romanian or one of the international languages (English, French); translations must be notarized.

 

Legalization: Documents must be apostilled or legalized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the issuing country and then by the Romanian embassy.

 

 

Submission of Documents to the University

 

Application Submission: fill out the online application on the chosen university's website; include all required documents and pay the registration fee.

 

File Sending: send the complete document package to the chosen university; universities forward the documents to the National Center for Academic Recognition and Equivalence for final evaluation.

Language Courses

 

Romanian Language Courses for Foreigners: Many universities and language schools offer Romanian language courses for foreign students and adults. These courses can be intensive or evening classes to meet the needs of working individuals. Online courses are also available.

 

Online Platforms: Duolingo, Memrise, Mango Languages, and Mondly offer courses in various languages, including English, French, German, and others. These platforms use gamification and interactive learning methods, making the language learning process interesting and effective.

 

Professional Courses and Programs

 

Master's and MBA Programs: Universities offer programs and master's courses focused on developing professional skills in business, management, and other specialized areas. These programs include courses in business strategies, project management, financial analysis, and other important disciplines.

 

Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera offer numerous courses in professional development, including programming, project management, business analytics, and others. These courses enable obtaining new skills and certificates, which can enhance career prospects and open new opportunities.

 

National Lifelong Education Strategy

 

Within the framework of the National Lifelong Education Strategy for 2024-2030, the Romanian government supports the development of additional programs and courses for adults. This strategy aims to create a culture of lifelong learning among adults, increase the availability of educational programs, and support digital skills.

 

Programs for adults include various courses and programs aimed at developing basic and professional skills, improving educational accessibility, and enhancing qualification for adults with low education levels. Programs may include courses in information technology, business, management, and other in-demand fields.