Is it necessary to learn Romanian to study in Romania?
Romania is fast becoming one of Europe’s most popular destinations for international students. With globally recognized degrees, affordable tuition, and modern universities, students from all over the world choose to pursue higher education here.
However, one question arises frequently — “Do I need to learn Romanian to study in Romania?”
This article explains the language requirements, available study options, and why learning Romanian can still be beneficial for your experience.
1. Do I Need to Know Romanian to Study in Romania?
The simple answer is no, it’s not mandatory to learn Romanian if you choose a program taught in English or French.
Many of Romania’s top universities offer international programs at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels entirely in English or other widely spoken languages.
Popular English-taught programs include:
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Medicine and Dentistry
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Engineering and IT
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Business and Management
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Social Sciences
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Architecture and Arts
So, if you are fluent in English or French, you can study comfortably in Romania without knowing Romanian.
2. When Learning Romanian Becomes Necessary
Learning Romanian becomes essential in two cases:
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If your course is taught in Romanian.
For example, some state-funded programs or public universities require students to take a Romanian Preparatory Year (a one-year language course) before starting their main studies. -
If your career involves direct communication.
For example, medical and healthcare students must interact with patients during clinical training — so basic Romanian is very helpful.
Even if not required, knowing the local language enhances daily life and social integration.
3. What Is the Romanian Preparatory Year?
International students who wish to study in Romanian-taught programs must complete a one-year Romanian language preparatory course.
During this year, students learn:
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Romanian grammar, writing, and conversation
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Technical vocabulary related to their field of study (medicine, law, engineering, etc.)
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Cultural and academic orientation
After completing this course and passing the final exam, students can enroll in full-time Romanian-taught programs.
4. Benefits of Learning Romanian
Even if your program is in English, learning some Romanian offers several advantages:
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Easier communication with locals and classmates
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Better integration into daily life
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More job and internship opportunities
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Smoother administrative processes
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A richer cultural experience
Many universities and student centers offer free or low-cost Romanian language classes to help international students adjust faster.
5. Can I Study Entirely in English or French?
Yes. Romania has over 50 universities offering English- and French-taught programs.
Some top English-taught universities include:
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University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila” – Bucharest
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University of Bucharest
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Babeș-Bolyai University – Cluj-Napoca
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Politehnica University of Bucharest
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Alexandru Ioan Cuza University – Iași
These universities offer internationally accredited degrees recognized across Europe and beyond.
6. How to Apply
If you plan to study in Romania, EuropeStudy can assist you through every step — from choosing the right course to applying for your visa.
Steps to apply:
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Select your desired program (English, French, or Romanian-taught).
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Prepare your academic and identification documents.
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Submit your application through EuropeStudy.
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Receive your University Acceptance Letter.
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Apply for your student visa and prepare for relocation.
Our expert counselors guide you through the entire process — from admission to arrival.
Conclusion
No, it’s not necessary to learn Romanian if you’re enrolling in English- or French-taught programs.
However, learning the local language can greatly enhance your personal, social, and professional life in Romania. Whether you study in English or choose to learn Romanian along the way, Romania offers an affordable, high-quality education in a safe and culturally rich environment.
Apply now via EuropeStudy — our team will help you find the right program, prepare your documents, and start your study journey in Romania.
FAQs
1. Do I need to speak Romanian for admission to Romanian universities?
No, if you apply for English- or French-taught programs, you don’t need Romanian.
2. What is the Romanian Preparatory Year?
It’s a one-year course where international students learn Romanian before starting their degree program.
