Verified Facts

Official NameRomania
CapitalBucharest
Population19.0 million
Area238,391 km² (92,043 sq mi)
LanguagesRomanian
CurrencyRomanian leu (lei)
TimezoneUTC+02:00
RegionEurope / Southeast Europe
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

Economic Indicators

GDP per Capita (PPP)$49,559 (2024)
Inflation Rate5.7% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$1,051 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend23.0% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)3.3% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data

The cost of education in Romania varies depending on the type of institution and the level of study, with public education being generally free or subsidized, while private and international schools can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per year.

Quick Facts

Education Spend (% GDP)3.3%
Literacy Rate98%
School System11 years of compulsory education
Academic Year10 months
CurrencyRON

Education System Overview

Romania's education system is divided into public and private institutions, with the public system being generally considered to be of high quality and free or subsidized for local students. The language of instruction is Romanian, but some schools may offer classes in other languages, such as English or French. Compulsory education in Romania lasts for 11 years, from the age of 6 to 17, and is divided into primary, secondary, and high school levels. International schools are also available, particularly in larger cities like Bucharest, and offer a range of curricula, including the International Baccalaureate and the British GCSE.

The quality of education in Romania is generally considered to be good, with a strong emphasis on mathematics and science. However, the education system can be quite competitive, and students are often required to take a range of exams and assessments throughout their school career. Private education in Romania is also available, and can offer a range of benefits, including smaller class sizes and more individualized attention. However, private schools can be expensive, and may not always offer the same level of quality as public institutions.

School Fees

School TypeAnnual Fee (USD)Notes
Public Primary$0 (free)High-quality education, but may have large class sizes
Private Primary$1,000-$3,000Range of options, from basic to premium
Public Secondary$0 (free)Strong emphasis on mathematics and science
Private Secondary$2,000-$5,000More individualized attention, but may not offer the same level of quality as public institutions
International School$5,000-$10,000Range of curricula, including International Baccalaureate and British GCSE

University Tuition

Institution TypeAnnual Tuition - Local (USD)Annual Tuition - International (USD)Notes
Public University$1,000-$2,000$2,000-$5,000Range of programs, including engineering and business
Private University$2,000-$5,000$5,000-$10,000More individualized attention, but may not offer the same level of quality as public institutions
Top-Ranked University$3,000-$6,000$6,000-$12,000Includes universities like the University of Bucharest and the Polytechnic University of Bucharest

Other Education Costs

ItemCost (USD)Notes
Preschool / Daycare (monthly)$100-$300Range of options, from basic to premium
Private Tutoring (per hour)$20-$50Can be helpful for students who need extra support
Language Course (monthly)$100-$300Range of languages, including English and Romanian
School Supplies (annual)$50-$100Basic supplies, such as pens and paper
School Uniform$50-$100Required for some schools, particularly private institutions

Education Quality & Tips

  • The best schools for expats in Romania are often international schools, which offer a range of curricula and can provide a more familiar education system for foreign students.
  • Scholarships are available for some students, particularly those who are studying at the university level.
  • Online learning options are becoming more popular in Romania, and can provide a range of benefits, including flexibility and convenience.
  • The education quality in Romania is generally considered to be good, but can vary depending on the institution and the level of study.
  • Private tutoring can be helpful for students who need extra support, particularly in subjects like mathematics and science.
  • Expats should research the cost of living in Romania, as well as the cost of education, to ensure that they have a clear understanding of the expenses involved in living and studying in the country.
Related Cost Guides: Cost of Living Overview · Monthly Budget · Healthcare Costs · Economy