Romanian Government Scholarships for Non-EU Students – Fully Funded Annual Programme (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
The Romanian Government Scholarships, offered annually through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Research of Romania, provide fully funded study opportunities for non-EU students. This prestigious programme supports Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD studies in accredited higher education institutions across Romania. The scholarship is awarded through a competitive selection process based on academic merit and compliance with official eligibility criteria. For South African students looking for affordable European education with government funding, this is a strong alternative to more competitive Western European scholarships.
About the Romanian Government Scholarship Programme
The scholarship programme is regulated under Government Decision no. 288/1993 and is awarded annually. Each year, a number of scholarships are offered to eligible non-EU citizens who demonstrate:
- Strong academic performance (minimum average of 7 out of 10 in the Romanian grading system or equivalent “Good” grade)
- Complete and correctly submitted application file
- Compliance with official application methodology
Important: Scholarships are NOT awarded in:
- Medicine
- Dental Medicine
- Pharmacy
Official platform: Study in Romania Portal
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible Applicants
The programme is open to foreign citizens from non-EU countries, including South Africa. To qualify, applicants must:
- Submit a complete online application
- Hold study documents from accredited institutions
- Meet the academic performance requirement (minimum average 7/10 or equivalent)
- Respect application deadlines
Not Eligible
The following categories are excluded:
- Romanian citizens or persons of Romanian origin (covered under separate programmes)
- Beneficiaries of another Romanian state scholarship for the same study cycle
- Diplomatic staff accredited in Romania
- Individuals with protection status in Romania
Levels of Study Covered
Applicants may choose from the following study cycles:
Bachelor’s Degree
- Duration: 3–6 years (depending on specialization)
- Requires high school/baccalaureate qualification
Master’s Degree
- Duration: 1–2 years
- Requires completed Bachelor’s degree
PhD (Doctorate)
- Duration: 4 years
- Requires completed Master’s degree
- Must obtain written agreement from a doctoral tutor before applying
Language of Study
To promote Romanian language and culture:
- Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes are taught only in Romanian.
- PhD students may choose Romanian or a foreign language set by the doctoral school.
If you do not speak Romanian, you will receive a free preparatory year to study the Romanian language before starting your degree. Exemptions apply if you:
- Have previous Romanian-language education documents
- Pass a Romanian language proficiency test
- Hold a Romanian language certificate (minimum B1 level)
Application Process (Online Only)
Applications are submitted exclusively through the official platform: Romanian MFA Scholarship PortalApplications sent by email or directly to ministries will be rejected.
Annual Application Timeline
| Stage | Period |
|---|---|
| Application Opening | Mid-February (Annually) |
| Application Deadline | End of March (Annually) |
| Results Announcement | Mid-July (Annually) |
| Academic Year Start | 1 October (Typically) |
Note: Exact dates may vary slightly each year. Always confirm on the official portal.
Required Documents
Applicants must upload scanned PDF copies of:
- Academic diplomas and transcripts (with authorized translations if required)
- Birth certificate
- Passport (first three pages)
- Curriculum Vitae (English, French, or Romanian)
PhD applicants must also provide:
- Letter of intent with research proposal
- List of scientific works (if applicable)
- Doctoral tutor agreement letter
All study documents must be apostilled or authenticated according to the Hague Convention.
Check Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships in Germany (Fully Funded) – Annual Guide for 2026 & Beyond
Scholarship Benefits
Selected scholars receive:
- Exemption from application and tuition fees
- Funding for Romanian language preparatory year (if required)
- Monthly stipend during studies
- Subsidised student dormitory accommodation (subject to availability)
Students are responsible for:
- Visa application costs
- Travel expenses
- Respecting Romanian laws and university regulations
After Selection – What Happens Next?
Successful candidates receive a “Letter of Acceptance for Studies in Romania.” This document is required for:
- Obtaining a long-stay study visa
- University enrolment
Students must confirm acceptance via the platform and contact their assigned university for further registration steps.
Why South African Students Should Consider Romania
Romania offers affordable European education, cultural diversity, and growing academic partnerships within the EU. Compared to Western Europe, living costs are lower, making the monthly scholarship stipend more manageable. For South African students seeking international exposure without extreme financial pressure, this programme offers a practical and structured pathway into the European higher education system. For regular updates on government scholarships in Europe, visit WikiHii Scholarship Updates
Conclusion
The Romanian Government Scholarship Programme remains one of Europe’s most structured and accessible fully funded opportunities for non-EU students. Offered annually, it provides consistent opportunities for qualified South African applicants who meet academic and procedural requirements. Prepare early, verify official dates each year, and submit a complete, compliant application to maximise your chances of selection.
