For international students aiming to pursue higher education in Europe without breaking the bank, the ARICE Scholarships for Foreign Citizens 2025 in Romania offer a valuable chance.
These scholarships are intended not only to assist academic advancement but also to promote cultural interaction via language study and immersion experiences in Romanian society.
Funded by the Romanian Agency for Investments and Foreign Trade (ARICE) in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, this scholarship program provides full financial coverage and is now open for applications for the 2025-2026 academic year.
In this article, we’ll break down what makes the ARICE Scholarship special, who’s eligible, how to apply, and the key benefits it offers. By the end, you’ll know if this opportunity aligns with your academic goals and how to put together a competitive application.
What is the ARICE Scholarship 2025?
The ARICE Scholarship 2025 is a fully funded program for foreign students who want to study in Romania at the undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral level. Forty scholarships are available for the 2025-26 academic year. These are awarded to individuals from non-EU and non-EFTA countries, with a particular focus on nations that don’t already have cultural or educational agreements with Romania.
More than just financial support, this scholarship is about promoting the Romanian language and culture. All recipients are offered a free one-year Romanian language preparatory course before starting their degree. This ensures that students not only survive but thrive in their new academic environment.
Key Benefits of the ARICE Scholarships
The ARICE Scholarship covers a wide range of expenses, making it a stress-free option for international students. Here’s what you get:
- Free Application: No registration fees or hidden charges.
- Language Training: A fully funded one-year Romanian language preparatory course.
- Tuition-Free Education: Full coverage of tuition fees for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs.
- Monthly Stipend: A living allowance to help cover everyday expenses.
- Free Dormitory Housing: Accommodation in university student dormitories.
- Medical Coverage: Free access to medical services.
- Free Public Transportation: Access to ground, naval, subway, domestic rail, and urban transport systems in Romania.
Note: International travel costs and airport transfers are not included in the scholarship package.
These benefits are structured to give students peace of mind, allowing them to focus on academics and integration into Romanian society.
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship is not open to citizens of EU or EFTA member countries. Instead, preference is given to students from regions with limited or no formal educational agreements with Romania. Applicants must also meet academic and language requirements to be considered.
Eligibility Criteria in Detail:
- Citizenship: Open only to non-EU and non-EFTA nationals.
- Priority: Applicants from countries without Romanian cultural or educational cooperation agreements are prioritized.
- Academic Standards: Candidates must hold degrees equivalent to Romanian entry-level academic standards.
- Language: Romanian language proficiency is required but don’t worry, the program includes a free language prep year.
- Merit-Based Selection: A strong academic background and motivation are essential.
If you’re from Africa, Asia, Latin America, or other underrepresented regions, this scholarship could be particularly within reach.
Available Study Levels
The ARICE Scholarships cover all major higher education levels at accredited Romanian public universities:
- Bachelor’s Programs (3-4 years)
- Master’s Programs (1.5-2 years)
- Doctoral (PhD) Programs (3-4 years)
After completing the Romanian language course, students enroll in their chosen academic programs.
How to Apply for the ARICE Scholarship 2025
Applying for the ARICE Scholarship requires attention to detail and timely submission. Follow these steps:
Check Your Eligibility
Ensure you’re from a qualifying country and meet the academic and language requirements.
Research Programs
Look into Romanian public universities and find the right program that matches your academic interests.
Gather Required Documents
Commonly requested documents include:
- Academic transcripts and diplomas
- Proof of identity (passport)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Language certificates (if available)
- Statement of purpose or motivation letter
Complete the Application Form
Fill out the official ARICE application form thoroughly. Make sure your documents are translated into Romanian or English if required.
Submit Before Deadline
All applications and supporting materials must be submitted before May 15, 2025. Late or incomplete submissions are not considered.
Stay Updated
After submission, keep an eye on communications from ARICE regarding the results or further steps.
Why Study in Romania?
Romania is becoming an increasingly attractive study destination for international students. Here’s why:
- Affordable Living Costs: Even without a scholarship, Romania is one of Europe’s most cost-effective countries for students.
- Diverse Cultural Landscape: Romania blends Eastern and Western European influences, offering a unique cultural experience.
- Historic Universities: Some of Romania’s universities have a legacy stretching back centuries, known for strong programs in medicine, engineering, and the arts.
- Safe and Welcoming: The country is known for its hospitality, scenic landscapes, and historical landmarks.
Studying here gives you the added benefit of learning a new language, engaging with a different culture, and gaining a European degree that is widely respected.
Application link
https://arice.gov.ro/1/burse-2025/
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the ARICE Scholarship 2025?
Only non-EU and non-EFTA citizens can apply. Priority is given to applicants from countries without existing educational agreements with Romania.
Is knowledge of Romanian required?
No, but applicants must either demonstrate proficiency or complete the mandatory one-year Romanian language preparatory course included in the scholarship.
What costs are covered by the scholarship?
Tuition, housing, local transport, medical services, monthly stipend, and the language course. Travel to and from Romania is not included.
Can I choose any university in Romania?
You must choose from accredited public institutions of higher education in Romania. Private institutions are not eligible under this program.
What is the application deadline?
All applications must be submitted by May 15, 2025.
How competitive is the scholarship?
With only 40 spots available and applicants from across the world, competition is strong. A solid academic record, a compelling motivation letter, and a complete application are crucial.
Can I apply for a program in English or French?
Since the scholarship is aimed at fostering Romanian language and culture, Romanian will be the primary language taught. Hence, the one-year language course is mandatory.
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