Study in Europe: Romanian Government Scholarships 2026-2027 Now Accepting South African Applications

• Author: Karabo Ntswaki
• Category: International Scholarships
• Published Date: 15 June 2026

South African students searching for international study opportunities now have a new chance to pursue higher education in Europe through the Romanian Government Scholarships 2026-2027 programme.

The scholarship opportunity, available for Bachelor’s and Master’s studies, offers financial support to eligible South African citizens who wish to study at public universities in Romania. As international education continues to attract students seeking global exposure, the latest scholarship announcement is expected to draw significant interest from graduates and school leavers planning their academic future.

With application deadlines approaching and growing competition for funded international study opportunities, prospective applicants are encouraged to begin preparing their documentation as early as possible.

Why International Scholarships Are Receiving More Attention in 2026

The cost of higher education remains a major concern for many students worldwide. At the same time, employers increasingly value graduates who possess international experience, cultural awareness, and global perspectives.

As a result, government-funded scholarships have become highly sought-after opportunities.

Programmes such as the Romanian Government Scholarships allow students to gain access to international universities while reducing the financial barriers that often prevent talented learners from studying abroad.

For South African students interested in expanding their educational and professional horizons, this scholarship presents an opportunity to gain a recognised qualification while experiencing life in a European country.

What Are the Romanian Government Scholarships 2026-2027?

The Romanian Government Scholarships are funded study opportunities aimed at international students from selected countries, including South Africa.

Successful applicants can pursue:

• Bachelor’s Degrees
• Master’s Degrees

at public higher education institutions across Romania during the 2026-2027 academic year.

The initiative forms part of Romania’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international educational partnerships while promoting Romanian language and culture.

A Unique Opportunity to Learn a New Language

One aspect that makes this scholarship different from many other international programmes is its language component.

Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes covered by the scholarship are offered in Romanian.

Students who are not already proficient in Romanian will first complete a one-year preparatory language programme before beginning their academic studies.

This additional year allows students to build language skills that will help them succeed academically while also adapting to life in Romania.

For many participants, learning a new language becomes one of the most valuable long-term benefits of the programme.

Fields of Study Available

The scholarship supports a broad range of academic disciplines.

Students may pursue studies in areas such as:

• Economics
• Engineering
• Information Technology
• Education
• Agriculture
• Environmental Sciences
• Social Sciences
• Business Studies
• Humanities
• Arts and Culture

Medical sciences are excluded from the scholarship programme.

The wide variety of study options means applicants can align their academic interests with future career goals.

Scholarship Benefits

The Romanian Government Scholarships provide several important forms of support.

Tuition Fees

Successful students receive funding that covers tuition and registration costs at participating public universities.

Accommodation Support

Accommodation in student residences may be provided, subject to availability and institutional regulations.

Monthly Stipend

Recipients receive a monthly allowance that assists with living expenses while studying.

Medical Assistance

The programme also includes medical support for emergencies and certain health conditions covered under scholarship regulations.

These benefits significantly reduce the cost of pursuing an international qualification.

Expenses Not Covered

Applicants should note that some expenses remain their responsibility.

These include:

• International flights
• Meals
• Visa application costs
• Local transportation
• Personal expenses
• Additional accommodation costs not covered by the programme

Students should carefully plan their finances before accepting an award.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for consideration, applicants must:

• Be South African citizens
• Not hold Romanian citizenship
• Not hold citizenship of an EU, EEA, or Swiss Confederation member state
• Meet admission requirements for their chosen programme
• Hold qualifications from recognised institutions
• Not have previously received a Romanian Government scholarship for the same level of study

Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee selection, making a strong application essential.

Documents Required for Bachelor’s Applications

Applicants pursuing undergraduate studies should prepare:

• Scholarship application form
• Birth certificate
• Passport copy
• Academic qualification documents
• Academic transcripts
• Medical certificate
• Curriculum Vitae (maximum three pages)
• Letter of Intent

Certified translations may be required for certain documents.

Documents Required for Master’s Applications

Master’s applicants will generally need:

• Scholarship application form
• Birth certificate
• Passport copy
• High school qualification documents
• Bachelor’s Degree certificate
• Academic transcripts
• Medical certificate
• Curriculum Vitae
• Letter of Intent

Ensuring that documents are complete and correctly certified can improve the overall quality of an application.

Why Your Letter of Intent Matters

One of the most overlooked parts of scholarship applications is the motivation or intent letter.

Selection panels often use this document to understand:

• Your career ambitions
• Academic goals
• Reasons for choosing Romania
• Future plans after graduation

A thoughtful and authentic letter can help distinguish an applicant from others with similar academic results.

Application Deadline

Students interested in the Romanian Government Scholarships 2026-2027 should note the official closing date.

Application Deadline: 22 June 2026

Applications must be submitted electronically to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).

Late applications may not be considered.

Important Research Before Applying

Before applying, students are encouraged to investigate:

• The universities offering their preferred programmes
• Qualification recognition in South Africa
• Professional registration requirements where applicable
• Cost of living in Romanian cities
• Future career opportunities linked to their chosen field

The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) can provide guidance regarding recognition of international qualifications.

Learn more about Romanian Government Scholarships 2026-2027

Useful Resources

South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)

Provides information regarding qualification recognition and evaluation.

Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)

Provides scholarship information and application guidance.

Study in Romania

Offers information about Romanian universities, academic programmes, and student life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the scholarship fully funded?

The scholarship covers tuition and provides financial support, but students must still cover certain personal expenses such as travel and meals.

Do I need to know Romanian before applying?

No. A preparatory Romanian language course is available for successful candidates who are not fluent in the language.

Can I study medicine?

No. Medical sciences are not included in this scholarship programme.

Who can apply?

Eligible South African citizens who meet the academic and programme requirements.

When is the application deadline?

The closing date is 22 June 2026.

Final Thoughts

The Romanian Government Scholarships 2026-2027 offer more than financial assistance. They provide South African students with an opportunity to gain international academic experience, learn a new language, and develop skills that can strengthen future career prospects.

Students who are academically motivated, interested in global learning experiences, and prepared to embrace a different educational environment are likely to benefit most from this programme.

With the deadline approaching, prospective applicants should begin gathering documents, researching study options, and preparing strong application materials to maximise their chances of success.