Academic success in Romania involves more than attending lectures and completing assignments. It’s about creating a well-rounded experience that includes leveraging campus facilities, joining student clubs, developing friendships, and accessing health or counseling services if needed. Understanding these aspects can make your study journey more fulfilling, help you adapt to Romanian culture, and even boost your academic performance.
1. Campus resources
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Libraries & labs
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Your student ID: Once you’re officially enrolled, you’ll receive a student ID card. This grants you free access to on-campus libraries, specialized labs, and e-resources (journals, databases, e-books).
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University portals:
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Example: University of Bucharest Library – lets you borrow physical books or log in for digital archives.
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Example: Politehnica University of Bucharest – Digital Library – specialized engineering databases, open-source software labs.
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Study rooms & extended hours: Some campus libraries stay open late or on weekends, especially during exam periods. Check each library’s website or notice boards for schedules.
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Student associations & clubs
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Wide-ranging activities: Debate groups, Model UN, entrepreneurship societies, sports teams, cultural clubs, etc.
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Where to find info:
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Usually, associations have stands or events at the start of each semester (a “student fair” day).
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Online: University websites often list recognized student groups under “Student Life” or “Organizations.”
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Benefits:
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Networking: Meet Romanian and international peers.
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Skill-building: Enhance public speaking, leadership, or team collaboration.
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Fun & integration: Social events, field trips, academic competitions.
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2. Accommodation
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Dormitories (Cămine)
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Cost: Generally lower than private housing (somewhere between 50–120 EUR/month, depending on university and location).
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Facilities: Shared rooms (2–4 students), communal kitchens, and study lounges.
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Advantages:
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Immediate community: Perfect for making friends, improving your Romanian if you share a room with locals.
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On-campus access: Quick walk to lectures, libraries, or extracurricular events.
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How to apply:
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Check the university’s “Accommodation Office” page (often found under “Student Life” or “Campus Services”).
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Some institutions reserve rooms specifically for refugee students or offer fee waivers for those in need.
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Shared apartments
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Platforms: OLX.ro, Storia.ro, or local Facebook groups (search “chirii [City Name]”).
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Considerations:
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Rental contracts must be legally registered at ANAF for you to have a recognized address.
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Costs range widely by city; Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca are pricier, while Iași or Timișoara might be somewhat more affordable.
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Finding roommates:
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University message boards or groups for international/refugee students.
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Offers more privacy than a dorm, but also more responsibility (utilities, landlord relations, etc.).
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3. Health & well-being
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Student clinics
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Most universities run on-campus medical offices for basic check-ups, first aid, or minor treatments. If you’re enrolled and have your student ID, you can typically see a campus physician or nurse at no extra charge.
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Example: Babeș-Bolyai University’s Medical Services – includes general practice, occasional flu vaccination drives, and referral to specialized services in Cluj-Napoca.
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Counseling centers & mental health Support
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Why they matter: Relocating to a new country can be stressful. Accessing mental health services helps maintain emotional balance.
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University-run programs:
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Example: University of Bucharest – Counseling & Career Center – free sessions with psychologists, stress management workshops, etc.
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Example: UMF Cluj – Counseling Office – specialized in the medical university environment.
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NGO collaborations:
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Some NGOs partner with campus counseling centers to offer tailored support for Ukrainian refugees.
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Fitness & sports facilities
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Many universities have gymnasiums or sports halls. Student ID holders usually pay minimal or no fees to access these.
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Tip: Engaging in sports clubs (soccer, basketball, aerobics) can improve physical health and help you make new friends.
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4. Part-time jobs on campus
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University positions
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Common roles include:
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Administrative assistants in faculty offices.
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Lab technicians or research assistants for professors.
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Library clerks assisting with cataloging or helping other students.
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Where to check:
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University career portal or job boards in the student affairs office.
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Some faculties have an internal mailing list announcing open positions.
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Benefits
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Local work wxperience: Great for your CV if you plan to seek future employment in Romania.
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Flexible hours: Typically adapted to your class schedule.
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Networking: You’ll build rapport with faculty members and staff, which could lead to references or research opportunities.
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Eligibility for Ukrainian students
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If you hold temporary protection or another legal status, you can usually work part-time with no separate work permit needed.
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Confirm with the International Office or your faculty’s administration if any additional paperwork is required.
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5. Get involved
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Volunteering
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Local NGOs & city initiatives:
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Local Facebook groups often list volunteer positions.
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Examples: Teaching children, environmental clean-up, cultural festivals, or assisting other refugees.
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Benefits:
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Integration: Enhance your Romanian language skills in real-life contexts.
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References: A volunteering certificate can strengthen future scholarship or job applications.
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Cultural exchanges
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On-campus events:
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Many universities host “International Days” to highlight different traditions. You can share Ukrainian customs (e.g., local food, art, or traditional clothing).
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Student associations may organize music nights, film festivals, or language exchanges.
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Off-campus cultural venues:
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Museums, theatres, and art galleries often have student discounts or free entry on certain days. Visiting these helps you appreciate Romanian culture and history.
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Ukrainian cultural groups:
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If you want to keep in touch with your own heritage, check local Ukrainian communities or diaspora associations in big cities.
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Additional links & tips
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National Alliance of Student Organizations in Romania (ANOSR)
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What you’ll find: News on student rights, campus policies, extracurricular events, and direct channels to different university student unions.
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ProtectieUcraina.gov.ro – Education & social sections
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What you’ll find:
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Updates on housing subsidies, social support for students with temporary protection.
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Listings of government initiatives or NGO-run programs that promote student engagement.
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Romanian student card benefits
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Reduced bus/train fares.
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Discounts at museums, theaters, cinemas (often 50% or more).
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Special campaigns by local businesses that offer student deals.
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Balancing studies with extracurricular activities and self-care is essential for a well-rounded and enjoyable student life in Romania. Make the most of campus facilities (libraries, labs, sports centers), consider dorm living for cost-effectiveness and community, and seek out health/counseling services if you need support. Don’t forget to get involved—volunteering, cultural events, and part-time campus jobs can enrich your academic journey, expand your network, and strengthen language skills.
Whether you’re new to Romania or already somewhat integrated, exploring these resources, clubs, and support systems will help you thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.