Bucharest is not only the administrative and economic capital of Romania, but also a major academic center, with higher education institutions covering every field — from exact sciences and engineering to arts, medicine, economics, and social sciences. The city’s universities are not just buildings with lecture halls, but important actors in urban life, influencing the economy, culture, and even urban development.

University of Bucharest

Founded in 1864, it is one of the oldest and largest universities in the country. It has 19 faculties, nearly 34,000 students, and more than 1,300 full-time professors. It is recognized for its programs in Philosophy, Natural Sciences, Arts, and Languages, and is consistently present in international rankings. The university collaborates with institutions in over 50 countries and has hundreds of Erasmus agreements.

Politehnica University of Bucharest

Its roots go back to 1818, when the School of Topographical Engineers was created, becoming a university in 1920. Today, it is Romania’s leading technical center, with more than 25,000 students and top programs in engineering, materials science, and applied technologies. It is a member of prestigious European academic networks and has a strong focus on research and industry partnerships.

Bucharest University of Economic Studies (ASE)

Established in 1913, ASE is the leader in economic and business education in Romania. Its programs cover fields such as economics, management, marketing, and finance, attracting thousands of students each year, including many from abroad. Close cooperation with the business sector is one of its main strengths, and its graduates enjoy a high employment rate.

“Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy

Its origins date back to 1857, and since 1869 it has borne the name of the French physician who laid the foundations of modern medical education in Romania. It is considered one of the most important medical institutions in Eastern Europe, with over 10,000 students and an extensive network of university hospitals where they complete their training.

Universities of arts, architecture, and political sciences

Bucharest is home to elite institutions such as the “Ion Mincu” University of Architecture and Urbanism (founded in 1897), the National University of Arts, the National University of Music, UNATC (theatre and film), and SNSPA — specializing in political science, communication, and public administration. Together, they form the creative and cultural nucleus of the city’s academic life.

Private universities

In addition to public institutions, Bucharest also offers a diverse private sector — nearly 20 universities, including the Romanian-American University, Spiru Haret, Titu Maiorescu, Dimitrie Cantemir, Nicolae Titulescu, Hyperion, Ecological University, Artifex, and Athenaeum. Many focus on fields such as business, law, social sciences, or arts.

Student life in Bucharest

The average cost of living for a student ranges between €300 and €600 per month, depending on lifestyle and accommodation type. A place in a student dormitory costs between €50 and €100, while renting a private apartment ranges from €150 to €400. Compared to other European capitals, Bucharest is significantly more affordable. Student areas such as Regie, Grozăvești, Tei, or Panduri have a vibrant urban life, with cafés, gyms, coworking spaces, and good transport connections.

Bucharest’s universities form a diverse and dynamic ecosystem. They combine more than a century of academic tradition with innovation, research, and international openness. The city is both a platform for professional development and a space where student life has its own rhythm, directly shaping the capital’s identity.