Education in Romania

Bucharest - school on Splaiul Independentiei 01

Saint Sava National College

Bucuresti, Romania, Str. Hristi Botev nr. 17-19 (Scoala Comerciala N. Kretulescu (fatada))

AISB Secondary Building Entrance

Universitatea din Bucuresti din Piata Universitatii

Universitatea Alexandru Ioan Cuza Iasi 02

Education in Romania is overseen by the Ministry of Education and Research. It is structured into preschool education, primary education, secondary education, and higher education. The education system is based on the Romanian Constitution and the laws passed by the Parliament that govern the educational process.

Preschool Education

Preschool education (Grădiniță) in Romania is for children aged 3 to 6 years. It is not compulsory. Preschools are categorized into small groups, middle groups, big groups, and preparatory groups, depending on the age of the children. The curriculum focuses on physical, emotional, and intellectual development, preparing children for primary school.

Primary Education

Primary education in Romania lasts for four years (grades 1 to 4) and is compulsory for all children starting at the age of 6 or 7. It focuses on basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics, as well as introductory science, social studies, art, music, and physical education.

Secondary Education

Secondary education is divided into lower secondary education (Gimnaziu, grades 5 to 8) and upper secondary education. Upper secondary education offers several pathways: theoretical (Liceu), vocational, and technical education, leading to a Baccalaureate diploma or a vocational diploma, respectively. The Baccalaureate exam is crucial for admission into higher education institutions.

Higher Education

Higher education in Romania is provided by universities, academies, institutes, and colleges. It is aligned with the Bologna Process, offering three cycles: Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral studies. Admission to higher education is based on the Baccalaureate exam scores and sometimes additional entrance exams.

Adult Education

Adult education in Romania includes second chance programs, vocational training, and lifelong learning courses. These programs are designed to provide adults with the skills needed for employment or career advancement.

Educational Challenges

Despite progress, the Romanian education system faces challenges such as disparities in educational quality between urban and rural areas, high dropout rates, and the need for modernization of curricula and teaching methods.

Reforms

Recent reforms in Romanian education aim to improve the quality of education, increase access to early childhood education, modernize curricula, and reduce disparities. The government has also focused on improving the infrastructure of educational institutions and integrating digital technologies into the learning process.