Establishment: The university was established in 1970 as part of the University of Craiova, but it became an independent institution in 1998.
Programs Offered: UMF Craiova offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in various fields of medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and other health-related sciences.
Language of Instruction: Programs are available in Romanian, and many are also offered in English to accommodate international students.
Faculties:
Faculty of Medicine
Faculty of Dentistry
Faculty of Pharmacy
Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery
Curriculum: The university follows a rigorous curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical clinical experience. Students have access to modern facilities and teaching hospitals where they gain hands-on experience.
Research: UMF Craiova is involved in various research projects, often collaborating with other universities and research institutes, both nationally and internationally. The university focuses on advancing medical knowledge and improving healthcare practices.
Teaching Hospitals: The university is affiliated with several teaching hospitals in Craiova, where students undergo clinical training. These hospitals are equipped with advanced medical technology and serve as centers for both education and patient care.
Library and Resources: The university's library provides access to a vast collection of medical literature, databases, and electronic resources that support both education and research.
International Students: UMF Craiova is popular among international students, especially from countries in the European Union, the Middle East, and Africa. The university offers a supportive environment for international students, including programs taught in English and Romanian language courses.
Erasmus+ Program: The university participates in the Erasmus+ program, allowing students and staff to engage in exchange programs with other European universities.
Admission Process: Admission to UMF Craiova is competitive, particularly for the English-taught programs. Applicants typically need to pass an entrance examination or meet specific academic criteria, depending on their chosen program.
Tuition Fees: Tuition fees vary based on the program and the student's nationality, with different rates for EU and non-EU students.
Location: Craiova is the capital of Dolj County and is one of Romania's major cities. It has a rich cultural history and offers a vibrant student life, with numerous cultural and recreational activities.
Living in Craiova: The cost of living in Craiova is relatively low compared to other European cities, making it an attractive option for students. The city has good public transportation, affordable housing, and a range of dining and entertainment options.
Medicine (MD)
Duration: 6 years
Language of Instruction: Romanian and English
Overview: This is a general medicine program that prepares students to become physicians. The program includes basic medical sciences, clinical training, and a final year of internship in various medical specialties.
Nursing
Duration: 4 years
Language of Instruction: Romanian
Overview: The nursing program focuses on training students to become registered nurses. It includes theoretical courses and practical training in clinical settings.
Midwifery
Duration: 4 years
Language of Instruction: Romanian
Overview: This program trains students to become professional midwives, specializing in maternal and newborn care.
Dental Medicine (DMD)
Duration: 6 years
Language of Instruction: Romanian and English
Overview: The dental medicine program trains students in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oral and dental diseases. The curriculum includes both theoretical knowledge and extensive practical experience in dental clinics.
Dental Technology
Duration: 3 years
Language of Instruction: Romanian
Overview: This program focuses on the technical aspects of dentistry, including the design and manufacture of dental prostheses and orthodontic appliances.
Pharmacy (BPharm)
Duration: 5 years
Language of Instruction: Romanian and English
Overview: The pharmacy program provides education in pharmaceutical sciences, including drug formulation, production, and dispensing, as well as patient care related to medication management.
Clinical Pharmacy
Duration: Postgraduate (varies)
Language of Instruction: Romanian
Overview: This postgraduate program is designed for pharmacists who wish to specialize in clinical pharmacy, focusing on optimizing medication use and improving patient outcomes in a clinical setting.
Residency Programs: specialties are available for medical graduates who wish to pursue specialized training in fields such as surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, etc.
Master’s and Doctoral Programs: These are available in various fields of medical and pharmaceutical sciences, often focusing on research, public health, or advanced clinical practice.
Continuous Medical Education (CME) Programs: For healthcare professionals seeking to update their knowledge and skills in specific areas of medicine, dentistry, or pharmacy.
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Medicine (MD) |
6 years |
$7,500 - $8,000 |
|
Dental Medicine (DMD) |
6 years |
$7,500 - $8,000 |
|
Pharmacy (BPharm) |
5 years |
$6,500 - $7,000 |
|
Nursing |
4 years |
$3,500 - $4,000 |
|
Midwifery |
4 years |
$3,500 - $4,000 |
|
Dental Technology |
3 years |
$3,500 - $4,000 |
Master's Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Clinical Pharmacy |
2 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Public Health |
2 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Medical Bioengineering |
2 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Dental Prosthetics and Implantology |
2 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Management of Healthcare Organizations |
2 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Nursing and Midwifery Management |
2 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
PhD/Doctorate Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Medicine |
3-4 years |
$5,000 - $6,000 |
|
Dentistry |
3-4 years |
$5,000 - $6,000 |
|
Pharmacy |
3-4 years |
$5,000 - $6,000 |
|
Biomedical Sciences |
3-4 years |
$5,000 - $6,000 |
|
Public Health |
3-4 years |
$5,000 - $6,000 |
|
Nursing |
3-4 years |
$5,000 - $6,000 |
Medicine (MD): 6-year program.
Dental Medicine (DMD): 6-year program.
Pharmacy (BPharm): 5-year program.
These programs are fully accredited and recognized internationally, allowing graduates to practice medicine, dentistry, or pharmacy in many countries worldwide, subject to local licensure requirements.
Academic Qualifications: Applicants must have completed secondary education (high school) with good grades, particularly in subjects like Biology and Chemistry.
Entrance Exam: Some programs may require an entrance exam, especially for competitive programs like Medicine and Dentistry.
English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers may need to provide proof of English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) if applying for programs taught in English.
Documents: Required documents typically include a completed application form, transcripts, a copy of the passport, a motivation letter, and other specific documents as required by the university.
Medicine: Approximately $7,500 - $8,000 per year.
Dental Medicine: Approximately $7,500 - $8,000 per year.
Pharmacy: Approximately $6,500 - $7,000 per year.
Tuition fees for international students are generally higher than for Romanian or EU students, and fees can vary slightly depending on the specific program.
Accommodation: University dormitories or private housing are available. Dormitory costs are lower, around $100 - $200 per month, while private rentals can range from $300 - $500 per month.
Cost of Living: Craiova is an affordable city compared to other European cities. Monthly living expenses, including food, transportation, and entertainment, are typically around $400 - $600.
While many programs are offered in English, students may also have the option to study in Romanian. Those studying in Romanian are typically required to complete a preparatory language year if they are not proficient in the language.
Romanian Language Courses: The university offers Romanian language courses for international students who wish to integrate better into the local culture and community.
International Office: The university has an International Office dedicated to assisting foreign students with their application process, visa procedures, and other administrative matters.
Orientation Programs: New students are often provided with orientation sessions to help them adjust to life in Craiova and the academic environment at UMF Craiova.
Student Associations: There are various student organizations, including those specifically for international students, which can help with social integration and networking.
Student Visa: Non-EU students will need a student visa to study in Romania. This is obtained from the Romanian embassy or consulate in their home country.
Residency Permit: Once in Romania, international students must apply for a residency permit, which allows them to stay in the country for the duration of their studies.
Multicultural Environment: The university hosts students from various countries, creating a multicultural environment that is both welcoming and diverse.
City of Craiova: Craiova is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. It offers a range of cultural, recreational, and social activities for students, including museums, parks, and theaters.
Global Recognition: Degrees from UMF Craiova are recognized internationally, enabling graduates to pursue careers or further studies worldwide.
Residency Programs: After graduation, students can apply for residency programs either in Romania or abroad. The university may assist with guidance on career opportunities and further specialization.
International students are required to have health insurance during their stay in Romania. This can be arranged either through an international insurance provider or locally upon arrival.
Academic Qualifications: Applicants must have completed secondary education (equivalent to Romanian Baccalaureate) with strong grades, particularly in subjects relevant to the chosen program (e.g., Biology and Chemistry for Medicine and Dentistry).
Language Proficiency:
English-Taught Programs: Proof of English language proficiency is required (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) unless the applicant is from an English-speaking country or has completed previous studies in English.
Romanian-Taught Programs: Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in Romanian, often requiring a language proficiency certificate. Non-Romanian speakers may need to complete a preparatory language year.
Step 1: Online Application Submission
Application Form: Complete and submit the online application form available on the university's official website.
Required Documents:
High school diploma or equivalent (translated and legalized if necessary).
Academic transcripts from high school.
Proof of English language proficiency (for English-taught programs).
Copy of passport (valid for at least 6 months after the intended start of the program).
Medical certificate indicating that the applicant is fit for studies.
Passport-sized photographs.
Motivation letter (explaining why the applicant wants to study at UMF Craiova).
Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Proof of payment for the application fee (if applicable).
Step 2: Evaluation of Application
The university’s admission committee reviews the submitted documents to assess the applicant's eligibility and academic readiness.
For some programs, particularly competitive ones like Medicine and Dentistry, applicants may be required to sit for an entrance exam or participate in an interview (this requirement may vary depending on the year and applicant pool).
Step 3: Letter of Acceptance
If the application is successful, the university will issue a Letter of Acceptance. This document is crucial for the visa application process for non-EU students.
Step 4: Payment of Tuition Fees
Upon receiving the Letter of Acceptance, students are required to pay the first-year tuition fees (or the first installment, depending on the university’s policy). Payment details are provided by the university.
Step 5: Apply for a Student Visa
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss students need to apply for a long-stay student visa (type D) at the Romanian embassy or consulate in their home country. The following documents are generally required:
Letter of Acceptance from UMF Craiova.
Proof of payment of tuition fees.
Proof of financial means to support your stay in Romania.
Health insurance valid in Romania.
Proof of accommodation in Romania.
Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay).
Visa application form and passport-sized photographs.
The visa process can take several weeks, so it is important to apply as early as possible after receiving the Letter of Acceptance.
Step 6: Residency Permit
Upon arrival in Romania, students must apply for a residency permit within 30 days. The residency permit is issued by the Romanian Immigration Office and is required for legal stay in the country during the study period.
Step 7: Registration at the University
Once in Romania, students must complete the registration process at UMF Craiova. This involves submitting original documents for verification, signing up for courses, and finalizing any remaining administrative details.
Step 8: Attend Orientation
The university typically offers orientation sessions to help new students familiarize themselves with the campus, academic expectations, and life in Craiova.
Application Deadlines: These vary depending on the program and applicant’s nationality. It is crucial to check the university’s official website or contact the International Office for specific deadlines.
Visa Processing Time: Non-EU students should factor in time for visa processing, which can take several weeks.
Preparatory Year: For students who need to learn Romanian, a preparatory year is available. This year focuses on intensive Romanian language instruction as well as introductory courses in basic sciences.
Entrance Exams/Interviews: For certain programs, entrance exams or interviews might be required. The details of these exams, including subjects covered and format, are typically provided by the university well in advance.
International Office: The International Office at UMF Craiova is a key resource for prospective and current international students. They can assist with the application process, visa issues, and general inquiries.
Student Associations: International student associations at the university can provide peer support, particularly during the transition to life in Romania.
September Intake: The main intake for all programs (Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, etc.) at UMF Craiova is in September. The academic year typically begins in mid to late September.
Application Period: Applications for the September intake generally open in the spring and close by mid-summer (usually around July or August). Specific dates may vary, so it's crucial to check the university's official website for the exact deadlines.
Late Applications: In some cases, late applications may be considered if there are still places available, but this is not guaranteed.
For Undergraduate Programs (Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy):
High School Diploma: Applicants must have completed secondary education (equivalent to the Romanian Baccalaureate).
Relevant Subjects: Strong academic performance in relevant subjects like Biology, Chemistry, and Physics is typically required.
Minimum Grades: The university often sets minimum grade requirements for these subjects. Generally, a good academic record with a high overall average is expected.
For Master's Programs:
Bachelor’s Degree: A recognized Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Pharmacy for Clinical Pharmacy programs, Medicine for Public Health programs) is required.
GPA: A good academic record at the undergraduate level, often with a minimum GPA requirement set by the university.
For PhD Programs:
Master’s Degree: A recognized Master’s degree in a relevant field is required.
Research Proposal: A well-structured research proposal and academic references are usually required.
Prior Research Experience: Relevant research experience may strengthen an application.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Benefits |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Romanian Government Scholarships |
Available to non-EU international students from specific countries. |
Covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend. |
Application through the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Ministry of Education. |
|
Erasmus+ Scholarships |
Available to both EU and non-EU students enrolled in exchange programs. |
Mobility grants for study or internship in other European countries. |
Apply through the university's Erasmus Office. |
|
University Merit Scholarships |
Awarded to top-performing students based on academic performance. |
Partial or full tuition fee waiver. |
Automatically considered based on academic performance; no separate application needed. |
|
Need-Based Scholarships |
For students with demonstrated financial need. |
Partial tuition fee waiver or monthly allowance. |
Application with proof of financial need; typically handled through the university's financial aid office. |
|
Scholarships for Ethnic Romanians |
Available to ethnic Romanians living abroad (e.g., from Moldova, Serbia). |
Covers tuition fees and may include a monthly stipend. |
Application through the Romanian Ministry of Education. |
|
PhD and Research Scholarships |
Available for PhD candidates with strong research proposals. |
Covers tuition fees and a research grant or stipend. |
Application through the university’s doctoral school or research department. |
|
Private and External Scholarships |
Available from external organizations, foundations, or companies. |
widely; may cover tuition, living expenses, or research costs. |
Application through the respective organization or foundation. |
|
Work-Study Programs |
Available for students willing to work part-time within the university. |
Monthly stipend or tuition fee reduction. |
Application through the university's student services or administration office. |
Facility |
Description |
Cost (USD per month) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
The main campus is located in Craiova, a major city in southwestern Romania. It includes lecture halls, laboratories, research facilities, libraries, and administrative buildings. |
N/A |
|
University Dormitories |
On-campus accommodation for students, offering shared or single rooms. Typically equipped with basic furniture, shared bathrooms, and study areas. Utilities (water, electricity, heating) are usually included. |
$100 - $200 |
|
Private Student Housing |
Off-campus apartments or shared housing available through private landlords. These may offer more privacy and amenities but are more expensive than university dormitories. |
$300 - $500 |
|
Meal Plans |
University canteens and cafeterias offer affordable meal options for students. Meal plans may be available for purchase. |
$100 - $150 (optional, if meal plans are offered) |
|
Internet and Utilities |
Most dormitories and private accommodations include utilities (water, electricity, heating) and internet access in the rental price. |
Included in the accommodation cost |
|
Transportation |
Public transportation (buses, trams) is widely available in Craiova, with student discounts offered. Some students may choose to live within walking distance of the campus to reduce transportation costs. |
$20 - $40 (monthly public transportation pass) |
|
Health and Fitness Facilities |
The campus includes basic health services and access to sports facilities, including gyms and sports fields. |
Free or minimal fees for some facilities |
|
Laundry Services |
Laundry facilities are available in dormitories, typically coin-operated or included in the accommodation fee. |
$10 - $20 |
|
Security |
24/7 security services are provided in university dormitories to ensure student safety. |
Included in the accommodation cost |
Rigorous Academic Programs: UMF Craiova offers demanding programs in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and related fields. The university emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, with a significant portion of time spent in clinical settings and laboratories.
Support Services: Academic support services include tutoring, mentoring, and access to well-equipped libraries with extensive medical and scientific resources. The university also offers counseling services to help students manage stress and academic pressures.
Diverse Student Body: The university attracts students from various countries, creating a multicultural environment. This diversity enriches the student experience and fosters cross-cultural exchanges.
International Student Associations: There are several student associations specifically for international students, such as the International Students’ Association, which organizes events, cultural exchange programs, and trips.
Student Clubs and Organizations: UMF Craiova offers a variety of student clubs, including those focused on sports, arts, culture, and specific academic interests. These clubs provide opportunities for students to pursue hobbies, develop new skills, and build a network of friends.
Events and Festivals: The university hosts numerous events throughout the year, including cultural festivals, scientific conferences, and social gatherings. These events offer students a chance to unwind and socialize with peers.
Sports and Fitness: The university has facilities for various sports, including gyms, sports fields, and courts. Students can participate in intramural sports or join university teams in sports like soccer, basketball, and volleyball.
City of Craiova: Craiova is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. Students can explore museums, theaters, and historical sites like the Nicolae Romanescu Park, one of the largest urban parks in Eastern Europe.
Nightlife and Entertainment: The city has a lively nightlife, with numerous cafes, bars, clubs, and restaurants where students can relax after classes. There are also cinemas, shopping centers, and art galleries to enjoy.
Travel Opportunities: Craiova’s location allows easy access to other parts of Romania and neighboring countries. Students often take advantage of weekends and holidays to travel and explore the region.
On-Campus Dormitories: University dormitories provide a social atmosphere where students can live in close proximity to their peers. This setup is ideal for making friends and participating in campus activities.
Private Accommodation: Some students choose to live off-campus in private apartments. This option offers more privacy and independence, though it can be more expensive than dormitory living.
Affordable Living Costs: Compared to other European cities, Craiova offers a relatively low cost of living. Students can expect to spend between $400 to $600 per month, depending on their lifestyle, which includes accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
Health Services: The university provides basic health services on campus, including access to doctors and nurses. For more serious medical needs, students have access to nearby hospitals and clinics.
Career Services: UMF Craiova offers career counseling and support for students preparing to enter the workforce. This includes job fairs, workshops, and guidance on resume writing and interview skills.
Language Support: For non-Romanian speakers, the university offers Romanian language courses to help students integrate into the local community.
Safe Environment: Craiova is considered a safe city for students. The university campus and dormitories have security measures in place, and the city has a low crime rate compared to larger urban centers.
Emergency Services: The city and university have emergency services, including police and medical care, readily available to assist students in need.
Orientation Programs: UMF Craiova provides orientation programs for new international students to help them adjust to life in Romania. These programs cover academic expectations, cultural norms, and practical tips for living in Craiova.
Buddy Programs: Some international students are paired with local students through buddy programs, which help them navigate their new environment and make connections.
Conferences and Workshops: Students have opportunities to attend or participate in national and international conferences, workshops, and seminars, which are often hosted by the university. These events are valuable for networking and professional development.
Research Opportunities: For students interested in research, UMF Craiova offers various opportunities to engage in scientific research projects, often in collaboration with faculty members or through participation in research centers associated with the university.
Integrated Clinical Training: UMF Craiova’s programs in medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy include extensive clinical training as part of the curriculum. This training takes place in affiliated hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, providing students with hands-on experience that is crucial for their future careers.
Internships: During their studies, students often have the opportunity to undertake internships in medical facilities. These internships can be instrumental in securing employment after graduation, as they provide practical experience and networking opportunities.
Career Counseling: The university offers career counseling services to help students prepare for the job market. This includes guidance on resume writing, interview preparation, and career planning.
Job Fairs and Career Events: UMF Craiova occasionally organizes job fairs, workshops, and career events where students can meet potential employers, learn about job opportunities, and understand the healthcare industry’s demands.
Alumni Network: The university has an alumni network that can be a valuable resource for students seeking employment. Alumni often provide mentoring, advice, and job leads to recent graduates.
Residency Programs: Medical graduates can apply for residency programs in Romania or other countries. The university provides support for students seeking residencies, including guidance on applications and interviews.
Licensing and Certifications: Graduates must pass national licensing exams to practice medicine, dentistry, or pharmacy in Romania. UMF Craiova prepares students for these exams as part of their curriculum.
International Recognition: Degrees from UMF Craiova are recognized in many countries, allowing graduates to pursue careers internationally, subject to passing the necessary local licensing exams.
PhD and Research Opportunities: For those interested in academic or research careers, UMF Craiova offers opportunities to pursue PhD programs or postdoctoral research. The university’s research centers and collaborations with other institutions provide a platform for further academic development.
Teaching Positions: Some graduates may choose to remain in academia as lecturers or researchers at UMF Craiova or other institutions.
High Employability: Graduates from UMF Craiova generally have high employability due to the rigorous training and comprehensive education they receive. Many find employment in hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and research institutions shortly after graduation.
International Careers: Many graduates also secure positions abroad, particularly in countries where there is a high demand for medical professionals. The university’s reputation and its programs’ alignment with European standards contribute to the ability of graduates to work internationally.
Language Barriers: Non-Romanian speaking students who wish to work in Romania may face challenges if they are not proficient in Romanian, as language skills are crucial in patient care roles.
Competition for Residencies: Securing a residency can be competitive, particularly in popular specializations. Students are encouraged to perform well academically and gain as much clinical experience as possible to improve their chances.
Visa and Work Permits: The university provides guidance for international students on obtaining work permits or visas if they wish to stay and work in Romania after graduation.
Networking and Mentorship: International students can benefit from mentorship programs and networking opportunities to connect with professionals in their field of study.
Program Type:
Medicine and Dentistry: These programs are typically more competitive due to their popularity and the limited number of available seats. As a result, the acceptance rate for these programs is generally lower.
Pharmacy and Other Allied Health Programs: These programs might have a slightly higher acceptance rate compared to Medicine and Dentistry, but they are still competitive.
Applicant Pool:
EU vs. Non-EU Applicants: The university may have different quotas for EU/EEA and non-EU applicants. EU applicants may face different competition levels due to the availability of EU-specific slots.
Entrance Exams and Academic Criteria:
Entrance Exams: Some programs, particularly Medicine and Dentistry, require applicants to pass an entrance exam, which can be challenging and may impact the overall acceptance rate.
Academic Performance: The university emphasizes strong academic backgrounds, particularly in subjects like Biology and Chemistry, which further filters the applicant pool.
International Applications:
The number of international applications has been increasing in recent years, particularly for English-taught programs, which may also affect the acceptance rate.
While exact figures are not provided, it is generally understood that the acceptance rate for highly competitive programs like Medicine and Dentistry could be below 20% to 30%, reflecting the rigorous selection process.
For other programs like Pharmacy or Nursing, the acceptance rate may be slightly higher, depending on the applicant pool and specific program demand.
Main Campus Address:
University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova
2-4 Petru Rare Street, Craiova, Dolj County, Romania
Central Location in Craiova:
The university's main campus is centrally located, making it accessible from various parts of the city. This central location places students within close proximity to essential services, such as hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, libraries, and recreational areas.
Proximity to Teaching Hospitals:
UMF Craiova is affiliated with several teaching hospitals in Craiova, where students gain practical clinical experience. These hospitals are often located near the main campus, facilitating easy access for students.
Transportation and Accessibility:
The campus is well-connected by public transportation, including buses and trams, making it convenient for students living in different parts of the city. The Craiova train station and bus terminals are also nearby, providing easy access to other regions.
Surrounding Amenities:
The area around the campus is equipped with a variety of amenities, including cafes, restaurants, bookstores, and student housing options. Additionally, the city center, with its shopping centers, cultural sites, and parks, is within walking distance or a short commute.
Cultural and Recreational Opportunities:
Craiova is known for its cultural heritage, with museums, theaters, and historical sites nearby. The university's location allows students to engage with the city's cultural life easily.
Safety and Security:
The university is located in a safe and student-friendly area. The campus and surrounding neighborhoods are regularly patrolled by local law enforcement, ensuring a secure environment for students.
