Medical University
Cluj, Romania

Study at one of the most prestigious medical universities in Romania - in the centre of Cluj-Napoca!

At a glance

Application deadline

26 July 2025

Admission test

individual

Costs

5.000€ / semester

Study places

200

Duration

6 years

Language

English

Medical University of Cluj-Napoca

Founded in 1919, the university is named after the Romanian doctor Iuliu Hațieganu. It is characterised by a professional and multilingual team of professors and an international student body.

At the Iuliu Hațieganu University of Cluj, we offer full-time degree programmes in human medicine and dentistry. After six years, students who successfully complete the degree programme in human medicine are awarded the title of "M.D." or "D.D." in dentistry. These degrees are equivalent to those in other European countries such as Austria or Germany and are also recognised there.

In both degree programmes, the language of instruction is exclusively English.

Are you interested in studying medicine in Cluj-Napoca?

We would be happy to advise you free of charge about your options for studying medicine at the Iuliu Hatieganu University in Cluj.

Applying to study medicine abroad

To the 2025 application

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Further information

Why study medicine in Cluj-Napoca?

The city of Cluj-Napoca - Romania's academic heart

Cluj-Napoca, also known by its German name Klausenburg, is the second largest city in Romania with around 324,000 inhabitants. It is located in the historic heart of Transylvania and has been an important centre for science, culture and education for centuries.

The city is young, dynamic and full of life - not least because of the high density of students. Around a quarter of the population is directly or indirectly connected to the university. This is reflected in the excellent infrastructure, many leisure activities, an active nightlife and a safe environment.

The Medical University of Cluj: History & Profile

The Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy was founded in 1919 and is now one of the leading medical universities in Eastern Europe. It is named after the renowned Romanian physician Dr Iuliu Hațieganu, a pioneer of clinical research and medical education.

The Medical University of Cluj is characterised by:

  • strong interdisciplinary teaching

  • International orientation

  • Practice-orientated training

  • Multilingual and experienced team of professors
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All of the university's medical faculties are equipped with the latest technology - from state-of-the-art simulation centres to digital platforms for e-learning and clinical casework. This makes Cluj one of the best-equipped medical education centres in Eastern Europe today.

German-speaking & international students in Cluj

Cluj-Napoca is a particularly attractive option for German-speaking applicants: there is a strong network of German and English-speaking medical students, exchange opportunities and close links to clinics in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

The degree programmes in human medicine and dentistry are taught entirely in English. This not only ensures an international atmosphere, but also offers a clear advantage for your future career - whether at home or abroad. The medical degree programme in Cluj is also completely free of NC possible.

Study programmes & languages of instruction

Human Medicine, Dentistry & Pharmacy

The Iuliu Hațieganu University of Cluj-Napoca offers three main medical degree programmes:

Humanmedizin Studium (General Medicine)

  • Duration: 6 years (12 semesters)
  • Degree: M.D. (Medical Doctor)
  • Equivalent to the Dr. med. univ. in Austria or the professional doctorate in Germany

Dentistry

  • Duration: 6 years
  • Degree: D.D. (Doctor of Dentistry)

Pharmacy (Pharmacy)

  • Duration: 5 years
  • Languages of instruction: French or Romanian

Please note: The Pharmacy degree programme is not available in English.

All programmes are full-time and combine theoretical foundations with extensive clinical practice, laboratory work and scientific seminars. The programme content is based on European standards and is fully EU-compatible.

Study language: English - international access

Both human medicine and dentistry are taught exclusively in English. You need a language level of at least B2, proven e.g. by a school report, language certificate or interview.

There are many advantages to studying in English:

  • International career opportunities

  • Easy access to specialised literature in English

  • Preparation for USMLE or specialist exams in several countries

  • Communication with patients worldwide

The language of instruction is therefore also a building block for your future medical career abroad.

EU Directive & international recognition of the qualification

The medical degree programme in Cluj is fully recognised in accordance with EU Directive 2005/36/EC. This directive guarantees that medical degrees obtained within the EU are automatically recognised in all EU member states.

For you this means

  • No lengthy recognition procedure in Germany or Austria

  • Direct access to specialist training

  • Opportunity to do a practical year (PJ) in the DACH region

  • Option to work as a doctor or dentist anywhere in the EU

Study conditions & quality

Equipment, laboratories & clinical infrastructure

The Medical University of Cluj consistently favours modern teaching methods and highly developed infrastructure. All faculties are equipped with:

  • Modern laboratories for biology, chemistry and physics

  • Simulation centres with realistic training situations

  • Digitised classrooms with streaming function

  • Clinical teaching stations in the university hospitals of Cluj-Napoca

The students train on realistic models and learn about diagnostics, treatment and communication right from the pre-clinical stage. As their studies progress, they actively participate in everyday clinical practice - accompanied by experienced medical specialists. This practical orientation is one of the greatest strengths of Iuliu Hațieganu University.

Practical relevance & modern teaching methods

The degree programme in Cluj is strongly practice-oriented. As early as the first semester, students are given access to clinical situations, take part in case discussions and work in small interdisciplinary groups.

The innovative teaching formats include

  • Problem-Based Learning (PBL)

  • Interactive simulations with real-time feedback

  • Digital case files & virtual patients

  • Examination formats such as OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination)

These methods not only promote specialised medical knowledge, but also soft skills such as teamwork, communication and clinical thinking. Close supervision by lecturers enables effective, individualised learning.

International community & local support

Young people from over 50 nations study in Cluj. They are particularly well represented:

  • Germany

  • Austria

  • Italy

  • Greece

  • France

  • Scandinavian countries

This creates a learning atmosphere that is ideal for medical exchange across national borders. Numerous student clubs, student councils and international networks make it easier for you to get started. The university also organises regular:

  • Orientation days for first semester students

  • Integration events

  • Language cafés and tandem programmes

Medical care, psychological counselling and administrative support are also available in several languages. So you can get started even if you don't speak Romanian.

Admission & application process

Application without entrance exam - no NC

A big advantage over Germany: you don't need a numerus clausus (NC) to study medicine in Cluj. There is also no entrance exam such as a multiple-choice test.

Study places are allocated exclusively on the basis of files:

  • Your academic performance (e.g. in biology, chemistry, physics)

  • Your letter of motivation

  • Possible extracurricular qualifications

This means that you can also apply with an average A-level average, as your passion for medicine counts more than your grade.

This fair allocation practice opens up the path to medicine for many applicants - regardless of waiting semesters or admission limits.

Requirements, application deadline & letter of motivation

For the application you need:

  • A-levels or Matura (incl. certified translation into English/Romanian)

  • Valid passport or identity card

  • Curriculum vitae (English)

  • Letter of motivation

  • Possibly proof of extracurricular activities or internships

The application deadline for the winter semester is usually between May and July. The earlier you apply, the better your chances of getting a place.

The letter of motivation is particularly important: In it, you explain why you Study medicine what interests you about Cluj and what skills you bring to the table. Applicants with personality, clarity and a genuine interest in medical training score highly here.

Preparation for your medical studies

Support from futuredoctor

future-doctor accompanies you throughout the entire application process:

  • Personal advice on choosing your degree programme

  • Provision of sample letters & document templates

  • Translation & notarisation of your documents

  • Check for completeness & compliance with deadlines

  • Assistance with the letter of motivation

  • Checklists and reminders to meet deadlines

You will be guided step by step through the application process and can rely on professional support - right through to admission and beyond.

future-doctor will even travel with you to Cluj, show you the campus and help you with enrolment - so you can start your studies stress-free.

E-learning platform & learning app

Even if there is no classic entrance test, good preparation for medical studies makes sense - especially in the basics of the natural sciences.

future-doctor offers you its own e-learning platform that is perfectly tailored to the requirements in Cluj:

  • 90+ educational videos in biology, chemistry, physics

  • Interactive questions in single and multiple choice format

  • Training modes for knowledge tests & comprehension exercises

You can track your progress, work on weaknesses and prepare yourself mentally for the start of your studies.

Studying medicine in Cluj: study medicine without NC 

Unlike in Germany, the Iuliu Hațieganu University of Cluj allows students to study medicine without NC. Your previous grade point average is therefore not relevant. 

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The optimum preparation

E-Learning & App

With the help of our e-learning platform and our learning app, you have the opportunity to prepare for your medical studies flexibly and anywhere.

The platform contains over 90 learning videos as well as multiple and single choice questions in biology, chemistry and physics.

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The city of Cluj-Napoca at a glance

With around 324,000 inhabitants, Cluj-Napoca is the second largest city in Romania. It dates back to the Dacian settlement of Napuca in the 2nd century AD.

Things to know about Cluj-Napoca

Living & Studying in Cluj-Napoca

Leisure, culture & student life

Cluj-Napoca is considered one of the liveliest cities in Eastern Europe. Numerous events, festivals and cultural events take place throughout the year - e.g. the Untold Festival, international film and jazz festivals.

Cafés, bars, cinemas, theatres, concerts - the city offers a broad spectrum for every taste. Many facilities are designed for students, so as a student you will meet like-minded people everywhere. The food scene ranges from traditional Romanian cuisine to vegan street food spots.

Sights & infrastructure

The highlights include:

  • Gothic Cathedral of St Michael

  • Bánffy Palace & National Museum

  • Botanical Garden

  • Cetățuia hill with panoramic views

Cluj is also well equipped in terms of infrastructure: fast internet, reliable local transport, proximity to the airport and modern shopping centres.

Historical background of the city

Cluj has a long history - founded as the Roman colony "Napoca" in 124 AD, it later became the cultural and scientific centre of Transylvania under the name of Cluj-Napoca. Today it is a symbol of education, medicine and innovation in modern Romania.

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Recognition & career opportunities

EU Directive 2005/36/EC & access to the profession

Medical training in Cluj complies with EU Directive 2005/36/EC, which regulates the mutual recognition of medical qualifications within the EU. So you can:

  • work in Germany, Austria or Switzerland

  • start your specialist training

  • complete a PJ (practical year)

  • Apply directly for a licence to practise and further training

No additional examinations are necessary - your degree is automatically recognised.

Work in Germany, Austria & EU

Many graduates work after their studies as:

  • Doctors in hospitals

  • Dentists in group practices

  • Researchers at universities or pharmaceutical companies

The good reputation of Iuliu Hațieganu University opens professional doors for you - not only in the EU, but worldwide.

Frequently asked questions

FAQs about studying medicine in Romania

The Iuliu Hațieganu University in Cluj-Napoca offers a long tradition and excellent reputation in medical education. With modern facilities, an experienced multicultural team of professors and a strong international orientation, the university offers a first-class medical education that is recognised worldwide. Courses are taught entirely in English, making it particularly attractive for international students. Tuition fees at the Iuliu Hațieganu University in Cluj-Napoca are moderate by European standards and offer excellent value for money.

The university offers degree programmes in human medicine and dentistry, each lasting six years. Both programmes are taught exclusively in English, which creates an international and intercultural learning environment and enables students to optimally prepare for a global career. A degree programme in Pharmacy is also offered, but only in French and Romanian - not in English.

The degree programme at Iuliu Hațieganu University places great emphasis on the practical application of theoretical knowledge. From the first year of study, practical experience in clinical environments is integrated, and students have access to state-of-the-art simulation laboratories and medical facilities. This practice-orientated training helps students to prepare for their future professional challenges.

The application process requires the submission of the necessary documents, including a letter of motivation. There is no entrance examination; the allocation of study places is based on the assessment of the documents submitted. The selection criteria include academic performance and personal qualifications. Support is offered in preparing the application and submitting the documents on time. You can start your application in the futuredoctor Bewerbungsportal.

Yes, Iuliu Hatieganu University offers a medical degree programme without the need for a numerus clausus. This means that the applicant's previous grade point average is not decisive for admission. This makes it easier for many applicants to study medicine.

Degrees from Iuliu Hațieganu University are fully recognised in Germany, Austria and all other EU countries. This means that graduates have the opportunity to continue their medical career in these countries after completing their studies, be it in specialist training or in other medical professions. This is done in accordance with EU Directive 2005/36/EC, which regulates the mutual recognition of professional qualifications in the EU.

Cluj-Napoca is one of the cheaper cities in Europe. Apart from the rent, the cost of living is around 200 to 300 euros per month. A one-room flat in a good location costs between 200 and 300 euros, while a room in a shared flat costs between 200 and 250 euros. Due to the high demand, it is advisable to look for suitable accommodation early on.

Cluj-Napoca is known for its lively cultural scene and historic architecture. The city offers numerous theatres, museums and cinemas as well as an active local scene with many cafés and restaurants. Cluj-Napoca is a centre for festivals and cultural events that take place throughout the year. The surrounding area also offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, including exploring castles, palaces and forests.

Iuliu Hațieganu University offers extensive support for international students, including help with finding accommodation, orientation courses and language support. The university regularly organises social events and offers numerous resources to ease the transition to living and studying in Cluj-Napoca. There are also special programmes and counselling services that promote students' academic and social success.

The university combines a first-class academic education with a strong focus on practical experience and research. The international environment, modern teaching methods and close collaboration between students and professors create an ideal learning environment. Cluj-Napoca itself offers a rich cultural and historical backdrop that makes studying an enriching experience.

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