Comparing The UK And Romanian Education Systems A Comparative Guide for Romanian Students
10th March 25
Introduction: Why Romanian Students Choose the UK for Education
Are you a Romanian student looking for an education system that fosters independent thinking, career readiness, and academic excellence? Studying in the UK offers a world-class learning experience that prepares students for top universities and international career opportunities.
The UK is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, known for their academic rigour, research excellence, and strong industry connections. Unlike Romania’s 4+4+4 education system, where students follow a national curriculum leading to the Baccalaureate (BAC) exam, the UK education system allows students to specialise earlier, focus on their strengths, and gain internationally respected qualifications such as GCSEs, A-Levels, the International Foundation Programme (IFP), or BTEC Diplomas.
For Romanian students considering Abbey DLD Colleges (Cambridge, Manchester, London), this guide provides a detailed comparison between the Romanian and UK education systems, helping students and parents make an informed decision about studying in the UK.
Understanding the UK Education System
The UK education system is structured to develop critical thinking, research skills, and subject expertise, making it an excellent choice for students planning to study at top universities. It is divided into key stages:
- Primary and Secondary Education (Ages 5-16)
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- Duration: 11 years (Key Stages 1-4)
- Curriculum: Students study core subjects such as Mathematics, English, Science, History, Geography, and Arts.
- Assessment:
- GCSE exams at age 16, where students typically take 8-10 subjects.
- Qualification Awarded: General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE)
- Post-16 Education (Ages 16-18)
Unlike Romania, where students prepare for the Baccalaureate (BAC) Examination to enter university, UK students specialise in three to four subjects that align with their future aspirations.
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- A-Levels (2-year programme): The most common route for students aiming for top universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, LSE, UCL, and Imperial College London.
- International Foundation Programme (IFP, 1-year university preparation): A fast-track pathway to university, available in Business, Engineering, Medicine, Arts, and other fields.
- BTEC Diploma (Career-focused alternative to A-Levels): A coursework-based qualification ideal for Business, Media, and IT students.
- University Education in the UK (Ages 18+)
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- Duration: 3-4 years for a bachelor’s degree.
- Entry Requirements: A-Levels, IFP, or BTEC qualifications.
- Teaching Style: Focuses on independent research, project-based learning, and real-world applications.
Romania vs UK: Education Structure Comparison Table
| Romania | United Kingdom | ||||
| Age | Year | Schools | Age | Year | Schools |
| Age | Year | Schools | Age | Year | Schools |
| 3-6 | Grădiniță | Pre-School | 3-4 | Nursery | Nursery |
| 4-5 | Reception | Reception | |||
| 6-7 | Clasa Pregătitoare | Primary School (4 Years) | 5-6 | Year 1 | Primary School (Key Stage 1-2) |
| 7-8 | Clasa I | 6-7 | Year 2 | ||
| 8-9 | Clasa II | 7-8 | Year 3 | ||
| 9-10 | Clasa III | 8-9 | Year 4 | ||
| 10-11 | Clasa IV | Gymnasium (4 Years) | 9-10 | Year 5 | |
| 11-12 | Clasa V | 10-11 | Year 6 | ||
| 12-13 | Clasa VI | 11-12 | Year 7 | Secondary School (Key Stage 3-4) | |
| 13-14 | Clasa VII | 12-13 | Year 8 | ||
| 14-15 | Clasa VIII | Evaluare Națională | 13-14 | Year 9 | |
| 15-16 | Clasa IX | Liceu (4 Years) | 14-15 | Year 10 | GCSEs (Key Stage 4) |
| 16-17 | Clasa X | 15-16 | Year 11 | ||
| 17-18 | Clasa XI | Baccalaureate (BAC) Examination | 16-17 | Year 12 | Sixth Form (A-Levels, Key Stage 5) |
| 18-19 | Clasa XII | 17-18 | Year 13 | ||
Looking Ahead: Your Path to Success with Abbey DLD Colleges
Education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about developing the skills and confidence to succeed in a competitive world. At Abbey DLD Colleges, we help Romanian students bridge the gap between their current education system and the academic expectations of UK universities.
Why Abbey DLD Colleges? A Unique Learning Experience for Romanian Students
Abbey DLD Colleges offer a holistic academic experience designed to help Romanian students succeed in the UK education system and beyond. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Personalised Academic Programmes: We offer tailored study pathways in Medicine, Engineering, Business, and Arts, ensuring students receive the best preparation for their chosen career path.
- Expert Teachers and University Guidance: Our highly experienced teachers mentor students one-on-one, helping them navigate A-Levels, UCAS applications, and university entrance requirements.
- Strong Extracurricular Focus: We provide debating clubs, internships, leadership programmes, and international academic competitions to enhance university applications.
- Thriving International Student Community: With students from over 50 countries, Abbey DLD fosters a culturally rich environment that helps Romanian students integrate smoothly into UK life.
- Prime Locations for Learning & Growth:
- Abbey College Cambridge – Ideal for STEM and Medicine-focused students.
- Abbey College Manchester – A hub for Business, Science, and Creative subjects.
- DLD College London – A perfect setting for students pursuing Finance, Business, and the Arts in the UK’s economic capital.
- World-Class Boarding Facilities: With on-campus accommodation and 24/7 student support, Romanian students feel safe, supported, and part of a vibrant academic community.
Blog Author
Peggy Lardot
Senior Regional Manager, UK & Europe, Abbey DLD Group of Colleges
E: Peggy.Lardot@abbeydld.co.uk
T: +44 (0)7585 308324
Your Future Starts Here
At Abbey DLD Colleges, we believe that Romanian students would love to thrive in an international academic setting. By studying in the UK, you gain valuable global perspectives, transferable skills, and a pathway to world-class universities.
Contact us today to explore your options and begin your journey towards a successful academic future.
