If your goal is to study in Europe, the Romanian Government ARICE Scholarship 2026 is one of the most accessible and legitimate fully funded programs available to Kenyan citizens.
Administered by the Romanian Agency for Investments and Foreign Trade (ARICE), this scholarship targets non-EU citizens aiming to pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programs in fields such as Economics, Business Administration, Agricultural Sciences, Engineering, and Oil & Gas. (Note: Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy are not covered under this specific grant).
What Does the ARICE Scholarship Cover?
- Full Tuition Fees: Exemption from all registration and tuition fees for the duration of the degree.
- Accommodation: Free housing in student dormitories across Romanian university campuses.
- Monthly Stipend: A modest monthly financial allowance (approximately 65 EUR for undergrads, 75 EUR for Master’s, and 85 EUR for PhDs).
- Language Year: A fully funded one-year Romanian language preparatory course.
Important Note for Kenyans: While the scholarship covers major expenses, the monthly stipend is small. It is highly recommended that Kenyan applicants have personal savings, support from family, or secure additional funding (like HELB loans, if applicable) to supplement their living expenses in Europe. Additionally, international travel costs (flights from Nairobi to Bucharest) are not covered.
Eligibility Criteria for Kenyan Applicants
To apply, Kenyan citizens must meet the following baseline requirements:
- Hold a valid Kenyan passport (Ensure it has at least three years of validity remaining).
- Have exceptional academic records (A strong KCSE certificate for Bachelor’s applicants, or a Second Class Upper/First Class degree for Master’s applicants).
- Provide a medical certificate proving you do not have contagious diseases. This can be obtained from recognized government hospitals in Kenya (e.g., KNH or Level 5 county hospitals).
The Application Process: Fully Digital
Unlike the GKS scholarship which requires rigorous physical document authentication at embassies, the ARICE application has been modernized.
- Online Portal: Kenyans must submit their applications entirely online through the official “Study in Romania” platform. Do not drop off physical documents at the Romanian Embassy in Nairobi unless explicitly requested at a later stage.
- Required Uploads: You will need to scan and upload clear copies of your birth certificate, passport, academic transcripts, diplomas, and your curriculum vitae (CV).
- Language Choice: You must elect to study your degree in the Romanian language (which is why the preparatory year is funded). This is a strategic move by the Romanian government to promote their language and culture globally.
Timeline and Next Steps
The application window typically opens in mid-December and closes in early March. Create an account on the Study in Romania platform early, ensure your KCSE or university certificates are ready for scanning, and prepare to embark on a unique European educational journey.