Reform opening Europe to students: higher education in the Republic of Moldova transformed over two decades
The Republic of Moldova is celebrating 20 years since it joined the Bologna Process, a European initiative that has transformed higher education. The aim of this process is to establish a unified framework for university studies across Europe, making it easier to recognize degrees. This initiative allows students, teachers, and researchers to study and work abroad more seamlessly.
In the past two decades, several significant reforms have been implemented in higher education. These include adjustments to the duration of university studies, the introduction of the Diploma Supplement—a document that facilitates employment in other countries—and the establishment of a transferable credit system that allows students to participate in academic mobility programs.
“This unique aspect of higher education promotes the mobility of students and teaching staff. At Moldova State University, we have effectively implemented a new concept of higher education focused on study credits, emphasizing quality and strengthening our quality assurance system,” says Otilia Dandara, the rector of Moldova State University.
According to Svetlana Rusnac, the dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Education at the Free International University, artificial intelligence should be better integrated into educational processes and internships should begin earlier to prepare graduates in line with European standards. “We must teach students to effectively use contemporary technologies, including artificial intelligence. Internships should be closely linked to future employment opportunities, allowing students to enhance their practical skills relevant to today’s job market,” Rusnac said.
Universities in the Republic of Moldova aim to attract more foreign students
Reforms driven by the Bologna Process have simplified the recognition of studies abroad and expanded mobility opportunities for students from the Republic of Moldova within the European space, according to Minister of Education and Research, Dan Perciun. He noted that aligning with European standards—particularly in strengthening academic integrity by implementing an anti-plagiarism system—remains a priority.
“We have a government decision on academic integrity that is pending approval, and we are rolling out anti-plagiarism software on a large scale. The ongoing investment and modernization of higher education will continue,” Perciun stated during a press conference on April 27.
The transition to three university cycles—bachelor's, master's, and doctorate—along with the implementation of the European system of transferable credits and the development of the National Qualifications Framework, has facilitated the recognition of study periods abroad and supported students' academic mobility, said Adriana Cazacu, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Education and Research.
“The key reform was changing from five years of higher education to a 3+2 model—three years for a bachelor's degree and two for a master's degree, or a 4+1 model. Subsequently, the third cycle—doctoral studies—was also included in this higher education structure. Our universities are focusing on developing more joint programs, which brings us closer to European universities and helps attract foreign students. We also aim to modernize infrastructure, update funding methodologies, and revise university curricula to ensure that studies remain relevant,” Cazacu explained.
The Head of the Secretariat of the European Higher Education Area, Horia Onita, praised the developments in the Republic of Moldova and highlighted the significance of collaboration and shared values in European education.
The Republic of Moldova joined the Bologna Process in May 2005 during the Bergen Summit. Since that time, the higher education system in Moldova has undergone a comprehensive modernization process, gradually aligning with European standards.
The European Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance, an internationally agreed-upon set of principles for ensuring the quality of higher education in Europe, are scheduled for review and approval at the Bologna Ministerial Conference in Iași and Chișinău in May 2027.
Currently, 48 countries are members of the Bologna Process.
