Study abroad at Bulgaria

Overview
Population
6,433,302
Universities
47
Language
Bulgarian, English
Currency
Bulgarian lev
Why study at Bulgaria
Bulgaria is a member state of the European Union offering high-standard higher education fully compliant with the Bologna Process. Bulgarian universities, particularly Medical University of Sofia, Medical University of Plovdiv, and Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, are renowned across Europe for their English-taught programs in General Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Veterinary Medicine, and Computer Science. Degrees are recognized across all EU/EEA member states and worldwide, with very affordable tuition fees and low cost of living.
Popular cities
Fees
Tuition fees in Bulgaria are among the most economical in the European Union. English-taught programs in General Medicine and Dentistry range from €7,500 to €9,000 per year. Bachelor's degrees in Engineering, Business, and IT range between €2,500 and €4,500 per year. Preparatory language courses cost approximately €3,000 to €4,000 per year. Living expenses are very affordable, averaging €450 to €750 per month.
Cost of Living
| Category | Cost (Bulgarian lev) |
|---|---|
| Rent, 1-bed apartment in city centre (Sofia/Plovdiv) | лв500 |
| Rent, 1-bed apartment outside centre | лв350 |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, water) | лв110 |
| Internet (high-speed fiber unlimited) | лв17 |
| Mobile phone plan (data & calls) | лв18 |
| Monthly public transport pass (student rate) | лв19 |
| Monthly grocery basket | лв250 |
| Coffee / Beverage in café | лв3 |
| Cinema ticket | лв8 |
| Monthly gym membership | лв34 |
Admission requirements
Secondary School Certificate & Ministry Approval
Attested high school diploma with minimum 62% in Biology and Chemistry for medical applicants, officially translated into Bulgarian, legalized, and approved by the Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science (MES).
Entrance Examination & English Proficiency
Passing the university entrance exam in Biology and Chemistry (conducted in English) for medical degrees, plus an English language certificate (B2 level or IELTS/TOEFL) if prior education was not in English.
Student Visa
Non-EU international students require a Bulgarian Type D Long-Stay Study Visa. The university first obtains the official Approval Certificate from the Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science. With this certificate, the student applies for the Visa D at the Bulgarian Embassy, presenting a valid passport, proof of paid tuition, accommodation contract, criminal background check, medical insurance, and bank solvency statement.
How to Study
Choose your program and accredited university in Bulgaria.
Prepare certified and legalized academic documents with Bulgarian translation.
Sit and pass the entrance assessment test (for medical degrees).
The university submits your file to the Ministry of Education for the official certificate.
Receive the Ministry certificate and apply for Visa D at the Bulgarian Embassy.
Arrive in Bulgaria, register at the university, and obtain your EU Residence Permit.