Study in Bulgaria
Among the lowest-cost EU degrees, with well-regarded medical and technical universities.
What makes Bulgaria worth considering
Bulgaria has some of the lowest tuition and living costs anywhere in the European Union, while its medical universities have taught international students in English for decades. Degrees are recognised across the EU.
Lowest costs in the EU
Tuition and living costs are among the most affordable in the European Union.
Established medical faculties
English-taught medicine, dentistry and pharmacy with long international intakes.
EU-recognised degrees
Qualifications valid throughout the European Union under the Bologna framework.
Growing IT industry
A substantial software outsourcing sector centred on Sofia and Plovdiv.
Mild climate and coast
Black Sea coastline, mountains and a comfortable climate for most of the year.
Straightforward admission
Entry requirements are generally more accessible than in Western Europe.
Key facts
Popular courses
- Medical University of Sofia
- Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski
- Technical University of Sofia
- Medical University of Varna
- Medical University Plovdiv
- American University in Bulgaria
- University of National and World Economy
- Trakia University
About Bulgaria
Country facts
Bulgaria is a south-eastern European country of about 6.4 million people on the Black Sea, bordering Romania, Serbia, North Macedonia, Greece and Türkiye. Bulgarian is the official language and Sofia is the capital.
Higher education system
Bulgarian higher education comprises universities, specialised higher schools and colleges, both state and private. Degrees follow the Bologna structure, with medicine, dentistry and pharmacy delivered as long single-cycle programmes.
Admission requirements
- Secondary school certificate with biology and chemistry for medical programmes
- Entrance examination or interview for medicine and dentistry
- IELTS 5.5–6.0 or medium-of-instruction letter
- Apostilled and translated academic documents
- Medical certificate and HIV test result
- Proof of funds and accommodation
Thinking about Bulgaria?
Send us your academic record and budget — we will tell you honestly whether Bulgaria is the right fit, and which universities you are competitive for.