Top 10 Universities in Bulgaria for International Students

Looking for your next academic adventure? Bulgaria might just be the place for you. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and growing reputation for high-quality education, Bulgaria is quickly becoming a preferred destination for international students. Affordable tuition fees, a relaxed lifestyle, and a blend of modern facilities with centuries-old traditions are just some of the reasons to study in Bulgaria. Some of them also offer entertainment facilities to the students like watching tv shows i.e. черно сърце еп 27 бг суб in their hostels.

This guide breaks down the top 10 universities in Bulgaria, tailored with international students in mind. Whether you’re chasing academic excellence, global connections, or a springboard to a thriving international career, Bulgaria has something to offer.

Why Choosing the Right University Matters

Picking a university is more than just selecting where you’ll study—it’s a decision that shapes your career and life. For international students, it’s even more important to ensure the institution accommodates unique needs like cultural integration, language support, and global opportunities. Key factors to consider include:

• Quality of Education & Accreditation

• Programs Offered (Does the university specialize in your area of interest?)

• Language of Instruction

• Student Support Services

• Campus Life and Facilities

• Costs (tuition, accommodation, and living expenses)

By carefully considering these aspects, you’ll set yourself up for an enriching and rewarding experience.

How We Ranked the Top 10 Bulgarian Universities

Our rankings are based on a variety of factors, designed to reflect what an international student might value most. These include academic reputation, student reviews, diversity of programs, facilities, faculty expertise, and international engagement.

Top 10 Universities in Bulgaria

Here’s our curated list of the top Bulgarian universities that offer stellar education and a welcoming environment for international students.

1. Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski"

Location: Sofia

Highlights:

• Oldest university in Bulgaria, founded in 1888.

• Offers a broad spectrum of programs, including Sciences, Humanities, and IT.

• Houses several research institutes and global exchange programs.

Why Students Love It: Centrally located in the vibrant capital city, offering great networking and cultural opportunities.

2. American University in Bulgaria (AUBG)

Location: Blagoevgrad

Highlights:

• Liberal arts education based on the American system.

• Small class sizes, ensuring personalized attention.

• Accredited in both Bulgaria and the U.S.

Why Students Love It: Diverse student body hailing from over 40 countries worldwide.

3. University of Plovdiv "Paisii Hilendarski"

Location: Plovdiv

Highlights:

• Known for its excellent research in Humanities and Biological Sciences.

• Hosts a dynamic international student community.

Why Students Love It: Plovdiv, an ancient city bustling with modern charm, is a UNESCO cultural heritage site.

4. University of National and World Economy (UNWE)

Location: Sofia

Highlights:

• Specializes in Economics, Political Sciences, and Law.

• Strong connections with international corporations and exchange programs.

Why Students Love It: Excellent track record of employability after graduation.

5. Medical University of Sofia

Location: Sofia

Highlights:

• Ranked highly for Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacology.

• Large international student population in medical disciplines.

Why Students Love It: Hands-on clinical experience during studies.

6. Technical University of Sofia

Location: Sofia

Highlights:

• Leader in engineering and technology disciplines.

• Focuses on innovation, with advanced research facilities.

Why Students Love It: Partnerships with tech giants for internships and projects.

7. Medical University of Plovdiv

Location: Plovdiv

Highlights:

• Renowned for its medical programs and clinical learning facilities.

• Many courses offered in English.

Why Students Love It: Modern campus with access to world-class labs.

8. University of Economics – Varna

Location: Varna

Highlights:

• Strong emphasis on Business, Finance, and Marketing.

• Proximity to the Black Sea makes it a unique coastal study experience.

Why Students Love It: Vibrant coastal city lifestyle with a mix of work and play.

9. New Bulgarian University (NBU)

Location: Sofia

Highlights:

• Focus on modern, interdisciplinary education.

• Flexible courses and many dual-degree programs with global universities.

Why Students Love It: State-of-the-art facilities and creative arts programs.

10. Veliko Tarnovo University "St. Cyril and St. Methodius"

Location: Veliko Tarnovo

Highlights:

• Steeped in Bulgarian heritage and history.

• Excels in Arts, Literature, and Humanities.

Why Students Love It: Stunning views and a peaceful study environment.

To explore more about the rich history and culture of Bulgarian education, visit Bulgarian universities.

Admission Process for International Students

The admission process in Bulgaria is generally straightforward, and most universities offer support for international applicants.

General Requirements

• Completed application form.

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Proof of English proficiency (for English-taught programs).

• Specific documents required vary by program and institution, such as medical certificates or portfolios.

Many Bulgarian universities also offer preparatory language courses for non-English or non-Bulgarian speakers.

Application Timeline

Apply 6-12 months in advance to avoid last-minute hurdles and secure your spot for the semester.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

International students in Bulgaria can access various scholarships and forms of financial aid. Examples include:

• Presidential Scholarships: Based on academic achievements and financial need.

• Erasmus Programs: Available for students from EU countries.

• University-Specific Aid: Check individual universities for specific options.

Living in Bulgaria

Bulgaria offers one of the most affordable living standards in Europe, making it attractive for students on a budget.

Average Monthly Costs:

• Accommodation: $200–$400 (depending on city and housing preferences).

• Food and Transport: Approximately $200–$300.

• Miscellaneous Expenses: $100–$150.

Accommodation Options

Most universities offer on-campus dormitories, although renting off-campus apartments is also affordable.

Pro tip: Sofia and Plovdiv tend to have the widest range of options.

Make Your Academic Dream a Reality

Studying in Bulgaria isn’t just about earning a degree—it’s about immersing yourself in a rich culture, meeting people from across the world, and building an international career. With so many fantastic universities to choose from, the possibilities are endless.

Have questions or personal experiences to share? Drop them in the comments below. And if you’re ready to take the leap, check out more resources on international education in Bulgaria!