Study medicine in Bulgaria
Most medical courses last for 6 years and during this time, students get the opportunity to gather practical knowledge in the hospitals in the university.
Because of their low tuition fees, they attract a lot of international students who wish to study most medical courses in Bulgaria.
Often times we see students graduating with a masters degree as well. In this article, I have given a list of the medical schools in Bulgaria which are all located in different cities of the Country.
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Why do people choose to study in Bulgaria?
There are several reasons students choose Bulgaria for their studies. Some of these requirements include low tuition fees, very low living expenses of the country.
The cheap tuition fees of their universities and their very much easier entry requirements and most importantly their internationally recognized degree.
Bulgaria’s high quality education
Bulgaria is not only known for its low tuition fees but equally for their high-quality education. Bulgaria is located in the heart of Europe and is a member of the European Union.
There are a lot of educational opportunities for students who wish to advance in their careers.
They have professionals in terms of teachers, brand new campus buildings, internship opportunities during the period of study, multiple partnering universities where you can choose to study for a semester or two during your period of study.
List of Medical schools in Bulgaria
- Medical University Pleven – Faculty of Medicine
- Medical University of Plovdiv-Faculty of Medicine
- Medical University of Sofia – Faculty of Medicine
- Medical University of Varna – Faculty of Medicine
- Sofia University – Faculty of Medicine
- Trakia University of Stara Zagora – Faculty of Medicine
Medical University Pleven – Faculty of Medicine
Degrees: Medicine: in English (100 Places)
Tuition fees: Medicine: 6 years – 7500€ per year
Medical University Pleven is one of the five medical Schools in Bulgaria that was established in the year 1974. Their main aim is to expand the horizons, the reputation and size of the City hospital.
They incorporate educational and therapeutic facilities, clinics in all major medical fields and a contemporary pre-clinical base. This medical school has all the theoretical, preclinical and clinical departments that are necessary for higher medical education.
There are over 6000 Bulgarians and foreign students that come from over 30 different countries of the world who have graduated from this medical school.
Currently, there are about 2044 students, with 275 of them being foreign students. Their biggest community of their foreign students are Indians.
International students from countries like the USA, Japan, Great Britain, France, Nigeria, Albania, Cyprus, Congo, Syria, Ukraine etc.
They have highly qualified lecturers with a very comprehensive academic experience, with over 60 professors and 300 assistant professors.
There are two student’s hostels with over 400 beds. There are double and triple bedrooms Though not compulsory, students can choose to look for private accommodation.
Medical University of Plovdiv-Faculty of Medicine
Degrees: Medicine, Dentistry
Study in: English
Tuition fees: 8000€ per Year
Plovdiv is the second-largest city in Bulgaria with a population of about 341, 567 inhabitants as of the year 2015. It is the administrative Centre of the Plovdiv province.
The Medical University of Plovdiv was established in the year 1945 and was renamed the Medical University of Plovdiv in 2002 after a decision by Bulgaria`s National Assembly.
The university has more than 3,500 national and international students as well as more than 600 instructors and researchers.
It is one of the medical schools in Bulgaria that provides training to students of medicine, Dental Medicine, pharmacy, Health care management, Nursing as well as Midwife and auxiliary medical specialists.
There are masters degree programs for students as well following the completion of their Bachelor’s degree.
This medical college includes the Faculties of Medicine, Dental medicine, Pharmacy, Public Health, a Department of Languages and Specialized training, a medical college and a hospital with 2000 beds.
There are laboratories, clinics, units for diagnostics and treatment. Every year over 3,800 students from Bulgaria and other countries of the world are trained.
Sofia University – Faculty of Medicine
Degrees:
· Medicine: in English
· Dentistry: in English
· Pharmacy: in English
600 study places for all studies together
Tuition fees:
· Medicine: 6 years – 8000€ per year
· Dentistry: 6 years – 8000€ per year
· Pharmacy: 6 years – 8000€ per year
Sofia University – Faculty of Medicine, is the oldest institution for higher medical education in Bulgaria. It is one of the esteemed medical schools in Bulgaria with five professional fields.
They are the best in each of their five areas of study which includes Medicine, Dental Medicine, Pharmacy, Health care and Public health.
The university has over 6000 students both local and international with about 1600 of them coming from other countries. They have over 800 professors and lecturers.
For their study programs with courses taught in English, in order to be admitted, candidates will take an entrance examination that consists of multiple-choice questions in Chemistry and Biology.
The applicants are evaluated by a committee that is appointed by yeah faculty.
Their documents are analyzed and it is worthy to note that applicants must have studied and obtained grades Biology and Chemistry subjects in secondary school.
English language proficiency demonstrated during the application process for those who wish to study in the English language.
The university is one of the medical schools in Bulgaria that offers a preparatory course for applicants who cannot meet their requirements.
Medical University of Varna – Faculty of Medicine
Degrees:
· Medicine: in English (250 Places)
· Dentistry: in English (50 Places)
Tuition fees:
· Medicine: 6 years – 8000€ per year
· Dentistry: 6 years – 8000€ per year
The Medical University of Varna is one of the medical schools in Bulgaria established in the year 1961. This university is the third-largest medical university in Bulgaria.
It is a high-tech university with classical models of teaching which includes the latest technologies, 3D anatomy training and a system for e-learning rich in electronic content.
They are equally one of the medical schools in Bulgaria with high-tech labs and a library with electronic reading rooms with access to the best world information databases.
There are modern sports facilities and football and volleyball coaches. Over 1000 foreign students have graduated from over 45 countries of the world has graduated since their establishment.
For applicants, it is very necessary to prepare your application as early as possible. However, It is mandatory that the prospective EU and EEA applicants have studied, completed and obtained grades (without failing marks) in Biology and Chemistry subjects in secondary school.
for the study programs with courses taught in English, in order to be admitted, the candidates will have to take an entrance exam consisting of multiple-choice questions from chemistry and Biology.
Medical University of Sofia – Faculty of Medicine
Tuition:
- Training in “Medicine” and “Dental Medicine” in Bulgarian – EUR 7.000 per year.
- Training in “Medicine” and “Dental Medicine” in English – EUR 8.000 per year.
- Training in “Pharmacy” in Bulgarian – EUR 5.000 per year.
- Training in “Pharmacy” in English – EUR 6.000 per year.
The Medical University of Sofia is one of the medical schools in Bulgaria that has its unique place in the Bulgarian education system. They have a high level of teaching, training and achievements in research work, public activities and health care.
Their complete course of medical education lasts for 6 years and is organized in three stages.
They are one of the medical schools in Bulgaria that have the following four faculties:
- Faculty of Medicine
- Faculty of Dental Medicine
- Faculty of Pharmacy
- Faculty of Public Health
Trakia University of Stara Zagora – Faculty of Medicine
Tuition
€7000- 7000/year
~€ 300/month
Courses: Medicine, Veterinary
Trakia University is one of the medical schools in Bulgaria. Their faculty of medicine plays host to about 600 Bulgarian & foreign medical students and over 200 academic staff members in their respective departments.
Trakia University’s Faculty of Medicine is located in Stara Zagora 6000, 11 Armeiska str. The Faculty of veterinary medicine is located in Stara Zagora 6000, Student Campus. It is one of the medical schools in Bulgaria with no graduate-entry programmes.
The duration of study at this medical school is 6 years and the tuition is €7000 per year as stated above. However, Veterinary Medicine has a duration of 5 years with tuition of €4000 per year. For you to be accepted in this medical school you must go through and pass the following exams:
- English language exam (for applicants whose native language is not English)
- Biology exam (in English)
- Chemistry exam (in English)
The early application deadline is mid-July, and the late application deadline is 1st September. Early application is strongly advised.
It is equally one of the medical schools in Bulgaria that has an on-campus accommodation which costs between €30 to €40 per month.
The living costs are cheap-about €150 monthly.
How much does it cost to study in Bulgaria?
Usually, the tuition fees are about 8000 Euros per academic year.
Students studying in Bulgaria may use the campus of the University in terms of accommodations.
For instance, at Trakia University the rent is between 30 and 40 € per month for on-campus accommodations, so the monthly living is about €150.
The living costs are incredibly cheap, with rent ranging from €190 to €250 per month and utilities averaging roughly €78 per month for single persons, especially those who choose to live outside the Campus.
So you can expect to pay approximately €400 per month for everything inclusive- If you are the type that values privacy and peace, we suggest you rent a flat.
Usually, an apartment for two in the city centre of Sofia costs about 400 Euro. In Plovdiv and Varna it is even cheaper (a lot of students live in a private apartment for about 300 Euro a month)
Some students also prefer to share an apartment with a roommate or two. This, therefore, makes living expenses in Bulgaria even cheaper because they get to split the rent, the bills and food expenses.
As for free time, the city of Stara Zagora, albeit small, offers a wide range of places to visit. In Stara Zagora, you can see many historical monuments, monasteries, museums, parks, excursion options and much more. The city isn’t short of restaurants and clubs too.
However, finding cheap accommodations in Bulgaria is not hard. There are so many real estate agents who offer apartments close enough to any of the medical schools in Bulgaria.
What is the culture in Bulgaria like?
Bulgaria is a culture-friendly country. Bulgaria is a border country between Europe and Asia and therefore has a mix of cultures. There are Christians, Muslims and Jews who live together in harmony regardless.
The biggest cities in the country include Sofia and Plovdiv and all their cities allow people of different cultures to enjoy their stay and not feel discriminated against.
They have legendary hospitality and curiosity towards people who study in Bulgaria and students experiences are always described as pleasant and unforgettable.
Their cities are full of great cultural events. From nights at the museums, concerts, and sports events. People studying in Bulgaria love to travel around the country as well as for international events.
Interestingly, Bulgaria has a high percentage of English speaking people.
What are the general requirements to study in Bulgaria?
Each university has its entry requirements, in any case, you must be fluent in English, Bulgarian or the language in which that speciality is taught.
You will be required to provide a certificate that proves your language skills, most times. Most likely, your academic year with start with a basic course in the Bulgarian language where you are taught some basic phrases so you can be able to greet people and ask for directions if the need arises.
You must have completed your secondary education before applying to medical schools in Bulgaria or any other higher institution at all.
You will not be able to study for a Bachelor’s degree if you did not complete your secondary education which you must provide in form of a high school diploma translated and legalized.
Other times, you have to sit for an admission test for of entrance examination especially in the field of medical science-mostly in biology and chemistry. Then arts for students who want to study architecture. In general, they have lower entry requirements when compared to some other countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Education free in Bulgaria?
Interestingly, Bulgaria teaches information technology, sciences, and mathematics to even the youngest of children.
All children between the ages of 7 and 16 are required to be enrolled in school.
Education at this stage(7 to 16 years) is free, which means students have to pay for medical schools in Bulgaria and other higher institutions and colleges.
Can international students work in Bulgaria?
Considering costs, though there are a lot of cheapest universities in Bulgaria for international students, international students are eligible to work part-time alongside their studies.
Many students use this work to cover the bulk of their academic and living expenses. Whichever way, there are work-study opportunities for international students in medical schools in Bulgaria.
Students from the European community do not need a work permit to secure any kind of employment in Bulgaria, they basically enjoy the same rights as Bulgarian citizens.
However, students from countries outside of the EU require a work permit in order to work and earn money in Bulgaria. Students can work part-time but only for a maximum of 20 hours a week.
Do they speak English in Bulgaria?
English is the second most common foreign language in the country. English proficiency among most Bulgarians is improving massively, especially compared to just a few years ago. While attending the medical schools in Bulgaria, it won’t be so much of a problem understanding people.
In some places and situations, you can find many Bulgarians speaking impeccably fluent English while the younger generation of Bulgarians speaks English so well.
The English language is increasing in the country due to the work environment in many companies, especially in the tech and tourism industry, and more exposure to English-speaking tourists.
Can I study in English in Bulgaria?
Yes, you can. Most international students who study in Bulgaria choose their courses to be offered in the English Language.
What are the entry requirements to study medicine in Bulgaria?
High school diploma or equivalent with at least 62 % of average high school results and 62 % in Biology and chemistry.
Those subjects are the basic subject to further university medical studies and in most medical schools in Bulgaria for non-European Union(EU), European union area (EEA) and Switzerland medical university candidate students, and then at least 50% in Biology and chemistry for EU/EEA medical university candidate students.
Candidates will provide a certificate specifying that the candidate high school diploma gives him access to university Height education and university in his country (where diploma has been delivered!).
Self-finance: medical student candidate must have his own source of financing the medical studies in Bulgaria by student loans, wonderful parents or generous sponsors or other sources.
The finance includes tuitions fee (5000 to 8000 €/year for the medical university program, and 3000 to 4500 €/year for medical preparatory courses) and everyday living expenses.
Health certificate: medical student candidates have to be in good health mentally, physically and without daisies incompatible with a medical career.
Valid passport (travelling document) or ID card for those students from European Union (EU), European Union area (EEA) and Switzerland.
Bulgarian Medical university language requirements: medical university candidate student must have a good command of English or Bulgarian respectively for the program in English or in Bulgarian.
The candidate without enough command of the English language has to follow a one-year medical preparatory course prior to the university medical program.
Entry test: some universities may organise medical university entry tests in Biology and chemistry (for medicine and dental medicine program) or chemistry and Botany entry test (for pharmacy program).
Behind science entry tests, universities may organise university medical tests for or medical candidate students for students from countries where English is not the official language and they do not have an international certificate of English.
How to Get a Student Visa for Bulgaria
Once you have been successfully admitted as a student in any of the medical schools in Bulgaria or any university at all, you will need to move on with your student’s visa. It consists of three main steps:
- Prepare your documents
- Register
- Attend interview
Prepare the following documents
- The student needs to then fill, print and sign a detailed application form;
- Obtain a document that certifies that the student has right to continue their education at a higher school (university) in the country where they obtained their high school diploma from;
- Obtain medical (health) certificate, issued within 1 month prior to the date of signing their detailed application form;
- Copy of High school (secondary education) diploma + transcript of all marks;
Note: Additional documents listed in this step must be translated, legalized before being sent to the institution.
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In Conclusion
Having seen the list of medical schools in Bulgaria, you must have read that living in Bulgaria is far cheaper than in other European countries in the same region.
This means you can enjoy much of your student life doing other things you might enjoy, like travelling, eating out, and socialising without breaking the bank. Explore your options and make sure you make the right choice. Best Regards!!