Located in the Balkan Peninsula; Bulgaria is charming country with full of attractions for locals, tourists and international students.  Each year, students from around the world travel to Bulgaria to peruse their higher Education for the low budget of tuition fees and living costs for the world class qualifications and degrees.  If you happen to choose to study in Bulgaria you are sure to be impressed by the vast verity of natural environments from warm, sandy beaches to salient mountains and resorts. Established in the year 681, Bulgaria is one of the oldest European countries. The many historical sites reminisces its rich history giving you so numerous possibilities and stories to explore.  Bulgaria is a democratic republic and in 2007, it became a member state of the European Union, making travel easier to the country and around the European Union countries.

Considering the cost of studying in Bulgaria; compared to the other European countries, Bulgaria falls under the Lower tuition fee range but it is not the cheapest.  Year-on-year Bulgaria has been on a continuous upward trend in demand for a place in medical school from students around the world.  Bulgarian Universities constantly evolve with the latest cutting edge technology whilst at the same time provides the most rich foundations in medical studies that has been passed on from decades of heritage for being a hub training thousands of medical professionals around the world.

The Bulgarian Education system makes institutions of higher education responsible for advancement of education, and constant development of scientific and technological standards.  Universities and colleges prepare train and produce qualified professionals with education in technical, scientific, economic, social and artistic disciplines. There are 51 universities in Bulgaria, which are internationally revered. This well-developed Higher Education system, world renowned degrees in Bulgaria complemented by the highly equitable tuition fees, living costs and the welcoming living environment has become a major attraction to international students catapulting Bulgaria to a highly competitive destination to secure a place in medical school for new applicants having the highest numbers of inward bound students coming from Turkey, Greece, Italy, Macedonia, Germany, Israel and UK.

If you decide to Study in Bulgaria you will be living a lifestyle similar to any European country with facilities available up to international standards.  You can engage in many sports and extracurricular activities during your leisure times and enjoy the numerous natural parks and resorts.  The serine environment is ideal for student life. There are many supermarkets with and diverse restaurants and cafes offering various cuisines that are available at easy reach giving verity and pleasure to enjoy the student life years.  With all that on offer; it is not surprising that Bulgaria, has become a highly attractive destination for candidates from the EU countries and from around the world. It is sure to continue being a fiercely competitive destination to sort after Higher education in medical Studies.

Like in most European countries, Universities, Colleges and Specialized Higher Schools are the three types of higher education institutions in Bulgaria.

As in most countries worldwide, there are three stages for University students.  The potential degree acquisitions in order are as follows: Bachelor’s (undergraduate), Master’s (graduate), and Doctoral degrees.

After completion of secondary education; the first stage is of obtaining an Undergraduate degree lasts for four years and the Graduate stage lasts subsequently for five years or in other words one year more after obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree. The third stage of obtaining a Ph.D. Degree in higher education can be followed after the graduate stage.

In the State Register of the Accredited Higher Schools in Bulgaria, there is approximately a total of 51 accredited higher education institutions categorized in to four types of higher education institutions out of which are 37 public and 14 private institutions:

·      Higher Education College (non-university higher education institution)

University

·      Specialized Higher Education Institution Equivalent to Universities /Technical University

·      Academy

Depending on the type of higher education and the particular specialty, the admission requirements for enrollment may include; a written competitive exams (one or more), tests (varying in volume and structure in the different higher schools), and a diploma of completed secondary education.

The autonomy of higher education institutions allows them to define for themselves the requirements for enrollment every year. This enables them to organize admission in some specialties only on the basis of a diploma (a Diploma of secondary education) or by combining enrollment by diploma with a test or with exams.

The procedure for application in each specialty is determined on an annual basis and made public in the reference manual of the higher school.   International students choose Bulgaria due to the very reputable quality of education and the relatively economical costs of studies and living. Courses intended to prepare students for rapid advancement into high and responsible positions as executives are offered in a wide variety of public and private schools.

The medical degrees awarded in Bulgaria are approved in the European Union and recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO).  Due to the reputation of excellence in medical studies and outstanding medical research, Bulgaria is one of the most sought after destination for Medical studies in the world.  The educational system for medicine in Bulgaria is designed around instigative innovation and implementing new technology with the solid orthodox medical studies background.

The fully taught in English degrees are among the best medical programs attracting students from all other the word and Studying medicine in Bulgaria provides a solid opportunity to for students to study in the best universities of medicine in the word.   Each year; students from UK, Sri Lanka Sweden, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Nigeria, Ghana, Indian, China, USA, Canada, Norway, etc., register themselves for medical and pre-medical studies in Bulgarian universities which is a reason why it is increasingly becoming difficult to secure a place.

Since the language of instruction is English, applicants should possess a good command of English.  The applicants wishing to acquire a degree in General Medicine, Veterinary or Dental Medicine must effectively pass their admittance tests.

Programme: General Medicine

Degree: General Medicine Doctor (6 years full‑time)

Language: English

Faculty: Faculty of Medicine

About the Programme:

The courses we represent are all taught in English language though there is also the option to pursue the degree in Bulgarian language depending on candidate preference, The study programme aims to release well trained medical doctors in to the world who are able to successfully study and work in residency and have necessary knowledge and skills to provide emergency medical aid, diagnose illnesses attributed to their competence and provide health care services under the supervision of a physician specialist. The medical studies are organised as most other universities in the world with 2 years of pre-clinical study, 3 years of clinical study, and 1 year of state clinical practice or internship which takes 6 years in total to complete.  Graduates will be awarded the title of Medical Doctor (MD).

Graduates joining first and second level of studies in General medicine gain theoretical knowledge of all pre-clinical and clinical subjects concerning practical knowledge, they learn about therapeutics and clinics methods.   After obligatory practise, postgraduate studies and exams, they gain pre-conditions for the specialisation in respective branches or in medical research.  The training is focused on achieving a broader general medical education. Medicine is a multidisciplinary programme. In the first year, the studies are subject-based. From the second year, the studies are problem-based, integrating basic and clinical subjects and analysis of real clinical situations. This knowledge and skills are applied and developed during the fourth to sixth years in solving clinical problems.

The Students train to become physicians and surgeons capable of providing professional medical aid and care aimed at preventive aspects of medicine with a broader general medical education.

Programme: Dental Medicine

Degree: Dental Medicine Doctor (5 years)

Language: English

Faculty: Faculty of Medicine

About the Programme:

The Faculty has gained international recognition for preparation of specialists, research and clinical work. And the Faculty of Odontology is the main institution of dental education in Bulgaria.

The Faculty of Odontology offers a perfect possibility of gaining a profession in odontology and also guarantees high-level and attractive studies. According to our experience, only the best graduates choose this study programme. Odontology, as a branch of medical sciences, is designed for talented, active, and responsible students. Integrated studies are also organised in the Faculty of Odontology. Graduates learn basic therapeutics and preventive methods and become able to provide basic practical treatments. Graduates are able, on the basis of anamnesis and of complex extra‑oral examination, to analyse the origin of the diseases, to apply methods of primary, secondary and tertiary prevention, to treat the diseases concerning dental diseases. Graduates gain knowledge of all pre-clinical and clinical medical branches concerning dental medicine. The programme is recognised by the General Dental Council and Irish Dental Council for registration to practise as a dentist in the UK and Ireland with the opportunity to practically train at the Hospital of Bulgarian University of Health Sciences which runs clinics for Dental and oral diseases, Dental and Maxillary Orthopaedics, Oral Care and Paediatric Odontology, Orthodontics.

The curriculum leads to a master’s degree in Dentistry, which is equivalent to a Doctor of Dental Science (DDS) and forms the basis for specialist education or scientific (PhD) studies. Today, 120 new students are accepted annually to the 5-year dental programme. The acceptance is based on the rules of general admission, which is organised and carried out by LAMA BPO.

Curriculum :

Programme: Dental Medicine

Degree: Dental Medicine Doctor   (5.5 years)

Language: English

Faculty: Faculty of Medicine

About the Programme:

The Programme of Veterinary Medicine conforms to the National Regulations, descriptions of the Common Requirements, and Directive of the European Parliament. Upon successful graduation of the Study Programme students obtain general and special competences. Graduates of fundamental studies lasting 5.5 years are awarded with a qualification of the veterinary surgeon and master‘s qualification degree.

A person who has acquired professional qualification of a veterinary surgeon can work in this capacity in Bulgaria and Europe. Graduates are able to practice in private and state institutions. Veterinary doctors can diagnose animal diseases, treat animals, apply prophylactic measures, monitor the transfer of animal diseases and food chain safety, conduct research and present their knowledge, solve complex veterinary-related problems, as well as apply gained abilities and knowledge in different activities and further self-education. Food safety managers can analyse and assess the   safety aspects of food products and raw materials in relation to human health, covering the entire food chain. They design and manage food safety control systems in the manufacturing process and are familiar with general quality control and management systems. Graduates of the last five years have been very successful in finding jobs in Bulgaria or abroad and they successfully work both in the private and state sectors. Private veterinary activity can be pursued by a veterinary surgeon holding a valid license in veterinary practice or veterinary pharmacy. State policy in the areas of animal health and welfare, safety and quality of food supplied on the market in Bulgaria is formed by the Sate Food and Veterinary Service. After the completion of the programme, graduates are awarded the title of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM).

PhD study programme of veterinary medicine. Doctoral students prepare a doctoral thesis (adequate to PhD) which is defended in accordance to the appropriate documents.

 Curriculum :

Bulgaria is one of 29 countries that have signed the Bologna declaration, which instates a common educational standard across Europe. Postgraduate medical studies from Bulgaria can be earned in a variety of subjects and are internationally recognised.

The Postgraduate Medical Study can be perused as specialization training or residency specialization is offered in all the Bulgarian Universities. Once the 6 year Master’s degree graduation is successfully achieved, students are then able to pursue a post graduate specialization which can range from 4-6 years for completion depending on the programme. Once students have done the specialization in Bulgaria they will complete licensure examinations offered by the State Examination Commission in Bulgaria which attains the graduates a medical training recognised anywhere within the European Union.

The specialization training requires full-time 8 hour practical training / day with duties related to the speciality and is practised at the Medical University Hospitals or affiliated clinics.   All medical Universities have a Commission for Postgraduate Education appointed by the Rector. The candidates who have completed the corresponding specialization curricula successfully will be elevated to take the Speciality State Examination to which on completion a certificate of a recognized speciality by the Medical University can be obtained.

A mandatory requirement of the postgraduate specialisation will be to have the ability to speak to patients in their native language. For this reason, post graduate students will take on a 9 month preparatory course for Bulgarian language exam (B2 level in the EU framework) or have some aptitude in Bulgarian language. This is common to any country that a medical professional seeks a postgraduate specialization degree.

The following are some of the Postgraduate courses may be taken:

Clinical Biochemistry, Normal and Pathological Physiology, Internal Medicine, Epidemiology, Hygiene, Microbiology, Surgery, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, Otorhinolaryngology, Pharmacology, Dental Medicine, Clinical Pharmacology, Pathological Anatomy and Forensic Medicine, Neurosciences, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology. Students are awarded the degree of PhD (Philosophiae Doctor).

Tuition Fees

Masha consultants understand that money can be a worrying topic for most students. We aim to help by setting out clearly and simply what you need to pay for and what support is available to you.

Placing itself as one of the most affordable destinations for fully English taught undergraduate programs in medical studies; Bulgaria has gained so much competition among students trying to secure a place in medical school. Presenting most affordable course fees complemented with the low living costs within the European Union Bulgaria has propelled as one the first choice for many potential students converging the tuition fees to an upward trend from what it used to be.

The tuition fee for the first year of studies shall be paid within 20 days after signing the Study Contract, but no later than 1 August 2016.

In all upper years, the annual tuition fee should be paid:

• before September 1 (for the fall semester)
• before February 1 (for the spring semester)

Transfer students shall pay the running payment of the actual year plus payment for the additional courses or exams (extracurricular fee), if any. An additional fee is required if the student has to repeat the course because of his/her academic incompetence.

The tuition fee covers the following:

• use of library facilities, lecture rooms, laboratories, clinics and equipment during the academic year;
• attendance at scheduled lectures, practical and laboratory classes, seminars, clinical practice;
• attendance at scheduled tutorials held weekly by the teaching staff of the University;
• testing of acquired knowledge and skills via weekly tests, colloquiums, examinations or final semester tests according to a teaching plan.
• dental materials for those studying at the Faculty of Odontology.

The payments listed below should be made by bank transfer in Euros before the deadline indicated

The total annual tuition fee is averagely €7000

Please Note:

• All fees, tuition, and charges are subject to change without notice.
• Tuition fees quoted by the University.
• The fees do not include other expenses such living & travelling cost.
• All students are advised to budget realistically before embarking on a course. Students are also advised to confirm such expenses, including exact tuition fees and methods of payment, directly with the University.

It is to be noted that in general, the cost of living (utility costs, prices, etc.) in Bulgaria is lower than in west European countries like UK, France or Germany.

Preparation Course Fee

Enrolling in the preparation course is optional and the course fee is €750.

Before making an application, applicants should carefully check that they will meet the Medical School’s minimum academic standard. Please read this guide, which provides details of the entry requirements.

It is mandatory that Candidates must complete their high school education, before applying for an undergraduate course and Postgraduate applicants must have an undergraduate diploma.

In addition to reading the Entry Requirements information, international applicants who do not speak English as a first language should ensure that they take one of the English Language qualifications. If not a first language, the applicant must provide documentation to corroborate their English fluency. If the standard of English of the applicant is not high enough, they must do a 9 month intensive language course before applying.

A medical certificate stating that the applicant is in good health from a qualified doctor.

International students could be admitted into the English program of the Bulgarian University of Health Sciences if the:

• Provide the legalized high school or college certificate and transcript (officially translated into English)
• They must have secured their preferred funding option (government, loan provider or self-funded). EU applicants can apply for funding with the Bulgarian government.
• Meet the Entrance Exam requirements.
• Have good grades in biology, chemistry and physics will give preference.
• Have good knowledge of English language is obligatory.

When applying for undergraduate medicine, many applicants find the application forms, tests and interviews required an overwhelming process. This step-by-step guide indicates what you must exactly do to avoid any delays or rejections due to not following the required application procedure. If you find it still hard to follow or have areas you do not understand; we at Masha Consultants are always prepared to guide you through the process. Candidates can get all the information needed about application forms, dates and information on of what documents to submit from the university you want to apply to.

All the submitted documents should be originals or certified copies. If the documents are not written in English, they must be supplemented by translations certified by an approved institution. All applications should be made online.

1. Create a student profile online.
2. Start your application making sure to check your name against your passport.

• As a part of your application you need to upload supporting documents including:

1. Most recent academic transcript ( with English translation in PDF format)
2. Copy of ID page of your passport
3. If applicable, proof of English language proficiency.
4. Once submitted; an email confirmation with a copy of your application is sent to you.
5. Your application is assessed by the study board if successful you will receive the offer letter by email.
6. Accept your offer and pay your deposit and/ or OSHC fees if applicable

• You will then receive your CoE for your visa application.
• You will then confirm your visa and book flights to arrive on time for orientation.

Please Note the application closing dates to make sure you get your application in on time. Students are advised to apply in good time before the application deadline. The application date is usually long before the start of the semester. Make sure that you complete your application correctly.

Applications must be received no later than the published closing date. Applications received after the closing date will only be considered on the basis of academic merit, if there are places available.

International applicants should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.

Application Deadlines:

The following are deadlines for all programmes for the class starting in the fall of 2015

• May Exam (Early admissions): 01/01/2016 – 31/05/2016

• August Exam (Late admissions): 01/06/2016 – 31/07/2016

Places may be limited in certain programmes and under certain circumstances, an applicant who missed the final application deadline, may contact us for special requests in applying to university programmes after registration deadlines but chances of success is rare due to the high demand for places.

Following are the supporting documents we require with your application form. We may not be able to reach a decision on your application if any of these documents are missing

Please Note: Education documents must be legalized, recommended Notary Public, please contact Sharon Stone via   www.notableservices.co.uk

Documents required for registration:

1. Application Form
2. School Leaving Certificate
3. Transcripts of high school (where marks are mentioned) and secondary school certificates verifying successful completion of General Biology and General Chemistry
4. CV, /Personal Statement in English
5. ID, Copy of passport
6. 3 passport sized pictures with a white background (3×4 cm)
7. Health Certificate from a hospital or GP (speak to us for a sample)
8. Copy of advanced level grades
9. Motivation letter
10. For NON EU students, Certificate proving the knowledge of the English language; (TOEFL, IELTS, B2 Level or 6 Band)
11. Application fee of 350 EUR direct to University account, non-refundable (please speak to us for University account details)

Different medical schools in Bulgaria may vary in how they make decisions, but the considerations discussed below are important in one way or another to all schools. After your application is complete with application, scores, and letters of recommendation etc.… it will receive initial screening.   Because of the high volume of applications for a limited number of first year places, regardless of how applications are processed, a great deal of emphasis will initially be placed on your grades and scores.

The acceptance letter is important for Non-EU students to secure their visa.

General Requirements

• Admission requirements: High school diploma (certificate).
• Language requirements: To speak English, French, or Romanian or Bulgarian.
• Entry regulations: A valid passport.
• Biology, Chemistry, physics and Math’s.
• Medical requirements (Health state).

There are three possible outcomes of your application to medial school are:

• Acceptance
• Rejection
• Spot on the Wait List.

Normally, medical schools have to make more offers than they have spots available in their class to fill each class. This works in your favour. For example: If a school has 200 spots to fill for that year, they may have to extend 250 or 300 offers

Once your chosen institution has received all your documentation and funding information, they will send an official “Letter of acceptance”.

After this, you can pay your first part of the tuition fees, register at the institution and prepare for your first semester.

We understand and have experience of different reasons why students decide to transfer on to a different Medical University. It may be due to a scholarship, a change in the financial situation, Change of subject area and it may also be they want to change the location and pursue their studies in another country and many other reasons. Medical universities in Bulgaria transfer students based on severe health problems, adverse personal or financial circumstances even though they follow the ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System).

The minimum requirement being the student has completed a semester at an accredited university and submitting official transcripts makes them eligible to change to a recognised Bulgarian Medical University. The university will then assess the case individually for each student and recommend a course and the year of entry stage according to the credits earned and training received. They consider year group numbers of existing medical students and dental students, clinical and academic experience obtained by the applicant to date in comparison to their course.

Masha consultants are specialised in this field and we know how to guide you correctly through the process However; if you decide to transfer to a Bulgarian university, in most cases you may be able to reap the benefit of completing your medical, dental or veterinary studies earlier than other countries or universities. Masha Consultants have achieved an exceptional reputation for securing places for transfer students. We have been able to overcome these obstacles of transfer entry and is in a position to guarantee entry to its students into the highest academic year possible. We have transferred many students from European medical universities and international medical universities into the next academic year of their medical degree Veterinary degree or dental degree.

Student must note that the study programmes and curriculums may change from university to university and that they are also willing to take the negative attributes that comes with a transfer especially the hours of study for each course.   You may have to sit for extra examinations or completer the gap hours even it means you may have studies those subjects and passed the exams at the previous university.

All the Bulgarian Universities we represent are member universities of the World Health Organisation (WHO), where it fulfils the role of a collaboration centre for research and training in epidemiology as well as for prevention of cardiovascular and other chronic non-communicable diseases. The study programmes meets university education standards applied in EU countries and graduates are eligible to take the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) and the PLAB examination of the General Medical Council in the UK. Graduates of Bulgarian Medical Universities are able to confidently quest a career in any country of their choice as per the world recognition they get by graduation in a world class university and in the case of deciding to practice in a non-EU county they must pass through the assessment procedure of the governing authorities of the respective Ministry of Health in their county’s.

The General Medical Council (GMC) is responsible for providing GMC registration for doctors, required in order to practice medicine in the UK. Please follow the link:

http://www.gmc-uk.org/doctors/registration_applications/eea_evidence_Bulgaria.asp

The recognition of degrees of the 1st and the 2nd level (Bachelor and Master) issued by foreign higher education institutions (of Member States or other states except for the states with which there exist a bilateral treaty) falls within the competence of the appropriate higher education institution in Bulgaria which provides the same or similar study programme.

The University is a member of numerous international organisations, such as the European University Association (EUA), Association of Schools of Public Health in the European Region (ASPHER), Association of Medical Schools in Europe (AMSE), Association for Medical Education in Europe (AMEE), Baltic Sea Region University Network (BSRUN), Organisation for PhD Education in Biomedicine and Health Sciences in the European System (ORPHEUS), European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE), World Veterinary Association, etc.

When it comes to living costs, generally, Bulgaria is considered to be a very affordable country in Europe. Accommodation is affordable, and so are public transportation services, food and leisure services but as in any situation, the cost of living depends on various factors such as personal habits and lifestyle. Compared to other regions in Europe, Bulgaria is not very expensive place to live. Students may reduce living expenses by using public transport discounts, renting accommodation in groups, and using public services etc. Students are also able to cut some expenses by using the Bulgarian student identity card. There is affordable student accommodation within the campus in university dormitories also private accommodation is not very high compared to Central and Western Europe.

There is a good and affordable public transportation system and many supermarkets in cities around Bulgaria, which have been built in last few years. Wherever you choose to live there are ample numbers of supermarkets, shops and convenient stores scattered with quick access also, food and leisure facilities. As per the world class graduate studies they can get in Bulgaria and the cheap living costs the popularity keeps growing each year for paces in medical schools in Bulgaria.

Approximate Living cost in Bulgaria:

The figures given above are approximates only, can be vary slightly as per individual choice.

Student loans to EU nationals provided by the Bulgarian Government for undergraduate and postgraduate studies. There are state scholarships offered to international students depending on their country of origin. Education Exchanges Support Foundation, the institution authorised by the Ministry of Education and Science of Bulgaria to administrate the state scholarships programme, offers scholarships within the framework of bilateral agreements. However, this possibility is secured to the nationals of a limited number of countries. For example, Student loans to Indian nationals are provided by the Indian Government for undergraduate and postgraduate studies abroad, through their local authorities. Financial aid for Chinese students is available as part of the bilateral Chinese-Bulgarian Cultural Agreement. Please contact the Chinese Ministry of Education for more information.

Individual institutions may also provide their own scholarships, so it is worth researching options available at your university of choice. Funding to study in Bulgaria is available in the form of a variety of scholarships for students who demonstrate academic excellence. They can apply for state-funded education at no cost to the student. There are 50 places reserved for foreign students from the EU and non-EU countries in the scheme.

Once you contact us your personal representative at Masha consultants will walk you through the possible avenues you could pursue to secure financial support.

More often than not universities in Bulgaria have a student halls of residence. Places are offered on a first-come first-served basis. Many students, however, prefer to rent privately.

The University offers campus dormitories. Usually rooms housing 2 – 3 students are standard, but rooms for a single student are also available. Rooms are furnished with beds, tables, and wardrobes. Bathrooms are generally shared between two rooms, or between all the rooms on each floor and the standard of these may differ.

Each dormitory has its own dining hall or buffet, where meals are available for lower prices and generally provided throughout the academic year. Normally rooms have internet access and there are launderettes in dormitories. Some halls have their own gymnasiums, swimming pools, fitness centres, etc.

The number of rooms are limited; therefore, students should book the rooms in advance. If two students share the room, each of them pays half of the rent. The rent is inclusive of heating, water, electricity and using of a common kitchen.

Note: Students of the upper years are required to find an accommodation in the city.

Other Possibilities of Housing

Easiest way (except for staying in a hotel) is to rent a private apartment. In such cases, it is recommended to sign a lease with your future landlord defining precisely the terms and conditions of the stay in the apartment. The apartments should be provided with basic pots, dishes, linens, etc. Most apartments have washing machines, but automatic dryers are not used.

Apartment Rental

Apartments for rent are available in the city. Most of the time, expenses for heating, electricity, gas and water are not included in the rent price.

Whether they are Bulgarian nationals, nationals of another EU member state, or nationals of another country outside the EU commonwealth zone; all Undergraduate, Graduate and Postgraduate students are eligible to apply for a student loans. However the regulations change frequently so please contact us for more information.

There may also be private companies who provide the loans with following facilities:

Note: Students are strongly advised to investigate on these loans at their own risk as private companies may charge very high interest rates.

Private Lender – Student loans to pay tuition fees and living costs rent, bills, and any other costs associated with your studies, while you are at university.

Budgeting help: Depending on the loan amount, you can choose how you want to receive student loan funds: monthly or a lump-sum payment. Some lenders assist with budgeting Future Finance by issuing the living expense portion of loan funds over a number of months to help you manage spending throughout the academic year.

Some lenders may also provide, reduced interest rate after graduation and loan repayment holidays

We can advise you on any financial decisions and direct you to the correct path to suit your needs. Please contact us for more information.

Non-EU Students (from outside the European Union) need to apply for a student visa before entering Bulgaria. A student of a non-EU country should generally file an application for visa at the Consulate of the Republic of Bulgaria from their country of residence. A short-term visa entitles the holder to stay in Bulgaria for up to three months, a long-term visa for up to one year. It is possible to extend a visa only in particularly justified cases. The visa can be extending only once.

IMPORTANT!

Student who applies for the temporary residence permit (TRP) first time shall submit a Statement (Criminal Record) of a competent authority of a foreign country, where the student lived before arriving to the Republic of Bulgaria or where s/he currently lives, certifying the fact that s/he has (not) been convicted of a crime in that state.

Students from European Union countries do not need a visa to study in Bulgaria and Non-EU Students must apply for Long-term Visa which falls under Type D. Please refer below.

Schengen visa

Bulgaria is part of the Schengen Area – territory of 23 countries of the European Union + 2 associated countries of the European Economic Area, which agreed on the abolition of border controls between themselves and on common visa regulations.

By applying for Bulgarian Visa, a foreigner applies for so-called Schengen Visa which allows him/her to travel inside of the Schengen Area without any restrictions. Schengen Visa holders do not need additional special visa for Bulgaria.

Visa types

Which type of visa the foreigner needs depends on the length and purpose of the stay in Bulgaria. There are 4 types:

Schengen visa type A = Airport transit visa

Schengen visa type B = Transit visa

Schengen visa type C = Entry visa

Long-term visa D

Long-term visa D (Residence visa, Student visa or Business visa)

Long term visa can be given for the purpose of granting a residence permit in Bulgaria for the purpose of fulfilling obligations arising from international agreements or where it is in the interest of the Bulgarian Government.   Non-EU students will need Visa- D, which will allow them to stay in the country for three months in a six month period, after which they will need to apply for a temporary residence permit or TRP which is valid for one academic year, and will need to be renewed two months before it expires.

Long-term Visa D Application

Students will need to take the following documentation to their Bulgarian embassy in order to apply for Visa D:

1. Passport
2. Copy of your bank statement (Original) providing evidence of ability to support yourself for the duration of your studies.

3 Acceptance Letter from university.

4. Health insurance that is valid in Bulgaria.

Further documentation may be required so check with your local Bulgarian embassy before you go.

Students can gain Long term visa and it can be given for the purpose of granting a residence permit in Bulgaria for the purpose of fulfilling obligations arising from international agreements or where it is in the interest of the Bulgarian Government. Students must apply to obtain a long term student stay permit or student residency permit in Bulgaria, which is normally valid for one year and is renewed each year to get Bulgarian type-D Visa meeting the requirements. With this visa the foreigner is allowed to stay on the territory of Bulgaria during the period of its validity and it allows him/her to travel across Schengen countries, but the duration of the stay cannot exceed 90 days in any period of 6 months.

How to get an ID card

In order to get your ID card you are supposed to submit the following:

1. A completed Electronic return shall in Academic information system
2. A fee paid.

You will receive your ID card according to information in the News page on this website.

Please follow this link:

Please put news link here

Live in Bulgaria (EU Citizens)

Any EU citizen is entitled to stay in Bulgaria for up to three months over a period of half a year. This period is calculated from the first day of arrival.

If you move to Bulgaria for more than three months then you need to register with the compulsory health insurance fund to be able to access healthcare in the same way as a Bulgarian resident.

A general health insurance valid for Bulgaria is a requirement for registration for each semester at University. Foreign students are self-insured. Students have to sign up for a medical insurance either for a year covering the period of the academic year or for the whole period of training at the University.

A citizen or a foreigner – staying in Bulgaria has a right to be provided with the necessary health care. Everyone also has a right to choose their own health care provider.

If the Health Insurance is signed in a foreign country it is required upon enrolment at the University the student to submit an official translation of the signed Health Insurance in Bulgarian language.

Foreigners who are not duly insured can take out contractual health insurance on the territory of Bulgaria.

For entitlement to medical treatment on the basis of health insurance in another Member State (EU, EEA, Switzerland), an EU/EEA national must present a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to the health care provider. (EHIC shall be issued at your request by a health insurance company to which you pay health insurance premiums.) In such a case, the treatment of an EU/EEA national will be covered by a Bulgarian health insurance company in the same amount as to a Bulgarian national, provided the relevant physician has concluded a contract with at least one health insurance company.

Please follow the link for more information on the European Health Insurance Card:

http://www.nhs.uk/NHSEngland/Healthcareabroad/EHIC/Pages/about-the-ehic.aspx

International Students (also PhD Students)

An international student, coming to Bulgaria to study within a programme arising from an international treaty that is binding for Bulgaria is subject to statutory health insurance, and the payer of such insurance. The student will submit the necessary documents certifying his/her study at a higher education institution in Bulgaria. Other international students have to be insured privately or additional get Individual Health Insurance.

Similarly to other European countries, Bulgaria offers a rich and diverse cultural and social life. Living in Bulgaria is predominantly cheaper than other EU member countries. For this reason, it is an extremely popular destination for students. Bulgarians enjoy and love spending their leisure time eating and drinking out. Apart of the busy study and activities related to the degree; generally universities aims to ensure that time at the School is not just about studying but is also as enjoyable as possible. The student unions organises entertainment and funds many student societies covering a wide range of interests adding an enormous amount to the students’ experience in Bulgaria. The variety of societies and activities change with the interests and initiative of each new group of students. Nature-lovers will not be left without activity outside the National Parks as well. National parks are protected by the state by virtue of their region-specific landscape, distinctive settlements, or cultural valuables and sightseeing of natural and cultural valuables are promoted by the Bulgarian government.

Many Bulgarian food products and dishes are popular internationally. You can find almost any cuisine in the numerous restaurants. Many supermarkets are open 24/7, restaurants work seven days a week and there is a convenience store on pretty much every corner and there’s even some bank branches open on weekends. There are ample numbers of supermarkets, shops and convenient stores spread with quick access where ever you choose to live in Bulgarian cities. Bulgaria has a lot of shopping malls for so few inhabitants but there isn’t a big difference between Bulgaria’s shopping malls and those in other parts of Europe. Students in Bulgaria receive discounts in various places from restaurants to museums to public transport to certain shops.

There are three mobile service operators provide Bulgaria with almost 100% 2G and 3G network coverage both on its territory and on territorial waters. There is also internet coverage almost everywhere in the country. In the larger towns and cities, there are Wi-Fi spots with free internet access. These are located mainly in the trade centres, railway stations and bus stations.

Bulgaria is popular for sports such as wrestling, weight-lifting, boxing, gymnastics, volleyball, football and tennis. Football is by far the most popular sport. Bulgaria is a hiking paradise. This relatively small country abounds in a lot of mountains – big and small, high and not so high mountain ranges are dissected by thousands of kilometres of tourist paths and tracks belonging among the best designated ones in Europe.

In view of its small area, Bulgaria has an remarkably variable and complex climate. The country lies between the strongly divergent continental and Mediterranean climatic zones. The climate of Bulgaria is transitional between maritime and continental.   Bulgarian mountains and valleys act as barriers or channels for air masses, causing sharp contrasts in weather over relatively short distances. The continental zone is predominant, because continental air masses flow easily into the unobstructed Danubian Plain.

The climate of Bulgaria is transitional between maritime and continental. The climate can be considered to be among the most favourable ones to human health and activities. The climate of the Bulgaria can be described as typical European continental influenced climate with warm, dry summers and fairly severe winters. January is the coldest month with daytime temperatures usually around -5°C, but in some cases winter months can be quite colder with temperatures far below zero, about -20°C or lower and strong, cold northeasterly winds. Heavy snowfall or even snowstorms are also possible on some days.

The weather is often breezy and humid due to the proximity of the Baltic Sea. The highest temperature in summer is about 30 degrees plus, and in winter the temperatures falls down to minus 20-25 degrees.   Generally, the weather is best May-September, when days are warm and the nights are cool, although it rains more in Spring than in summer. Autumn and Winter are usually a little chilly and wet, sometimes snowy and often foggy.

Required clothing:

Light- to medium-weights are worn during the summer months. Medium- to heavyweights are needed during winter.

There is an extensive network of air, road and train services in Bulgaria. Most tourist sites are accessible by public transport. Buses are common for urban transport. In addition to them trams and trolley buses are typical in the big cities , or the Sofia Subway system. Bulgaria boasts well-developed roads and infrastructure of road networks; the quality of Bulgarian roads is much better when compared to that of the neighbouring countries.

The metro is new, fast and convenient. The stations are large and the trains regular. There are two lines at present (June 2013). Generally trains are every 8 minutes, but every 4 minutes on line 1 during rush hours.

Students also get a taxi most of the time and is preferred due to the inexpensive rates. Taxis, which must be painted yellow and equipped with working meters, can be flagged down on most streets in every city and town throughout Bulgaria.

Bulgaria has Sofia airport, Plovdiv airport, Varna airport, Gorna Oryahovitsa Airport and the Burgas airport giving easy access to the country by air.

As in many European countries, Bulgaria is a safe country. You’ll need an address registration with the local authorities if you are staying in Bulgaria for more than five days. If you are at the hotel, they will register you automatically. In case you are staying at a private house you will have to go to the local “passportna sluzhba” with your host and get it done or if you are in University Hostel accommodation this will be done through the university.

The University Campus has its own security standby for any student in need. Furthermore, students will be provided with the necessary security information. CCTV cameras everywhere and the police normally do regular rounds.

However, students are advised to take care of their possession and not leave things unattended as this may attract unnecessary attention especially in public places where valuables can be stolen. As in any country suspicious activities can be reported to police.

Emergency services

You can contact the Bulgarian emergency services by dialling 112. The service is multilingual.

The European emergency number 112 is not the only emergency number in Bulgaria.

Alongside 112, the following emergency numbers are available:

150 – Ambulance,

166 – Police,

160 – Fire brigade,

There is no specific help for disabled people to access 112.

It is not possible to call 112 from a mobile phone without a SIM card.

112 calls are answered within 4 seconds.

Calls can be answered not only in Bulgarian, but also in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Romanian, Turkish or Russian.

Caller location is automatically activated when the call is answered.