The 3 main entry requirements that all medical universities in Bulgaria share are:
Applications must be sent as early as possible before the September deadline to maximise your chances for entry.
According to our data from 2021, the average acceptance rate for medicine and dentistry in Bulgaria is 54%.
There are 6 medical universities in Bulgaria. Tuition fees for medical education in Bulgaria are between £5,900 and £6,700 per year for 6 years. Its affordability makes it one of the top destinations for international students from the West.
Living costs in Bulgaria are also on the lower end, where students spend no more than £420 - £500 per month for accommodation, utilities, food, and leisure.
| Tuition fee difference between the UK and Bulgaria (approx) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Country | Medicine | Dentistry |
| UK | £9,250 | £9,000 |
| Bulgaria | £6,500 | £6,700 |
| Difference | -28% | -26% |
| Monthly living cost difference between the UK and Bulgaria (approx) | |
|---|---|
| Country | Budget |
| UK | £1,200 |
| Bulgaria | £500 |
| Difference | -58% |
A medical degree from Bulgaria will enable you to practice medicine or dentistry worldwide.
Medical degrees from Bulgaria are recognised by the largest global medical councils in the world, including the UK’s General Medical Council. The programmes cover much more than the minimum course duration of 5,500 hours over a period of at least 3 years.
All medical schools in Bulgaria are listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools, a directory created by the World Health Organisation, which is also a GMC acceptance requirement.
According to statistics from the GMC, there are currently 1820 active UK doctors who have graduated from a Bulgarian medical school.
The country has a total of 6 medical schools, all of which offer English-taught medical programmes. Bulgaria was one of the first places where English courses for international students were introduced. Medical schools here have a 30-year history of accepting applicants from abroad.
Bulgaria attracts British students not only because the teaching quality here is excellent, but also because it’s affordable to live and study here. There’s a large community of English speaking foreign students here, and the locals are very friendly.
In Bulgaria, university intakes take place in September and February (only at Pleven Medical University).
| University | Tuition Fees | English Programmes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Plovdiv Medical University | £6,800 | Medicine, Dentistry, Graduate Entry |
| 2. Sofia Medical University | £6,800 | Medicine, Dentistry |
| 3. Trakia University | £6,000 | Medicine |
| 4. Pleven Medical University | £6,400 | Medicine |
| 5. Varna Medical University | £6,800 | Medicine, Dentistry |
| 6. Sofia University Kliment Ohridski | £6,550 | Medicine |
Medical education in English in Bulgaria is 6 years long. Upon successful completion, students earn a Doctor of Medicine Degree (MD) that is recognised by the GMC and worldwide.
The academic track is structured in three stages, including pre-clinical, clinical, and internship years. International students may choose to complete a preparatory course in English if they so choose.
Bulgaria does not offer graduate entry programmes. You can either start from year 1 or apply as a transfer student.
For fast-track medicine, you can refer to Poland and Georgia.
The first 2 years are non-clinical years and comprise the following subjects: Anatomy, Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry and Physiology.
The next 3 years are the clinical years where you spend more time in the hospitals obtaining practical and first-hand experience in life as a doctor.
In the final year, you will take the state exam in order to acquire your licence to practise. After successful completion of the exam, you will obtain the professional qualification of Doctor of Medicine (MD) and be given a Master’s degree.
The course is GMC recognised and meets the UK/EU criteria throughout its duration. The lecturers have long term experience and you have access to modern facilities assisting your performance in the degree.
The 6 medical universities in Bulgaria are located across 5 major cities that are in the top 7 in Bulgaria by population.
Living costs in Bulgaria are about 2½ times lower than those of the UK. In addition, students get discounts on public transport as well as other amenities like gym subscriptions, swimming pools, or museum tickets..
In terms of accommodation, the majority of international students in Bulgaria choose to rent apartments because of the affordability and general comfort they provide. If you prefer dormitories, that option is available as well, and it’s even cheaper.
Rent prices, food, and utility bills are generally low compared to Central and Western Europe. Rent will be your biggest expense - around €250 to €500 (£200-£400) per month.
Food prices in Bulgaria are reasonable, with a good three-course meal costing about €8 - €12 (£6 - £10). Seasonal fruits and vegetables are significantly cheaper, with two kilograms of fruit or vegetables selling for less than €3 (£2.50). Grocery shopping costs are also relatively low, with a weekly grocery bill of around €30 (£25).
Bulgaria is a safe and peaceful country and Bulgarians are friendly, helpful, and welcoming towards foreigners. Crime rates are low. According to the GOV.UK Foreign Travel Advice page, you should take care of yourself and your belongings in the same way as you would do in the UK. You should follow the general rules which are to avoid dark alleys late at night and be extra vigilant in places like public transportation and summer resorts.
