Учеба в Болгарии: школы и университеты, Бесплатно для детей с ВНЖ, Как поступить иностранцу и сколько стоит обучение в вузе

Education in Bulgaria: Schools and Universities for Foreigners
A complete overview of the system, costs, admission process, and opportunities
Moving to another country raises many questions, especially when children are involved. One of the key factors in choosing a place to live is access to quality education. Bulgaria, a member of the European Union, offers a mild climate, affordable property, and an education system familiar to families from Russia, Ukraine, and CIS countries.
This article explains how the Bulgarian education system works — from preschool to university — and what options are available to foreign citizens.
School Education in Bulgaria
The Bulgarian system follows the European model, divided into clear stages:
Kindergarten — from age 3 to 6. The final year is mandatory for state school admission.


Primary school — grades 1–4. Children take mandatory tests in math and Bulgarian after grade 4.


Lower secondary (middle school) — grades 5–7.


Upper secondary (high school/gymnasium) — grades 8–12. Ends with national final exams (Matura).


Public and Private Schools
Public schools are free, even for children of foreign citizens with long-term residency (LNR).


Teaching language is Bulgarian, and some schools require an interview.


Private schools offer international programs: Cambridge, IB, and American Curriculum. Teaching languages include English, German, French, and Bulgarian.


Tuition Costs
Public schools — free. Only lunch, uniforms, transport, and sometimes books are paid.


Private schools — from €3,000 to €10,000 per year, depending on location and curriculum.


Language Support for Foreign Children
Preparatory Bulgarian courses are available to help newly arrived children adapt and pass school interviews.
Higher Education in Bulgaria
Bulgaria offers higher education through public and private universities, many of which offer programs in English.
Top Universities
Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”


New Bulgarian University (NBU)


Plovdiv University, South-West University – Blagoevgrad


Varna University of Economics, Veliko Tarnovo University


Medical Universities in Sofia, Varna, and Plovdiv


American University in Bulgaria (AUBG)


Varna Free University and Burgas Free University


Languages of Instruction
Bulgarian — main language


English — for popular majors: Medicine, IT, Tourism, Economics


German and French — in select international faculties


Admission Requirements for Foreigners
High school diploma (translated and legalized)


Language certificate (Bulgarian or English, depending on university)


Passport


Medical certificate and ID photos


Optional preparatory language year — from €2,500


Tuition Fees
Bulgarian-language programs — from €1,500/year


English-language programs:


Bachelor's — €2,500–5,000/year


Medicine — €7,000–8,000/year


Master's — €3,000–6,000/year


Student Housing
Dormitory: €80–150/month


Private rental: €200–400/month, depending on location


EU Diploma Recognition
Bulgarian diplomas are recognized across the EU, allowing graduates to continue studies or work in other European countries without additional exams.
Why Bulgaria is a Great Choice for Families
Free public education for children with residency


Affordable university tuition


English-language options


EU-recognized diplomas


Russian-speaking teachers and communities


Safe environment, mild climate, low living costs


International Private Schools in Bulgaria
Ideal for families targeting university abroad:
British School of Sofia


International School of Sofia


Deutsche Schule Burgas


These schools award diplomas recognized in the UK, Germany, USA, Canada, and beyond.
Real Estate and Residency: A Path to Education
Buying property in Bulgaria makes it easier to obtain residency, which gives children access to free public schools and simplifies university admission.
Planning to relocate or study in Bulgaria? Contact OAZIS REAL ESTATE — we’ll guide you every step of the way.