A small, charming European country located in the Balkan Peninsula, Bulgaria is full of attractions and impressive natural environment, from warm, sandy beaches to striking mountains and ski resorts. Bulgaria has a dynamic climate with 4 snowy months, a mild and green spring when many flowers blossom, a hot summer with less rain and a colorful autumn. 

Established in the year 681, Bulgaria is one of the oldest European countries. Between 1946 and 1989 it was a single-party communist state, but since then has been governed as a democratic republic. In 2007, it became a member state of the European Union.  Bulgaria is a Unitary State. It includes 27 provinces and a metropolitan capital province (Sofia-Grad). The population of Bulgaria is 7,364,570 people according to the 2011national census. Currency is Bulgarian lev. Bulgarian is the official and predominant spoken language in Bulgaria.

Some of the famous cities in Bulgaria are

➢Sofia

➢Plovdiv

➢Varna

➢Burgas

➢VelikoTarnovo

Why Study in Bulgaria

International students are attracted by the country’s well-developed higher education system, internationally recognized degrees, highly reasonable tuition fees and living costs, and a safe and friendly living environment. More than 1000 students every year move to Bulgaria. There are 51 universities in Bulgaria, which are well-respected internationally. Three Bulgarian universities appear in the QS University Rankings: EECA 2016, a ranking of the top 200 institutions in Emerging Europe and Central Asia.

Though the country is small but has huge opportunities. Students easily find jobs throughout their studies and even settle down here after they graduate and work or invest in a business. Some of the best Bulgarian start-ups include ClaimCompass, Melissa Climate and Enhancv.

Living in Bulgaria is a lot cheaper in comparison to other European cities. In the capital Sofia, one can enjoy dinner and a drink at a restaurant for just 5 EUR, and 20-min taxi ride costs around 6 EUR. In smaller cities, it is even cheaper. Tuition fees is also very low in Bulgaria.

Lower entry requirements at Bulgarian universities are another reason to choose it as a study destination. Bulgaria has started to become a famous destination for people who wish to live or study abroad. Bulgaria is a member of the European Union and all certificates and diplomas are recognized internationally. Hence, it is very easy to work abroad or pursue another degree in another country.

Intake is in Fall, so apply by March 1 for Early Admissions and by June 1 for regular admission and financial aid.

American University in Bulgaria (AUBG)

Ranked 151-200 in the EECA ranking, the American University in Bulgaria (AUBG) is a private university which was founded in 1991. It offers courses taught in English, and has an international faculty and student body, with 39 nationalities represented on campus out of 939 students as of spring 2016. The American University in Bulgaria is located in the city of Blagoevgrad in southwestern Bulgaria, which is home to a large student population. Baccalaureate degrees from AUBG are accredited both in Bulgaria and the US.

Students receive high- quality American education delivered entirely in English and get both American and European diploma. AUBG is accredited by the same body that accredits Harvard, MIT, and Yale in the U.S. Study the American way, Learning is modeled after the famous American liberal arts system. Liberal arts students have the freedom to choose areas of study, professors and curriculum; small class sizes and close interaction between student and faculty is the norm. Students can combine up to two majors and two minors. 

Popular programs are:

1. Bachelors in Business Administration

2. Bachelors in Computer Science

3. Bachelors Information Systems

4. Bachelors in Journalism and Mass Communication

Documents required for making an application

❖Duly filled Application form

❖Essay/ Statement of Purpose

❖2 Recommendation Letter

❖CV/ Resume with contact details and email id of the student

❖ Mark Sheets of 10th and 12th

❖Copy of Passport first and last pages

❖Passport size photograph

❖Skype id of student for taking a skype interview.

❖TOEFL/IELTS Score

❖ Interview

Sample Questions for the Interview

Here are some sample questions that are asked in Telephonic/Skype interview by the institution:

1. What is your name? 

2. What are you doing? 

3. What is your educational qualification? 

4. Why do you want to go to Bulgaria? 

5. Which course are you going to study? 

6. What are the subjects? 

7. How will it help you in your career? 

8. How did you find the Institute name? How did you come to know about the institute? 

9. What is your father doing? 

10. When is your course going to start? 

11. Your course is available in India, why do you want to pursue the same at our institution?

12. What are your long term goals after completion of course?

13. Who is sponsoring your studies?

14. What is your sponsor’s income?

15. Have you applied to any other institution?

16. Are you working somewhere at present?

Visa Procedure

Duration for Student Visa is Duration of course or 5 years, whichever is less.

All visa applicants are required to fill-in and submit their visa applications online at http://indianvisaonline.gov.in

Applicants are advised to upload their photo while applying online.

The applicant needs to go personally for an interview and for enrolment of biometric data at the Embassy.

Visa Requirement

 Admission letter from the College / University 

Satisfactory evidence of financial support. 

Original passport valid for at least 6 months more from the expected date of return 

Passport should have at least 2 blank pages for affixing the visa.

2 recent colour photographs (front facing with white background), of size 2” x 2” / 5cm x 5cm.

Correct visa fee (in Cash and in Bulgarian Leva only)

Print out of completed online application form, duly signed by the applicant