For international students looking to study medicine, dentistry, or pharmacy in English in the heart of the EU, Sofia Medical University is the largest and most comprehensive medical institution in Bulgaria – and one of the most internationally recognised in Eastern Europe.
Sofia Medical University (MU-Sofia) is Bulgaria’s oldest medical university, founded in 1917 by royal decree. Today it comprises four faculties, three colleges, and 14 university hospitals, and graduates over 60,000 medical specialists who practise across the world. It is the only medical university in Bulgaria that offers Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Pharmacy – all taught in English.
With annual tuition fees starting at €8,000 for Pharmacy, €9,950 for Medicine, and €10,000 for Dental Medicine, and with graduates required to follow the professional registration rules of the country where they intend to practise, MU-Sofia is the go-to choice for international students seeking the broadest programme selection and the strongest global recognition in Bulgaria.
The 2026 entrance exam date is 3 September 2026 for EU/EEA students and 9 September 2026 for non-EU students. Applications close 31 August 2026.
Sofia Medical University (MU-Sofia) is Bulgaria's oldest and largest medical university, founded in 1917 by a decree from King Ferdinand. Over more than a century, it has grown into one of the most prestigious medical education centres in the Balkans and Eastern Europe.
MU-Sofia currently consists of:
- 4 faculties (Medicine, Dental Medicine, Pharmacy, Public Health)
- 3 colleges
- 14 university hospitals, equipped with modern diagnostic and therapeutic technology
-The university has graduated over 60,000 medical specialists who practise in Bulgaria and across the world. It currently enrols students from dozens of countries, with English-taught programmes in Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Pharmacy attracting the majority of international applicants.
-MU-Sofia is the only medical university in Bulgaria offering all three major clinical programmes - Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy - in English, making it the most versatile option for international students.
-Campus address:
- Main Campus: 15 "Acad. Ivan Geshov" Blvd., Sofia 1431, Bulgaria
- Phone: +359 2 9230 200
- Official Website: mu-sofia.bg
- Nearest metro: "Medical University" station (M3 line)
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
University type | Public state medical university |
Founded | 1917 (the oldest medical university in Bulgaria) |
Location | Sofia, Bulgaria |
Faculties | Medicine, Dental Medicine, Pharmacy, Public Health |
University hospitals | 14 affiliated teaching hospitals |
Medicine tuition (English) | €9,950/year |
Dental Medicine tuition (English) | €10,000/year |
Pharmacy tuition (English) | €8,000/year |
Nursing tuition (English) | €5,000/year |
Medicine duration | 6 years |
Dental Medicine duration | 6 years |
Pharmacy duration | 5 years |
Medicine intake (English) | 320 places for 2026/27 |
Dentistry intake (English) | 144 places for 2026/27 |
Entrance exam | Remote (Biology, Chemistry, English) |
2026 exam date (EU/EEA) | 3 September 2026 |
2026 exam date (non-EU) | 9 September 2026 |
Application deadline | 27 July – 31 August 2026 |
Graduate entry | Not available |
Transfers | Accepted (with conditions) |
Degree recognition | Professional recognition depends on the destination country’s rules |
Living costs | ~€500-€850/month |
Sofia, Bulgaria
Medicine, Pre-med, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Nursing
€9950
Not Available
Biology, Chemistry & English
€850/month
Sofia Medical University is the only Bulgarian medical university offering Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Pharmacy in English. All three programmes lead to internationally recognised Master’s degrees.
The Medicine programme at MU-Sofia admits approximately 320 places for 2026/27 on the English-language track – the largest intake of any Bulgarian medical university. The six-year programme is structured in three stages:
Stage 1 – Preclinical Training (Years 1–2) Students build foundational knowledge in biology, anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, histology, and other core medical sciences.
Stage 2 – Clinical Training (Years 3–5) From the third year, students enter clinical rotations using a modular system, with exposure to diagnostics, therapy, and patient care across the university’s 14 affiliated teaching hospitals.
Stage 3 – Pre-Graduation Practice (Year 6) The final year consists of structured hospital rotations across all major departments. Students then sit state examinations in Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and Hygiene and Ecology.
Upon passing state exams, graduates are awarded the Master’s degree and the professional qualification of Physician / Doctor of Medicine (MD).
Annual tuition: €9,950/year
The Dentistry programme at MU-Sofia admits approximately 144 places for 2026/27 in English. The 6-year programme (including a 6-month pre-graduate internship) is structured as follows:
Phase 1 – Medicobiological Studies (Years 1-2) General science and foundational medical subjects.
Phase 2 – Clinical and Dental Training (Semester 2 – Semester 10) Combined general medical education with specialised dental disciplines, including conservative dentistry, oral surgery, and prosthodontics.
Phase 3 – Pre-Diploma Internship Practical training across: Paediatric Dentistry, Conservative Dentistry, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Prosthodontics, Periodontology, and Orthodontics.
Annual tuition: €10,000/year
Sofia Medical University is one of the few institutions in Bulgaria – and the primary option for English-speaking students – offering Dentistry in English.
The Pharmacy programme lasts 5 years and is structured in three stages:
Stage 1 – Basic Training: Foundations in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, biology, and pharmacology.
Stage 2 – Specialised Training: Advanced knowledge in drug development, clinical pharmacology, and therapeutics.
Stage 3 – Practical Internship (Final semester) Conducted in public or hospital pharmacies affiliated with MU-Sofia.
Annual tuition: €8,000/year
Sofia Medical University also offers a Nursing programme in English, with an annual tuition fee of €5,000. Admission involves an online written test and an online oral interview. The final score is based on the doubled exam result. For more details, see the Nursing in Bulgaria page.
Graduate-entry medicine is not available at Sofia Medical University, as this pathway does not exist in the Bulgarian system.
Transfers from other medical universities are accepted. Transfer students may need to complete additional subjects where their curriculum differs from MU-Sofia’s, with extra credits costing approximately as determined by the university after curriculum assessment. Any compensatory study is determined by the university after assessment of the previous curriculum.
Learn more about the transfer process to a Bulgarian medical university.
2026/27 transfer application deadline for foreign students: 20 August 2026.
Sofia Medical University fosters an active student community through a range of organisations and research opportunities:
Student organisations at MU-Sofia:
Research opportunities: MU-Sofia actively involves students in research programmes and competitions. Students can propose their own research projects to the university – winning proposals receive official funding and the opportunity to contribute to active research at one of the university’s 14 affiliated hospitals.
Programme | Duration | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
Medicine (English) | 6 years | €9,950/year |
Dental Medicine (English) | 6 years | €10,000/year |
Pharmacy (English) | 5 years | €8,000/year |
Nursing (English) | 4 years | €5,000/year |
Payment schedule: Fees are paid in two instalments per year – 50% in September and 50% at the beginning of February. Each academic year covers 60 ECTS credits.
Sofia Medical University does not offer tuition fee scholarships for international students.
Transfer students accepted from other medical universities pay the standard annual tuition. If their transcript shows subjects not covered compared to MU-Sofia’s curriculum, additional fees apply at as determined by the university after curriculum assessment. For example, 5 missing ECTS = €750 in additional fees for that academic year.
At €9,950/year for Medicine, MU-Sofia sits at the higher end of the Bulgarian range (€7,500–€10,500/year) – but remains significantly cheaper than medical education in the UK, Ireland, or Germany. The broader programme range (Medicine + Dentistry + Pharmacy in English) and the largest Medicine intake (~400/year) justify the premium for many students.
The annual tuition fees at Bulgarian medical universities range from €7,500 to €10,500, depending on the chosen institution.
The tuition fee for Sofia Medical University for medicine in English language is €9950.
Tuition fees are paid in two installments – the first installment of 50% is due in September and the second is paid at the beginning of February each year.
Compared to many other countries, studying medicine in Bulgaria is an affordable option, offering high-quality education at a lower cost.
Living expenses for Sofia, Bulgaria varies depending on the amount of money that each person requires per month
Usually one Student needs between 500 up to €800 per month including transportation costs, food expenses, restaurants etc.
The annual tuition fees at Bulgarian medical universities range from €7,500 to €10,500, depending on the chosen institution.
The tuition fee for Sofia Medical University for Dentistry in English language is €10000.
Tuition fees are paid in two installments— the first installment of 50% is due in September and the second is paid at the beginning of February each year.
Compared to many other countries, studying medicine in Bulgaria is an affordable option, offering high-quality education at a lower cost.
Living expenses for Sofia, Bulgaria varies depending on the amount of money that each person requires per month
Usually one Student needs between 500 up to €800 per month including transportation costs, food expenses, restaurants etc.
The annual tuition fees at Bulgarian medical universities range from €7,500 to €10,500, depending on the chosen institution.
The tuition fee for Sofia Medical University for Pharmacy in English language is €8000.
Tuition fees are paid in two installments— the first installment of 50% is due in September and the second is paid at the beginning of February each year.
Compared to many other countries, studying medicine in Bulgaria is an affordable option, offering high-quality education at a lower cost.
Living expenses for Sofia, Bulgaria varies depending on the amount of money that each person requires per month
Usually one Student needs between 500 up to €800 per month including transportation costs, food expenses, restaurants etc.
The annual tuition fees at Bulgarian medical universities range from €7,500 to €10,500, depending on the chosen institution.
The tuition fee for Sofia Medical University for Nursing in English language is €5000.
Tuition fees are paid in two installments— the first installment of 50% is due in September and the second is paid at the beginning of February each year.
Compared to many other countries, studying medicine in Bulgaria is an affordable option, offering high-quality education at a lower cost.
Living expenses for Sofia, Bulgaria varies depending on the amount of money that each person requires per month
Usually one Student needs between 500 up to €800 per month including transportation costs, food expenses, restaurants etc.
Admission to Sofia Medical University is highly competitive, particularly for the Medicine and Dental Medicine programmes. The entrance exam takes place in person in Sofia – all candidates must travel to Bulgaria to sit the exam.
Date | |
|---|---|
Application window | 27 July – 31 August 2026* |
Entrance exam (EU/EEA students) | 3 September 2026 |
Entrance exam (non-EU students) | 9 September 2026 |
These dates apply to Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Pharmacy.
Apply as early as possible. Students are ranked based on exam score combined with their secondary school grades in Biology and Chemistry. Early applications allow more time for document preparation, which is critical.
The entrance exam* is a written test conducted in English, covering:
All three components must be passed. If any single component is failed, the entire exam is considered failed. Results are final – there is no re-marking process.
Ranking formula: Students are ranked based on their high school diploma grades in Biology and Chemistry, plus their entrance exam scores in Biology, Chemistry, and English.
For Nursing: admission involves an online written test and an online oral interview. The final score is based on the doubled exam result.
All documents must be translated into Bulgarian and legally certified (apostilled or legalised).
Non-EU students additionally need:
No. External English certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.) are not required. English proficiency is tested as part of the entrance exam itself.
*Your application process should begin with confirming program intake availability with your advisor.
*If one of the exam components is not taken successfully, the exam is considered failed. The results of the written works are final.
Students are ranked based on their final high school grade in Biology and Chemistry and their final entry test score. Students must apply before early September at the latest. The sooner you apply, the higher your chance of acceptance.
Admission to Sofia Medical University is among the most competitive in Bulgaria. The documentation requirements – translation, notarisation, legalisation – are strict, and errors lead to rejection. The entrance exam itself is demanding, and preparation makes a measurable difference in ranking outcomes.
iGeneration Agency has supported hundreds of students through this exact process. Our team handles all documentation and legal requirements precisely, and we provide proven entrance exam study materials covering Biology, Chemistry, and English.
Crucially, our students who are currently studying at MU-Sofia will meet you at the university on exam day – providing first-hand support and advice from people who have already been through the process.
Book a free consultation and let us manage your application from start to finish.
The entrance test is carried out at the university itself. There, our students who currently study at the faculty will meet you. They will support you and advise you on the best practices for success while studying medicine abroad at Sofia Medical University.
Contact us now and learn about all the ways we can make your admission easier.
Applicants must submit the following documents to apply for medical programs in Bulgaria:
All documents, including the diploma, transcript must be translated to Bulgarian language and legalised according to official regulations.
Additional Requirements
Following these guidelines ensures a smooth application process and compliance with university requirements.
For all prospect students who wants to study medicine – there is an online entrance test.
The test is done online, so there is the NO need for each candidate to be physically in Bulgaria. Each student can do the online entry test for Sofia Medical University from all around the world as long as there is stable Wi-Fi connection.
The online entrance test for Sofia Medical University consists of three components test questions in biology, test questions in chemistry and very easy English test
There is no need for English certificate because English is part of the online entrance test.
The certificate that each student receives after he successfully graduates Sofia Medical University is internationally recognised so there is no need for any further examinations. Each student can continue working all around the world.
The entire medical course at Sofia Medical University is taught in English. Bulgarian-language training is part of the educational context for foreign students, particularly for clinical communication language.
Transfers to Sofia Medical University are accepted from students currently enrolled at other medical universities. iGeneration Agency assists both first-year applicants and students looking to transfer from another institution.
Transfer students are accepted into the appropriate year based on their existing academic record. Where the MU-Sofia curriculum differs from the student’s previous university, additional subjects must be completed. These carry an extra fee of as determined by the university after curriculum assessment on top of the standard annual tuition.
For full details and a personalised transfer assessment, visit the transfer to a Bulgarian medical university page or contact iGeneration Agency directly.
2026/27 transfer application deadline for foreign students: 20 August 2026.
Sofia Medical University holds full state accreditation from Bulgaria’s Ministry of Education and Science and the National Evaluation and Accreditation Agency (NEAA).
International recognition:
This means MU-Sofia graduates can apply for medical residency and practise medicine in the UK, Ireland, the US, Canada, Australia, and across Europe without additional equivalency exams.
GMC requirement: graduation from a programme of at least 5,500 hours lasting a minimum of three years — which MU-Sofia’s six-year Medicine programme satisfies.
University dormitories are available but are located approximately 30 minutes’ walk from the main MU-Sofia campus. For this reason, most international students prefer to rent a private apartment in the surrounding area. Dormitory costs are approximately €100/month for a shared room.
Private apartments near MU-Sofia (around 15 “Acad. Ivan Geshov” Blvd.) typically cost:
Option | Monthly cost |
|---|---|
Shared apartment (per person) | €150-€250 |
One-bedroom apartment near campus | €300-€500 |
Utilities (heating, internet, etc.) | ~€100-€150 |
The area immediately surrounding MU-Sofia offers cafes, restaurants, shopping centres, parks, and entertainment. The university’s “Medical University” metro station (M3 line) connects the campus to the entire city within minutes.
iGeneration Agency provides FREE accommodation assistance to all enrolled students.
Sofia is Bulgaria‘s capital, with a population of 1.5 million and over 105,000 students enrolled in higher education institutions across the city – making it one of the most vibrant student environments in Southeast Europe.
Nature and outdoor recreation: Vitosha Mountain towers over Sofia and is accessible within 30-45 minutes, offering hiking, skiing, and climbing. Within the city, South Park and Borisova Gradina (Sofia’s largest parks) provide space for jogging, cycling, and relaxation.
Cultural life:
Medical University Sofia (MU-Sofia) is located in several key locations in the city. The largest complex is located at 15 Ivan Geshov Blvd. Here’s how you can get there, as well as other useful information:
Public transport:
Taxi:
If you prefer to use a taxi, here are some phone numbers of popular companies in Sofia:
It is recommended to order a taxi by phone or through an app to avoid possible problems with the price. Always check if the driver is using a taximeter.
Other useful information:
On the university website you can find information about the faculties, specialties, study programs and more.
Sofia offers a diverse shopping experience, catering to every taste and budget. Whether you’re seeking international brands, unique local finds, or simply a pleasant stroll through vibrant streets, Sofia has something to offer.
Malls: A Shopper’s Paradise
Malls are a popular choice for shopping in Sofia, providing a wide array of stores, dining options, and entertainment under one roof. Here are some of the notable malls:
Shopping Streets and Centers: A Taste of Local Flair
In addition to malls, Sofia has several shopping streets and centers where you can discover unique boutiques and local shops:
Chain Stores: Familiar Favorites
Many international and Bulgarian chain stores have a presence in Sofia, offering a wide variety of products:
Beyond the Usual:
Sofia also offers unique shopping experiences beyond the typical malls and chain stores. You can explore souvenir markets, antique shops, and stores selling handcrafted goods.
Enjoy your shopping experience in Sofia!
Sofia offers a diverse range of entertainment options, catering to every taste and interest. From historical landmarks and cultural events to a lively nightlife and opportunities for outdoor recreation, there’s always something to do in Sofia.
Cultural Landmarks: A Journey Through Time
Sofia is a city with a rich history and culture, reflected in its many landmarks worth visiting:
Theaters and Concert Halls: A Feast for the Arts
Sofia has numerous theaters and concert halls where you can enjoy various performances and concerts:
Cinemas: Catching the Latest Blockbusters
Sofia has many cinemas where you can watch the latest movies:
Nightlife: When the Sun Goes Down
Sofia offers a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and discos:
Outdoor Recreation: Embracing Nature’s Beauty
Sofia is surrounded by beautiful nature, offering opportunities for recreation and walks:
Other Entertainment Options: Exploring Further
In addition to the above, Sofia has many other entertainment options, such as:
Sofia offers a diverse and dynamic dining and nightlife scene that can satisfy even the most discerning palates. From traditional Bulgarian restaurants to modern establishments serving international cuisine, and from cozy bars to bustling discos, Sofia has something for everyone.
Restaurants:
Sofia has a wide selection of restaurants offering various types of cuisine:
Bars:
Sofia offers a variety of bars where you can enjoy different types of drinks:
Clubs and Discos:
Sofia offers a vibrant nightlife with many clubs and discos where you can dance and have fun:
MU-Sofia | Plovdiv Medical Uni | Varna Medical Uni | Trakia University | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Medicine fee/year | €9,950 | ~€9,000 | ~€9,000 | €7,500 |
Dentistry (English) | €10,000 | Available | Available | No |
Pharmacy (English) | €8,000 | Available | Available | No |
Medicine intake/year | ~400 | Smaller | Smaller | Smaller |
Exam format | In person | In person | In person | Online |
GMC recognised | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| iGeneration Assistance | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
City | Capital (Sofia) | Plovdiv | Varna (seaside) | Stara Zagora |
Living costs | €500–€850/mo | €400–€700/mo | €450–€750/mo | €400–€700/mo |
Choose Sofia Medical University when:
Consider other universities when:
Sofia Medical University (MU-Sofia) is Bulgaria’s oldest and largest medical university, founded in 1917. It offers Medicine, Dental Medicine, Pharmacy, and Nursing in English. The university comprises 4 faculties, 3 colleges, and 14 university hospitals, and its degrees are recognised by the WHO, GMC (UK), and medical councils in the US, Canada, and Australia.
Sofia Medical University tuition fees for 2026/2027 are: Medicine €9,950/year, Dental Medicine €10,000/year, Pharmacy €8,000/year, and Nursing €5,000/year. Fees are paid in two instalments – 50% in September and 50% in February.
The Sofia Medical University entrance exam takes place on 3 September 2026 for EU/EEA students and 9 September 2026 for non-EU students. The application window is 27 July – 31 August 2026. The exam is held remotely.
The application deadline for Sofia Medical University is 31 August 2026 for all applicants (EU/EEA and non-EU). Applications submitted after this date will not be considered for the September 2026 intake.
Applicants must hold a secondary school diploma with grades in Biology and Chemistry and pass an remote entrance exam in Biology, Chemistry, and English. Rankings are based on diploma grades in Biology and Chemistry combined with entrance exam scores. No English certificate is required.
Yes. Sofia Medical University is one of the few institutions in Bulgaria offering Dental Medicine in English. The programme lasts 6 years and admits 144 places for 2026/27, with an annual tuition fee of €10,000.
Yes. Graduates who want to practise in the UK must meet the current registration requirements of the General Medical Council (GMC).
Yes. Transfers are accepted from other medical universities. If your previous curriculum differs from MU-Sofia’s, additional subjects must be completed at as determined by the university after curriculum assessment. Contact iGeneration Agency for a personalised transfer assessment.
Sofia Medical University accepts approximately 320 places for 2026/27 onto the English-language Medicine programme and around 144 places for 2026/27 for Dental Medicine in English. These are the largest English-track intakes of any medical university in Bulgaria.
Students at Sofia Medical University typically spend €500–€850/month on living expenses, including accommodation (€300–€500/month for a private apartment near campus), food, transport, and entertainment. University dormitories cost approximately €100/month but are 30 minutes’ walk from campus.
Questions about studying in Bulgaria or your application? Our team is ready to help.
