Technical University of Sofia – Study Engineering in Bulgaria

Studying engineering in English at a European university doesn’t have to mean high tuition fees or a gruelling entrance exam. The Technical University of Sofia (TU-Sofia) offers exactly that — Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Engineering taught in English, German, and French, with no entrance exam required for most programmes.

The Technical University of Sofia, founded in 1945, is Bulgaria’s first and leading higher technical institution. It offers internationally accredited engineering degrees across more than a dozen specialisations, with tuition fees of €3,000-€4,000 per year – a fraction of the cost of comparable programmes in Western Europe.

With over 50 international university partners, Erasmus+ exchange opportunities, double-diploma agreements with German and French institutions, and a campus in Sofia’s vibrant student district, TU-Sofia is an increasingly popular choice for international students pursuing engineering careers in the EU.

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About Technical University of Sofia

The Technical University of Sofia (TU-Sofia) is Bulgaria's first higher technical school, founded in 1945. It is the country's leading engineering university, offering degrees in English, German, and French across a wide range of technical and applied science disciplines.

TU-Sofia has established partnerships with over 50 international universities, making it one of the most internationally connected institutions in Bulgaria. Students can take advantage of the Erasmus+ programme for semester exchanges or internships across Europe, and the university uses the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), ensuring that qualifications are fully recognised throughout the EU and EEA.

The university is home to state-of-the-art research facilities, including laboratories for robotics, aircraft aerodynamics, telecommunications, and industrial engineering. It also has recreation centres near both the Black Sea and the Bulgarian mountains - a unique benefit for students looking for outdoor activities alongside their studies.

TU-Sofia is located at the heart of "Studentski Grad" (Students' City) in Sofia - Bulgaria's largest student neighbourhood, home to over 30,000 students from multiple universities. The campus has direct views of Vitosha Mountain and is well connected to the rest of the city by metro, bus, and tram.

The university regularly organises Career Days, connecting students directly with employers for job placements and internships.

Campus address:

Main Campus: 8 Kliment Ohridski Blvd., 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria

Phone: +359 2 965 2220

Official Website: www.tu-sofia.bg

Technical University of Sofia – Key Facts

Key informationDetails

University type

Public state university

Founded

1945 (Bulgaria’s first technical university)

Location

Sofia, Bulgaria (Studentski Grad)

Teaching languages

English, German, French

Bachelor’s duration

4 years

Master’s duration

1–2 years

Annual tuition (Bachelor’s)

€3,000–€4,000/year

Annual tuition (Master’s)

€3,000-€4,000/year

Entrance exam

None (document-based application)

International partners

50+ universities

Erasmus+ available

Yes

Double diploma

Yes (Germany, France)

Transfers

Not available

Degree recognition

EU, EEA, internationally accredited

Living costs

~€500–€800/month

Location

Sofia, Bulgaria

Courses

Engineering

Tuition

€3000/year

Graduate Entry

Not Available

Entrance Exam

No

Living Cost

€750/month

Courses Offered at Technical University Sofia

TU-Sofia offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees across a wide range of engineering and technology disciplines. Bachelor’s programmes typically last 4 years; Master’s programmes span 1-2 years.

Students may also participate in the Erasmus+ programme, enabling them to study abroad for a semester at one of TU-Sofia’s 50+ partner universities, or to apply for international internships.

Bachelor’s Programmes in English

The following Bachelor’s programmes are available in English for international students:

  • Advanced Industrial Technologies
  • Electronic Engineering
  • Telecommunication Engineering
  • Management and Business Information Systems
  • Industrial Engineering

Programmes in German and French are also available for students who meet the relevant language requirements.

Master’s Programmes in English

TU-Sofia offers a variety of Master’s programmes in English, including:

  • Innovative Communication Technologies and Entrepreneurship
  • Computer Science and Engineering
  • Aeronautical Engineering
  • Industrial Management

Selected Master’s programmes are also available in German and French, for both Bulgarian and international students. For a full and up-to-date list of Master’s programmes, visit the official TU-Sofia website.

Double Diploma Programmes

Through its institutional partnerships with universities in Germany and France, TU-Sofia offers double diploma options — allowing qualifying students to graduate with degrees from both TU-Sofia and a partner European institution.

Transfers and Graduate Entry

Transfers to TU-Sofia are not possible. Students wishing to study at the Technical University of Sofia must apply through the standard admissions process.

Research, Career Events & Student Life at TU-Sofia

Student life at the Technical University of Sofia is active and internationally focused. The university hosts a range of cultural events, sports competitions, career days, and internship fairs throughout the academic year.

Student societies and clubs cater to a wide variety of interests, from technical and entrepreneurial groups to cultural and social organisations. With programmes in English, German, and French, the student body is notably international — creating an environment well-suited to building a global professional network.

The university’s Career Days events are particularly valuable, directly connecting engineering students with employers for internships and graduate positions both in Bulgaria and across the EU.

Sports and recreation at TU-Sofia:

  • Sports halls and outdoor facilities on campus
  • University recreation centres near the Black Sea coast and the Bulgarian mountains
  • Easy access to Vitosha Mountain for hiking, skiing, and climbing

Technical University Sofia Tuition Fees

The Technical University of Sofia is one of the most affordable engineering universities in Europe for international students.

Programme level

Annual tuition

Bachelor’s degree

€3,000-€4,000/year

Master’s degree

€3,000-€4,000/year

The university does not offer scholarships for international students. Full-time students may explore student loan options through Bulgarian banks or banks in their home country.

Payment schedule: Tuition fees are paid in two instalments per year – the first instalment is due in September, the second in February.

How do TU-Sofia fees compare?

Engineering degrees in English at Western European universities typically cost €8,000-€20,000/year for international students. At €3,000-€4,000/year, TU-Sofia offers a fully EU-accredited engineering degree at less than half the price of most comparable alternatives.

Tuition fees range from €3,000 to €4,000 per year, with no scholarships available.

Tuition fees are paid in two installments— the first installment is due in September, while the second is payable in February each year.

  1. University dormitories which cost around €100 per month. For this price you will receive one bed in a double room, so you’ll need to share the room with another roommate from the same sex. Food will not be covered and you will need to cook alone in a shared kitchen.
  2. You can rent a private apartment in Sofia. The rental prices varies between €300 up to €500 per month depending the size of the apartment the level of furniture and the location of the apartment. iGeneration Agency can assist students with finding suitable accommodation in Sofia.

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.

Technical University Sofia Admission & Entry Requirements

One of TU-Sofia’s biggest advantages for international students is that no entrance exam is required for most programmes. Admission is based entirely on submitted documents.

Is there an entrance exam?

No entrance exam is required for international applicants to engineering programmes at TU-Sofia. The entire application process is document-based.

Exception for non-EU applicants: Non-EU candidates must demonstrate a minimum academic performance of 62% in Mathematics, Informatics, or Physics from their secondary school diploma. EU/EEA applicants have no minimum grade requirement.

2026 Application Deadline

The application deadline is no later than September 25th for the first semester and no later than February 1st for the second semester in the year of application. For the exact dates, contact iGeneration Agency directly.

Academic Calendar

  • Semester 1: Starts mid-September, lasts 15 weeks, ends ~27 December | Exams: throughout January
  • Semester 2: Starts 10 February, lasts 15 weeks, ends end of May | Exams: June – early July

Documents Required for Application

  1. Completed application form (with personal details, educational history, and chosen programme)
  2. Copy of secondary education diploma (with academic transcript)
  3. An eligibility certificate from the relevant authorities confirming the right to pursue higher education in your home country
  4. Health certificate (issued no more than one month before application, verified in your country)
  5. Two recent passport-sized photos (4–5 cm)
  6. Copy of your passport

All documents must be translated into Bulgarian and legally certified (apostilled or legalised).

Additional requirements for non-EU students:

  • Bulgarian Student Visa (obtained before arrival)
  • Student Residence Permit (applied for upon arrival in Bulgaria)

Is an English certificate required?

No. For English-taught programmes, no external English certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.) is required.

Is the degree internationally recognised?

Yes. Graduates of the Technical University of Sofia receive an internationally recognised engineering degree, accredited by the National Agency for Evaluation and Accreditation under the Bulgarian Council of Ministers. The degree is fully valid across the EU and EEA, and recognised internationally in countries that have bilateral agreements with Bulgaria.

The iGeneration Process

igeneration agency process

While no entrance exam is required, the documentation process for TU-Sofia still involves translation, notarisation, and legalisation requirements that must be met precisely. Errors in documentation result in rejection.

iGeneration Agency handles the complete application process — from document preparation and legal submission to programme selection consultations. Our team has extensive experience with TU-Sofia’s requirements and ensures your application is submitted correctly and on time.

Book a free consultation and let us handle the paperwork while you focus on your future.

Additionally, if an entrance exam is required, we provide exceptional study materials and preparation resources to help you succeed. By choosing iGeneration, you eliminate the stress of applying abroad and can focus entirely on preparing for your future at the Technical University of Sofia.

iGeneration maximizes your admission chances by building a strong application based on our extensive experience. Contact us to handle everything from exam preparation to graduation and beyond!

The first semester usually starts around mid-September, lasts 15 weeks, and ends at the end of the calendar year (27th December). Then you have your examination period in the entire month of January.

The second semester starts on the 10th of February, lasts 15 weeks, and ends at the end of May. The examination session is throughout the month of June and early July.

Contact us now and learn about all the ways we can make your admission easier.

  • Required Application Documents for Engineering Programs in Bulgaria

    Applicants must submit the following documents:

    • Completed application form with personal information, educational history, and desired courses.
    • Copy of secondary education diploma, including an academic transcript listing the subjects studied.
    • Eligibility certificate from the relevant authorities, verifying the right to pursue higher education in the applicant’s home country.
    • Health certificate, issued no more than one month before the application date and verified in the applicant’s country.
    • Two recent passport-sized photos (4-5 cm).

    All required documents, including the diploma, transcript, and health certificate, must be translated into Bulgarian and legalized according to official regulations.

    Additional Requirements

    • Visa and Residence Permit:

      • Non-EU students must obtain a Bulgarian Student Visa before arrival.
      • A Student Residence Permit must be applied for upon arrival in Bulgaria.

    Proper completion of these steps ensures a smooth application process.

No, there is no entry exam. The application is only with documents.
EU candidates – no minimum grade requirement
Non EU candidates – 62% from Mathematics, Informatics or Physics

All prospect students who want to study at Sofia technical university do not need to perform an entrance test.

Prospect students does not need to do any entrance exam. The whole application process is done only with documents.

There is no entry entry test for prospect students who want to study at the Technical University of Sofia

The application deadline is different  so for more information, please check the webpage of the university. Sofia Technical University

English certificate is not required.

If you want to study Engineering in Bulgaria, you need to present High school leaving certificate, one eligibility letter, copy of Passport and application form.

All students who graduate the engineering program in Sofia Technical University in Bulgaria receive master degree of engineering certificate which is internationally recognised.

All engineering programs at Sofia Technical University are fully taught in English, German, and French, with no requirement for Bulgarian language proficiency. Students can pursue their education entirely in their chosen language, ensuring an accessible and globally competitive learning environment. The university collaborates with renowned institutions from Germany and France, offering high-quality education, exchange opportunities, and the possibility of obtaining a double diploma.

Transfer To The Technical University Sofia

Transfers are not possible.

Technical University of Sofia Accreditation and Degree Recognition

The Technical University of Sofia is a state-accredited public institution, recognised by the National Agency for Evaluation and Accreditation under the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Bulgaria.

Degrees from TU-Sofia carry full international accreditation, enabling graduates to:

  • Work as engineers anywhere in the EU and EEA
  • Have their qualifications recognised in countries with bilateral agreements with Bulgaria
  • Apply for postgraduate programmes at European and international universities

The use of the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) ensures that academic credits earned at TU-Sofia are recognised and transferable across EU higher education institutions.

technical university sofia bulgaria

Accommodation at the Technical University Sofia

TU-Sofia offers student dormitories located directly next to the main lecture halls or within the Studentski Grad neighbourhood — ensuring students are always close to campus. All rooms are fully furnished and typically house two or three students.

Due to high demand, contact the university’s student office early to check availability.

Accommodation options:

Option

Monthly cost

Notes

University dormitory

~€100

Shared room, shared kitchen, on/near campus

Shared private apartment

~€175-€250 (per person)

Popular cost-saving option

Private apartment (near campus)

~€350/month

Studentski Grad area

Private apartment (city centre)

€350-€500/month

Higher cost, more amenities

Utilities (est.)

~€100-€150

On top of rent

iGeneration Agency provides FREE assistance to all enrolled students in finding suitable accommodation based on needs and budget.

Student life & Living costs

Engineering students at TU-Sofia benefit from one of the most dynamic student environments in the Balkans. The university is embedded in Studentski Grad – Sofia’s dedicated student district, home to over 30,000 students from multiple universities – giving the campus a lively, international atmosphere with cafes, bars, restaurants, and constant social and academic events.

Popular neighbourhoods for TU-Sofia students:

  • Studentski Grad (Students’ City): Right next to campus; the heart of student life in Sofia, with the most affordable social options and a strong international student community
  • Lozenets and Hladilnika: Slightly more residential, closer to South Park and Borisova Gradina; good for students who prefer a quieter setting

Nature and outdoor recreation:

  • Vitosha Mountain is visible from campus and accessible within 30–45 minutes — ideal for hiking, skiing, rock climbing, and weekend escapes
  • South Park and Borisova Gradina (Sofia’s largest parks) are within easy reach for jogging, cycling, and outdoor relaxation

Cultural life in Sofia:

  • Ivan Vazov National Theatre – the largest theatre in Bulgaria
  • National Opera and Ballet, Bulgaria Concert Hall – classical performances year-round
  • St. Sophia Church, Rotunda of St. George – Roman-era landmarks within walking distance
  • Alexander Nevsky Cathedral – one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world

The Technical University of Sofia (TU-Sofia) is one of the leading engineering institutions in Bulgaria, with its main campus located at 8 Kliment Ohridski Blvd. Here’s how you can reach the university and other useful information:

Public Transport:

  • Metro: The fastest and most convenient way to get to TU-Sofia is by metro. The nearest metro station is G.M. Dimitrov on line M1, just a short distance from the university.
  • Bus: Several bus lines serve the area, providing easy access to the university. The most frequently used are bus #280 and #94, which connect the campus to the city center and other key locations.
  • Tram: While there are no direct tram connections to TU-Sofia, Sofia’s public transport network allows for easy transfers between tram, bus, and metro lines.

Taxi Services:

If you prefer a more convenient ride, taxis are available throughout Sofia. To avoid pricing issues, it’s best to order a taxi by phone or via a mobile app. Here are some reliable taxi companies in Sofia:

  • Yellow Taxi: 1919
  • OK Supertrans: 973 21 21
  • Taxi S Express: 1212

Always check if the driver is using a taximeter to avoid overcharging.

Other Useful Information:

For more details about faculties, degree programs, and admission requirements, visit the university’s official website.

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:

  • Paradise Center: The largest mall in Sofia, boasting over 300 stores, a cinema, a bowling alley, and much more. It houses popular international brands and also showcases Bulgarian designers.
  • Serdika Center: One of the oldest and most established malls in Sofia, located in the heart of the city. It offers a diverse range of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
  • Mall of Sofia: Spread across several floors, this mall provides a great selection of stores selling clothing, shoes, cosmetics, and other goods.
  • The Mall: A popular mall with a good mix of fashion retailers, sporting goods stores, and electronics shops.

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:

  • Vitosha Boulevard: The main shopping street in Sofia, lined with stores of many international brands and boutiques of Bulgarian designers.
  • Graf Ignatiev Street: A street known for its numerous clothing, shoe, and accessory shops.
  • Pirotska Street: A street with more affordable options, where you can find shops selling clothing, shoes, electronics, and more.

Chain Stores: Familiar Favorites

Many international and Bulgarian chain stores have a presence in Sofia, offering a wide variety of products:

  • H&M, Zara, Mango: Popular clothing stores with trendy styles at affordable prices.
  • Nike, Adidas, Puma: Stores for sportswear and athletic apparel.
  • Technopolis, Technomarket: Retailers for electronics and home appliances.

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:

  • Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: One of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, impressive with its architecture and size.
  • Saint George Rotunda: An early Christian church from the 4th century, known for its frescoes.
  • National Historical Museum: A museum showcasing the history of Bulgaria from ancient times to the present day.
  • Archaeological Museum: A museum housing artifacts from various eras, discovered in Sofia.

Theaters and Concert Halls: A Feast for the Arts

Sofia has numerous theaters and concert halls where you can enjoy various performances and concerts:

  • Ivan Vazov National Theatre: The largest theater in Bulgaria, offering a variety of plays.
  • National Opera and Ballet: Presents classical opera and ballet performances.
  • Bulgaria Concert Hall: Home to classical music concerts.

Cinemas: Catching the Latest Blockbusters

Sofia has many cinemas where you can watch the latest movies:

  • Cinema City: A large cinema complex with multiple screens.
  • Arena Cinema: A chain of cinemas with several locations in Sofia.

Nightlife: When the Sun Goes Down

Sofia offers a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and discos:

  • Studentski Grad District: Known for its many student clubs and bars.
  • Vitosha Boulevard: Here you will find a variety of bars and restaurants.

Outdoor Recreation: Embracing Nature’s Beauty

Sofia is surrounded by beautiful nature, offering opportunities for recreation and walks:

  • Vitosha Mountain: A mountain located near Sofia, offering opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other activities.
  • Borisova Gradina Park: The largest park in Sofia, suitable for walks and relaxation.

Other Entertainment Options: Exploring Further

In addition to the above, Sofia has many other entertainment options, such as:

  • Museums on various topics: Museum of Illusions, Museum of Socialist Art, and others.
  • Aquaparks: Several aquaparks near Sofia offer fun opportunities during the summer.
  • Karting tracks: If you like high speeds, you can visit one of the karting tracks in Sofia.

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:

  • Traditional Bulgarian restaurants: In these restaurants, you can try authentic Bulgarian dishes, such as Shopska salad, Banitsa, Kavarma, and many others. Some popular traditional restaurants in Sofia are “Pod Lipite,” “Koprivshtitsa,” and “Hadjidraganov Houses.”
  • Restaurants with international cuisine: Sofia has many restaurants serving cuisine from various countries around the world, such as Italian, French, Japanese, Chinese, and many others.
  • Modern restaurants: In these restaurants, you can try innovative dishes prepared by modern chefs. Some popular modern restaurants in Sofia are “Andre,” “Cosmos,” and “Sense Rooftop Bar.”

Bars:

Sofia offers a variety of bars where you can enjoy different types of drinks:

  • Cocktail bars: In these bars, you can try different types of cocktails prepared by professional bartenders. Some popular cocktail bars in Sofia are “5L,” “One More Bar,” and “Bilkova.”
  • Wine bars: In these bars, you can try different types of wines from Bulgaria and around the world. Some popular wine bars in Sofia are “Vinopoly,” “Grape Central,” and “Enoteca Vino & Co.”
  • Beer bars: In these bars, you can try different types of craft beer from Bulgaria and around the world. Some popular beer bars in Sofia are “Craft Beer Bar,” “Kanaal,” and “Sofia Pub Crawl.”

Clubs and Discos:

Sofia offers a vibrant nightlife with many clubs and discos where you can dance and have fun:

  • Studentski Grad: A district known for its many student clubs and bars, where the music is more up-to-date and the prices are more affordable.
  • Center: In the center of Sofia, you will find a variety of clubs and discos offering music for every taste – from pop and rock to electronic music and house. Some popular clubs in Sofia are “Yalta,” “Bedroom Premium,” and “Sense Rooftop Bar.”

Technical University of Sofia vs Other Engineering Options in Europe

 

TU-Sofia (Bulgaria)

TU Berlin (Germany)

Politecnico di Milano (Italy)

Annual tuition (international)

€3,000–€4,000

~€3,600 (+ semester fees)

€4,000-€13,000

Teaching language

English, German, French

German/English

English/Italian

Entrance exam

None

Varies by programme

Varies by programme

Erasmus+ available

Yes

Yes

Yes

EU-recognised degree

Yes

Yes

Yes

Living costs/month

€500-€800

€1,000-€1,500

€900-€1,400

Choose TU-Sofia when:

  • Budget is a priority – total cost of study is significantly lower than Western European alternatives
  • You want to avoid entrance exams and focus on your documents
  • You want teaching in English, German, or French with double-diploma options

Consider Western European universities when:

  • You specifically need the brand recognition of a top-100 global university
  • You are eligible for home-country student loans that make Western fees manageable

Frequently Asked Questions - Technical University of Sofia

The Technical University of Sofia (TU-Sofia) is Bulgaria’s first and leading engineering university, founded in 1945. It offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD degrees in Engineering, taught in English, German, and French, with internationally accredited qualifications recognised across the EU and EEA.

Tuition fees at the Technical University of Sofia range from €3,000 to €4,000 per year, depending on the programme. This applies to both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. Fees are paid in two instalments – September and February.

The application deadline is no later than September 25th for the first semester and no later than February 1st for the second semester in the year of application.

No. There is no entrance exam for most programmes at TU-Sofia. Admission is based entirely on submitted documents. Non-EU applicants must demonstrate a minimum of 62% in Mathematics, Informatics, or Physics from their secondary school diploma.

Bachelor’s programmes in English include: Advanced Industrial Technologies, Electronic Engineering, Telecommunication Engineering, Management and Business Information Systems, and Industrial Engineering. Master’s programmes in English include Computer Science and Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Innovative Communication Technologies and Entrepreneurship, and Industrial Management.

Yes. TU-Sofia degrees are state-accredited and internationally recognised across the EU and EEA. The university uses the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), ensuring academic credits are transferable. Graduates can work as engineers across Europe and in countries with bilateral agreements with Bulgaria.

No. Transfers to TU-Sofia are not possible. All students must apply through the standard admissions process.

Yes. Through partnerships with universities in Germany and France, TU-Sofia offers double diploma options in selected programmes — allowing graduates to hold degrees from both TU-Sofia and a partner European institution.

Students at TU-Sofia typically spend €500-€800/month, covering accommodation (~€100-€350/month), food, transport, and entertainment. University dormitories cost approximately €100/month; private apartments near campus average €350/month.

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