Sofia Medical University, founded in 1917 as part of Sofia's St. Kliment Ohridski University, became independent after World War II. Gaining university status in 1995 and international accreditation, it's now a leading medical center in the Balkans. With 6,200 students and over 60,000 graduates, it comprises four schools and contributes to research in genetics, surgery, and disease prevention.
Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski," Bulgaria's oldest university (est. 1888), is a top-ranked institution globally and nationally. Its motto, "Knowledge itself is power," emphasizes student development. The medicine course balances theory and practice, utilizing modern facilities. With over 20,000 students, it offers an English-language medical program.
Sofia, Bulgaria
Medicine, Pre-med, Pharmacy
$7700
Not Available
Biology, Chemistry & English
$850/month
The Medicine course at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” is a six-year (12 semesters) program taught entirely in English. The first two years are dedicated to pre-clinical studies and theory, followed by three years of primarily clinical studies. The final year is a 310-day internship with medical rotations, culminating in state licensing exams. Compulsory summer practical internships are also required during years 2-4.
Upon successful completion of the academic program, internship, and state exams, students are awarded a Master’s degree and the professional qualification of Physician or Doctor of Medicine (MD), recognized worldwide. The university also offers a pre-med course in Chemistry and Biology for international students.
While Sofia University doesn’t offer graduate-entry medicine, they do accept student transfers. Many graduates remain in Bulgaria to practice, while others return home or pursue careers elsewhere. Thousands of medical practitioners are alumni of Bulgarian universities.
The university is located at 15 Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd., 1504 Sofia Center, Sofia. In addition to the MD program, the university offers a five-year (10-semester) Master’s program in Pharmacy.
Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” is a hub of academic and professional activity, hosting and participating in numerous national and international conferences, workshops, competitions, and networking events.
Students can join various organizations, including a Business Club for aspiring doctors. The university also offers diverse sports facilities, from football and basketball to judo, yoga, pilates, and tennis, with opportunities for competitive athletes to join dedicated teams.
Sofia University offers a 6-year Medicine program taught in English, costing €7,700 annually (€3,850 per semester) plus a €300 preparatory course fee. A Biology and Chemistry entrance exam is required, with approximately 50 students accepted each year.
A popular alternative for international students is the 5-year English Pharmacy program, introduced in 2019, costing €6,000 annually (€3,000 per semester) plus a €250 premedical course fee. This program also requires a Biology and Chemistry entrance exam and includes an internship.
The academic year runs from September to June, with a long summer break. Tuition fees are program-specific. Full-time students can apply for student loans, typically through Bulgarian banks or banks in their home countries (e.g., Germany, Sweden). The university does not offer tuition scholarships.
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 University “St. Kliment Ohridski” for medicine in English language is 7700 euros.
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.
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.
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. Of course, our agencies going to take full care of your accommodation so please do not worry about this.
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.
Candidates are required to submit the following documents:
The diploma, academic transcript and health certificate must be translated into Bulgarian and legalised as per official state directives.
To apply, you must pass a 4-hour entrance exam in English covering secondary school Biology and Chemistry. Passing both sections is required for ranking.
Applying to Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” is highly competitive and navigating the process can be overwhelming. The university’s detailed requirements, including document translation, notarization, and legalization, can be challenging. Failure to meet these standards results in rejection. Our expert admissions team, considered among the best in Europe, specializes in managing every legal detail. Our strong relationship with the university and deep understanding of its application process and entrance exam allow us to meticulously handle your application, maximizing your acceptance chances. We also provide exceptional study materials for the entrance exam. Choose Medlink Students to eliminate application stress and focus on exam preparation.
The winter semester begins in early October and concludes mid-January, with exams held between January 25th and February 19th. The summer semester starts in late February and ends mid-June, with exams from June 14th to July 9th.
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, and health certificate, must be translated into Bulgarian and legalized 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 entrance test.
The test is done in person, so there is the need for each candidate to be physically in Bulgaria. The prospect student should be here at least one day before the entry test
The online entrance test for Sofia University Saint Kliment Ohridski consists of three components test questions in biology, test questions in chemistry and very easy English test
The entrance exam for Sofia University Saint Kliment Ohridski will be done on 12th of September and there will be a retake date on the 19th of September 2025.
The application deadline for Sofia University Saint Kliment Ohridski is 11th of September 2025
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 University Saint Kliment Ohridski is internationally recognised so there is no need for any further examinations. Each student can continue working all around the world.
The full course in medicine at Sofia University Saint Kliment Ohridski is only in English language. There is no requirement or no need to study any Bulgarian language.
Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” transfers are possible from other medical schools. Aside from providing assistance for first year admissions, we also help students transfer from a different university to Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”
Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” holds recognition from the World Health Organization and is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools. Its qualifications are recognized by medical councils in the UK, Ireland, the US, Canada, Australia, and numerous other countries, enabling graduates to pursue medical residency programs in these locations. A degree from this university allows graduates to practice medicine globally.
The GMC recognises the Medical University of Sofia. To be accepted, the GMC’s requirements are: you will need to have graduated successfully in a course that included at least 5,500 hours and lasted at least three years.
Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” provides hostel accommodations with approximately 6,300 beds. To secure a room, you must apply at the university office and await the ranking results. The advantage of living in the hostel is its proximity to the university and convenient access to surrounding entertainment venues.
Living expenses in Sofia, excluding rent, are estimated at around €550 per month, depending on your individual needs.
Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center will cost approximately €400 per month. Outside the city center, the monthly rent is around €350.
iGeneration Students offers FREE assistance in finding the best accommodation based on your needs and budget!
Medical students at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” have several housing options. The nearby Lozenets and Hladilnika neighborhoods offer convenient access to the city center’s landmarks, cultural attractions, and shopping, as well as proximity to Sofia’s largest parks, South Park and Borisova Gradina.
Alternatively, Sofia’s dedicated student district, Students’ City, houses over 30,000 students and five universities. While further from the Faculty of Medicine and the city center’s cultural offerings, it’s a vibrant hub known for its numerous bars, clubs, nightlife, and constant stream of academic and recreational events. Living in Students’ City is often considered a quintessential Bulgarian student experience.
The scenic Vitosha mountain towers over the city, and it is a constant source of beauty and recreation. Students often spend their weekends hiking the trails, skiing the slopes, or climbing the peaks and then pursuing their studies with renewed vigour.
However, leaving the city is not the only way to get in contact with nature since Sofia has several large parks and many city gardens to explore. While some are quiet havens for relaxation and introspection, others are excellent locations for sport and recreation.
Speaking of recreation, Sofia has a rich cultural life to explore. There are several theatres, operas, and concert halls. International stars are frequent guests, and students can witness plenty of monumental events and shows in the capital of Bulgaria.
The city also offers glorious landmarks for young explorers. The St. Sophia Church and the Rotunda Church of St. George are 17 centuries old, and they have operated since Roman times. While those two are the oldest temples, there are other glorious churches, mosques, and synagogues within the city.
Sofia is an excellent city for young people who enjoy a dynamic lifestyle. Students have an abundance of events to choose from, and most of them are perfect for networking.
Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” is located in the heart of Sofia. The main building is at 15 Tsar Osvoboditel Blvd. Here’s how to get there and other useful information:
Public Transport:
Taxi:
If you prefer a taxi, these companies operate in Sofia:
It’s recommended to order a taxi by phone or through an app to avoid pricing issues. Always check for a working taximeter.
Useful Information:
The university website has details on 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:
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