Varna Medical University (MU-Varna) is a public medical university in Bulgaria offering Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Pharmacy in English for international students.
For first-year students in 2026/27, annual tuition is €10,000 for Medicine, €10,000 for Dental Medicine, and €8,000 for Pharmacy. The entrance tests in Biology and Chemistry are held online, and the final deadline for submitting the required application documents is 11 September 2026.
The university is based in Varna on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, with its main administrative campus at 55 Marin Drinov Street, 9002 Varna.
Varna Medical University (MU-Varna) was founded in 1961 and is a public medical university in Bulgaria.
For international applicants, MU-Varna offers English-language programmes in Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Pharmacy. The university also operates the Blackboard e-learning platform for teaching resources, communication, and assessment support.
The main administrative campus is located at 55 Marin Drinov Street, 9002 Varna, Bulgaria.
Official website: mu-varna.bg
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| University type | Public medical university |
| Founded | 1961 |
| Location | Varna, Bulgaria |
| Main address | 55 Marin Drinov Street, 9002 Varna |
| English-taught programmes | Medicine, Dental Medicine, Pharmacy |
| Medicine duration | 6 years |
| Dental Medicine duration | 6 years |
| Pharmacy duration | 5 years |
| First-year tuition 2026/27 | Medicine €10,000; Dental Medicine €10,000; Pharmacy €8,000 |
| Entrance tests | Online Biology and Chemistry tests + English proficiency requirement |
| 2026 exam dates | 4 Apr, 16 May, 13 Jun; 16 Jul and 3 Sep for EU applicants only |
| Application documents deadline | 11 September 2026 |
| First-year academic year starts | 5 October 2026 |
| Blackboard platform | Yes |
| Estimated living costs | About €500-€700/month in the 2026 university brochure |
Varna, Bulgaria
Medicine, Dental Medicine, Pharmacy
From €8,000/year
No shortened route listed
Online Biology & Chemistry + English proficiency
€500-€700/month
Medicine is a full-time 6-year programme. The course includes 10 semesters and a 310-day pre-graduate state clinical internship. Teaching, practical classes, and examinations in the English-language programme are conducted in English.
Dental Medicine is a full-time 6-year programme. It includes 10 semesters, a 135-working-day pre-graduation practice, and two 30-day training practices after the sixth and eighth semesters.
Pharmacy is a full-time 5-year Master’s programme offered in English.
MU-Varna also offers a 9-month preparatory course in English for applicants who need additional language preparation before entering an English-language degree programme.
Foreign students are required to study Bulgarian alongside their degree. For Dental Medicine, the university specifically states that Bulgarian is compulsory during the first three years so students can communicate with patients from the third year onwards.
The university does not advertise a shortened graduate-entry Medicine route. Applicants who already have university study should request an individual assessment rather than assume that the programme can be shortened.
MU-Varna uses the Blackboard e-learning platform as part of its digital teaching environment. Students can use the platform for course materials, communication, assignments, assessment information, and other learning resources.
The University’s eLearning Center supports both students and teaching staff in using Blackboard and other digital learning services.
Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Pharmacy are the three English-language degree programmes listed for international applicants.
Main administrative campus: 55 Marin Drinov Street, 9002 Varna, Bulgaria.
Varna Medical University publishes tuition fees by programme and year of study.
| Programme / year in 2026/27 | Semester fee | Annual fee |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine – years 1-2 | €5,000 | €10,000 |
| Medicine – years 3-4 | €4,550 | €9,100 |
| Medicine – years 5-6 | €4,500 | €9,000 |
| Dental Medicine – years 1-2 | €5,000 | €10,000 |
| Dental Medicine – years 3-4 | €4,500 | €9,000 |
| Dental Medicine – years 5-6 | €4,000 | €8,000 |
| Pharmacy – first year | – | €8,000 |
The annual tuition fee can be paid in full or in two equal instalments, but payment must follow the official university deadlines for the relevant semester.
For first-year students in 2026/27, annual tuition is €10,000 for Medicine, €10,000 for Dental Medicine, and €8,000 for Pharmacy. Medicine and Dental Medicine fees vary by year of study.
Yes. The annual tuition fee can be paid at once or in two equal instalments, at the beginning of the academic year or the beginning of each semester. The university states that payment should be completed no later than two weeks after the beginning of the semester.
MU-Varna has two student hostels with a combined capacity of 750 beds. The published monthly hostel rent for foreign students and students in paid-mode education is 100 BGN, excluding electricity and subsistence.
Private accommodation is also available. The university’s accommodation information lists private rents at approximately €250-€400/month, while its 2026 admissions brochure gives a broader estimate of up to about €550 depending on the property and sharing arrangement.
The University’s 2026 admissions brochure estimates that an international student can live in Bulgaria on approximately €500-€700 per month, depending on accommodation and lifestyle.
Admission to Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Pharmacy in English at Varna Medical University is based on the required secondary-school qualifications, the Biology and Chemistry entrance tests, English-language requirements, and the final applicant ranking.
| Date | Format / eligibility |
|---|---|
| 4 April 2026 | Online exam |
| 16 May 2026 | Online exam |
| 13 June 2026 | Online exam |
| 16 July 2026 | Online exam – EU applicants only |
| 3 September 2026 | Online exam – EU applicants only |
The final deadline for submitting the required paper application documents for the 2026 Fall intake is 11 September 2026. Non-EU applicants are advised by the university to apply much earlier because the visa process can take approximately 2-3 months.
Applicants sit separate Biology and Chemistry entry tests in English. The 2026 tests include multiple-choice, gap-filling, matching, true/false, and definition/explanation sections.
Applicants must also meet the university’s English-language requirement. This can be demonstrated through the University’s English proficiency test or, for eligible applicants, through accepted school qualifications or language certificates listed by MU-Varna.
The ranking score combines the official-language grade from the secondary-school diploma with the Biology and Chemistry entrance-test results multiplied by three. The possible maximum ranking score is 42.
The academic year 2026/27 for first-year students in the English-language programmes begins on 5 October 2026. Orientation Week is scheduled for 28 September – 3 October 2026.
Applying to Varna Medical University requires careful preparation of the application documents and preparation for the Biology and Chemistry entrance tests.
iGeneration Agency can support applicants with document preparation, application coordination, and entrance-exam preparation.
The university’s application process includes online registration, entrance testing, submission of the required paper documents, and verification of secondary-school credentials.
iGeneration can support your application from document preparation through entrance-exam preparation.
The final document deadline for the 2026 intake is 11 September 2026, while the first year of the English-language programmes begins on 5 October 2026.
Contact us to discuss your application.
MU-Varna lists the following main application documents:
Documents that require legalization must follow the University’s rules for apostille/legalization, Bulgarian translation, and certification.
Yes. Applicants to Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Pharmacy in English take online entry tests in Biology and Chemistry.
The 2026 Biology and Chemistry entry tests are conducted online. Applicants do not need to be physically in Bulgaria to sit the test.
The entrance process includes Biology and Chemistry entry tests in English. Applicants must also satisfy the university’s separate English-language proficiency requirement.
The 2026 online exam dates are 4 April, 16 May, 13 June, 16 July, and 3 September. The 16 July and 3 September dates are listed by MU-Varna for EU applicants only.
The final deadline for the required application documents for the 2026 Fall intake is 11 September 2026. Non-EU applicants should apply earlier because visa processing takes additional time.
Applicants must prove English proficiency. Depending on their qualifications, they may take the university’s English proficiency test or qualify for an exemption through an accepted diploma or certificate.
MU-Varna awards the relevant Bulgarian higher-education degree and professional qualification after successful completion of the programme. Graduates who want to practise a regulated profession in another country must follow the recognition, registration, language, and licensing rules of the competent authority in that country.
The degree programmes are taught in English, but foreign students are also required to study Bulgarian language as part of their education. Dental Medicine explicitly requires Bulgarian during the first three years so students can communicate with patients from the third year onwards.
MU-Varna has formal procedures for recognizing completed periods of study from other higher education institutions. However, transfer eligibility is not automatic, and the University’s educational regulations include restrictions for transfers involving regulated professions.
Students considering a transfer should request a case-specific assessment from MU-Varna before making plans, particularly for Medicine, Dental Medicine, or Pharmacy.
Varna Medical University is a state medical university in Bulgaria. Its programmes lead to the corresponding Bulgarian higher-education degree and professional qualification after successful completion of the curriculum and required examinations.
Graduates receive a Diploma Supplement in English. For regulated professions such as Medicine and Dental Medicine, professional recognition and registration in another country are governed by the competent authority in that country.
Medical University Varna has two student hostels – Block 35 and Block 3 – with a combined capacity of 750 beds.
The published monthly rent for foreign students and students in paid-mode education is 100 BGN. Electricity and subsistence are paid separately.
Private accommodation is another common option. The University’s accommodation page lists rents of approximately €250-€400/month, depending on sharing, location, and the condition of the property. Its 2026 admissions brochure gives a broader private-apartment estimate of €250-€550/month.
Varna is a coastal university city on Bulgaria’s Black Sea, combining academic life with beaches, parks, cultural venues, shopping, restaurants, and nightlife.
MU-Varna’s 2026 admissions brochure estimates that an international student can live on approximately €500-€700 per month, depending on accommodation and lifestyle.
The same brochure gives approximate monthly costs of €250-€550 for a private apartment, €250-€350 for food, around €30 for internet, around €50 for transport, and up to €150 for extras.
The Medical University of Varna is located at several key points in the city. The main administrative building is at 55 Marin Drinov Street. Here’s how to get there and other useful information:
Public Transport:
Taxi:
If you prefer a taxi, several companies operate in Varna. It’s generally recommended to call a taxi or use a ride-hailing app to ensure a fair price. Some popular taxi companies in Varna include:
Always confirm the driver is using a taximeter.
Useful Information:
The university website provides information about the faculties, specialties, study programs, and more.
Varna offers a diverse shopping experience, catering to various tastes and budgets. Whether you’re seeking international brands, unique local finds, or a pleasant stroll through vibrant streets, Varna has something to offer.
Malls: A Shopper’s Paradise
Malls are a popular choice for shopping in Varna, 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, Varna 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 Varna, offering a wide variety of products:
Beyond the Usual:
Varna also offers unique shopping experiences beyond the typical malls and chain stores:
Enjoy your shopping experience in Varna!
Varna offers a diverse range of entertainment and cultural experiences, 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 Varna.
Cultural Landmarks: A Journey Through Time
Varna 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
Varna has numerous theaters and concert halls where you can enjoy various performances and concerts:
Cinemas: Catching the Latest Blockbusters
Varna has several cinemas where you can watch the latest movies:
Nightlife: When the Sun Goes Down
Varna offers a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and discos:
Outdoor Recreation: Embracing Nature’s Beauty
Varna is located on the Black Sea coast and offers beautiful natural surroundings:
Other Entertainment Options: Exploring Further
In addition to the above, Varna has many other entertainment options, such as:
Varna offers a diverse and dynamic dining and nightlife scene that can satisfy a variety of tastes. From traditional Bulgarian restaurants to modern establishments serving international cuisine, and from cozy bars to bustling clubs, Varna has something for everyone.
Restaurants:
Varna has a wide selection of restaurants offering various types of cuisine:
Bars:
Varna offers a variety of bars where you can enjoy different types of drinks:
Clubs and Discos:
Varna offers a vibrant nightlife with many clubs and discos where you can dance and have fun:
Varna Medical University (MU-Varna) is a public medical university in Bulgaria founded in 1961. It offers English-language programmes in Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Pharmacy.
The main administrative campus of Varna Medical University is located at 55 Marin Drinov Street, 9002 Varna, Bulgaria. The official undergraduate admissions contact is +359 52 677 085 and [email protected].
For first-year students in 2026/27, annual tuition is:
Medicine and Dental Medicine fees vary by year of study. The annual fee can be paid at once or in two equal instalments.
Yes. Applicants to Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Pharmacy in English take online Biology and Chemistry entrance tests. The 2026 dates are 4 April, 16 May, 13 June, 16 July, and 3 September, with the last two dates restricted to EU applicants.
Applicants need a qualifying secondary-school diploma, the required academic records and eligibility documents, a valid ID/passport, the required photographs, and NACID verification. They must also pass the Biology and Chemistry entry tests and satisfy the English-language requirement. The final document deadline is 11 September 2026.
Blackboard is the e-learning platform used by Varna Medical University. It supports access to teaching materials, communication, assignments, assessments, and other academic resources.
Questions about studying in Bulgaria or your application? Our team is ready to help.
