Sofia Medical University
Country: Bulgaria
Tuition Fees: €9,000
Entrance Exam: Yes
Graduate Entry: No
Sofia Medical University is one of the most popular destinations for international students, particularly from the UK, who are seeking to study medicine or dentistry in Europe. Offering English-taught programmes in medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy, Sofia Medical University provides a world-class education at an affordable cost, making it a top choice for aspiring medical professionals.
About Sofia Medical University
Founded in 1917 by a decree from King Ferdinand, Medical University of Sofia holds the distinction of being the oldest institution for higher medical education in Bulgaria. Over the years, it has developed into one of the largest and most prestigious educational centres in the country, renowned for its academic excellence and contribution to the global medical community.
Since its establishment, Sofia Medical University has graduated more than 60,000 specialists who have gone on to become highly regarded healthcare providers across the world. The university currently offers study programmes in English for Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Pharmacy, attracting students from various countries.
MU-Sofia consists of four faculties, three colleges, and 14 university hospitals, making it one of the most comprehensive medical educational institutions in Bulgaria. These hospitals and research units are equipped with modern diagnostic and therapeutic tools, providing students with hands-on experience from the early stages of their education.
Reasons To Study At Medical University of Sofia
There are several key reasons why Sofia Medical University is an excellent choice for international students, especially those from the UK:
- Prestigious and Historic Institution: As the oldest medical university in Bulgaria, MU-Sofia has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence. It has played a revolutionary role in shaping medical education in both Bulgaria and Europe.
- Comprehensive Academic Offerings: The university houses four faculties—Medicine, Dental Medicine, Pharmacy, and Public Health—along with a medical college and a college of public health. This diversity allows students to choose from a wide range of healthcare disciplines.
- International Recognition: The degrees awarded by Sofia Medical University are recognised worldwide, including in the UK, EU, and beyond. Graduates of the university can return to the UK to practise medicine without needing to sit additional exams such as PLAB.
- Affordable Tuition Fees: Compared to other medical universities in Europe, Sofia Medical University offers very competitive tuition fees, with programmes starting at €9,000 per year. This makes it an attractive option for students looking for a high-quality education at a reasonable cost.
- Strong Research Community: Each year, approximately 6,200 students participate in research projects at MU-Sofia, contributing to internationally recognised scientific work. This provides students with the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge medical research during their studies.
- Sport and Recreational Facilities: Sofia Medical University offers excellent sport and recreational facilities, giving students the chance to maintain a healthy lifestyle while pursuing their academic goals. The university also hosts various international sporting events, further enriching student life.
- Easily Accessible from the UK: With direct flights available from most major UK cities, Sofia is easily accessible, allowing students to travel back and forth with ease.
Sofia Medical University | Admission and Requirements
Every year, Medical University Sofia accepts 400 students into the Medicine-in-English program and 80 students into Dentistry-in-English program. To study Medicine, Dentistry or Pharmacy in English at Sofia Medical University, you start by submitting a set of application documents to the University. These would include application form; copy of diploma, copy of Diploma’s marks, certificate from secondary school attended, health certificate issued less than a month before application; a copy of passport and passport photos. Keep in mind, all documents must be translated into Bulgarian and legalized by relevant authorities.
It is however important to know that Sofia Medical University has specific entry requirements. For aspiring applicants in Medicine, Dentistry or Pharmacy, you must have completed your secondary education; should have obtained a Diploma/School Leaving Certificate; and must have sat for an admission test in Biology and Chemistry. Most importantly, Non-EU citizens must have 62% average or above in Chemistry and Biology.
Sofia Medical University Accreditation
Sofia Medical University is fully accredited by Bulgaria’s Ministry of Education and Science as well as the National Evaluation and Accreditation Agency in Bulgaria. Its diploma is internationally recognized and is valid anywhere in the world.
MU-Sofia utilizes the European Credit Transfer System and offers Erasmus plus programmes for students who wish to travel and study abroad during their studies at the university. This means that if you study in Sofia Medical University, by participating in the Erasmus + programme in these countries: Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Macedonia, Turkey, the Netherlands, Spain, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Lithuania.
Accommodation At Sofia Medical University
As a student at Sofia Medical University, you have the option of staying at the student dormitory, or in a private residence within the city.
Student dormitories are located in the Studentski grad neighbourhood. A room typically costs 70 Euro a month, and has two beds, two desks, a bathroom; and a kitchen shared by people living on same floor. Please note that allocations are limited; the earlier you apply, the better your chances of nailing down an accommodation.
Private apartments in Sofia are also a good alternative, as there are many residences around Sofia Medical University. The overall living costs in the city are pretty affordable, with rent ranging between 450 and 600 EUR. Of course the rent depends on location, apartment size, fittings etc. Bills, like electricity, water, may or may not be included in rent.
MedConnect Europe will assist in finding you an accommodation place in Sofia.
Entrance Exam Dates 2024
Non-EU Students: 6th October 2023
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Know More About Sofia City
Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria, is the largest city in Bulgaria; with a population of about 1.2 million people. Located midway between the Black Sea and the Adriatic Sea, Sofia is a regularly visited tourist destinations in Bulgaria. It is also one of the cheapest cities in Europe, with a low cost of living. The following characteristics make Sofia a fun place to study and live:
- Home to a vast majority of sports clubs including volleyball, basketball and football. With its 43,000-seat Vasil Levski National Stadium, Sofia hosts international football matches. In 208, the city was designated as European Capital of Sport in 2018.
- Lots of tourist attraction including Bulgaria’s largest art museums and other museums located strategically in and around the city.
- A variety of restaurants and bars offering traditional Bulgaria cuisines as well as delightful international cuisines.
- Great nightlife including clubs and beautiful nighttime sceneries.
- English speaking residents, so you needn’t worry about making new friends and acquaintances
- Low cost of living; the average rent is about £350 – £500 pm, including rent, bills, groceries and money for nights out. Also, Sofia has cheap public transport, with many bus and taxi options available for residents. Bikes are not as common as other cities as Sofia is big and places are quite far from each other.
Apply Today To Study Medicine At Sofia Medical University
Sofia Medical University stands as one of the most prestigious institutions for studying medicine and dentistry in Europe. With its affordable tuition fees, globally recognised degrees, and vibrant student life, it is an ideal destination for UK students seeking to pursue a career in healthcare. Whether you’re interested in the rich history of the university, its modern facilities, or the opportunity to study in Bulgaria’s lively capital city, Sofia Medical University provides an exceptional educational experience.
Ready to begin your medical journey? Contact MedConnect Europe today to start your application process and secure your place at Sofia Medical University.
- High/secondary school education (12-years education) and to have obtained a Diploma/School Leaving Certificate/GCE A-2.
- To have studied, completed and obtained grades in Biology and Chemistry in high school.
- Must have a passing grade or above in Chemistry and Biology for EU citizens.
- Must have 62% average or above in Chemistry and Biology for Non-EU citizens.
There is a simple entry test in Biology and Chemistry at Sofia Medical University, which must be written by all students intending to study at the university. If you have performed well in the test, your admission to the university is guaranteed.
MedConnect Europe will provide you with all the necessary materials and past papers to ensure that you are successful in the test. Although this test is in English it must be taken in Bulgaria.
MedConnect Europe will help arrange hotel accommodation for the duration of your stay and will be on call throughout your stay to guide you through the process. MedConnect Europe will also arrange a tour both of the university and city so you have a chance to see first-hand what the course is all about as well as the city life in general.
Sofia Medical University offers a 6 Year MD course that is taught in English throughout the entire duration.
Bulgarian language is compulsory to learn during the first two years of studies.
- The first 2 years are non-clinical years and includes the following subjects: Anatomy, Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry and Physiology.
- The next 3 years are the Clinical years where you spend more time in the hospitals gaining practical and first-hand experience into life as a doctor.
- In your final year, you will take the State Exam in order to achieve your licence to practice. After successful completion of the exam, you will achieve the professional qualification of Doctor of Medicine (MD) and be awarded a Master’s degree.
- The course is GMC recognised and meets the EU requirements throughout its duration. The teachers have long standing experience and you have access to modern facilities aiding your success in the degree.
Sofia Medical University offers a 6 Year Dental Medicine course that is taught in English throughout the entire duration.
Bulgarian language is compulsory to learn during the first two years of studies.
- The first two years spent learning the fundamental aspects of medicine and Biology. You will study subjects like Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry and Prosthetics.
- The next 4 years will be spent doing more clinical practice as well as an internship period of about 6 months.
- In your final year, you will take the State Exam in order to achieve your licence to practice. After successful completion of the exam, you will receive a Master’s degree.
- The course is GDC recognised and meets the EU requirements throughout its duration. The teachers have long standing experience and you have access to the very best modern facilities in Bulgaria aiding your success in the degree.
Yes, the medical degree from Sofia Medical University is fully recognised in the UK and other countries worldwide. Graduates can return to the UK and practice medicine without the need to sit additional exams such as PLAB.
Tuition fees at Sofia Medical University are very competitive, starting at €9,000 per year for the English-taught medical and dentistry programmes.
To be admitted, applicants must have completed secondary education, passed an entrance exam in Biology and Chemistry, and achieved at least 62% in Chemistry and Biology for non-EU students.
Students can choose to live in university dormitories, which cost around €70 per month, or rent private apartments near the university, with prices ranging from €450 to €600 per month.
UK students can apply through MedConnect Europe, which assists with the entire application process, from collecting documents to submitting them to the university.