Top Universities in Bulgaria are becoming a popular choice for international students because they offer affordable tuition, quality education, and globally recognized degrees. Bulgaria is part of the European Higher Education Area. Many of the Top Universities in Bulgaria provide scholarships, merit awards, and funding options for international students. The country offers programs in English and Bulgarian in fields like medicine, engineering, business, arts, and social sciences. Tuition fees are some of the lowest in Europe, making it an attractive destination for students who want high quality education without high costs.

In 2026, the demand to study abroad is still rising, and Top Universities in Bulgaria are gaining attention from students in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. These universities not only offer scholarships but also a multicultural campus environment and opportunities to work part-time while studying. Prospective students must prepare documents early, check visa requirements, and apply for scholarships well before deadlines to secure affordable education. From historic universities to modern research-focused institutions, Bulgaria has options to fit diverse academic goals.

1. Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”

Sofia University is Bulgaria’s oldest and largest public university, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in sciences, arts, law, engineering, business, and medicine. International students benefit from merit-based and need based scholarships, which can cover full or partial tuition. These awards often include research grants and support for living expenses. Scholarships are granted based on academic performance, participation in university programs, and research potential, allowing students to focus entirely on their studies while gaining practical and academic experience.

2. University of National and World Economy (UNWE)

UNWE is renowned for its programs in economics, finance, and management. Scholarships are provided for top performing students and may include partial tuition waivers, merit awards, and funding for postgraduate research. International students can also access financial support for participation in Erasmus+ and other exchange programs. These opportunities ensure that talented students can pursue a high quality education while gaining skills essential for the global business environment.

3. Technical University of Sofia

Technical University of Sofia offers scholarships for students demonstrating academic excellence in engineering, technology, and applied sciences. International students can receive merit based tuition reductions, research funding, and opportunities to participate in international projects. These awards are designed to attract talented students and provide them with the financial and academic support needed to succeed in technical fields.

4. American University in Bulgaria (AUBG)

AUBG provides a US-style education with merit based scholarships covering up to 100% of tuition for outstanding international students. Leadership scholarships, financial need awards, and sports-based funding are also available. Scholarships at AUBG can be combined with exchange programs, research projects, and internships, offering students both financial support and global exposure, making it one of the most attractive Top Universities in Bulgaria for international learners.

5. Medical University of Sofia

Medical University of Sofia offers scholarships for students pursuing degrees in medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy. Awards include partial tuition coverage, merit-based funding, and support for research and clinical training programs. These scholarships enable international students to focus on developing their professional expertise in the medical field while managing their financial commitments.

6. Plovdiv University “Paisii Hilendarski”

Plovdiv University provides scholarships based on academic excellence and research potential. International students may receive partial or full tuition coverage and can participate in exchange programs with partner universities in Europe. Scholarships also support research projects and practical internships, ensuring students gain both theoretical knowledge and hands on experience.

7. New Bulgarian University (NBU)

NBU offers scholarships for students in arts, business, technology, and social sciences. Merit based and need-based awards cover tuition, living expenses, and research opportunities. These scholarships enable international students to engage fully in academic and extracurricular programs, fostering a comprehensive university experience.

8. Varna Free University

Varna Free University provides scholarships to high achieving students in business, law, and architecture programs. Scholarships can cover full or partial tuition and may include additional funding for research projects and participation in international exchange programs. These opportunities allow students to gain both practical experience and academic knowledge while reducing financial strain.

9. Burgas Free University

Burgas Free University offers merit based scholarships for international students pursuing programs in law, IT, and communication. Scholarships include partial or full tuition reductions and support for involvement in research and collaborative projects, allowing students to combine academic study with professional development.

10. University of Economics – Varna

University of Economics Varna provides scholarships for students demonstrating high academic performance in economics and business programs. Funding may cover tuition reductions and participation in research projects or international exchanges. Scholarships at this university help students gain both theoretical understanding and practical skills relevant to global business environments.

11. Technical University of Varna

Technical University of Varna awards scholarships to students in engineering and technical disciplines. International students can receive merit-based tuition reductions, research funding, and opportunities to engage in international collaborations. These scholarships encourage academic excellence and provide practical exposure to industry projects.

12. D.A. Tsenov Academy of Economics

D.A. Tsenov Academy of Economics offers scholarships to students in finance, business, and economics. Awards are merit-based and may include tuition coverage as well as opportunities to participate in research initiatives, competitions, and exchange programs, fostering both academic and professional growth.

13. South-West University “Neofit Rilski”

South West University provides scholarships based on academic excellence in science, arts, and social sciences. Eligible students can receive partial or full tuition coverage and financial support for research activities, helping them focus fully on their studies while gaining international experience.

14. Trakia University

Trakia University offers scholarships for programs in veterinary, agricultural, and pedagogical fields. Awards include tuition support and opportunities to participate in international research projects, giving students practical experience alongside their academic studies in specialized disciplines.

15. University of Forestry Sofia

University of Forestry provides scholarships for students in forestry, ecology, and environmental sciences. Awards include merit-based tuition reductions and financial support for research projects. Scholarships enable students to pursue specialized studies while contributing to environmental and forestry research initiatives in Bulgaria.

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