Is Bulgaria the New Hotspot for Indian MBBS Students? Find Out!

In recent years, there has been a trend among Indian students wanting to study medicine to look into other destinations aside from Russia, Ukraine, and the Philippines. A steady yet forceful period of change is occurring in Eastern Europe, mainly in Bulgaria, that makes it popular with Indian MBBS students.

With more medical students in India and not enough state seats, the soaring tuition fees at private colleges are forcing thousands to study abroad. Bulgaria has come to be considered a top choice for MBBS because it is affordable and offers a high standard of education.

Therefore, why is Bulgaria now receiving so much attention? We are keen to know, what are the costs of studying MBBS in Bulgaria, what is life like there, and, most importantly, does it give good value to Indian students?

Why Bulgaria Is Attracting Indian MBBS Students

1. Affordable Tuition Fees

Studying MBBS in Bulgaria is far more affordable than in India’s private medical institutions. Donation fees are not charged, and students generally pay tuition one time per year or per semester.

2. Global Degree Recognition

Medical universities in Bulgaria are:

• Recognized and accepted by the National Medical Commission (NMC)
• The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes it.
• Features on the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS)
• Ensure your curriculum matches the Bologna Process and uses the ECTS.

When your degree is recognized, it will be accepted in Europe, India, the UK, the US, and several other countries.

3. EU Benefits & Mobility

Studying MBBS in Bulgaria is beneficial because it is a member of the European Union (EU).

• Carry out medical rotations and travel in EU countries for hands-on training.
• Look into doing a postgraduate degree in Europe
• Make an application for a European medical qualification.

4. English-Taught MBBS Programs

All of the medical universities give students an option to study MBBS (MD) in English for 6 years. Part of this is studying theories and practicing in healthcare settings.

5. High Quality of Education

Medical learning is based on evidence, clinical practice, excellent equipment in labs, and research. Universities have state-of-the-art equipment and partner with important hospitals in the country and internationally.

Top Medical Universities in Bulgaria for Indian Students

1. Medical University – Sofia

• Established: 1917
• Location: Capital city Sofia
• Specialization: Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry

   

• Highlights:
  • Among the oldest and most honored institutions in the country.
  • Solid connections between graduates and state-of-the-art research tools.
  • International students can choose an English MD program.

2. Medical University – Plovdiv

• Established: 1945
• Location: Plovdiv (second-largest city)

   

• Highlights:
  • The latest simulation technology is available.
  • There are solid exchange programs operating through Erasmus.
  • Allows chiropractic patients to use dentistry and pharmacy, too.

3. Medical University – Varna

• Established: 1961
• Location: Port city Varna on the Black Sea

   

• Highlights:
  • Advanced technology in education.
  • A variety of international students on campus.
  • Practical training with different European hospitals should be the main priority.

4. Medical University – Pleven

• Established: 1974
• Location: Pleven

• Highlights:
  • First to make MBBS available to foreign students in English.
  • There are fewer students for every faculty member.
  • The college provides low fees and help for students in need.

MBBS in Bulgaria Fees Structure (2025)

Here’s a breakdown of the MBBS in Bulgaria fees at top universities:

Note: INR conversion based on €1 = ₹90. Exchange rates may vary. Additional costs include hostel, food, and insurance.

MBBS Curriculum in Bulgaria

The 6-year MBBS program is structured as follows:

The final semester includes a mandatory internship and preparation for medical licensing exams (including FMGE/NEXT or PLAB).

Admission Process for Indian Students

Eligibility Criteria

• Must have completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
• Minimum 50% marks in PCB
• NEET qualification is mandatory
• Valid passport and good academic background

Required Documents

• Class 10 & 12 mark sheets
• NEET scorecard
• Birth certificate
• Passport (valid for 1 year)
• Medical fitness certificate
• Police clearance certificate
• Passport-sized photographs
• Admission letter and visa documents

Admission Timeline

• Applications start in April
• Deadline: July–August
• Intake: September–October

Apply early to increase chances of admission and timely visa approval.

Student Life in Bulgaria

Accommodation

• Look for suitable hostel or private apartments if you are seeking one.
• Having a room in a university hostel typically costs between €100 and €200 each month.
• Where you live depends on the city and how far the university is from your chosen accommodation.

Food

• Indian food is easy to find in the biggest cities.
• It is common for Indian students to cook by themselves or take part in meal planning with their friends.
• Groceries won’t cost you much, and you’ll have no problem buying Indian spices at local ethnic markets.

Transport

• Traveling by public transport is cheap and easy to do.
• A student pass costs between €25 and €30 every month.

Indian Student Community

• You can find Indian student associations in the majority of major universities.
• Join in on celebrating Diwali, Holi, and similar festivals.
• New students have the chance to work with people in similar programs and form peer groups.

   

Career Options After MBBS in Bulgaria

Option 1: Return to India

• Attend the exam/test that assesses your medical knowledge.
• NMC-approved degree allows you to apply for licensing.
• Proper clinical education helps you succeed in exams.

Option 2: Postgraduate Studies in Europe

• Bulgarian diplomas are recognized in all EU countries.
• Western European countries offer opportunities for work and lifestyle.

Option 3: International Exams (USMLE/PLAB)

• MBBS graduates in Bulgaria are allowed to sit for USMLE and PLAB.
• It’s possible to get ready while studying for a job.

Pros of Studying MBBS in Bulgaria

Tips for Indian Students Choosing MBBS in Bulgaria

1. Check if the university is approved by the NMC prior to making your decision.
2. Begin your preparation for NEXT/FMGE before completing your studies in another country.
3. Don’t forget to take your winter layer, essential medicines, Indian spices, and the important documents you may need.
4. In the first year, put safety and affordability first by choosing a university dormitory.
5. Count on consultants at MedicalAbroad during the admission, visa application, and integration processes in a new country.

How MedicalAbroad Can Help You

We helped students get admission into major medical universities in Bulgaria, Georgia, Romania, as well as other European countries through MBBS abroad consultancy.

Services Offered:

• Free support from CONNECT as well as input on your profile
• University shortlisting
• Help with getting everything together for the application
• Preparing for a trip means taking care of your visa and arranging tickets.
• Once you have arrived at the hostel, you can get a new SIM card, exchange your currency, and arrange other needed support.

Should You Choose Bulgaria for MBBS?

If you want an internationally accepted, affordable, and safeguarded medical training experience, look no further than Bulgaria in Europe.

Because tuition is lower, universities are backed by NMC, and many openings are found in the EU, MBBS programs in Bulgaria give everything needed by modern medical students but without the burden of Indian private university fees.

Yes, Bulgaria isn’t only trending for Indian MBBS students; it is also a smart and wise pick for the future.