Studying MBBS overseas is not a luxury- but an intelligent alternative to thousands of Indian students who fail to get a government seat and yet do not have enough money to join private medical colleges that charge 60 lakh to 1 crore. Bulgaria comes as one of the most ideal places to do MBBS within a pocket friendly price.
Being part of the European Union and located in Southeastern Europe, Bulgaria is emerging as one of the best MBBS destinations due to low fee structure, education in English and world-renowned medical degrees. When it comes to Bulgaria MBBS cost, procedure of admission, ranking, living conditions and scope of career, you have everything that an Indian student requires in this guide.
Why MBBS in Bulgaria? (Top 10 Reasons)
1. Affordable Medical Education
Bulgaria is a destination providing EU standards of education at Indian prices. The fee of the MBBS in Bulgaria is far below the fees of Western Europe or Indian Private Colleges.
2. NMC and WHO Recognized Degrees
All major medical universities are approved by:
- National Medical Commission (NMC), India
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- World Federation for Medical Education (WFME)
- ECFMG (USA) – making students eligible for USMLE
- GMC (UK) – after passing PLAB
3. Medium of Instruction: English
The MBBS programs of international students involve 100 percent learnings in English, but during clinical rotations, the students are taught Bulgarian.
4. No Donations or Capitation
Bulgarian universities do not invite donations like the Indian private colleges and hence, admissions are purely based on merit basis.
5. EU Degree Recognition
Being one of the members of the EU, Bulgarian degrees are valid throughout the continent. This allows one to study anywhere in the EU or use a PG course.
6. FMGE & USMLE Coaching Available
FMGE/NExT coaching has been supported by many universities or consultants, and the curriculum is according to the USMLE/PLAB guidelines.
7. High Education Standards
The curriculum is European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) based and it has the latest infrastructure, simulation labs and research opportunities.
8. Safe and Student-Friendly
With low crime rates, Bulgaria also has cities that are clean, friendly, and have low costs such as Sofia and Plovdiv which makes them friendlier to the students.
9. Vibrant International Community
Students originating in India, Germany, Greece, Turkey, Nigeria and UK study here- seeking international exposure and network.
10. Gateway to European Residency
On graduating, the students will have the freedom to undertake postgraduate or work in EU, UK or USA depending on their passing various licensing exams.
Bulgaria MBBS Cost in 2025 – Complete Breakdown
Tuition Fees for MBBS (Per Year)
| University Name | Annual Fee (€) | Total for 6 Years (€) | Approx. Total in INR |
| Medical University – Sofia | €8,000 | €48,000 | ₹43–45 Lakhs |
| Medical University – Plovdiv | €8,000 | €48,000 | ₹43–45 Lakhs |
| Medical University – Varna | €8,000 | €48,000 | ₹43–45 Lakhs |
| Medical University – Pleven | €7,500 | €45,000 | ₹40–42 Lakhs |
Note: €1 ≈ ₹90 (Exchange rates may vary)
Living Costs in Bulgaria (Per Year)
| Expense Type | Monthly (in €) | Yearly (in €) | Yearly in INR |
| Hostel/Accommodation | €150–€250 | €1,800–€3,000 | ₹1.6–2.7 Lakh |
| Food & Groceries | €100–€150 | €1,200–€1,800 | ₹1.1–1.6 Lakh |
| Transport & Other | €50–€100 | €600–€1,200 | ₹0.5–1.1 Lakh |
Total Bulgaria MBBS Cost for Indian Students:
- Total Tuition Fee (6 years): ₹40–45 Lakhs
- Total Living Expenses (6 years): ₹10–12 Lakhs
- Overall Cost: ₹50–57 Lakhs for entire MBBS program
This is significantly cheaper than private MBBS in India and comparable to MBBS in Russia, Georgia, or Kazakhstan — but with EU-level advantages.
Top Medical Universities in Bulgaria (Recognized Globally)
1. Medical University of Sofia
- Location: Capital city
- Established: 1917 (oldest in Bulgaria)
- Ranking: Top medical university in Bulgaria
- Highlights: Excellent research facilities, WHO & NMC approved, great international exposure
2. Medical University of Plovdiv
- Founded: 1945
- Specialties: Advanced medical simulation center, English-taught MBBS since 2000
- City: Plovdiv – Bulgaria’s second-largest city
3. Medical University of Varna
- Founded: 1961
- Strengths: Smart classrooms, Erasmus+ student exchange, modern coastal city
- Approved by: NMC, WHO, ECFMG
4. Medical University of Pleven
- Founded: 1974
- Known for: Affordable fees and Indian student support
- Special Focus: Modern clinical training, 100% English program
MBBS in Bulgaria for Indian Students – Eligibility Criteria
Indian students must meet the following criteria for admission in Bulgaria:
| Criteria | Requirement |
| Age | Minimum 17 years |
| Academic Qualification | 10+2 (Science stream) |
| Subjects | Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English |
| Minimum Marks | 50% in PCB (40% for SC/ST/OBC) |
| NEET Qualification | Mandatory (as per NMC guidelines) |
| Language Proficiency | No IELTS required for MBBS |
MBBS Course Structure in Bulgaria
| Parameter | Details |
| Course Name | MD (equivalent to MBBS in India) |
| Course Duration | 6 years |
| Medium of Instruction | English |
| Internship | Final year clinical rotations |
| Curriculum | EU-compliant, ECTS-based |
| Academic Year | October intake (apply by June–July) |
The programme is composed of Pre-clinical, Para-clinical and Clinical, focusing on:
- Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry
- Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology
- Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, OB-GYN
- Psychiatry, Radiology, Emergency Medicine
Admission Process for MBBS in Bulgaria – Step-by-Step Guide (2025)
Step 1: Choose a University
Select among top Bulgarian universities that are NMC/WHO recognized.
Step 2: Prepare Documents
- 10th & 12th Marksheets
- NEET Scorecard
- Valid Passport
- Birth Certificate
- Passport-size Photos
- Medical Fitness Certificate
Apply to the university or one of the reliable consultancies.
Step 3: Apply for Admission
Each document should be translated to Bulgarian language and be apostilled.
Step 4: Receive Offer Letter
If eligible, you’ll receive a Conditional/Final Offer Letter.
Step 5: Pay Initial Tuition Fee
Reserve your seat by paying a portion of the tuition fee.
Step 6: Visa Processing
Apply for a Type D Student Visa via Bulgarian Embassy in India with:
- Offer Letter
- Bank Statement (proof of funds)
- Travel & Health Insurance
- Police Clearance Certificate
Step 7: Fly to Bulgaria
When the visa is processed, now you can book a ticket and get ready to study in Europe!
Scholarships and Financial Aid
There are no direct Bulgaria scholarships to international MBBS students. However:
- There are universities with fee discounts in subsequent years based on merit
- You can request education loans in Indian banks (university is EU accredited)
Tip: The governments of some of the Indian states provide assistance to studying abroad students – find them in local scholarship portals.
Hostel Facilities & Indian Food
- There are on-campus and non-profit-making hostels with low charges
- The Indian students usually share flats/apartments in order to keep expenses lower
- In big cities such as Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna, Restaurants of Indian characters and Tiffin services can be found.
FMGE & Career After MBBS in Bulgaria
Once students graduate, they are eligible for:
- FMGE/NExT in India (after returning)
- English proficiency (IELTS /OET) then PLAB (UK)
- USMLE (USA) for residency and license
- MCCQE (Canada) for Canadian practice
- PG studies in Europe, directly after clearing entrance tests
The EU-aligned curriculum means that many Indian students successfully pass FMGE examination after Bulgarian MBBS.
Pros and Cons of MBBS in Bulgaria
Pros
- EU-recognized medical degree
- Low tuition fees
- Globally accepted qualifications
- English-medium courses
- Indian student-friendly environment
Cons
- Bulgarian language classes mandatory for internship
- Limited PG seats in Bulgaria itself
- Winters can be harsh (especially for students from South India)
Final Words
In the year 2025, selecting Bulgaria as an MBBS course option is a healthy choice by Indian students who aim to get top educational facilities at an affordable price. Globally recognized, PEEP, modern infrastructure and safe study environment makes MBBS in Bulgaria to Indian students a low cost, high investment tool towards successful international career in medical industry.
In case you would strive to get professional advice that can be applied to the best colleges in Bulgaria, MedicalAbroad can assist you.
