Plovdiv Medical University

Plovdiv Medical University stands out as one of the most highly-regarded medical institutions in Bulgaria and Europe. Students from around the globe choose this university as their destination for pursuing studies in medicine or dentistry. Initially established as a medical faculty within Plovdiv University in 1945, it gained its independent university status just five years later. The university provides a combined offering of 400 positions for English-taught courses in both medicine and dentistry, each spanning a duration of 6 years.

 

Annually, more than 3800 students, both local and international, receive education and training within its campus. The university encompasses faculties specializing in Pharmacy, Dentistry, Medicine, and Public Health, in addition to a medical college and a sprawling 2000-bed hospital. The Central University Library enriches students with access to over 170,000 volumes in various languages, an internet hub, and entry to valuable systems such as Medline and Micromedex. The campus is equipped with cutting-edge facilities including laboratories, clinics, diagnostic and treatment units, research spaces, and platforms for the education of aspiring medical and dental students.

 

Located at the heart of Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second-largest city, Plovdiv Medical University stands as a prime choice for those seeking top-notch medical education within Bulgaria. The physical address is 15A, Vassil Aprilov Blvd., with the postal code 4002.

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Courses Offered at Plovdiv Medical University

 

The MD Program at Plovdiv University spans over a period of 6 years, encompassing comprehensive training across preclinical and clinical subjects, alongside a year-long clinical rotation.

 

The Dentistry Program at Plovdiv Medical University extends for a duration of 5 years and 9 months, comprising 10 semesters and an additional 9 months of pre-diploma clinical clerkship.

 

The Pharmacy Course offered by Plovdiv Medical University spans a total of 5 years, encompassing 9 semesters of coursework and an additional 6 months of pre-diploma clerkship.

 

It's important to note that the Petre Shotadze Tbilisi Medical Academy does not provide a Graduate Entry program.

 

 

Extracurricular and Leisure Activities

 

Enthusiasts of the sciences will discover a welcoming environment within the research initiatives of Plovdiv Medical University. Inquisitive individuals have the opportunity to engage in projects spanning technology, pharmaceuticals, and therapeutics, and even delve into the realms of medical management and economics, catering to those intrigued by the business facets of the field.

 

Simultaneously, prospective medical professionals will find a couple of notable organizations of significance: the Association of Medical Students and the International Welcome Center. The former orchestrates charitable events and campaigns focused on diverse medical causes. The latter extends support to international students throughout their entire tenure in the country, offering guidance to newcomers and orchestrating various recreational activities to enrich the student experience.

 

Medical University of Plovdiv Tuition Fees

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The university offers courses in English in medicine, dental medicine, and pharmacy. Tuition fees for medicine and dentistry are £7,800 per year. The Pharmacy program costs €6000. Other expenses include ~€20 for submitting documents and ~€180 for entry tests in Biology and Chemistry.

 

The annual tuition fee does not include accommodation, health insurance, textbooks, and educational handbooks. They are at the student’s own expense.

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Medical University of Plovdiv Admission & Entry Requirements

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Application deadlines are set for early September for EU/EEA applicants and mid-July for non-EU/non-EEA applicants.

 

Prospective candidates are required to demonstrate their study of Biology and Chemistry during their High School years (A-level, leaving certificate, baccalaureate) and exhibit commendable grades in these subjects. A crucial step involves taking a multiple-choice examination in Biology and Chemistry, and successful completion of this exam is a prerequisite for consideration. Subsequently, applicants are evaluated and ranked based on both their performance in the entrance exam and the strength of their application.

 

The ranking process is determined by the following methodology:

1. Conversion of Secondary Education Diploma Grades in Biology and Chemistry to the six-scale grading system (ranging from 2 to 6, as employed in the Bulgarian education system).

2. Multiplication of grades attained in the entrance examinations for Biology and Chemistry by a factor of two.

3. The resulting total score ranges from a minimum of 24 to a maximum of 36.

 

It's essential to note that candidates who receive failing marks in any of the aforementioned assessments will not be included in the ranking procedure for admitted students.

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Plovdiv Medical University Accreditation

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MU-Plovdiv provides a range of courses and programs that lead to officially recognized higher education degrees, including bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees in various fields of study. The admission rate typically falls within the range of approximately 15%, positioning this institution as a highly coveted destination for medical education.

 

MU-Plovdiv holds full accreditation from Bulgaria's Ministry of Education and Science, as well as recognition from the National Evaluation and Accreditation Agency in Bulgaria.

 

Furthermore, the Medical University of Plovdiv is acknowledged and recognized by the General Medical Council (GMC). Meeting GMC's criteria for acceptance entails graduating from a program comprising a minimum of 5,500 hours of coursework and spanning at least three years.

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Accommodation at the Medical University of Plovdiv

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Situated approximately 30 minutes away on foot from the town center, the university campus offers convenient access. This proximity has led many international students to opt for private accommodations in close proximity to the campus.

 

Plovdiv proves to be an economical choice for apartment rentals, thanks to the city's generally low cost of living. Monthly rental rates typically range from €250 to €350. In addition, the average living expenses, excluding rent, amount to around €470.

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Life as a Medical Student in Plovdiv, Bulgaria

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As per experts, Plovdiv ranks among the Top 5 oldest continuously inhabited settlements globally. Surpassing the antiquity of Rome and Athens, it rightfully claims the title of Bulgaria's cultural capital.

 

Earning the moniker "City of Hills," Plovdiv boasts seven mounts within and around its borders. Legend recounts a titanic battle wherein Balkan, the titan, hurled massive stones at Poseidon during a dispute over a goddess. Wounded, the sea deity withdrew to his aquatic domain. The aftermath of this epic clash endures in the form of the city's seven hills and the river, said to be the blood of Poseidon.

 

Flowing through Plovdiv, the Maritsa River brings cooling waters to the city during warm summers. Ironically, seven bridges span its width, with the oldest becoming a favored site for love locks. This river also offers an inviting backdrop for leisurely strolls with friends and loved ones.

 

Speaking of explorations, Plovdiv boasts an astonishing Old Town, situated in the pedestrian-centric heart of the city. Here, the ancient Forum, Stadium, and Amphitheater come to life. These structures, nearly two millennia old, include an amphitheater that remains operational to this day. With a capacity for 30,000 attendees, this arena frequently hosts performances by international music luminaries.

 

Given the city's substantial student population of around 20,000, Plovdiv brims with attractions for young individuals. Notable among these is Kapana, a district dedicated to arts and crafts. Local cafes, restaurants, and bars draw the city's youth, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

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Term Dates

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The academic year commences on October 1st. A Christmas break spans from December 23rd to January 6th, although first-year students typically enjoy a more extended hiatus. The second semester initiates on February 1st and concludes in late May. Subsequently, students undergo their end-of-year examinations during the months of June and July.

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