Sofia Medical University

Established in 1917, the Faculty of Medicine at the Medical University of Sofia stands as the oldest medical faculty in Bulgaria. Throughout its history, the faculty has consistently aimed to hold a prominent position among the nation's medical institutions. This dedication to excellence has driven continuous enhancement in educational standards over the years, propelling the university to earn its place as one of the premier destinations for studying medicine in Europe. And indeed, it has achieved that status.

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Courses Offered at Sofia Medical University

 

Medical University Sofia admits 400 students for the medicine-in-English course and 80 for the dentistry-in-English course.

 

The MD Programme at Sofia Medical University spans six years and is structured into three stages:

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1. Preclinical training: Provides foundational biological and medical knowledge.

2. Clinical training: Focuses on diagnostic and treatment-related knowledge. Clinical education from the third year onward is organized using a modular system.

3. Pregraduation practice: Involves rotations within the University hospitals' departments.

 

The final state examination encompasses five exams in Internal Medicine, Surgery, Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Hygiene and Ecology. Successful graduates are awarded the "Master" degree and the qualification of "Physician."

 

The Dental Medicine Programme spans five and a half years, including a six-month pre-graduate internship. The program is divided into three phases. The first two years involve medicobiological studies.

 

From the second semester to the tenth, clinical and dental training cover general medical and specific dental disciplines. The pre-diploma internship encompasses various areas, including Paediatric Dental Medicine, Conservative Dental Medicine, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Prosthetic Dental Medicine, Periodontology, and Orthodontics.

 

The Pharmacy Programme spans five years and is divided into three stages. The initial stage establishes foundational knowledge, the second stage imparts specialized pharmacy-related knowledge and skills, and the final stage involves practical training in public or hospital pharmacies during the last semester.

 

It's important to note that there is no Graduate Entry program offered at Sofia Medical University.

MU Sofia's campus is situated in the city center at Sofia 1431, blvd. "Acad. Ivan Geshov" № 15.

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Extracurricular and Leisure Activities

 

Aspiring doctors at Sofia Medical University have the opportunity to engage with various student organizations tailored to their interests. Here are a few notable options:

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1. Student Council: Ideal for individuals with leadership qualities, the Student Council allows students to contribute to the university's affairs and decision-making processes.

2. Medical Students Association: This organization is essential for anyone pursuing a future in medicine. It provides a platform for medical students to connect, collaborate, and engage in activities related to their field.

3. European Club for Ecology and Sustainable Development: Suited for socially active students passionate about championing causes related to ecology and sustainable development.

 

In addition to these organizations, future doctors can participate in research programs and competitions. Research competitions offer students the opportunity to propose their own research projects to the university. Successful applicants receive official funding and the chance to make a significant impact in their chosen field of study.

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Medical University of Sofia Tuition Fees

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The university teaches the following courses in English: medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy, and it takes 6, 5,5, and 5 years to complete, respectively. Medicine and dentistry tuition fees are ~£7,800per year, while pharmacy is ~€6000 per year. Living expenses amount to around €900 per month.

 

Sofia Medical University doesn’t offer a graduate-entry medicine, but it accepts transfers from other medical schools. Each academic year covers 60 ECTS credits in this university. Transfer students with academic differences may need to study any missing subjects, on top of the usual subjects, in the year they are transfering to at this university. In this case, transfer students would have to pay approximately EUR 133 per extra credit on top of the usual annual tuition fees. This applies if the student has some subjects missing in their transcript compared to the University of Sofia's curriculum. The extra credits are in addition to the usual curriculum and sequence of subjects in Bulgaria. For example, if you are transferring into the 3rd year of medicine, but you are missing "Social Medicine" (5 ECTS) then you'd be accepted into the third year on condition that you study "Social Medicine" on top of all of the subjects of the third year. Therefore, an additional fee to cover the teaching hours provided to you in "Social Medicine" would be EUR 133 per credit. In total, 5 ECTS multiplied by EUR 133, coming to a total of EUR 665, on top of the annual tuition fee of EUR 9000.

 

Submission of documents costs €35, and the fees for the exams in Chemistry, Biology and English are €200 in total.

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Medical University of Sofia Admission & Entry Requirements

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For EU, EEC, and Confederation Switzerland citizens seeking admission:

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• Document submission is open from mid-July to mid-September.

• Exams in English, Biology, and Chemistry usually take place shortly after the application period closes.

• Results and rankings are typically released 2 to 3 days following the exams.

• It's important to note that if a candidate doesn't pass any of the exam components, the entire exam is considered unsuccessful. The outcomes of the written exams are deemed final.

 

Student rankings are established based on their combined high school grades in Biology and Chemistry along with their scores from the entry test. Applications should be submitted no later than early September, with an understanding that applying earlier enhances the chances of acceptance.

 

The entrance test is conducted directly at the university campus. Upon arrival, you'll have the opportunity to connect with our current students who are already part of the faculty. They will offer guidance, support, and valuable insights into the most effective strategies for succeeding in your medical studies at Sofia Medical University.

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Feel free to get in touch with us now to discover how we can streamline your admission process and provide you with all the necessary assistance to ensure a smooth transition into studying medicine abroad at our esteemed institution.

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Sofia Medical University Accreditation

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Medical University Sofia holds accredited status and offers a diploma that holds international recognition.

Accreditation for Sofia Medical University is granted by Bulgaria's Ministry of Education and Science as well as the National Evaluation and Accreditation Agency in Bulgaria.

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Additionally, the General Medical Council (GMC) acknowledges and recognizes the credentials of the Medical University of Sofia. To qualify for acceptance by the GMC, graduates must fulfill certain criteria: successful completion of a course spanning at least 5,500 hours and lasting a minimum of three years.

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Accommodation at the Medical University of Sofia

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While dormitories are available at MUS, they are located about a 30-minute walk away from the university. As is often the case, international students in Sofia generally prefer the convenience of renting an apartment in close proximity to the campus.

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Rent prices for a one-bedroom apartment range from €275 to €420 per month, which is quite reasonable considering Sofia's status as the capital of Bulgaria. Opting for tenancy is highly recommended as it can greatly simplify your daily life.

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In the vicinity of the Medical University of Sofia, a diverse array of entertainment options awaits – from cafeterias and restaurants to shopping centers, clubs, parks, and more. The city boasts several large shopping malls, easily accessible via the subway in just a few minutes.

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Life as a Medical Student in Sofia, Bulgaria

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Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, stands as a vibrant hub with a population of 1.5 million and plays host to over 105,000 higher education students. This bustling metropolis not only offers ample opportunities for leisure and entertainment but also serves as a nurturing ground for personal growth and development.

 

The majestic Vitosha mountain graces the city's skyline, offering a continuous source of natural beauty and recreational options. Students frequently devote their weekends to hiking the trails, skiing the slopes, or conquering the peaks, subsequently infusing their studies with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

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However, departing the city isn't the sole means of communing with nature, as Sofia boasts a collection of expansive parks and numerous city gardens. These green spaces cater to diverse preferences – from tranquil retreats for introspection to vibrant settings for sports and relaxation.

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The city's cultural vitality provides another avenue for recreation. An array of theaters, operas, and concert halls dot the landscape, regularly welcoming international luminaries. Students are privy to a plethora of monumental events and performances in Bulgaria's capital.

 

Sofia's historical wealth is equally enticing for young explorers. The St. Sophia Church and the Rotunda Church of St. George, each over 17 centuries old, have persisted since Roman times. While these two stand as the oldest temples, a host of other splendid churches, mosques, and synagogues are scattered throughout the city.

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For young individuals who relish a dynamic lifestyle, Sofia proves to be an exceptional city. Students are spoiled for choice with a diverse array of events, many of which foster valuable networking opportunities.

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Term Dates

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The academic year for first-year students admitted who are taught in English in Medicine, Dental Medicine, and Pharmacy starts in October every year.