Due to its inexpensive education, rich cultural heritage, and friendly academic atmosphere, Bulgaria is rapidly becoming a favourite study spot among international students. Scholarships in Bulgaria are offering several grants for they year 2025 to assist students from all around the globe to follow their academic dreams. Higher education in Bulgaria is made more accessible by multiple funding possibilities provided by distinguished institutions such Sofia University, Plovdiv University, and the Technical University of Sofia. These funds will help students to relieve their financial strain and achieve their educational goals, be it for an undergraduate, master’s, or PhD degree.
Fully funded scholarships covering tuition fees, living expenses, and sometimes travel costs are available at several Bulgarian colleges and in government sponsored initiatives. Outstanding students worldwide have possibilities of getting their education funded by the Bulgarian Government Scholarships, Erasmus+ Program, and several university specific scholarships. In this blog, we will explore the top scholarships in Bulgaria for international students in 2025, covering eligibility requirements and benefits, making it easier for you to choose the right scholarship.
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1. Bulgarian Government Scholarship
For international students looking for scholarships in Bulgaria, the Bulgarian Government Scholarship offers a very competitive financial opportunity. The aim of this scholarship is to provide financial help for living expenditures and cover tuition costs for students from non-EU nations. It allows outstanding students to attend some of Bulgaria’s leading universities, therefore enabling them to reach their academic and career objectives free of charge impediments. The scholarship is a vital tool for enabling talented candidates from different backgrounds access to college by providing full or partial support.
Eligibility:
- Open to non-EU international students
- Must apply for a full-time Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD program
- Must meet the academic and language proficiency requirements
What it covers:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Health insurance
- Travel allowances (for selected candidates)
2. Sofia University Scholarships
One of the leading institutions in Bulgaria, Sofia University offers several scholarships for foreign students spanning many areas of knowledge. By providing funds, lowering tuition fees, and promoting academic success, these awards aim to help high achieving students from many different backgrounds. Sofia University seeks to make good education more available whether you are working toward a bachelor, master’s, or doctorate degree. The college draws students from all over on account of its excellent academic reputation and dedication to global education, therefore creating a vibrant and diverse learning environment.
Eligibility:
- Open to international students outside the EU
- Must meet the academic entry requirements of the chosen program
- Proof of English or Bulgarian language proficiency
What it covers:
- Full or partial tuition fee coverage
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Research grants for PhD students
3. Erasmus+ Scholarships in Bulgaria
A respected European Union project, the Erasmus+ Program provides monetary help for students who want to spend either an entire academic year or semester in Bulgaria. Several Bulgarian institutions of higher learning routinely take part in this initiative, therefore giving students the opportunity to live in a different culture, experience a different academic setting, and broaden their world view. For students looking for good education and international exposure, this scholarship covers living costs and tuition fees, therefore it is quite appealing.
Eligibility:
- Open to students from EU and partner countries
- Must be enrolled in a university that has an Erasmus+ agreement with a Bulgarian institution
- Meet academic and language proficiency requirements
What it covers:
- Tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
- Travel costs
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4. American University in Bulgaria Scholarships
The American University in Bulgaria (AUBG) offers merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students. These scholarships support students from diverse backgrounds who demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential. With this kind of financial support, the student is free to concentrate on their education without any financial distractions, which further fulfills the university’s goal of supporting us in creating a culturally diversified academic institution.
Eligibility:
- Open to international students from all countries
- Must meet the university’s admission criteria
- Proof of English language proficiency
What it covers:
- Accommodation and living expenses for selected students
- Tuition fee waiver (full or partial)
5. St. Kliment Ohridski University Scholarships
St. Kliment Ohridski University offers scholarships for international students of various nationalities with high academic standing and limited means. These scholarships support candidates in different fields and facilitate their entry into higher education in the humanities, sciences, and technology fields. Scholarships are thus awarded on the basis of merit and financial need in a consideration to provide for a broad and vibrant academic setting. Scholarships can be awarded for full or partial tuition coverage, with a monthly stipend for the student that helps cover living expenses, for all qualifying students.
Eligibility:
- Open to international students
- Must maintain a strong academic record
- Must meet language requirements
What it covers:
- Full or partial tuition coverage
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
6. Plovdiv University Scholarships
Plovdiv University offers a variety of scholarships for international students, particularly those pursuing studies in science, humanities, and social sciences. It provides financial assistance to outstanding students who can demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and investment in a particular field of study. Through these scholarships, the university attracts global bright minds and, therefore, diverse, creative, and innovative students. Selected students usually enjoy full or partial tuition waivers and a monthly stipend for living expenses while studying in Bulgaria.
Eligibility:
- Open to international students
- Must meet academic and language requirements
What it covers:
- Tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
9. Varna University of Management Scholarships
Varna University of Management provides scholarships for international students pursuing degrees in business, tourism, and IT. These scholarships reward academic achievement and provide financial relief to deserving students. By guaranteeing high achieving students from all backgrounds the chance to study in a top tier academic setting, the university is dedicated to nurturing a varied student body.
Eligibility:
- Open to international students
- Must have a strong academic background
What it covers:
- Tuition fee waiver (full or partial)
- Living expenses support
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Scholarships in Bulgaria grants awards to deserving international students in sufficient amounts, thus making it a place worth considering for higher education. From government sponsored programs to scholarships offered by specific universities, even scholarships supported by the EU such as Erasmus+, many options exist for relieving financial stress. These scholarships can pay not only tuition fees but also partially cover living costs, making Bulgaria an affordable yet rather high standard place to study. If you are planning to pursue studies there in 2025, start your preparations and submit your applications in time to utilize these generous funding prospects.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can international students study in Bulgaria for free?
Yes, some fully funded scholarships, such as the Bulgarian Government Scholarship and Erasmus+ Program, cover full tuition fees and living expenses.
Can undergraduate students get scholarships in Bulgaria?
Yes, several scholarships in Bulgaria, including Sofia University Scholarships and AUBG Scholarships, offer funding for undergraduate programs.
Do I need to know Bulgarian to apply for these scholarships in Bulgaria?
Most universities offer programs in English, but some scholarships may require Bulgarian language proficiency depending on the course.
What are the key eligibility criteria for scholarships in Bulgaria?
Eligibility varies but generally includes academic excellence, language proficiency, and in some cases, financial need.
How can I apply for scholarships in Bulgaria?
Each scholarship has its own application process. Visit the official university websites and follow the given guidelines to apply.
