MBBS in Bulgaria: Eligibility Criteria, Intake, Scholarships, And More

The competition for a medical seat in India is intense, considering the sheer volume of aspirants for the limited number of seats. For many, doing MBBS abroad can be a viable option to achieve their dream of becoming a doctor. MBBS from Bulgaria is one such option that Indian aspirants can consider. For those who want to study MBBS in Bulgaria, the country offers a safe, advanced, and engaging atmosphere along with a good medical education. 

Why Choose to Study MBBS In Bulgaria

There are several compelling reasons why choosing to pursue an MBBS degree in Bulgaria is a great option:-

1.Top-notch medical education 

English-taught, top-notch medical and dental programs are offered in Bulgaria. The curriculum at Bulgarian institutions is created in accordance with the exacting standards of the European Union, so you may anticipate receiving an education on par with that received in any other EU nation. As home to 51 universities, three Bulgarian colleges are listed among the top 200 universities in Emerging Europe and Central Asia, according to the QS University Rankings: EECA 2016. Among them are Sofia University, American University in Bulgaria, and Trakia University. 

2. Diplomas with international recognition

MBBS in Bulgaria for Indian students is a safe choice considering numerous international groups, including the General Medical Council (GMC), the World Health Organisation (WHO), the American Medical Association (AMA), and others have all recognized the medical schools in Bulgaria. This indicates that graduates' credentials are regarded and recognized globally and that they can obtain employment authorization to work in Europe and elsewhere. 

3. A focus on real-world experience

Bulgarian medical schools understand how crucial it is for students to put what they have learned into practice before entering the job. Because of this, you will have several opportunities to get experience through clinical internships or hands-on simulations.

4. Modern medical equipment and facilities

Modern medical facilities and tools are available at medical schools in Bulgaria, allowing students to study in a secure setting. You will be able to practice with cutting-edge medical equipment and mannequins, which will help you be better prepared when you enter the job.

5. Experienced and well-informed faculty

Reputable experts who are committed to educating the following generation of healthcare professionals make up the teaching team of Bulgarian medical universities. Students receive the knowledge and skills they need to excel in the medical field from seasoned professors, who bring years of experience to the classroom.

6. Safe nation with amiable residents

Bulgaria is a secure, tranquil nation with amiable citizens. International students are made to feel at home and supported throughout their time in Bulgaria thanks to the friendly and hospitable spirit of the people there. During your stay, you may bet on making friends for the rest of your life.

7. Curriculum flexibility that allows pupils to work as they study

The universities in Bulgaria have a carefully crafted curriculum that is made with the interests of their students in mind. Students who want to obtain more hands-on experience in the medical sector may find the flexible course dates to be especially helpful.

8. Reasonable tuition and living costs

Bulgaria MBBS fees is lower compared to other European countries. This affordability factor is particularly beneficial for students who may have financial constraints but still want to pursue a quality medical education. Additionally, living expenses in Bulgaria are generally lower, contributing to the overall cost-effectiveness of studying in the country. Tuition at a medical university in Bulgaria ranges from EUR 3000 to 9000 per year.

Specializations After MBBS in Bulgaria

Those who successfully complete MBBS in Bulgaria can go for further specializations as per their interest, including-

• Psychiatry
• Surgery
• Internal medicine
• Radiology
• Oncology
• Orthopedics
• Otorhinolaryngology
• Nephrology

Top Medical Universities for MBBS in Bulgaria

Here are some of the top universities in Bulgaria for MBBS along with Bulgaria MBBS fee:

1. Plovdiv Medical University

Plovdiv Medical University came into existence in 1945 and is known for its numerous departments majorly consisting of 29 in medicine namely dental medicine, public health, pharmacy, and specialized training. Plovdiv Medical University is a hospital offering assistance to its various patients. The university offers specialized training, having experienced professors and renowned scientists.

Annual Tuition Fees:- USD 10,117 (English course)

2. Sofia Medical University 

The curriculum under Sofia Medical University includes an entire medical education program lasting six years and is divided into three stages. Preclinical training equips students with essential biological and medical information that serves as the foundation for clinical training. Clinical training aims to provide information and skills in diagnosis and treatment. Clinical teaching at the Medical Faculty is organized in a modular format after the third year. 

The Medical Faculty also offers 57 recognized PhD programs lasting three years full-time or four years part-time.

Annual Tuition Fees:- USD 10,000 

3. Medical University of Varna

The Medical University of Varna is one of the most modern and high-tech universities in the country, with an appealing multinational environment, cutting-edge training methods and facilities, real-world and simulation training, and fantastic sports and recreation facilities in Bulgaria's Sea Capital. The medical program covers the six year study program in English. The clinical studies at the University look at how biomedical sciences learned in the first two years of medical school are used in practise. From the third year forward, all teaching takes place in clinical settings at the University teaching hospitals' advanced facilities.

Annual Tuition Fees:- USD 10,111

4. Medical University of Pleven

One of the most renowned and well-known institutions in Bulgaria that offers an MBBS program at the undergraduate level is Pleven Medical University. Pleven Medical University came into existence in 1974 and is known for its highly qualified professors and world-class education in medical programs. The University has all of the theoretical, pre-clinical, and clinical departments needed for advanced medical education. The University has graduated over 6000 Bulgarian and international students from over 30 countries.

The current student population is 2044. There are 519 international students studying Medicine in English-medium courses. 

Annual Tuition Fees:- USD 9,556

5. Trakia University

The Trakia Medical College was founded in 1947. In order to professionally and personally develop the specialists required for the economic and spiritual prosperity of the country and region, the university offers high-quality higher education for professional careers in the fields of human and veterinary medicine, pedagogy, engineering and technology, agriculture, economics, ecology, and environmental protection.

Annual Tuition Fees: USD 8,300

Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in Bulgaria

If you want to enroll in one of the Bulgarian medical universities, you must meet the following requirements mentioned below:-

•  They must have completed their high/secondary school education (12 years) and received a Diploma/School Leaving Certificate/GCE A-2, which allows them to apply to universities in their secondary/high school's home country.
• Applicants with a UK educational background must have studied, finished, and achieved marks in Biology and Chemistry in high school, with at least one of these two subjects at A2 level and the other at A2/A/S level or GCSE.
• Applicants must have completed Biology and Chemistry courses with an average score of at least 62% of the maximum possible based on the grading system used in the country of origin of the secondary (high) school where they attended.
• To equate their high school diploma at any of Bulgaria's Regional Departments of Education.
• Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English language proficiency at least at the B1 level by uploading any of the specified certificates to their profile in the University's Registration system or by taking a diagnostic test at the University.

Intakes for MBBS in Bulgaria

Scholarships for MBBS in Bulgaria

Numerous scholarships are available from Bulgarian universities, depending on different criteria.

1. Plovdiv Medical University 

The following are the requirements for the Rector's Award scholarships that Plovdiv Medical University offers:-

• From the start of their studies up until the present, the student must have completed all of the exams required by the curriculum.
• The average score from the prior academic year must be at least 5,50

2. Medical University of Varna

The Medical University of Varna provides students with financial aid through Special Achievement Scholarships. The requirements of which are mentioned below:-

1) Cumulative GPAs of at least Good 4 from the preceding semester.

2) Applicants must submit a Certificate of their GPA from the previous semester, issued by the respective Faculty Office.

Job Opportunities After MBBS in Bulgaria

After completing an MBBS degree in Bulgaria, you have several job opportunities available. Here are some options:

1) Medical Practitioner

You can work as a general practitioner or family physician in a hospital, clinic, or private practice. This role involves diagnosing and treating patients, providing primary healthcare services, and referring patients to specialists when needed. 

2) Specialist Doctor

You can pursue a specialization in a specific medical field through postgraduate training programs. Specialties may include cardiology, pediatrics, surgery, dermatology, radiology, etc. 

3) Hospital Resident

Many graduates choose to work as residents in hospitals to gain further experience and training. Residents work under the guidance of senior doctors and participate in various rotations across different medical departments. 

4) Researcher

If you have a keen interest in medical research, you can join research institutions or universities as a researcher. Here, you can contribute to ongoing medical studies, conduct clinical trials, or pursue academic research in collaboration with other professionals. 

5) Public Health Officer

Public health is an essential field that focuses on preventing diseases and promoting overall health in communities. You can work in government health departments, non-profit organizations, or international health agencies, contributing to public health initiatives, epidemiological studies, health policy development, and health education programs. 

6) Medical Consultant

As a medical consultant, you can provide expert advice and consultation services to hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, or healthcare organizations. This role may involve reviewing medical cases, offering recommendations, and contributing to the development of healthcare policies. 

7) Medical Education

If you have a passion for teaching, you can pursue a career in medical education. You can become a professor or lecturer in medical universities, guiding and mentoring aspiring medical students. Additionally, you can contribute to curriculum development and research in medical education.

FMGE After MBBS from Bulgaria to Practice in India

The National Board of Examination first offered the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) in 2002. It is intended for Indian students who have completed their MBBS program abroad yet wish to practice medicine in India. Such students are required to register with the State Medical Council (SMC) following the completion of their medical education. Only those students who take and pass the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) are eligible to register with SMC. 

Eligibility Criteria To Practice Medicine In India 

• After completing their medical education, students who wish to practice medicine in India must register with a State Medical Council (SMC).
• The National Board of Examinations (NBE)-administered Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) must be taken and passed before SMC can enroll a student for classes. 
• A candidate cannot take the FMGE without having received an Eligibility Certificate (EC) from the MCI before enrolling in a medical program at a foreign university. 
• The Medical Council of India (MCI) provides the EC to applicants if they have met the requirements outlined in Sections 4 and 5 of the Medical Council of India Regulation on Graduate Medical Education, 1997. Because the Regulation lays forth the selection criteria, compliance with them is required.

Conclusion

Pursuing an MBBS degree in Bulgaria offers a promising opportunity for aspiring medical professionals. The country boasts reputable universities with well-established medical programs that are recognized globally. Bulgaria's affordable tuition fees, low cost of living, and high standard of education make it an attractive choice for international students and as a result, the number of foreign students attending Bulgarian universities is growing. According to the Education Ministry, on November 28, there were 16,525 international students attending universities in Bulgaria for the 2021-22 academic year, accounting for 8.2% of all students in the country.