Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” – Faculty of Medicine
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Sofia,
Bulgaria
Abroad
General Information
Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, established in 1888, is the oldest and highest-ranked university in Bulgaria. While it originally housed the Faculty of Medicine until 1950, the faculty was restored in 2003 to provide a highly academic, research-driven medical education. Unlike specialized medical universities, being part of the broad Sofia University gives students access to an interdisciplinary environment alongside law, science, and humanities students. It is globally recognized for its small class sizes and its clinical base at the state-of-the-art Lozenetz Hospital.
General Info
- Established: 1888 (University); 1917 (Original Faculty); 2003 (Restored).
- Primary Location: > 15 Boulevard "Tsar Osvoboditel", 1504 Sofia Center, Bulgaria.
- Academic Tracks:
- Medicine (MD): A 6-year program (10 semesters + 1 year of state internship).
- Nursing: A 4-year Bachelor’s program.
- Medical Rehabilitation & Ergotherapy: 4-year Bachelor’s program.
- Admission Process:
- Entrance Exam: Mandatory test in Biology and Chemistry (conducted in English).
- Eligibility: High school diploma with passing grades in Biology and Chemistry (min. 62% aggregate). NEET is mandatory for Indian applicants.
- Ranking: Admission is highly competitive, as the university maintains smaller cohorts (approx. 50–60 spots for the English program) to ensure personalized training.
- Instruction: Available in English and Bulgarian.
- Research Focus: Molecular biology, genetics, and clinical innovation.
Campus Facilities
The Faculty of Medicine utilizes its own specialized facilities and the broader historical campus of Sofia University.
- Lozenetz University Hospital: Known as the "Governmental Hospital," it is the primary clinical base, offering some of the most modern diagnostic equipment in the Balkans.
- Military Medical Academy (MMA): A secondary training site renowned for its trauma surgery and toxicology departments.
- Anatomy Dissection Halls: Located within the Faculty of Medicine’s dedicated wing, providing high-quality cadaveric training.
- Integrated Laboratories: Students use advanced labs across the Faculties of Biology, Physics, and Chemistry for foundational science modules.
- Historical Rectorate: One of Sofia’s most beautiful landmarks, housing grand auditoriums and administrative centers.
- Sofia University Library: A major European research library with millions of volumes and extensive digital medical archives.
- Botanical Garden: Managed by the university, used for specialized research in pharmacognosy and biology.
- Computer & IT Hub: High-speed centers providing access to medical software and research databases.
- University Sports Center: Includes facilities for rowing, basketball, and tennis, as well as access to mountain resorts for skiing.
- Student Cultural Center: Hosts student organizations, theater groups, and the famous "Sofia University Choir."
Hospital & Medical Facilities
Leading tertiary care hospital attached to the institution
- Lozenetz Hospital: A leader in transplant surgery and cardiac interventions. It serves as a "boutique" teaching hospital with a focus on high-technology care.
- MMA (Military Medical Academy): Provides exposure to emergency medicine, abdominal surgery, and intensive care in a high-volume setting.
- Clinical Rotations: Small student groups (typically 6–8 students per group) allow for direct mentorship by senior clinicians.
Fee Structure
State University Affordability
Sofia University offers a transparent fee structure, often slightly more affordable than other medical schools in the capital.
Scholarships
- Academic Achievement Award: Small stipends awarded to students with a GPA of 5.50/6.00 or higher.
- Erasmus+ Grants: Monthly support (€500–€700) for students participating in European exchange programs.
- US Fulbright Grants: Available for American students conducting research or study in Bulgaria.
- External Student Loans: EU citizens can access state-subsidized loans through partner Bulgarian banks like DSK or Allianz.
City Details
- The Vibe: Sofia is a cosmopolitan capital sitting at the foot of Vitosha Mountain. It is safe, rich in history, and has a vibrant nightlife.
- Connectivity:
- Metro: The "Sofia University" station is a major hub connecting the city's key lines.
- Air: Sofia International Airport (SOF) is highly accessible by metro and bus.
- Safety: The university districts are generally very safe and well-monitored.
Hostel & Mess
- Accommodation: Most students live in the "Studentski Grad" (Students' City) district, which is a massive hub of student life, cafes, and dormitories. Others prefer private apartments near Lozenetz Hospital.
- Dining: University canteens provide affordable "Menus of the Day." The Students' City area is famous for having 24/7 dining options ranging from traditional Bulgarian to international cuisines.
- Vibe: Students here enjoy a broader university life than those at specialized medical schools, often befriending future diplomats, linguists, and engineers.
Miscellaneous
- Accreditation: NEAA (Bulgaria), WHO, ECFMG (USA), GMC (UK), and NMC (India).
- Admission Window: Applications typically close in August for the October intake.
- Degree Status: Master’s in Medicine (Doctor of Medicine).
Collage Images Gallery
Facilities & Campus Life
Well-equipped Library
Experienced Faculty
Computer Lab
Sports Activities
Heritage Campus
Frequently Asked Questions
Students must typically have a minimum of 50% marks in PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) in the 12th standard (40% for reserved categories) and must have qualified NEET in the current or previous two years, as per NMC guidelines.
The duration is generally 6 years in total, which includes 5 years of academic study (54 months) and 1 year of compulsory internship (12 months), fully complying with the latest National Medical Commission (NMC) rules.
The process is simple: 1. Submit scanned documents (10th, 11th, and 12th mark sheets, NEET result, Passport scan, and a recent passport-size photograph with a white background). 2. Receive the Admission Letter from the University. 3. Process the Invitation Letter for Visa. 4. Complete the Visa application with our assistance.
Yes, all our partner universities are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Medical Commission (NMC). Graduate doctors can also write major global licensing exams such as USMLE (USA), PLAB (UK), AMC (Australia), and the FMGE/NExT exam for India.
While most universities admit based on your 12th marks and NEET qualification, some may require a simple online entrance test or interview. We will guide you through any such requirement.
Fees typically cover the Tuition Fee, Hostel Fee, Medical Insurance, Visa Extension, and administrative charges. A detailed, transparent fee structure showing Tuition Fee, Hostel Fee, Mess Charges, Visa/Invitation Fee, and Medical Assurance Fee for each country and university will be provided upfront.
Payment schedules are determined by the individual university. Some universities allow semester-wise payments, while others require annual payments. We will provide clear guidance on the university's official payment schedule.
We are committed to transparency. All costs, including consultation charges and university expenses, are detailed in your offer letter. We strongly advise against any form of donation.
Yes, we coordinate group departures for students and assist with flight ticket booking. Our representative will meet the students at the destination airport and provide transport to the university hostel.
Hostels offer secure accommodation with separate facilities for boys and girls. Indian meals are generally cooked and served by Indian caterers within the hostel premises or mess hall to ensure a suitable diet for students.
Why Consult With Us?
- 15+ years of experience in medical education counseling
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