Medical School Sofia, Bulgaria

[homerg88]

I am thinking about this school but I dont know the quality of the school. Is it good, can the professors handle their english well? I am bulgarian but I live in Sweden and most of family is still in Bulgaria, thats why I want to study there. Someone with usefull information that can help me?

[arista29]

I am currently a second year student (from N. America) attending Sofia Medical University. I have a Bachelors degree previous to my enrollment so I can compare the school to that. I have not been to any medical schools in other countries so I cannot say where this school falls in the scale of medical schools. What I can do is give you what I have seen thus far:
The professors for international students all lecture in English and do it quite well. They certainly know their subjects. As far as I have observed, competance levels for profs. are generally very high. Their are a few professors who are also very mediocre but they teach the non-essential subjects. I assume you don't speak Bulgarian? If not, you will be learning it as part of the schedule. We are required to interview patients after the third year and it must be done in Bulgarian.
Other positive things to mention: The school has all certifications, licensures, etc, produces/has produced a number of physicians who work successfully in Western Europe or North America. Exams, thus far, seem to be right on par with other medical schools. Oral exams are the norm. The medical school is partnering with a very good, brand-new foreign built hospital here for clinical rounds - this is great because the "normal" hospitals here that I've had the pleasure to be in are filthy, outdated, and an administrative nightmare. (That's being kind)
There are a greater number of foreign students coming in every year from the west so the school is adjusting as it goes to the expectations of students who are accustomed to different standards.

Negatives: The country is less developed at the moment than the West as you know. The school as a result is lacking some technology and needs restructuring. Some of the school procedures are not as rigid (organized) as in western schools which can seem odd.

As far as Bulgaria itself, it will help that you have family here.
For others, the culture shock is....well huge.

Anyway, I hate to go into more specifics on such a general post. Application/Enrollment is relatively easy and does not require the use of an agency if this is what you are considering. I strongly recommend against this, as it is a waste of money.

If you have more questions, I'll be more than happy to respond.

[arista29]

So after reading a little more on this site, I thought I'd add a bit more. The program is 6 years, which can be good or bad depending on if one has completed a BA/** or not. From my experience, a certain number of college credits will transfer. Class sizes are small for foreigners which is really nice - or not depending on how well you like your classmates.

As far the class I like the most: The anatomy class is great - we get to dissect constantly. It's a two-year class which gives a really solid base and the mid-exams are tough. I'm a good student and it takes a minimum two weeks to prepare in addition to four or five days spent in the anatomy room with the books. The final, at the end of 2nd year is over everything and is about a five hour exam both oral, slides, and written. I'm thinking this a good sign that I have studied here like a crazy person from the beginning.

In general, I would give the school a thumbs up. They've been around for almost a century so it's well established. However, I am hesitant to say too much because I have not been here so long and perhaps am yet to discover some other negatives or positives.

Oh, and as a side note, not ALL of the hospitals here are so bad. Many are good. Most are just very old. I was feeling quite annoyed with the medical system at the moment. At times, I expect the country to be up to N. American standards but it's Bulgaria and we just joined the EU....give it time.

Anyone else out there have something to say? I'm really curious if someone else has something to add here.

[Doctor2012]

hi..can anyone give me a contact number for a person in charge of foreign students? i am looking to transfer to sofia and cannot seem to find any type of contact info on the school's website...

[shadhin]

+8510876 try this number

[AllaMarcella]

I would like to know how can I work as a doctor in Bulgaria. I finished my faculty in Romania. Thank you.

[parvas24]

Could someone give me information about Postgraduate specialization in Medical University of Sofia... do they take in foreign doctors for their postgraduate courses ? English curriculum ? If so what is the fees , admission process , cost of living , contact addresses..... thanx....

[homerg88]

I would liek to know that also

[arista29]

As far as I understand. Foreign tuituion for post-grad is 4200 Eur. The length is 2-5 years depending on specialty, ie. neurosurgery,urology,surgery, internal diseases are longer specialties.
There are fifty specialties available and I'm not going to type them all. gyno, sports med, pathology, parisitology, genetics....etc,etc.
You must have at least a Masters to apply and they require some Bulgarian language study. Is it in English? I have no idea so it is best to contact the school and find out what is required because I am almost certain that if not some classes, but for sure the clinical aspects will require some knowledge of Bulgarian.

[auw116]

Hi, im in the US and am thinking about applying to the med school in Sofia. The poster in the beginning said that he/she applied without an agency. How is that possible? because they do have an agency called Source America, and they take care of you books, finding you an apartment, etc, but also charge a $12k fee. So if you could help me with this i would greatly appreciate it. Also, what is life like there? Im very tech savvy and would have trouble without the use of internet and other electronics of mine.. thanks for any help!

[arista29]

So the 12k fee doesn't cover tuition and is a total waste....so for people who are interested this is what you need:

Documents needed for enrollment of foreign students:

Application or an application form containing short CV data
Copy of the document for secondary education and its supplement with the grades
Document, issued by the competent authorities, certifying the applicant’s right to continue his/her education in the institutions for higher education in the country where he has graduated from secondary school.
University transcript – for students who do not apply for the full course of education
Medical certificate issued within one month of the date of application
Copy of the citizenship documents
Four photos (Smaller than passport size).The documents in points 2,3,4 and 5 must be translated in Bulgarian, legalized and stamped by the Embassy of Bulgaria in the country from which the person applies.

(or from Bulgaria may be done)

The translation and stamping of documents is easy and costs I think I paid 20leva a page but am not sure...in any case, it takes about a week and has to be done here so if someone was seriously wanting to do it without an agency....there are places like the notary here for this. Documents are submitted to the school and in several weeks... Done. Submit for visa six months in advance, get it, buy your books and show up in September.

The best way to do it in my opinion is to come here for a few weeks...submit the paperwork, have a look at the school and talk to other foreign students who can help you figure out your logistics etc.

It seems complicated with the language barrier etc but it's not 12k's worth complicated. That's what I'm trying to establish....and what everyone on these boards has established in regards to agencies.

And....btw there's not a single student I'ne ever talked to who used an agency who felt they weren't taken advantage of six months out when they figured out what really was going on.

[arista29]

Someone asked about books for 1st year in bulgaria:

Anatomy....Netter Atlas and a good theory book...Student Grey's perhaps.

Histology/Cytology: Basic Histology Atlas & Text - Junqueira
A good histological atlas may also help

Medical Latin: Anything covering the basics...declensions etc.

Biology, Chem, Physics: I didn't have to take these classes but a good college text on any of them will do....look for ones with a good rating on amazon etc. The profs don't follow a text usually and you just need something for yourself for added explanation/practice.

Bulgarian: For the first year there is a book to buy here for 40leva (25$) and I reccomend "Teach yourself Bulgarian" by Holman/Kovatcheva to catch what you may miss in class.

I think that covers 1st year.....I go home every summer and get my books for the next year off amazon and it's cheaper and easier. Also here you may copy your fellow student's books for 2 cents a page...very cheaply. Most people are willing to share.

[shadhin]

Hi, im in the US and am thinking about applying to the med school in Sofia. The poster in the beginning said that he/she applied without an agency. How is that possible? because they do have an agency called Source America, and they take care of you books, finding you an apartment, etc, but also charge a $12k fee. So if you could help me with this i would greatly appreciate it. Also, what is life like there? Im very tech savvy and would have trouble without the use of internet and other electronics of mine.. thanks for any help!

I am studying in pleven but Sofia is quite good I heard. Quality of education in pleven is good so I believe it should be the same for sofia. City life is like other EU countries.But be carefull about contractors, they charge huge amount of money for nothing. Schools in Bulgaria are usually verry helpful.You should get all the help from them and its free.
Call this number +8510876

just make sure u bring basic science books and first year medical books . Forget about contractors. U dont need them. Call ur school.

[dokidok]

I try to fill out the application form for USMLE and I wonder about the terms clerkship and internship in Bulgaria. What are the Bulgarians term called:
1. What does the term clerkship mean and during which years of the medical education is? In Item 21 from the application form there is a lot of info to be filled out and I don't even have that much information. So, I spoke to a ECFMG rep and she told me that clerkshIp AKA rotations and this information can be left blank, if I don't know it. It is not going to affect my application and the rest of the process. Is that true? I am asking that because I talked to a coleague who said that he filled out all that info in his application and this is very important. Which one is correct?

2. What does the term Intership means and during which year of the medical education is? In my country we don't have the term Internship. I guess and the ECFMG rep said pretty much the same information, that Intership is what we did during the 6 year after we finished the rotations. It was kind of rotations again with more practical aspect fo the work. Is that true? That what I found on line for my medical university:

The course of study is offered as a six year program. The first 2 years are pre-clinical, the next 3 years are clinical training and the 6th year is the internship year during which students work under supervision at the hospitals. During the 6th year students have to appear for 'state exams' in the 5 major subjects of Internal Medicine, Surgery, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Social Medicine and Pediatrics. Upon successful completion of the 6 yrs of study and the state exams the degree of 'Physician' is conferred.

For some of the others med schools in the world you can sheck it out here... (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_school#Bulgaria)

[Devi2008]

Hello, could someone please provide the contact information or the procedure to request an official transcript from the Medical University of Sofia? I now live in the US and need an official copy of my transcript mailed to an educational institution here but have not been able to find whom to contact in MU Sofia. If you have information on how I could request a transcript from MU Sofia, it would be very much appreciated. Thank you.

[bm87]

I did graduate Bachelor of Medicine from Medical academy Sofia in 1987 and now doing training in Australia. The Australian Medical council wants to veryfy my degree from Bulgaria, which should be done through ECFMG. I already have applied and send the documents to ECFMG more than two months ago, but looks like the Medical academy is not responding to the queries from ECFMG. Without my degree fro Australia verified, I would not be able to continue my training.

Could some give me the address or telephone number of the person to contact regarding it. Thanks.

[arista29]

Well, despite the really good things I can say about the school - the administrative part can be so slow. If you went to school there then you speak Bulgarian. You know this helps.

Here's the number I have for the dean's office. Ýou want to find Mrs. Kocheva. Explain to them what you need and if they can't do it, have them give you someone who will. Any problems....send me a pm and I'll see what I can do to get another number. I have to register for my ecfmg in Jan., so have not encountered this yet. It's the down side of not having had so many North Am. students yet and they don't know how to handle this paperwork perhaps.


Tel.: 00 359 2 952 1046
Fax: 00 359 2 952 0337

[arista29]

And I forgot to mention that 1987 as you know has been followed by a significant number of changes here. I can't imagine in what dusty closet your paperwork is filed away in from that time. Plus the admin. building has been flooded since then more than once. A little grim humor is in here somewhere...

You might get lucky.:) In the next five years they will finally have everything on computer! That's when the current admin. people die and they replace them with ones who actually know how to work the technology. :D Not to mention ones who actually know English enough to fill up the paperwork too!

[EMT-B]

Is anyone who graduated from the Med School in Sofia actually practicing in the US?

[devildoc8404]

Unequivocally, yes. Absolutely.

There are MU-S alumni practicing in the States in child psychiatry, family medicine, orthopaedics, dermatology, psychiatry, etc.

There are faculty members at the medical schools of Yale (derm), Florida (GI-hep), George Washington U (anat), and MC Wisconsin (GI-hep) who are MU-S grads.

I also know of current residents in neurology (KS), family medicine (OH, ID, TN, IN, AL), internal medicine (MI, OH), and other specialties.

MU-S offers a solid medical education. It is not without its headaches, but they graduate some excellent docs here.

Hope that helps.:p

[EMT-B]

I read that in the medical program in Poznan, Poland, students do clinical rotation in the US. Does the Bulgarian program offer that option? Do you think that this is a distinct disadvantage?

[shrey]

Students don't just do a clinical rotation in the US. They "choose" to do it. It's not mandatory. Poznan has this special feature because it has a 4 year MD program (similar to the Americna pattern) and it was mainly designed for Americans. That being said, they still don't follow the USMLE teaching approach.

I'm sure, now that Bulgaria is in the EU, you are also free to do your clinical rotations in the US from the 4th or 5th year on....the only problem is that you have to arrange them by yourself...no one will help. Clinical rotations are usually free (but you still have to pay for your living expenses). A student can do a clinical rotation for a maximum of 11 weeks and then has to return and take the exam for the subject. Which means that you have to prepare for all the clinical subjects yourself and after you return from the States, you have to take exams for all those subjects in your medical school (this is a huge disadvantage...unless you know that you can handly all the subjects by yourself.)

[devildoc8404]

Shrey is right, if you want to do some US clinical rotations you need to do the legwork for yourself at most schools... and also make certain that your school will grant credit for the rotation. If you are at an EU school then you may be able to do up to a year of rotations in another EU country, if you are interested in that, as well.

I am planning on completing USCE rotations as "extras" during the summer and vacation periods as much as I can, so that there is no problem with getting them approved by the administration wonks at my school. The fewer times I have to visit their offices (a.k.a. "The 9th Circle of Hell), the happier I will be.

The good side of EU rotations, at least here in Bulgaria, comes if you have any smarts and motivation at all... you can assist with procedures and do things that they would rarely allow a student to do in the States. Also, your 6th year functions as an EU internship, so you have a lot of hands-on experience going into your GME training in the States. You could have experience at that point that most US grads haven't even seen yet.

[arista29]

Yes.

Bulgarian med school admin. is a nightmare. Administrative wonks exactly. Everytime I have to deal with them I am stunned by their ineptitude as devildoc well knows.

So....I cannot say for other Eastern Europe locations, but here all those clinicals abroad have to be organized without too much help from our university. I like to visit them on a daily basis when I need something from them to be sure it gets done.

Gotta work for what you want down here. No hand-holding. I think this applies to most foreign med. schools in this part of the world. They're just not used to dealing with what the American/Canadian students need yet.

[EMT-B]

You guys have written some awesome responses. Thank you very much. I found them really helpful!!! Good luck on your board exams!

[devildoc8404]

Bulgarian med school admin. is a nightmare. Administrative wonks exactly.


Well... at least they are sweet about it. :)

Everytime I have to deal with them I am stunned by their ineptitude as devildoc well knows.

Arista, you and I both know that it is very challenging to sit on butt AND talk on phone AND smoke cigarettes ALL AT THE SAME TIME! Honestly, what more do you want from these people?

So....I cannot say for other Eastern Europe locations, but here all those clinicals abroad have to be organized without too much help from our university.

Yep. It's self-service in that regard, definitely. The good news is, with any good contacts in the States you can often set things up for yourself without too much trouble. I'm doing some observership stuff right now over the holidays, and it's awesome. My school did nothing, and they don't have to sign off on anything, either. (Some places might want a copy of the form that shows you are a student, of course, but once you have one of those you are golden.)

I like to visit them on a daily basis when I need something from them to be sure it gets done.

And, alternatively, not visit them at all if they are bugging you about stuff. I think I prefer the latter.

Gotta work for what you want down here. No hand-holding. I think this applies to most foreign med. schools in this part of the world.

Amen to that, Arista.

They're just not used to dealing with what the American/Canadian students need yet.

Here we go with the ECFMG stuff, huh? This will be fun... but I think with the lot of us US/Canucks we can probably get some stuff done if we all go in at once. Maybe we should all wear black leather when we visit them for a more intimidating effect? :shock:

[Riza]

^Knowning a little Bulgarian might ease the tensions. ;)

[doc7650]

Hello, could someone please provide the contact information or the procedure to request an official transcript from the Medical University of Sofia? I now live in the US and need an official copy of my transcript mailed to an educational institution here but have not been able to find whom to contact in MU Sofia. If you have information on how I could request a transcript from MU Sofia, it would be very much appreciated. Thank you.
hiii,can u plz tell me how to get this medical school transcipt?
i graduated from sofia.last year.whats ur email or yahoo id?

[IramU]

hi im wondering if there is a seperate girls hostel in that university?

[Riza]

If you are referring to the student dorms then from what I know, they pair up males with males, and girls with girls. I don't think it's quite separate in terms of location. If someone else knows more, please feel free to add your input as well. I'm currently renting an apartment on my own so I am not in the dorms and am not 100% sure. I'm just passing along what I've heard from others.

You can always opt to rent a small apartment by yourself closer to the university if you wish, though.

[arista29]

For transcripts and administrative requests +359 2 952 04 34 should get you to the office. As far as who you want to speak with, there is a new head secretary as of this week, Ms. Ivanova. She speaks english and is probably the person to speak with or can direct you to the appropriate person.

For non-bulgarian speakers who find that they end up with someone who does not speak english, "moje li da govorite na angliski?" (can you speak in english) or "az ne rasbiram bulgarski ezik, samo angliski" (i don't understand Bulgarian, only english) should hopefully get you a transfer to someone who can communicate with you.

Student housing is on the other end of the city. It is cheaper but is perhaps of a quality that is lower for western students. In addition, the travel time to get to the campus can be a real hassle. Better to rent your own place or find a roomate somewhere else if you can handle the cost.

[devildoc8404]

Wow, Arista, a new head secretary?!?! Are you kidding? Does this change anything? I don't know whether it is worth being excited or not...

Re: housing @ MU-S, whenever I hear students talking about their hellish commute to the medical school from Studentskigrad, I'm grateful to be in an apartment closer to school.

[IramU]

If you are referring to the student dorms then from what I know, they pair up males with males, and girls with girls. I don't think it's quite separate in terms of location. If someone else knows more, please feel free to add your input as well. I'm currently renting an apartment on my own so I am not in the dorms and am not 100% sure. I'm just passing along what I've heard from others.

You can always opt to rent a small apartment by yourself closer to the university if you wish, though.

thanks for teh answer!

yes i was reffering to student dorms....i ment if girls have differnt dormitories as if they live in seperate buildings?

oh im wondering that since u go to a university in bulgaria...what are the reuirements for the university?
what are the fees?

thanks for your help

[arista29]

So as I have stated in a previous post, there seems to be some irregularities in regards to the integration of websites for the school. I blame the secretary's office :? again and the general lack of administrative organization that seems to plague the country. :rolleyes:
Anyhow, Medical Faculty at the Medical University - Sofia, Bulgaria (http://www.medfac-sofia.eu/obiavi/obiavi11_eng.htm) will get you where you want to be so you can review requirements. Tuition - $6000 EUR

If you consider applying, please follow the requirements 100% because they are absolute sticklers for details that seem both redundant and uneccessary. I am also able to answer questions because I remember when I was applying....the process was incredibly different from any North American university application process that I had ever done before.

Or you could always try your luck with the head office telephone number from my previous post.

Oh, and as far as I know...there are no separate housing areas for women. However, I cannot say that will full certainty so perhaps ask someone at the office?

Hope that helps a bit.

[Riza]

IramU, follow the link that was posted by Arista and you will see the requirements. If there is something else that you wish to ask or something is unclear, feel free to ask and those of us currently attending the university will try to help you out.

If you need help with the application process, let us know as well.

As for the separate buildings for male and female students, that is not the case. It's just the pairing up for rooms that separates the genders.

[chapelier]

Hi ! do you think I could transfert to Sofia , Pleven or Plovdiv in 4th year ? (I will finish my 3d year in EU) ; my question is regarding Bulgarian language that I don't know , and if they accept transferts in general....
is it possible to make rotations or even a whole year in another country where I have some contacts when applied?
thx

[Riza]

I personally don't know how the process of transferring to the university works however I suggest contacting the officials at the school.

Here is a number and an e-mail where you can contact the university and inquire about your situation.

Tel.: 00359 2 952 1046
tboicheva @ medfac.acad.bg

Also, there is another e-mail that you can send your inquiry to;

foreignstudents @ medfac.acad.bg

Send your questions to either e-mail and see what they say. If you are looking for a quicker response, you can always opt to call them as well and a phone number has been listed in this thread before as well as on that link I mentioned earlier.

Note: I put in the space between the @ signs because I can't post links/emails yet since I don't have the minimum 20 posts that are required. The e-mails and number were taken from medfac.sofia.eu.

[geoffrey]

hello,

I'm currently figuring out how i should tackle enrolling into Univerisity if Sofia Med School. I was wondering if anyone could give me an estimate to the yearly expenses?? I know the tuition is around $8,400, dorms around $5,000-$6000, maybe $6,000 on food...all an all im figuring around 25 k a year..does that sound correct?? Also, i'm in the process of trying to get ahold of the school admissions office, to try and setup an interview. I want to fly over there as soon as possible to checkout the school. Do you know what documents i need for admissions?? Do i need apostle stamps on all my documents?? Also, for those of you Americans/Canadians who have graduated or are current students could i please contact u via telephone?? my email is geoffmiller(at)alumni.upenn.edu skype name is geoffrey.miller2 ... i'm lookng forward to hearing from anyone available to talk..thanks so much

sincerely,
Geoff

[arista29]

Transfering into MUS is possible. One does not have to be in a six-year program either - but it helps. The application is processed through the Ministry as usual. Then, each department head must see and review your transcripts and syllabi for approval before signing you out of any classes. Following this, the administration makes a decision as to what year you may start in. HOWEVER....and this is a big one: In order to graduate per Ministry of Health requirements you must have two years of Bulgarian language class. This is absolutely non-negotiable in my experience. So this means you have to fit it in preferably before starting too much into clinical classes because, really, you will need to know the language somewhat in order to interact with patients.

Clinics outside:
MUS collaberates with Erasmus and allows student exchange through this program. As far as clinic exchanges outside of Europe....one needs to address this question to the adminstration. The length varies.

Expenses in Bulgaria (in mu view):
Tuition - 5000 EUR semester
Rent & Utilities - 350/400 EUR/month
Food/Other -400 leva minimum per month
It's really not so cheap. Some things are cheaper than North America, other things are way more expensive.

Application process:

The things needed to apply are on the website. Follow it EXACTLY or this will cause frustration later. And yes, an apostile is good but everything must be translated into Bulgarian and stamped here. Then it's submitted to the Ministry of Health/Education and after 5-6 wks, the answer is given.

To make this easier for everyone: There are translation and legalization agencies at need.bg that will translate, legalize AND send your docs. up to the Ministry for you. This is something new I discovered. Just be careful to compare prices and be sure the agency is very professional, polite, and careful with your documents.

So again: #1: Get all your things together. Original docs. in most cases.
#2. Pick a translation/legalization/certification place
#3 Send your application. Everything goes to be legalized, then to the Ministry of Health, then to the school. Finally, you get acceptance letter (or not).

I would recommend highly to visit and do this translation/legalization process while you are here. The first time in Bulgaria is a bit overwhelming if it is near the first day of classes.

Ok. So this post is getting a bit long. Better to pm with more questions.

Best of luck.

[geoffrey]

thanks for your very informative message. i just have one more question. do i need to get my documents (diplomas, transcripts, letters of rec. etc..) stamped here with an apostle stamp or can all that be done there?? i would think, it would have to be done in my home country, right?? maybe not, if i had the originals...also letters of recommendation aren't required?? thanks

sincerely,
geoff

[Riza]

thanks for your very informative message. i just have one more question. do i need to get my documents (diplomas, transcripts, letters of rec. etc..) stamped here with an apostle stamp or can all that be done there?? i would think, it would have to be done in my home country, right?? maybe not, if i had the originals...also letters of recommendation aren't required?? thanks

sincerely,
geoff

You have to have the documents legalized and stamped within your home nation and then sent to Bulgaria for further translation and legalization, and once that is all done, the documents can be sent to the university. As far as the recommendation letters, I suppose they would help, however not mandatory.

[geoffrey]

Thanks, also, should i call ahead and plan a meeting/interview with the dean before i visit? Are interviews a part of the admissions process?

[arista29]

Strangly, I don't think interviews are necessarily part of the process. However, it is a good idea to submit something in person and discuss your wish to apply. Especially, if you happen to be presentable. Show up in jeans and a T-shirt and I suspect your application might be proccessed accordingly. Most decisions are made on the basis of your credentials on paper.

[krisi]

Hi to everyone,
I have a question regarding transfer of credits from N. American Universities. I obtained my Bachelors degree in biology and am wondering as I apply to the medical university in Sofia if any of my credits will transfer over? Also if anyone has experianced this can you tell me how the credits were transfered-did you have to talk to individual teachers to accept your classes?

One more question, I have been reading that some students enter the univeristy throu an examination what is the standing for foreign students entering the english program?( do they take an exam as well, pay some kind of fee, or does it work just by applying)

Thank you very much,
kristina

[arista29]

There is a possibility to transfer and therefore bypass some of the curriculum. Following application, one has to present syllabi and course materials to each individual professor in order to be excused from classes. I have found, with a BSc, that the best possibility would be to enter into third year (which is when clinicals really start). However, as stated in previous posts, the Bulgarian language requirement (of two years) has to be completed in addition to other classes. The courses required in the first two years also include anatomy, histology, medical ethics and a few others which may not have been taken in a traditional North American undergrad program.

One would have to look closely at the course requirements to see if each class is covered. Worst case scenario, you would have a very easy first two years.

Foreign students do not write an entrance exam. I find this unfortunate, because it would certainly weed out some of the poorer quality students. But, like in most parts of Eastern Europe, they really need the tuition money and therefore often initially accept students because of it. :|

[krisi]

:) thank you so much for the insights. I appreciate it lot.

[x9kelly1x]

Hello, I'm planning on attending medical college in Sofia, Bulgaria this upcoming fall. I will be graduating high school in June. I was wondering about the requirements to get into this medical college? Any help, what average G.P.A score do they want, or is that important? What does the college look for when deciding on a student to attend their college? I'm applying through an agency called Source America, and have 85% of the paperwork completed to apply. Also can students that attend this college from North America please give me their opinions and how they got in please. Thank you

[devildoc8404]

For the love of Sweet Saint Stubbins, please DO NOT apply to MU-Sofia through an agency. It is a waste of thousands of dollars. Do a search on this forum before you give them another penny. We were just talking with some first year students about this at lunch today.

You can do everything you need for application on your own without paying the extra money, believe me. Save that money and spend part of it on a trip here to see what you are doing before you decide to spend 6 years of your life in Sofia. (You might choose another city, who knows...)

If you have a HS diploma and have taken the required classwork, you should be accepted without much difficulty. The difficulty comes in finishing the program and passing the boards, that's the challenge.

If you have specific questions, PM me and ask. I came here without an agency, and so have many others. You don't need them AT ALL.

Good luck to you.

[devildoc8404]

Hey, Kristina:

I came here (MU-S) with significant transfer credit from the States. However, in most cases, students will probably not come in as an advanced student (MS2 or MS3) with a bachelor's degree. Medical Gross Anatomy is a huge course here, so unless you have taken medical school anatomy and embryology in the States you will likely enter as an MS1 student. Still, someone with a bachelor's degree will likely find that their first two years will be a lot easier than their classmates. It will often allow a lighter courseload and could provide time for some valuable additional experience in research or clinical opportunities (if you are motivated to pursue these on your own - they absolutely will not do anything for you).

To get credit for your relevant classes, you need to present your college/university transcripts AND COURSE SYLLABUS (if you forget these, you are screwed, so bring a syllabus for each class) to the chair of the appropriate department. If they decide to offer you credit for that class, they will sign you out of the course, and you will get a stamp on your "Molba" form. This can take some time -- in fact, it took me several weeks... the professors do not have office hours for the most part, so it's catch as catch can, and it's annoying. But it's worth it. Some of the profs are remarkably professional, internationally-renowned, and a delight to work with. Others are of an old-school, East Bloc mindset, and they will say ridiculous things like: "I see you have covered AMINO ACIDS topic on this syllabus, but where is SYNTHESIS of Amino Acids?" It makes you want to throw up a little bit in your mouth, but it usually all works out.

I am not aware of an entrance exam for MU-S, although some E-Eu schools have them. It is probably just a formality, if there is one at all...

Whatever you do, don't apply through an agency. Contact one of the students here and we can talk you through it... as long as you understand that we are students and wicked busy. However, many of us are willing to help. (Also, you can save part of the money you would have spent on an agency to come over, check things out in advance, and buy the people who helped you a hot chocolate.) :)

There is plenty of opportunity here, but it isn't easy and there is no hand-holding. Like, NONE. You need to have the gumption and the diligence to do a lot of things on your own, or you will not make it back to the States/Canada as a licensed doctor.

PM me if I can help you in any way.

devildoc8404

Hi to everyone,
I have a question regarding transfer of credits from N. American Universities. I obtained my Bachelors degree in biology and am wondering as I apply to the medical university in Sofia if any of my credits will transfer over? Also if anyone has experianced this can you tell me how the credits were transfered-did you have to talk to individual teachers to accept your classes?

One more question, I have been reading that some students enter the univeristy throu an examination what is the standing for foreign students entering the english program?( do they take an exam as well, pay some kind of fee, or does it work just by applying)

Thank you very much,
kristina

[x9kelly1x]

Thank you so much for the help and advice! And I definetly will be asking alottt more questions as they come to me. =)

[x9kelly1x]

also required classwork?

[arista29]

Do you mean classwork from high school? You will need to have completed all your basic high school science courses with reasonable grades. Needless to say, the Bulgarian students here have much tougher high school science curriculum than in North America and you may struggle if you did not do well in high school.

As posted many times but I will say it again: Never, ever use an agency! It is a waste of money and Source America in particular, despite having a professional appearance, is as close to a scam as it gets. The students they bring here are often of dubious quality and the agency's arrangement with the school here stinks of corruption. The arrangement is occasionally refered to by transparency organizations as 'student trafficking'.
The agency does not help the students in the ways they should, leaving rather young American and Canadian students to fend for themselves often. I have never used them, and most foreign students here do not go through agencies. If you have paid them an initial fee, it is still better to cut ties with them.

Regardless, you need to talk to students who go to school here. There are many things about Bulgaria that are different from North America and some good advice regarding the school, society, expectations etc. will save you a lot of trouble and difficulty.

I am also willing to help if you have questions. The application process is not so complicated and there are many people in the school's administration who are willing to help (in english).

Good luck. :)

[MKG]

Education is great, but getting the administration to get your stuff is a pain in the ***!!!!!!!

[arista29]

Go to the school's website. There is a list there of things needed for application. Follow that list EXACTLY and once you have your things together, there are many professional, reliable companies here that will translate and legalize your docs. In addition, they will send your documents to the Minstry of Health for you. It takes about three months minimum after that for things to process through. The decision is made based on your previous coursework, cv, etc. Most students here can help too, and if you have questions, I recommend talking with as many as possible.

How is life here? Much different than perhaps what life is like in North America. Lots of great things and lots of not-so great things.
As far as training and academic experience it will be completely depend on how motivated you are and how much work you put into the studies. If you are a good student, doctors and profs. will help you with achieving whatever it is you need. The longer I am here, the more I feel like it was a good choice really.

Post with any more questions, but please don't go with the agency. A total waste - I am hoping the school will get rid of them soon.

[stephira]

hello i am stephanie graduated as a dr in medicine in russia want to know if it is possible to have an equivalence of my degree or can anybody give a phone number or a link where i can have more info thanks for your cooperation

[chapelier]

hello i am stephanie graduated as a dr in medicine in russia want to know if it is possible to have an equivalence of my degree or can anybody give a phone number or a link where i can have more info thanks for your cooperation
you are in a dream stefira :D from 2007 none UE school is "converting" a Russian/non-UE diploma to an UE diploma !! hopefully !!
you can do your specialisation , but your MD stays Russian , and for practising in Europe you need a UE MD
and knowing how it is possible to buy the MD in (some) Russian school (sorry if it wasn't your case,but it's not a rumor that it is possible to buy it) , I'm quite happy with this situation !!!

[lcontreras]

Hello everyone!:)
I just found out the about the universities in Bulgaria and I'm so excited to apply to Sofia after reading all your posts. I have notice that it is a true nightmare to get some kind of administrative respond by just calling the inspector herself this morning. As much as I would love to visit and turn in all the paperwork personally, its almost impossible. So, hopefully yall can give me friendly advices on how to handle this process.
Questions:
#1. Is it true there is no limit to the number of foreign students accepted? Meaning, will MU-S take all foreign students with a HS degree and required documents? I have a 3.8 HS GPA and some classes in college with 3.9 GPA.
#2. What is my best option, wether to go through the embassy of Bulgaria here or to send all my original paperwork to an agency overthere?? and also, if I opt to do everything here and send it to the school as they request, wouldn't they send it then to the Ministry? I don't fully understand this process. help plz
#3. I read on the website that tuition is 3,300 EUR. Is this per semester?? so it will be 6,600 EUR per year ~ $14,000 USD per year without books or fees??:shock:
#4. Should I submit the application form + a brief CV (resume) or either or? I found this that's why I'm a bit confused! "A completed application form or a letter of application containing a brief CV "
#5. Do I need to submit a identification OR a copy of the passport first page with my information of course or both?? or either one??
#6. After graduating, does Bulgaria allow you to stay and work as an MD or do you need to file with immigration for a work permit just like in the US for 1 year???
#7. Can my long stay visa type "D" be filed for to start October 1st?? or do I have to wait until next year? As far as I know, the school will file it for you and the application deadline is September 15th so how does this work?

Any information will help! Thank yall!!!!:p
Loren

[devildoc8404]

Hey, Loren:

I just found out the about the universities in Bulgaria and I'm so excited to apply to Sofia after reading all your posts.

Well, Sofia will beat that excitement out of you soon enough. ;)

I have notice that it is a true nightmare to get some kind of administrative respond by just calling the inspector herself this morning.

That is the truth.

As much as I would love to visit and turn in all the paperwork personally, its almost impossible.

I would very seriously look for a way to visit... but it's your choice.

So, hopefully yall can give me friendly advices on how to handle this process.

OK. Where are you located?

Questions:
#1. Is it true there is no limit to the number of foreign students accepted?

I seriously doubt that. They accept a lot, though.

Meaning, will MU-S take all foreign students with a HS degree and required documents?

I seriously doubt that, as well. But they do take a lot of people, especially if you are able to pay the tuition fee.

I have a 3.8 HS GPA and some classes in college with 3.9 GPA.

You will be fine.

#2. What is my best option, wether to go through the embassy of Bulgaria here or to send all my original paperwork to an agency overthere??

Where are you located? DEFINITELY go through the consulate (not the embassy) and send everything to someone over here. DO NOT pay an agency. It's a complete waste of money.

and also, if I opt to do everything here and send it to the school as they request, wouldn't they send it then to the Ministry? I don't fully understand this process. help plz

DO NOT send stuff to the medical school. It will disappear. Send it to someone here and have it walked over. Admission letters come to you from both the medical school and the ministry. This can take for-bleeping-ever. It took them over 5 months to get mine to me last year.

#3. I read on the website that tuition is 3,300 EUR. Is this per semester?? so it will be 6,600 EUR per year ~ $14,000 USD per year without books or fees??:shock:

I don't know what it says on the website, but that sounds about right for the incoming class. Yeah, that is the fee without books and fees... and living expenses. I believe they keep your tuition the same throughout your course of study, although each year's successive class pays a little more.

Also, I don't know what you were using for an exchange rate to come up with $14 Grand, but you are way off. No, 6600 Euros swaps out to $9,212.31 with today's exchange rate. Also note that the school posts tuition in Euros but will only accept tuition payments in Bulgarian Leva (BGN). This makes no sense whatsoever, but it is how they roll.

#4. Should I submit the application form + a brief CV (resume) or either or? I found this that's why I'm a bit confused! "A completed application form or a letter of application containing a brief CV "

Submit everything that they ask for... NOT just an application form and CV. You need: 1) The application form, 2) CV, 3) Personal Statement (with biographical data and preferred specialties), 4) Copy of passport, 5) Copy of HS/college diplomas, 6) Copy of all HS/college transcripts, 7) Medical certificate or letter showing that you are healthy enough for medical school overseas, 8) Certification showing funds for financial support during school, 9) Two passport photos. If you don't send ALL of this information TRANSLATED INTO BULGARIAN AND CERTIFIED BY THE CONSULATE AND/OR APOSTILLED, you won't get accepted. Red tape is the order of the day, here.

#5. Do I need to submit a identification OR a copy of the passport first page with my information of course or both?? or either one??

Whatever you use. Passports are best, IMHO. Make it a certified copy (certified by the BG consulate).

#6. After graduating, does Bulgaria allow you to stay and work as an MD or do you need to file with immigration for a work permit just like in the US for 1 year???

You can only work in BG if you pass the BG licensing exams. In Bulgarian. It's also EU, so without an EU passport that job market can be fairly challenging. Pay here is utterly abysmal, so unless you want to starve, you will probably search elsewhere for work as a physician.

#7. Can my long stay visa type "D" be filed for to start October 1st?? or do I have to wait until next year? As far as I know, the school will file it for you and the application deadline is September 15th so how does this work?

HAHAHAHAHAHA! The school will file NOTHING for you. You can't apply for a visa until you have letters of acceptance. Visas take 6-8 weeks (in the states) so having one for Fall is basically not possible. If you get everything here immediately, you could be accepted for this Fall, and then you can study most of the first semester as a tourist without a visa, but you have to leave after 90 days (shortly before the end of the semester) to get your visa in the States (or your home country) over the holidays. I had to do this last year and it was a pain in the butt, not to mention expensive, but it worked out.

Also, a visa is not the end all be all, here. It is only good for a while, and you have to get a lichnakarte (residency card) in order to stay longer. This costs $500-1000 and is good for a year.

Any information will help! Thank yall!!!!:p

PM me if you have other questions. This isn't an easy road, but it's a path to the goal.

Semper,

DD8404

[IMGNY]

Dear Devil Doc:

Thanks for your help and support on this forum. I have applied to a Romanian Medical School, and after much frustration/submission of detailed documentation, I am being considered (not very hopeful!!) for entry into the 3rd year based on my Undergraduate, Master’s and Ph.D. degrees in health sciences and epidemiology.


If I am allowed entry into the 3rd year, that will mean that I will study for 4 years. I note that many of the US Medical Board forms ask about advanced standing, and I am wondering if this can disqualify me when I eventually apply for licensure. Any knowledge or thoughts on this?

Thanks,
Ron

[devildoc8404]

Hi, Ron:

Yes, it absolutely could be an issue in some states. In fact, I'm sure that it WILL be an issue in some states.

Which ones, however, I don't know.

If I read anything regarding this, I'll post it here. Good luck!

DD8404

[IMGNY]

Thanks again. I read somewhere that you were awarded advanced standing. If so, how are you planning to deal with this?

Ron

[devildoc8404]

Hey, Ron... I sent you a PM.

I am still completing 4 years here, even with advanced standing. It just covered most of the "pre-med" element of the 6 year program (years 1 and 2). Notable exceptions include Bulgarian Language and Medical Latin, for example.

(Also, for the record, the admission is not with advanced standing. You submit your coursework for review after you are admitted as a 6-year student.)

[chiroworld]

I am tired of adminstration process.. mailing system in bulgaria is way too slow.....

I am wating and waiting... ...tried email.. no reply...

how long this process take to get admission letter and visa applcation???


tell me about good side and bad side of school in bulfaria..


I am not a caucasian.. so. I am worrying.. without relative or connection with that place, shuddering fear of certain race hatred attaking .like unkraine ppl toward xeno-phobia?!. I've read something about ppl posting on other thread.~

I am uncertain of my country medical licensing exam authority reconizing this diploma...

[devildoc8404]

I am tired of adminstration process.. mailing system in bulgaria is way too slow.....

Yes, it is. There's really no way around that without overhauling the entire government and postal system, which is a mite beyond most students' range of maximum efficacy. Especially during finals.

I am wating and waiting... ...tried email.. no reply...

This is not surprising. The medical school administration is not generally known for its efforts in customer service. Although they are getting a little better... if you want to apply, find someone who is a student here and send them all of your application documents, and ask them to take them over for you. Better yet, COME HERE FIRST. You can apply and pay for all of the translations and documentation legalizations. It's better to see Sofia before you decide to study here.

how long this process take to get admission letter and visa applcation??

It can take a couple of months, or even longer. Mine took over 5 months, to my aggravation and dismay.

tell me about good side and bad side of school in bulfaria..

Read this thread and you will find most everything you want to know. (Seriously, don't expect people to type it out again!!!)

I am not a caucasian.. so. I am worrying..

Most of my classmates are not Caucasian.

without relative or connection with that place, shuddering fear of certain race hatred attaking .like unkraine ppl toward xeno-phobia?!. I've read something about ppl posting on other thread.~

I will not say that there are no racists in Bulgaria, but I also am not aware of any recent racist attacks. If you are smart and reasonable about your living and studying arrangements you will probably be fine.

I am uncertain of my country medical licensing exam authority reconizing this diploma...

Well, that's pretty much on you. (It's incredibly tough to say accurately without knowing where you are from, you know?) Check with the medical board in your home country and see if MU-S is accepted there.

Good luck.

[vivek105]

How are the PG courses in Bulgaria?
Is it in English or the local language?
Fees?
cost of life
Duration of course
Admission process
visa process

Thanks

[arista29]

I know a pretty decent number of foreigners complete PG courses here, but the language...I can't say. English is possible, but you will have to learn Bulgarian in a hurry, due to the fact that you cannot communicate with your patients otherwise. Tuition for foreigners is 5000 EUR.

There's a listing at Medical Faculty at the Medical University - Sofia, Bulgaria (http://www.medfac-sofia.eu/en_Sektori_CHS.htm) which gives year duration and specialty options. I hate their new website for foreigners. It looks like a Phoenix online school...they're just clueless on how to put things together.

You have to put together your visa after acceptance. The admissions process is like this: You put your documents together which are listed in order on the school website, you submit them to the Ministry of Health here. Documents must be legalized and translated here before submission. Where you are placed for specialty depends on open spots, but it will be at one of the major hospitals in Sofia. The wait time is endless, due to the fact that logical organization has not yet come to Bulgaria since the end of Communism.

In any case, there is another student from this site who submitted his application. I am not sure what has come of it, but he was directing his questions to a Ms. Natalie Altankova at the Minstry of Health. 930-1205 is her number there I believe. Call during the week between 9:30-11:00 as these seem to be the general hours where everyone is actually in their offices.

Cost of living here is cheaper than the rest of Europe, but not as cheap as it should be considering living standards. Rents run around 300+ EUR for something decent. Expect general living expenses per month to range anywhere from five-hundred leva at a bare minimum level.

:)

[devildoc8404]

Mods: Can this thread please be moved to the new Bulgarian Medical Schools forum? Thanks!

[ipinborgert]

can i talk with someone who's familiar with how to txfr
from another faculty? i just failed my physiology as a second year here in charles university first faculty of medicine. it is not the right study environment for me here i cannot succeed and i have been looking for a long time where to txfr as soon as possible while repeating the subjects so i don't lose my knowledge. can someone please help me??

i googled for the university of bulgaria medical school and wikipedia shows their website but it's all in bulgarian even in the english mode.

and the number to call below "+85..." isn't functioning.

numbers on the website after i look up country code +359 then 2 then number are not connecting.

(sorry valuemd is not allowing me to paste the links in this post.)

really thank you and i hope someone's willing to help me.

[Riza]

medfac-sofia.eu/en_Sektor_chuzd_studenti_k.htm

Look for "Donka Ivanova". You'll find a contact number as well as an e-mail on that page.

I'm not too familiar with transfers to MU-S, so your best bet would be to call her and see what they say.

I hope you don't mind me asking, but what do you mean by "not the right study environment"?

[arista29]

Yes, I am also wondering what kind of study environment could possibly contribute to a failing grade. There are always distractions everywhere.
I think you will find many students fail physiology here each year as well. Simply put, for the most part they are lazy and just don't study hard enough. So if you are not a serious student I hope you will not find it to be easier here.
No offense, but if I was to recommend a student to come here, I think most of us want to bring really good students as to increase the quality of the foreign groups overall.

[devildoc8404]

Being extremely frank, transferring schools is not going to make physiology any easier, and from what I can ascertain the exam format is similar here to the rest of Eastern Europe. Also, physiology is considered one of the toughest courses in the first three years at Sofia. Take careful note of this before you decide to transfer here and think that it will be a cakewalk. It ain't.

Be very aware of this fact, as well... living and studying in Sofia, Bulgaria is probably going to be a LOT more stressful than living and studying in Prague, Czech Republic. Um, you want to talk about someplace not being a conducive environment for optimal study efficacy? Ding ding ding, we have a winner right here in Sofia, thanks.

Just be sure to do your research before you decide what you are going to do with yourself as a student, and where you choose to pursue your studies. Unless they are kicking you out at Chuck's First, you are probably better off where you are. If they are kicking you out, make sure you understand why you are in this situation and make some very real and positive changes before you start right up again, or you are likely to see the same result elsewhere.

Good luck.

[ramandshiv]

where is the lowest tuition fee for doing PG in cardiology in Bulgaria?
i mean cheapest uni in Bulgaria.
please reply me

[ramandshiv]

Dear Members
I have some querries?
1- i want to study PG in cardiology, which is the cheapest medical uni in Bulgaria in terms of tuition fee?
2- what is the tuition fee for PG in cardiology
3 what is the duration of study?
4- is Bulgarian simillar to Russian languge
5- In orde to study PG in cardiology how many year i have to study Bulgarian language

i am from india. done my MD 6 year from Russia, can i take admission in PG cardiology in Bulgarian medical uni.
regards to every member, please reply my querries.

[devildoc8404]

1- i want to study PG in cardiology, which is the cheapest medical uni in Bulgaria in terms of tuition fee?

Check the websites individually. I don't think anyone on this forum will have that information.

2- what is the tuition fee for PG in cardiology

Ditto.

3 what is the duration of study?

Ditto.

4- is Bulgarian simillar to Russian languge

Same alphabet (Cyrillic), largely. Proto-Bulgarian is the root language of all of the Slavonic languages, including Russian. Bulgarian is supposed to be easier for native English speakers.

5- In orde to study PG in cardiology how many year i have to study Bulgarian language

I think they will include Bulgarian language in the curriculum, but they charge extra for it. My guess would be two years of language study, considering that is what they require for the medical degree.

You can check the schools individually on their websites:
-Sofia
-Pleven
-Plovdiv
-Varna
-Stara Zagora

[ramandshiv]

Dear Member
I am afraid to say as there is no information of uni web page and even there is not phone no. prperly.
can any one answer my question please oor give me phon no/ mob no/ e mail so that i can contact.

1- cheapest medical uni in Bulgaria to do the PG in cardiology
2- what is the duration of the course in cardiology

thanks

[arista29]

The tuition for post-graduate study 6000 EUR I think. You will have to check when you call.

The length of specialization seems to be four years for cardiology.

In regards to this, I would highly recommend some serious language study prior to specialization here. You will find in most cases, your study and patient interactions wil be completely in Bulgarian. Perhaps the doctors will speak English in some cases, but to do any kind of proper training it is essential you are proficient with the language. This is non-negotiable.

I also would not be concerned with the cost as much as the quality and location of where you would be completing your specialization.
The physicians here will have their own expectations of you as well.

I would recommend you speak with a Ms. Altankova 930-1205 at the Ministry of Health.
Generally, these are the documents that must be submitted:

Specialization of foreign nationals
Foreign nationals who apply for specialist training or continuing submitted to the MU-Sofia the following documents:
1. Request to the Rector of Medical University - Sofia, with brief information and the desired specialty.
2. Written consent of the Head of the basis for training.
3. Two photocopies of the diploma of higher education-one of which is certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Education of the State / authenticated, translated into Bulgarian and with certified general procedure for legalization, translation and authentication of documents and other papers .
4. Medical certificate - the original issued more than one month before the filing of documents, translated into Bulgarian language and consular certified.
5. Two pieces of photos / passport size /
6. Documents the professional activities over the previous five years
7. Certificate issued by the Ministry of Education, which recognizes the diploma of higher education in Bulgaria, where higher education was acquired in the Republic of Bulgaria.
8. Records of Bulgarian language training with a duration of not less than six months / candidates who have not completed in Bulgaria /.

The fee for the training of foreign students is determined each year by Council of Ministers Decree.

[arista29]

If you speak Russian as I noticed finally, you will find that most physicians who are 30 years or older will also speak Russian. You will find the languages to be somewhat similar. It will make your study much easier.

Why are you not doing post-graduate training in Russia or UK? I'm just curious...