International Students’ Guide to Cost of Living in Bulgaria

Bulgaria has quickly become an attractive destination for international students who want to pursue higher education abroad. With more than 47 universities and colleges, Bulgaria offers a wide range of compelling academic programs in various fields, such as medicine, engineering, business, arts, and humanities. Bulgaria also has a booming economy, with many opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship in sectors such as IT, tourism, manufacturing, and energy. In addition to that, the cost of living in Bulgaria is extremely low compared to other popular destinations in Europe and beyond. According to a study by Educations.com, Bulgaria has the lowest average tuition fees and living costs among the 27 EU countries. International students can expect to pay around 500 EUR per month or 6,000 EUR per year for living expenses. This means that students can pursue a degree in Bulgaria without putting a dent in their pockets. As such, Bulgaria provides the perfect balance between affordable and high-quality education for international students who want to enrich their academic and personal experience. 

In this article, we will break down the major expenses incurred by international students in Bulgaria, such as tuition fees, accommodation, food, transport, health insurance, and entertainment. We will also give you some tips on how to save money and manage your budget while studying in Bulgaria.

Cost of Living in Bulgaria: Highlights 

Breakdown of Cost of Living in Bulgaria

According to Studyinbulgaria.bg, the average tuition fee for international students in Bulgaria ranges from 300 to 7,700 EUR per year, depending on the program and the language of instruction. The tuition fee is lower for EU citizens and for programs in the Bulgarian language.

The general cost of living in Bulgaria is not high compared to other European countries. The average monthly living cost for students in Bulgaria is about 500 EUR. Rent is normally counted as a separate cost in Bulgaria. The total cost of living for international students in Bulgaria for a year could mostly go up to 20,000 EUR, depending on the tuition fee, the rent, and the lifestyle of the students.

Here is a breakdown of some of the main costs for international students in Bulgaria:

Accommodation

Bulgaria offers different options for student accommodation, depending on the budget and preferences of the students. One option is to live in university dormitories, which are usually located near the campus or the city center. These are shared rooms with basic facilities and low rent, ranging from 25 EUR to 60 EUR per month. However, the availability of dormitory rooms is limited and the quality may vary. Another option is to rent a private apartment, either alone or with other students. This option provides more comfort and privacy, but also higher costs. The rent for a private apartment depends on the size, location, and condition of the property, but it usually falls between 180 EUR and 450 EUR per month. Additionally, students have to pay for utilities, such as electricity, water, heating, and internet, which can add up to another 100 EUR per month. Some students may also choose to homeshare, which means living with a local family or a host. This option can be beneficial for students who want to experience the Bulgarian culture and language, as well as save some money on food and transportation. The cost of home sharing varies depending on the host and the services they offer, but it can be around 150 EUR to 300 EUR per month.

Transportation

Bulgaria has a well-developed public transport system that covers most of the country. The main modes of public transport are buses, trams, and metro, which operate in the major cities and towns. A monthly pass for these services costs 35 EUR, which is much cheaper than in most European countries. The metro is the fastest and most convenient way to travel within Sofia, the capital city, as it connects the airport, the central railway station, and the main attractions. 

Buses and trams are also widely available in Sofia and other urban areas, but they can be crowded and slow during peak hours. The bus network also connects the smaller settlements and rural areas, where other forms of public transport are scarce. Taxis are another option for getting around in Bulgaria, especially at night or in remote locations. Taxis are generally affordable, with an average fare of 0.50 EUR per kilometer, but they may charge extra for luggage, waiting time, or out-of-town trips. It is advisable to use licensed taxis with meters and to check the price before getting in. Alternatively, some taxi apps, such as TaxiMe or Maxim, allow users to order and pay for taxis online.

Food

Bulgarian food is relatively inexpensive, especially if you buy local products from markets or supermarkets. These are the places where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, yogurt, meat, and bread at reasonable prices. A typical meal in an inexpensive restaurant costs 7.50 EUR, which usually includes a salad, a main dish, and a drink. A loaf of bread costs 0.75 EUR, a liter of milk costs 1.30 EUR, and a dozen eggs costs 1.90 EUR. Typical expenses for food can run in the range of 100-150 EUR for a month, factoring in eating out at least once a week as well. Eating out is a common and enjoyable activity in Bulgaria, as there are many restaurants, cafes, and fast-food places that offer a variety of dishes and cuisines.

Utilities 

Necessary utilities for students include electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage, and internet. The average monthly cost of utilities for an 85m2 apartment in Bulgaria is 80 EUR, which is lower than the European average. However, the cost may vary depending on the region, the season, and the consumption habits of the residents. Electricity is the most expensive utility, as it is used for lighting, cooking, heating, and cooling. The electricity price in Bulgaria is 0.11 EUR per kWh, which is higher than the regional average. Heating and cooling are also major expenses, especially in winter and summer. The water price in Bulgaria is 0.65 EUR per cubic meter, which is lower than the regional average. However, water quality and pressure may vary depending on the location and the infrastructure. Garbage is collected by the municipality or by private companies, depending on the area. The garbage fee is included in the annual property tax, which is paid to the municipality. The garbage fee is based on the size and the location of the property, and it ranges from 0.05 EUR to 0.15 EUR per square meter. Internet access is widely available and affordable in Bulgaria, as the country has one of the fastest and cheapest internet services in the world. The average internet speed in Bulgaria is 67.79 Mbps, which is higher than the global average. The average internet price in Bulgaria is 10 EUR per month for a 60 Mbps or more connection, which is lower than the European average. 

Entertainment 

Bulgaria offers a variety of entertainment options for students, such as cinemas, theaters, museums, clubs, bars, and festivals. A cinema ticket costs 6 EUR, a theater ticket costs 10 EUR, and a museum ticket costs 52 EUR. A beer in a pub costs 1.50 EUR, and a cocktail in a club costs 52 EUR.

Health 

Bulgaria has a universal health care system, which means that every citizen and resident has the right to receive basic health care services. However, the health care system is not completely free, as it is funded by taxes and mandatory social insurance contributions. Students who want to study in Bulgaria need to have medical insurance to access health care services, either from their home country or from a Bulgarian insurance company. The average cost of medical insurance for international students is 100 EUR per year, which covers most of the primary and secondary health care services. However, some medical services may require additional fees, such as consultations with specialists, prescriptions for certain drugs, laboratory tests, or complex treatments.

Other costs that students may incur while studying in Bulgaria include books, clothing, personal care, travel, and emergencies. These costs vary depending on the individual preferences and needs of the students, such as their lifestyle, spending habits, and city of residence. A rough estimate of these costs is 100 EUR per month, which is lower than the average living costs in other European countries. 

Suggested Reading: Cost of Medical Studies in Bulgaria

Cost of Living in Bulgaria: By Cities 

Suggested Reading: Study Medicine in Bulgaria in English

Tips to Reduce Cost of Living in Bulgaria 

Accommodation Choices: Opt for more affordable housing options such as student dormitories, shared apartments, or renting a room in a private house. These options are often cheaper than renting an entire apartment and can significantly reduce accommodation expenses.

Budgeting: Create a monthly budget to track expenses and prioritize spending. Identify essential expenses such as rent, groceries, and transportation, and allocate funds accordingly. Avoid unnecessary purchases and impulse buying to stay within budget.

Cooking at Home: Eating out frequently can quickly escalate food expenses. Instead, cook meals at home using locally sourced ingredients, which are often more affordable than dining at restaurants. Plan meals in advance and consider cooking in bulk to save both time and money.

Utilize Student Discounts: Take advantage of student discounts offered by various stores, restaurants, cinemas, and public transportation systems. Always carry your student ID card and inquire about available discounts before making purchases.

Public Transportation: Utilize public transportation options such as buses, trams, and metros, which are relatively inexpensive compared to owning a car or using taxis. Consider purchasing monthly or semester transportation passes for additional savings.

Second-Hand Purchases: Buy second-hand items such as textbooks, furniture, electronics, and clothing to save money. Explore local thrift stores, online marketplaces, or student forums for affordable used goods.

Part-Time Employment: Explore part-time job opportunities to supplement your income. Many universities offer on-campus employment options for students, such as tutoring, research assistance, or administrative roles. Ensure that any employment activities comply with visa regulations and do not interfere with academic commitments.

Explore Free Activities: Take advantage of free or low-cost recreational activities such as visiting parks, museums, and art galleries, attending cultural events, or exploring historical landmarks. These activities provide opportunities for leisure and exploration without breaking the bank.

Health Insurance: Research and compare health insurance options to find affordable coverage that meets your needs. Some universities may offer discounted health insurance plans for international students, so inquire about available options through your institution.

Financial Planning: Plan for unforeseen expenses by maintaining an emergency fund. Set aside a portion of your budget for unexpected costs such as medical emergencies or travel expenses.

Suggested Reading: Job Opportunities After Medical Studies in Bulgaria

Conclusion 

In conclusion, one of the main advantages of studying in Bulgaria is the low cost of living, especially compared to some of the other major educational hubs in Europe and beyond. Bulgaria ranks among the top ten most affordable countries for international students. However, affordability is not the only factor to consider when choosing a study destination. Students should also carefully review the quality of education, the recognition of the degree, the career prospects, and the cultural and social aspects of living in a foreign country. Fortunately, Bulgaria offers a high-quality education system that follows the European standards and the Bologna process, which ensures the compatibility and comparability of the degrees across Europe. Moreover, studying in Bulgaria can open up many opportunities for future careers, as Bulgaria is a member of the European Union and has a growing economy and a strategic location in the Balkans. As such, the country provides a great balance between compelling education and affordability. For more information about affordable high-quality education, and other related queries regarding Bulgaria, feel free to contact our admission experts at Gyanberry. Book your free video call appointment now!