Step by Step To Studying In Bulgaria From Nigeria

Situated in the heart of the Balkans, Bulgaria is a small European country with diverse landscapes and beautiful scenery. The country seems like a good study destination for Nigerian students due to its cheap tuition fees and low cost of living. Do you want to study in Europe? Bulgaria ticks all the right boxes from well-developed institutions to internationally recognized degrees and a conducive environment. Here’s all you need to know about studying in Bulgaria from Nigeria.

Why you should study in Bulgaria

Are you having second thoughts about studying in Bulgaria? The following reasons will convince you that Bulgaria is a good study place.

1) High-quality education

Bulgarian universities are famous for their unique and quality educational system. A high level of competence is recorded across various fields like science, medicine, business, etc. It’s not surprising that Sofia Medical University and Plovdiv Medical University rank among the best medical institutions in Europe.

2) Low cost of living and study

From accommodation to travel and food, the cost of living in Bulgaria is low compared to other European countries. You can enjoy a meal and drink at a restaurant for 5 Euros in the country’s capital, Sofia. It’s a lot cheaper in smaller cities. As a student, you will need to consider the cost of living to ensure expenses match your budget.

3) Affordable tuition fees

Compared to other European countries, Bulgaria has low tuition fees. Hence, students can afford the cost of schooling in this country.

4) Conducive environment

Bulgarians are friendly and hospitable. The European country is calm and serene, making it a conducive environment for living and studying. Unlike some parts of Europe, Bulgaria is quite safe.

5) Work opportunities

Compared to other EU countries, Bulgaria avails students the opportunity to work during vacations. Medical students can go for internships as well.

Steps to studying in Bulgaria as a Nigerian

1) Choose your course and university

From medical specialties to engineering and social sciences, Bulgarian universities offer various courses to choose from. Choose the course that suits you. What are your career goals? Find out about your interest and your preferred study program. Opt for a course that fits your academic and financial needs. Also, choose your degree program. This will guide you through the application process.

While undergraduate degrees are administered in Bulgarian, postgraduate programs are taken in English, French, and Bulgarian. Depending on the course and program you’re pursuing, you might have to prove your language proficiency. Irrespective of that, most universities in Bulgaria avail you of the opportunity to learn the languages before commencing your program. Get all the necessary information about the course and the university offering it. You can visit the university’s website to get detailed information about the institution and course.

2) Submit your application and relevant documents

After choosing your course of study and university, find out the institution’s requirements and complete the application form. Submit the form alongside the following documents:

• Educational transcripts showing subjects undertaken and grades or scores.
• High school, Bachelor’s diploma, or Doctorate degree certificate.
• A valid passport.
• Proof of income indicating that you can cater to your educational needs.
• Medical certificate or medical report showing that you’re in good health.
• CV or resume.
• Language proficiency certificates (IELTS or TOEFL)

If you have a good knowledge of the English language and don’t have an internationally recognized certificate, you can do the test once you arrive at the Bulgarian university. Ensure you submit your application before the deadline. Check the university’s website for the application date and deadline.

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3) Apply for a Bulgarian student visa

A student visa facilitates your study abroad. Obtaining a visa is crucial to studying in Bulgaria. After receiving your acceptance letter, you can proceed to the Bulgarian embassy or consulate to process your visa. Below are the requirements for visa application.

• A copy of your passport valid for at least a year before your trip.
• Letter of acceptance indicating that you’ve secured admission into a Bulgarian university (including a certificate from the university confirming your accommodation in the hostel.
• Medical insurance covers emergencies, repatriation, and medical care throughout the duration of the study. Ensure you get the right insurance certificate as the embassy doesn’t accept all certificates.
• Passport-sized photograph taken on a white background. The passport photo must be a full-face photo with clear boldface, which takes up 70-80% of the photo space with no use of glasses.
• Bank statement showing that you can cater to the living and study costs in Bulgaria. The statement should be issued in the applicant’s name.
• Flight reservation (copies)
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Proof of accommodation

If you’re underaged and traveling to Bulgaria without your parent or guardian, you’ll need the following documents: copy and original birth certificate; a copy of a previous UK, US, Schengen, or Bulgarian Visa (If applicable)and a legal letter of notary signed by parents/ guardian, permitting the applicant to travel without them.

4) How to apply for a Bulgarian Student visa

While some countries have stressful procedures for visa application in Nigeria, applying for a Bulgaria student visa is relatively easy. Just compile the necessary documents mentioned above and proceed to submit your application at the embassy. You don’t need to book an appointment for your visa processing. Visa processing may take 3-10 days. During this period, your application will be evaluated and analyzed. The embassy will inform you about your visa application status if it’s successful or not. If your application is successful, the embassy will attach your visa to your passport.

5) Get packing

By now, you’ve obtained your visa and are ready to embark on your trip to Bulgaria. Ensure you get all that will help your comfort. Once you arrive in Bulgaria, apply for a residency permit. Typically, the permit is valid for a year, and it’s renewable each year for the duration of the study.