Study Abroad in Bulgaria

Academic Year Programs

During your time in Bulgaria, you will live with a host family and attend a local high school.

School

Education is considered very important in Bulgaria. The Bulgarian school system requires students to take responsibility for their academic performance! In Bulgarian high schools, students attend a variety of classes: two or three foreign languages (e.g. English, German, French, Spanish, Russian, and Italian), mathematics, sciences, history, geography, philosophy etc. Students can also take courses in sports, arts and music. Students are required to take at least 33 hours of classes per week.

The school begins on 15th September and ends on 30th June. Students will be placed on the third or fourth grade of high school (10th or 11th) depending on their previous studies. The school will decide on a suitable grade level.

There are not many extracurricular activities available through schools. Activities are organized by separate communities, institutes and associations.

Please note: Students may not be able to receive a transcript or a record of grades. Some schools are able to issue a certificate of attendance. Placement in a particular grade level, credit, or graduation cannot be guaranteed.

Orientations

All students applying for the year program must be available for a mandatory 3-day National Pre-Departure Orientation*, which usually takes place in mid-July. This orientation is a required part of the program aimed at preparing students for their experience overseas.

Upon arrival in Bulgaria, students will attend a 3-day arrival orientation. During this orientation, students will meet other exchange students and learn the Bulgarian ways. Other orientations include a 4-day mid-year and a 3-day re-entry.

Four Seasons Outdoor Program

This fabulous outdoor program focuses on field and mountain trips. A variety of outdoor activities range from diverse outdoor festivals, skiing, ice skating, caving, climbing, mountaineering and visiting eco-farms. We look for the most attractive activities for the seasons and depending on the weather, they could be different each year. Includes all of the described activities (once a month) and the cooperation with other organizations that offer such activities. Includes gear, such as snowshoes, skis, and harvest. Students should prepare by packing appropriate clothing (waterproof jacket, hiking shoes, thermal underwear, etc.)

Language

Bulgarian. English is widely spoken, particularly among younger Bulgarians and in urban areas. Students should be motivated to learn basic Bulgarian and are encouraged to begin familiarizing themselves with the Cyrillic alphabet as soon as they apply. No prior Bulgarian language experience is required. Students will be provided access to an online language training platform to aid in learning ahead of departure, along with ongoing language support while on program. While many classes may be conducted in English, everyday life — from markets to mealtimes — will offer rich opportunities to practice Bulgarian with your host family and peers.