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Learning Bulgarian in Varna: courses, university programmes and free options

Where to learn Bulgarian in Varna: Medical University courses, other university options, private classes and free ways to practise, as of October 2026.

Published: By New in Varna Editorial team · How we check facts

Varna has two kinds of Bulgarian courses: university programmes, mostly for students and health workers, and private evening classes. As of October 2026, the clearest published offer comes from the Medical University of Varna. Free options are mainly language exchange and self-study.

Which university courses teach Bulgarian in Varna?

Medical University of Varna (MU Varna). According to the university’s admissions page, its preparatory course for foreign students lasts 9 months and has 1,150 contact hours. That includes 620 hours of general Bulgarian and 230 hours of medical terminology, plus biology, chemistry, anatomy and physics. The course runs only with at least 7 candidates, and it is for foreign students.

The same university’s Department of Slavonic Languages and Communications also runs shorter courses. Its 2026 course notice lists 120-hour courses in general Bulgarian (A1–A2 and B1–B2) and in medical Bulgarian, at €306.78 per course. They are for foreign doctors, nurses and other health staff. They must pass the state language exam. You apply by email. A short free-text note is enough.

University of Economics – Varna. It runs preparatory courses for foreign students. They teach language and subjects, with exams in Bulgarian or English. According to its fee page, a language entrance exam costs €180. These courses are for admitted students, not the public.

Varna Free University and Technical University. We found no public Bulgarian course for 2026/27 on their websites. Ask their international offices directly.

Are there evening courses for adults?

Yes, but check the provider first. Private schools and teachers advertise group courses, often starting in September. Before paying, ask for the school’s name, address, contract and level certificate.

How can I learn Bulgarian for free?

  • Start with the alphabet. Our Cyrillic alphabet guide explains all 30 letters.
  • Learn survival phrases from Bulgarian phrases for visitors.
  • Find a language exchange partner. MyLanguageExchange lists people in Varna. For more ideas, see meeting people in Varna.
  • Children from Ukraine: in August 2024 BTA reported that Varna’s Municipal Children’s Complex would run Bulgarian courses for Ukrainian children in grades 1–4. Ask the complex whether it runs them again. See also our temporary protection guide.

What it means for newcomers

If you are a student, start with your own university. If you work in Varna, an evening course plus weekly exchange is the most realistic path. Either way, learn Cyrillic in your first week.

Sources

Frequently asked questions

Is there a Bulgarian course for foreigners in Varna?

Yes. The Medical University of Varna runs a nine-month preparatory course for its foreign students and 120-hour courses for foreign medical professionals. For other learners, ask the universities' international offices or a private language school.

How much does a Bulgarian course cost in Varna?

The Medical University's 2026 notice lists €306.78 for each 120-hour course. Other providers set their own prices, so check their own pages before you pay.

Can I learn Bulgarian for free in Varna?

Partly. Language exchange, free alphabet and phrase guides and daily practice cost nothing. Free group courses are rare and usually aimed at specific groups, such as Ukrainian children.

Do I need Bulgarian to live in Varna?

Not at first, but basic Bulgarian makes offices, doctors and landlords much easier, and it is required if you want to study or practise medicine in Bulgarian.

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