Studying in Varna: the four big universities at a glance
Varna Free University, Technical University, Medical University and University of Economics: what each is known for and where to start applying.
Varna is a real student city: four large universities sit within easy reach of the sea, and together they cover business, engineering, medicine and the creative and social sciences. If you want to study in English, start with the official admissions pages below — programmes and fees change every year.
The four universities
University of Economics – Varna
The oldest university in the city: it opened on 14 May 1920 as the Higher School of Commerce. Today it focuses on economics, business, finance, tourism and informatics. Its international office publishes guidance for foreign students, including residence questions. Website: ue-varna.bg
Medical University of Varna
Traces its start to 1961 as a Higher Medical Institute and became a university in 1995. Since 2004 it has run a six-year medicine programme in English, and its English-language programmes attract students from many countries. Its student pages also explain how to register with the migration office. Website: mu-varna.bg
Technical University of Varna
Founded in 1962, it covers engineering, shipbuilding and maritime technologies, electronics, computing and more — a natural fit for a port city. Website: tu-varna.bg
Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”
A private university created in 1991 and granted higher-school status in 1995. It is known for architecture, law, business, IT and arts programmes, and takes part in Erasmus+ exchanges with European partners. Website: vfu.bg
How do I choose?
- By subject: medicine and dental/pharmacy → MU-Varna; engineering → TU-Varna; business and tourism → University of Economics; design, architecture or law → VFU.
- By language: confirm the teaching language for your exact programme, not just the faculty.
- By budget: compare official tuition plus living costs (see our cost-of-living guide).
Coming as an Erasmus student?
Ask your home university which Varna institutions are partners. Erasmus Student Network (ESN) has been active in several Bulgarian cities, including Varna — a good way to meet people from your first week.
First steps after admission
- Get your enrolment certificate — you’ll need it for residence registration.
- Sort out housing with a written contract.
- Register with the migration office (see our paperwork guides).
Sources
Frequently asked questions
Can I study in English in Varna?
Yes, at least in some programmes. The Medical University of Varna has taught a six-year medicine programme in English since 2004, and other universities offer selected English-taught courses — check each university's current list.
Which university is the oldest in Varna?
The University of Economics – Varna, which opened in 1920 as the Higher School of Commerce.
How much does tuition cost?
It depends on the university, programme and your citizenship. Figures on agency sites vary, so use the official admissions pages for current fees.
