Study Political Science and International Relations in Bulgaria: Courses, Fees, Eligibility & Admission
If you are ambitious about global affairs and want to turn that ambition into a strong career, then political science in Bulgaria can help you build that future with the right training. Political Science and International Relations in Bulgaria is a degree that brings along not only prestige but also immense knowledge. This will prepare you to become a successful professional in the future. Furthermore, you will get to learn about economic systems and foreign policies. The curriculum will not only improve your theoretical knowledge but also ensure that you gain practical experience. Hence, you will be able to get many lucrative job options for yourself.
Higher education in Bulgaria is very robust. Moreover, in this country, you will find some of the most affordable study options in Europe. If you are willing to study political science in Bulgaria, understanding the eligibility criteria, the language of instruction, the deadlines, as well as the application procedures is important.
In this guide, we are going to explore all this and much more, so you have everything you need before you apply.
Political Science and International Relations in Bulgaria: Quick Overview
| Particulars | Details |
| Course Name | Political Science and International Relations |
| Duration | 4 years (Bachelor’s) and 1 to 1.5 years (Master’s) |
| Medium of Instruction | English and Bulgarian |
| Average Tuition Fee | €1,500 to €6,450 per semester |
| Cost of Living | €500 to €900 per month |
| Top University | American University in Bulgaria |
| Career Scope | Diplomat, Policy Analyst, IR Consultant and Government Roles |
Why Study Political Science and International Relations in Bulgaria?
Bulgaria attracts thousands of international students every year. If you are looking to Study Political Science and International Relations in Bulgaria, then these are the benefits you can explore:
- Affordable fees: As compared to other European countries, the political science fees in Bulgaria are one of the affordable options, while countries like the UK or Germany can cost you much higher.
- English-taught programmes: If you do not want to study in Bulgarian, then no worries. You can also explore English taught programs in Bulgaria according to your language preference.
- Widely recognised degree: A political science degree in Bulgaria is widely recognised across the European Union. This gives you the option to work or continue your studies in any EU country.
- Affordable living: An average cost of living in Bulgaria for students is comparatively cheaper than other country options. This can mainly depend on the city and accommodation you choose.
- Access to the schengen region: Bulgaria became a full Schengen member from January 2025. This can give you easy access to travel across other Schengen countries during your study period.
- Exposure to global affairs: Sofia hosts several embassies, EU institutions and international organisations which can give you real exposure to global affairs during this course.
- Academic history: Bulgaria has a long-standing tradition in political science and international relations where several universities offer specialised programmes backed by experienced faculty.
- Scholarship options: Several universities also offer scholarships in Bulgaria for international students to provide flexibility in fees structure. One good scholarship can reduce your financial burden.
- Higher studies in Bulgaria: After your bachelors in political science, you can also explore masters in Bulgaria in international relations, diplomacy or public policy. This can open doors to government and international organisations.
Political Science and International Relations Eligibility Criteria in Bulgaria
To be eligible to study political science in Bulgaria, you must fulfil some specific requirements. Admission requirements Bulgaria universities set can vary a little between institutions, but the following criteria apply to most colleges offering a political science degree in Bulgaria. Let us discuss these in the pointers below:
- Students willing to pursue Bachelors in Political science must have completed at least school level, i.e., Class 12. In the final exams, you must have scored at least 62% marks.
- Students should also have proficiency in the English language, since most programs fall under English taught programs in Bulgaria. This can be proved by taking tests like TOEFL, PTE or IELTS. You must score the cutoff marks in one of the following exams: 6.5 to 7 bands in IELTS, 70 in PTE, 70 to 80 in TOEFL, Cambridge First Certificate English (FCE) with Pass grade C, or Cambridge Advanced English Certificate (CAE) with Pass grade C.
- Some colleges also ask students to attend an interview before confirming admission.
- Students must also submit a compelling statement of purpose mentioning what motivates them to study this particular course at the chosen university.
The same criteria apply if you are applying for a Masters in Bulgaria in this subject, with a relevant Bachelor’s degree in place of Class 12 marks
English Medium Political Science Courses in Bulgaria
English is the language of instruction for political science and international relations at most amazing universities in Bulgaria while making it one of the most popular English taught programs in Bulgaria. Hence, to be eligible to pursue this political science course in Bulgaria, you need good proficiency in the English language.
When Can I Apply for Political Science and International Relations in Bulgaria?
You can apply during two intakes for a political science admission in Bulgaria. Here are the details about the intakes and deadlines:
- Summer Intake – Applications are accepted till mid-March.
- Fall Intake – Applications are accepted till mid-November.
Documents Required
Following are the documents you must possess to study political science in Bulgaria:
- Proof of funds
- Mark sheets and transcripts of your qualifying education
- Completely filled application from the university
- Bulgaria student visa
- Medical certificate
- CV or portfolio
- Passport
- Passport-sized photographs
- Statement of Purpose
- Recommendation letter
Political Science and International Relations Course Duration in Bulgaria
The total duration of a bachelor’s in political science generally takes 4 years to complete while a master’s programme usually takes 1 to 1.5 years, depending on the university and specialisation you choose. Each year has 2 semesters and there is an examination at the end of each semester.
Political Science and International Relations Tuition Fees in Bulgaria
The political science fees in Bulgaria are affordable overall, though they vary depending on whether you choose a public or private university. Hence, if you are interested in pursuing a high-quality degree, you must consider getting an education from Bulgaria.
| University | Fee structure per year |
| American University in Bulgaria (AUBG) | around €13,800 (€6,900 per semester) |
| New Bulgarian University (NBU) | around €5,215 to €6,749 |
| Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” | around €3,300 |
| University of National and World Economy (UNWE) | around €3,300 |
| Plovdiv University “Paisii Hilendarski” | around €3,300 |
Top Universities for Political Science and International Relations in Bulgaria
If there is one university that promises the best blend of practical and theoretical knowledge, you can study at the following best universities for political science in Bulgaria:
| University | Category | City |
| American University in Bulgaria (AUBG) | Private | Blagoevgrad |
| New Bulgarian University (NBU) | Private | Sofia |
| Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” | Public | Sofia |
| University of National and World Economy (UNWE) | Public | Sofia |
| Plovdiv University “Paisii Hilendarski” | Public | Plovdiv |
Admission Steps for a Political Science in Bulgaria
Studying political science and international relations in Bulgaria is an amazing experience. If you want your Bulgaria university application process to go smoothly, there is a certain set of steps you must follow. Our professionals can guide you at every step, from your initial consultation to the visa application.
- During your initial consultation with Our Overseas Education Consultants, you will discuss the course you wish to pursue and share what you expect from it. With this knowledge, our professionals help you find the ideal political science course in Bulgaria for your goals.
- After choosing the right course, the next step is picking the ideal university to pursue it at. Our team members help you with this using their knowledge and experience.
- Checking the eligibility criteria for admission to a certain university is also important. If you have questions about this, you can reach out to our professionals, who will guide you through it.
- Submitting your application form with all the details entered precisely and on time is necessary, since this is your gateway to studying in a foreign country. Our experts inform you about deadlines and cross-check every detail in your application form.
- Getting admission to the best university also means having all your documents ready. Many aspirants have questions about political science fees in Bulgaria and other cost details at this stage and we give you accurate, updated information to work with.
- You also need to apply for a Bulgaria student visa to pursue higher education. Many students find this process difficult to follow, and that is where visa experts step in to make it simpler.
If you feel like you have any other questions regarding the application process or anything else, you can reach out to our team. We promise to provide you with the most valuable guidance that propels your academic journey!
Political Science and International Relations in Bulgaria vs Other Study Destinations
While choosing to study political science abroad, students often get confused between Bulgaria and other popular destinations. Here is a quick comparison that can help you decide well:
- Tuition fee: The political science and International relations fees in Bulgaria are generally between €1,500 to €3,500 per year. Meanwhile countries like the UK or the US can charge anywhere from €10,000 to €25,000 per year for a similar course.
- Cost of living: The cost of living in Bulgaria for students remains one of the lowest in Europe, around €500 to €900 per month. However, living costs in the UK, US or Western Europe can easily cross €1,200 to €2,000 per month.
- English medium course: Several universities offer English taught programs in Bulgaria, so you do not need to learn Bulgarian to complete your degree. On the other hand, some popular western countries also support English but you need to pay a higher fee.
- Recognised degree: A political science degree in Bulgaria is recognised across the European Union, so you can have the freedom to explore your career and further study options. Therefore, degrees from the UK or US may also have a global recognition too, but it comes with higher cost.
- Access to global institutions: Sofia gives you direct exposure to embassies and EU institutions. However, cities like Brussels, Geneva or Washington DC offer similar access but usually at a much higher living cost.
- Easy visa process: The Bulgaria student visa process is simple and quick compared to countries like the US or UK where visa procedures often take longer and ask for more documentation.
Our team can help you compare your options and choose the country that fits your goals
Career Opportunities After Political Science and International Relations in Bulgaria
Once you complete your political science and International relations degree in Bulgaria, you get access to a wide range of career paths both in India and abroad. Here are the roles you can explore:
- Diplomat or Foreign Service Officer
- Policy or Research Analyst
- International Relations Consultant
- Journalist or Political Correspondent
- NGO or Human Rights Officer
- Public Affairs Manager
- Government Administrator
A political science degree in Bulgaria can open doors to government roles, public administration and policy-making positions.If you want to go further, you can also pursue masters in Bulgaria in this related field. Your degree from Bulgaria is widely recognised across the European Union, so you are free to explore different career options in multiple countries.
Every career path starts with the right guidance. Talk to us and explore what suits you best!
Things to Know Before Studying Political Science in Bulgaria
Before you shortlist universities for political science and International relations in Bulgaria, it is important to check a few things properly, so you can avoid any unnecessary mistakes during your admission process. Here is the checklist you must consider:
- Always confirm that your chosen university is officially accredited by the National Evaluation and Accreditation Agency of Bulgaria. This makes your political science degree in Bulgaria valid and recognised across the world.
- Check whether your programme is taught in Bulgarian or English before you apply. If you do want to study in Bulgarian, confirm this on the university website itself, as only some courses offer English taught programs in Bulgaria.
- Compare the subjects covered under each political science course and check if it matches your own interest, whether that is diplomacy, governance, international relations or public policy.
- Confirm the exact political science and International relations fees in Bulgaria for your chosen university, as public universities usually charge less compared to private ones. Also check if the fee structure includes any hidden charges.
- If you are applying with documents from outside the EU, they may need to be legalised or translated by a certified translator before submission, so check this requirement well in advance.
- Application deadlines in Bulgaria can change with university, so always confirm the exact date on the official website rather than assuming a fixed timeline across the country.
Related Courses
Political science in Bulgaria gives you a recognised European degree at an affordable cost, along with several English taught programs in Bulgaria and real exposure to global institutions. Thus, a political science degree and International relations in Bulgaria is widely recognised across the EU, so it works well for both your career and further studies.
Your journey toward a rewarding career in politics could start with a single conversation. Reach out to us today and take the first step toward Bulgaria!
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is quite affordable. The fees generally range between €1,500 to €3,500 per year, much lower than most European countries.
You can work as a diplomat, policy analyst, international relations consultant, journalist or government administrator, both in India and abroad.
No, Indian students need a valid Bulgaria student visa to study and stay in the country for the duration of their course.
Yes, Bulgaria offers a recognised European degree at a much lower fee compared to countries like the UK or the US.
Not always. Some universities may ask for an interview or a short test, while others admit based on academic records.
A bachelor’s degree generally takes 4 years, while a master’s programme usually takes 1 to 1.5 years, depending on the university.
Yes, a degree from a recognised Bulgarian university is accepted in India, though recognition can also depend on the institution.
Last Updated: October 16, 2026
