About the New Bulgarian University (NBU)
A Modern University With a Bold Vision - The History of the New Bulgarian University (NBU)
The New Bulgarian University (NBU) was established on 18 September 1991 by a resolution of the Bulgarian Parliament, founded by Bogdan Bogdanov and a group of Bulgarian intellectuals. As a private university, the New Bulgarian University (NBU) was created with a vision to offer a modern, flexible, and internationally oriented alternative to Bulgaria’s traditional public universities.
Despite its relatively short history, the New Bulgarian University (NBU) has quickly grown into one of the most recognized private universities in Bulgaria. Since 2004, the New Bulgarian University (NBU) has been an accredited partner of The Open University Business School. The university is a member of the European Reform University Alliance and participates actively in the Erasmus+ exchange program, with partnerships with universities in the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Spain, and other countries.
Campus and Facilities at the New Bulgarian University (NBU)
The campus of the New Bulgarian University (NBU) is located in the western district of Sofia, known for its proximity to the Vitosha Nature Park. The campus consists of two main buildings housing over 100 lecture halls, computer laboratories, language and simultaneous interpreting labs, a Mock Courtroom, and an Arts Center with practice rooms and studios for students of music, fine arts, design, and architecture.
The New Bulgarian University (NBU) also hosts a University Theater, a University Film Center, an Educational Museum, and the UniArt Gallery – making it one of the most culturally active university campuses in Bulgaria. A Sports Center and open green spaces complete the campus environment. The nearest metro station – Miziya / New Bulgarian University – connects the campus to the city center in approximately 20 minutes.
International Students at the New Bulgarian University (NBU)
The New Bulgarian University (NBU) welcomes international students from across Europe and beyond. The university’s international focus is reflected in its partnerships with universities across the EU and its active participation in the Erasmus+ program, which gives students the opportunity to spend a semester abroad at a partner university.
Sofia offers international students at the New Bulgarian University (NBU) an affordable and dynamic capital city experience. Monthly living expenses typically range between €500 and €800, and the city provides a vibrant social scene with international events, cultural landmarks, shopping centers, and easy access to Vitosha Mountain and Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast.
EU-Recognized Degrees from the New Bulgarian University (NBU)
Degrees awarded by the New Bulgarian University (NBU) are fully recognized across the European Union. The university uses the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), allowing credits to be transferred to and from partner universities across Europe. The New Bulgarian University (NBU) is accredited by the National Evaluation and Accreditation Agency (NEAA) and holds accredited partnership with The Open University Business School since 2004.
Why Choose Studying at the New Bulgarian University (NBU)?
No entrance exam required
Modern private university founded in 1991 with a flexible, internationally oriented approach to education
Campus near Vitosha Nature Park with its own metro station connecting to Sofia city center in 20 minutes
Accredited partner of The Open University Business School and member of the European Reform University Alliance
Active Erasmus+ program with partner universities across the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Spain, and more
Programs and Tuition Fees
Academica Bulgaria currently provides admission support for the Psychology program at the New Bulgarian University (NBU), taught entirely in English. The program is open to both EU and non-EU applicants. Students with a recognized international English certificate at B2 level or above are exempted from the English entrance exam.
Psychology at the New Bulgarian University (NBU)
The Psychology program at the New Bulgarian University (NBU) is designed for students interested in understanding human behavior, cognition, and mental processes. The program is taught in English and is open to international applicants.
Annual tuition fee:
EU students: 2,800 – 3,300€
Non-EU students: 5,300 – 6,800€
Admission Requirements at tNew Bulgarian University (NBU)
Applying to the New Bulgarian University (NBU) does not require an entrance exam for applicants who hold a recognized international English language certificate. This makes admission to the New Bulgarian University (NBU) straightforward for international students with proven English proficiency.
Academic Requirements
To be eligible for admission to the New Bulgarian University (NBU), applicants must have completed secondary education (high school or equivalent) that gives them the right to apply to higher education institutions in the country where they completed their studies. There are no specific subject requirements for the Psychology program at the New Bulgarian University (NBU).
Required Documents
All documents submitted to the New Bulgarian University (NBU) must be legalized and officially translated into Bulgarian. Required documents typically include: a completed application form, a certified copy of the high school diploma, a transcript of grades, a certificate confirming the right to continue education at a university, a valid medical certificate, a copy of the applicant’s passport or ID card, passport-sized photographs, and a recognized English language certificate (if available).
Academica Bulgaria handles the entire documentation process on behalf of the student – including translation, notarization, legalization, and correct formatting – ensuring that all paperwork meets the requirements of the New Bulgarian University (NBU) and is submitted within the official deadlines.
English Language Requirements
Applicants to the New Bulgarian University (NBU) must demonstrate English proficiency at B2 level. Students who hold an internationally recognized English language certificate are exempted from the English entrance exam. Applicants without a certificate must sit an exam in English at B2 level as part of the admission process to the New Bulgarian University (NBU).
Key Deadlines
EU students: Document submission from 22 April to 13 September
Non-EU students: Document submission from 22 April to 31 July
How Academica Bulgaria Helps You Apply to the New Bulgarian University
Applying to the New Bulgarian University (NBU) involves multiple steps – from evaluating your eligibility and preparing your documents to navigating visa procedures and enrollment. Academica Bulgaria manages the entire process on your behalf, so you can focus on your preparation while we handle the logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions - New Bulgarian University (NBU)
What are the tuition fees at the New Bulgarian University (NBU)?
Tuition fees at the New Bulgarian University (NBU) for Psychology are 2,800 – 3,300€ per year for EU students and 5,300 – 6,800€ per year for non-EU students. Exact fees are subject to confirmation for the current academic year – contact Academica Bulgaria for details.
Is there an entrance exam at the New Bulgarian University (NBU)?
Applicants to the New Bulgarian University (NBU) who hold a recognized international English language certificate at B2 level or above are exempted from the entrance exam. Applicants without a certificate must sit an exam in English at B2 level.
What are the application deadlines at the New Bulgarian University (NBU)?
Document submission runs from 22 April to 13 September for EU students and from 22 April to 31 July for non-EU students.
Is the New Bulgarian University (NBU) a public or private university?
The New Bulgarian University (NBU) is a private university, established in 1991 by a resolution of the Bulgarian Parliament.
Are degrees from the New Bulgarian University (NBU) recognized internationally?
Yes. Degrees awarded by the New Bulgarian University (NBU) are recognized across the European Union. The university uses the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), is accredited by the NEAA, and has been an accredited partner of The Open University Business School since 2004.