About the University of National and World Economy (UNWE)
The History of the University of National and World Economy
The University of National and World Economy was founded in 1920 by Stefan Bobchev and Russian émigré Peter Bogaevsky, originally as the Free University of Political and Economic Sciences. Over the following decades, the institution underwent several transformations – becoming the State Higher Education School of Finance and Administrative Sciences in 1940, then merging with Sofia University as a faculty in 1947. During Bulgaria’s communist era, it operated as the Karl Marx Higher Institute of Economics. In 1990, following the end of the communist regime, the institution was renamed to the University of National and World Economy – the title it carries today.
The University of National and World Economy is now the largest university of economics in Southeast Europe. With over 100 years of uninterrupted academic tradition, the University of National and World Economy has trained the majority of Bulgaria’s economic and political leadership – only 5 out of 25 Bulgarian Finance Ministers since the late 1930s have not been graduates of the University of National and World Economy. In 2006, the National Evaluation and Accreditation Agency (NEAA) awarded the University of National and World Economy the highest institutional accreditation rating of all Bulgarian universities. In 2020, the University of National and World Economy received the Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation for its work on strengthening Bulgaria-Japan economic ties.
Eight Faculties at the University of National and World Economy
The University of National and World Economy is organized into eight faculties, covering a comprehensive range of economic, business, legal, and social science disciplines. The faculties at the University of National and World Economy include Economics of Infrastructure, Finance and Accounting, Management and Administration, International Economics and Politics, Applied Informatics and Statistics, Business, Law, and General Economics. Together, they offer dozens of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs – six of which are taught entirely in English.
The University of National and World Economy employs over 500 lecturers, with 300 of them holding the rank of Professor or Associate Professor. The University of National and World Economy is a member of the European University Association (EUA) and actively participates in international academic networks, research collaborations, and student exchange programs across Europe and beyond.
Campus and Facilities at the University of National and World Economy
The University of National and World Economy is located in Studentski Grad (Student City) – a dedicated university district in Sofia that also houses the Technical University of Sofia, the University of Forestry, and the National Sports Academy. The campus of the University of National and World Economy includes modern lecture halls, computer laboratories, a comprehensive library with an extensive collection of academic books, journals, and electronic databases, as well as sports facilities and student dormitories.
Being situated in Studentski Grad gives students at the University of National and World Economy access to an active student community shared across multiple universities, with cafes, restaurants, shops, and social venues all within walking distance. The city center of Sofia is easily accessible by public transport from the University of National and World Economy campus.
International Students at the University of National and World Economy
The University of National and World Economy welcomes international students from countries across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. With six English-taught programs in economics, finance, international relations, marketing, and business management, the University of National and World Economy offers one of the most affordable pathways to an EU-recognized business degree – at just €3,000 per year.
Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, is one of the most affordable capital cities in Europe for students. Rent typically averages around €300 per month, a one-way public transit ticket costs less than €0.80, and the city offers a rich mix of international restaurants, shopping centers, parks, galleries, and nightlife. Sofia Airport – the largest airport in Bulgaria – provides direct connections to major European cities, making international travel easy and convenient for students at the University of National and World Economy.
EU-Recognized Degrees from the University of National and World Economy
Degrees awarded by the University of National and World Economy are fully recognized across the European Union. As a member of the European University Association (EUA), the University of National and World Economy follows the Bologna Process standards and uses the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), ensuring that credits and degrees are transferable and recognized by universities and employers across Europe.
The University of National and World Economy participates in the Erasmus+ exchange program, giving students the opportunity to spend part of their studies at a partner university in another European country. The University of National and World Economy has established partnerships with numerous international universities, facilitating academic collaboration, joint research projects, and student mobility. Graduates of the University of National and World Economy work in banking, finance, consulting, international trade, government, and the private sector across Bulgaria, Europe, and worldwide.
Why choose studying in the Medical University of Sofia?
Programs and Tuition Fees
The University of National and World Economy offers six undergraduate programs taught entirely in English. All programs lead to an EU-recognized degree, and tuition is payable in two equal installments per academic year. At just €3,000 per year, the University of National and World Economy offers one of the most affordable English-taught business and economics education options in the European Union.
International Economic Relations at the University of National and World Economy
The International Economic Relations program at the University of National and World Economy is designed for students interested in global economics, international trade, and cross-border business relations. This program at the University of National and World Economy prepares graduates for careers in international organizations, government institutions, embassies, and multinational companies.
Annual tuition fee: €4,000
Finance and Accounting at the University of National and World Economy
The Finance and Accounting program at the University of National and World Economy combines training in financial management, accounting, and related disciplines. Graduates of this program at the University of National and World Economy are prepared for roles in banking, audit firms, insurance companies, corporate finance, and regulatory agencies across the EU.
Annual tuition fee: €4,000
Business Informatics and Communications at the University of National and World Economy
The Business Informatics and Communications program at the University of National and World Economy is aimed at students interested in the intersection of business management and information technology. Graduates of this program at the University of National and World Economy are prepared for careers in tech companies, digital communications, IT consulting, and business process management.
Annual tuition fee: €4,000
Business Economics and Management at the University of National and World Economy
The Business Economics and Management program at the University of National and World Economy focuses on organizational management, business strategy, entrepreneurship, operations management, and human resources. Students at the University of National and World Economy learn to lead teams, manage business operations, and make data-driven strategic decisions. Graduates pursue careers in corporate management, consulting, startups, and public administration across Europe and beyond.
Annual tuition fee: €4,000
Tuition Fees Overview - University of National and World Economy
| Program | Annual Tuition | Entrance Exam | English Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Economic Relations | €3,000 | No exam required | Certificate required |
| Economics | €3,000 | No exam required | Certificate required |
| Finance and Accountancy | €3,000 | No exam required | Certificate required |
| Business Informatics and Communications | €3,000 | No exam required | Certificate required |
| Marketing and Strategic Planning | €3,000 | No exam required | Certificate required |
| Business Economics and Management | €3,000 | No exam required | Certificate required |
Accepted English Language Certificates
TOEFL Paper ≥560 · TOEFL CBT ≥223 · TOEFL IBT ≥84 · TOEIC ≥700 · IELTS ≥6.5 · Cambridge CAE or CPE (grades B or C) · Cambridge FCE (grade A)
Admission Requirements at the University of National and World Economy
Applying to the University of National and World Economy does not require an entrance exam – applicants with a recognized English language certificate are admitted based on their documents. This makes the University of National and World Economy one of the most accessible English-taught universities in Bulgaria for international students.
Academic Requirements
To be eligible for admission to the University of National and World Economy, 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 University of National and World Economy – unlike medical universities, applicants are not required to have studied particular subjects in high school. The key requirement is English language proficiency, demonstrated through a recognized certificate.
Required Documents
All documents submitted to the University of National and World Economy 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 showing subjects studied and marks obtained, 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 proficiency certificate.
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 University of National and World Economy and is submitted within the official deadlines.
English Language Requirements
Applicants to the University of National and World Economy who hold a recognized English language certificate are not required to sit any entrance exam. The following certificates and minimum scores are accepted at the University of National and World Economy:
TOEFL Paper – not less than 560
TOEFL CBT – not less than 223
TOEFL IBT – not less than 84
TOEIC – not less than 700
IELTS – not less than 6.5
Cambridge CAE or Cambridge Proficiency (CPE) – grades B or C
Cambridge First Certificate (FCE) – grade A
A preparatory course is available for students who do not yet speak English at the required level – contact Academica Bulgaria for details.
Key Deadlines
Document submission for the University of National and World Economy for the 2025/2026 academic year runs from April/May until 16 September 2025.
Academica Bulgaria recommends submitting your application as early as possible within this window to allow sufficient time for document processing and, for non-EU students, visa procedures.
Preparatory Course at the University of National and World Economy
If English is not your strong point yet, the University of National and World Economy offers a preparatory course designed to bring your language skills to the level required for admission. Instead of missing a year waiting, you spend it building the English proficiency you need – in the same city and academic environment where you will continue your studies. Once you reach the required level, you can apply directly to any of the six English-taught programs at the University of National and World Economy without sitting an entrance exam.
How Academica Bulgaria Helps You Apply to the University of National and World Economy
Applying to the University of National and World Economy involves document preparation, translation, legalization, and submission within official deadlines. Academica Bulgaria manages the entire process on your behalf, so you can focus on your preparation while we handle the logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions - University of National and World Economy
What programs does the University of National and World Economy offer in English?
The University of National and World Economy offers six programs taught in English: International Economic Relations, Economics, Finance and Accounting, Business Informatics and Communications, Marketing and Strategic Planning, and Business Economics and Management.
What are the tuition fees at the University of National and World Economy?
Annual tuition fees at the University of National and World Economy are €3,000 for all six English-taught programs. Fees are payable in two equal installments per academic year.
Is there an entrance exam at the University of National and World Economy?
No. Applicants to the University of National and World Economy who hold a recognized English language certificate are not required to sit any entrance exam. Accepted certificates include :
TOEFL Paper — not less than 560
TOEFL CBT — not less than 223
TOEFL IBT — not less than 84
TOEIC — not less than 700
IELTS — not less than 6.5
Cambridge CAE or Cambridge Proficiency (CPE) — grades B or C
Cambridge First Certificate (FCE) — grade A
What English language certificates are accepted at the University of National and World Economy?
The University of National and World Economy accepts TOEFL Paper (≥560), TOEFL CBT (≥223), TOEFL IBT (≥84), TOEIC (≥700), IELTS (≥6.5), Cambridge CAE or CPE (grades B or C), and Cambridge FCE (grade A).
What are the application deadlines at the University of National and World Economy?
Document submission for the Technical University of Sofia for the 1st semester of the 2026/2027 academic year runs from July until 25 September 2026.
Academica Bulgaria recommends submitting your application as early as possible within this window to allow sufficient time for document processing and, for non-EU students, visa procedures.
Is there a Preparatory Course at the University of National and World Economy?
Yes. The University of National and World Economy offers a preparatory course for students who do not yet speak English at the required level. Contact Academica Bulgaria for details on fees and dates.
Are degrees from the University of National and World Economy recognized internationally?
Yes. Degrees awarded by the University of National and World Economy are recognized across the European Union. The university follows the Bologna Process, uses the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), and participates in the Erasmus+ exchange program. The NEAA awarded the University of National and World Economy the highest institutional accreditation rating of all Bulgarian universities.
Where is the University of National and World Economy located?
The University of National and World Economy is located in Studentski Grad (Student City) in Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital. The campus includes modern lecture halls, a library, sports facilities, and student dormitories. Sofia is one of the most affordable capital cities in Europe for students.