Schools. Education in Bulgaria. Preparing for School.

Choosing a school and obtaining an education for a child in Bulgaria is undoubtedly the main task facing parents who have decided to relocate for permanent residence.

Bulgaria offers a wide choice of schools – private, state, and Russian schools attached to the Embassy. It is important to understand that when your child starts school, they will need to adapt quickly, and this can undoubtedly be achieved at a school where everything is taught in Bulgarian, that is, at a state school. There are also educational institutions where teaching is bilingual. Private schools cost around 600 leva per month, and the education is no better than in state schools – there are of course exceptions, but the question is whether it is worth paying extra when the child can additionally be enrolled in various clubs and sections that interest them.

The school year in Bulgaria runs from 15 September to 15 June.

Children can be enrolled in school from the age of 6. Primary school covers Years 1 to 4, followed by pre-gymnasium up to Year 8, and then secondary education or a specialised gymnasium. After Year 8, a child can choose a vocational gymnasium: language-focused (English, French, German), mathematical, arts, fine art, music, sports, and so on.

The grading scale in schools runs from 1 to 6 points. If your child receives less than 4 points (1, 2, 3), this is a fail.

All pupils, after Year 7, sit state examinations, called in Bulgarian „matura“. Based on the results of the examinations and the points obtained, the child then chooses a school.

Every year in Bulgaria a booklet is published listing all the educational institutions your child may apply to, in which the points required for admission are also described. Therefore, in advance, you can familiarise yourself with this guide by visiting any bookshop. The title of the book is: “Spravochnik na uchilishta sled 7 klas” (Guide to schools after Year 7).

When your child holds their certificate together with the examination results, you will be informed of the central school where all the educational institutions of your district are gathered, and there you submit the documents for your child’s further admission to the chosen educational institution. It is not necessary to come with the child.

The following documents must be prepared for the central „hub“ school when applying for Year 8:

1. An application form, which you fill in on the spot.
2. A medical certificate.
3. The school certificate.
4. A CV from the school.
5. The pupil’s record book.
6. A document with the points obtained after the examinations.

*** Make copies of every document.