About the University

The American University in Bulgaria (AUBG) is a private, not-for-profit university located in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria. Established in 1991, it is the first American-style liberal arts university in Eastern Europe. AUBG offers a US-style education with internationally recognised degrees and attracts students from more than 40 countries. The university is known for its focus on liberal arts education, entrepreneurship, business, technology, and global learning.

History

The American University in Bulgaria was founded in 1991 as a joint initiative supported by the US and Bulgarian governments, the University of Maine, the Open Society Institute, and the City of Blagoevgrad. The university was created to introduce American-style higher education in the region, combining liberal arts education with international perspectives. Since its establishment, AUBG has developed into one of the most internationally oriented universities in Southeast Europe.

Campus Details

AUBG’s main campus, known as the Skaptopara Campus, is located in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria.

Campus facilities include:

Modern classrooms and lecture halls
One of Southeast Europe’s largest English-language libraries
Computer and technology laboratories
Student residence halls
Sports facilities and fitness centres
Student clubs and cultural spaces
Career development and academic support services

The campus provides a multicultural environment with students from over 40 nationalities.

Education Programmes Offered

AUBG offers programmes at Bachelor’s and Master’s levels, mainly following the American liberal arts education model.

Bachelor's Degree Programmes

Business Administration
Economics
Computer Science
Information Systems
Political Science and International Relations
Journalism and Mass Communication
Psychology
European Studies
History and Civilisation
Integrated Marketing Communications

Master's Degree Programmes

Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA)
Business Administration and Management-related programmes

Other Programmes

English Language Institute
Exchange and summer programmes
Professional development courses

Students can combine majors and minors, allowing flexibility in choosing their academic pathway.

Basic Admission Requirements for International Students

Bachelor's Degree

Completion of recognised secondary/high school education.
Academic transcripts and certificates.
Valid passport.
Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, or equivalent).
Application form.
Personal essay/motivation statement.
Recommendation letters may be required.

Master's Degree (Executive MBA)

A recognised bachelor’s degree.
Academic transcripts.
Professional work experience.
English language proficiency.
CV/resume.
Motivation letter and supporting documents.

Doctoral (PhD) Degree

AUBG mainly focuses on undergraduate and executive education and does not offer a wide range of traditional PhD programmes.

Awards and Achievements

Recognised as one of the leading American-style universities in Europe.
Offers degrees recognised in both the United States and the European Union.
Ranked highly for graduate career success and employability.
More than 90% of bachelor students receive scholarships or financial support.
Maintains a strong international community with students and faculty from multiple countries.
Graduates have continued their studies or careers at institutions and organisations worldwide, including companies and universities such as Google, Harvard, MIT, and others.

American University in Bulgaria

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