Thinking of studying at AUBG? We’ve got plenty of reasons why this university might just be the right place to spend the next four years of your life, and most likely, it’ll remain in your heart and your networking list forever. So, what is it that makes AUBG so special?
Academic excellence and world-class professors
What truly makes AUBG a unique place to study is the outstanding academic offering, ranging from local and international professors with years of experience to resources and academic support that ensure your success. We put an emphasis on the quality of education we provide and are one of the few universities that offer tailored academic paths, where you choose the pace of your study as well as your majors and concentrations.
It’s for a reason that AUBG secured top positions in the Bulgarian University Rankings for a number of programs, reaffirming its status as a premier university in Bulgaria and the region. Our academic programs and renowned faculty equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their post-graduate studies and careers.
The smaller class size also ensures that you receive personal attention, where your needs and aspirations are taken into account. Our professors not only teach you course materials but also mentor you.
“One of the things I love most about AUBG is office hours,” said Teona Sima, a motivated senior student. “I have the opportunity to speak with professors and ask them for guidance not only about my coursework but also about my academic and professional development,” she added.
You receive both a US and EU Diploma
In a world where global business and interconnectedness is a must, earning two diplomas recognized in the two major economic regions – Europe and the U.S. – allows you to scale your business ideas and career development globally.
Whether you’re heading into post-graduate education or applying for jobs, AUBG’s dual-accredited degrees open up more opportunities without borders. Just be sure to double-check our BA Academics page, as some majors are accredited only in the US.
A vibrant international community
AUBG is a colorful amalgamation of nationalities, cultures, and interests. Here, everyone is treated with respect, and you’re sure to find a community you vibe with.
From performing arts and sports clubs to student media, business challenges and , there’s space to truly be yourself. We also offer a strong student support system, with services ranging from Academic Advising and Residential Life to Health & Wellbeing.
There are over 40 nationalities represented on campus, which we celebrate every year during Diversity Week. Most of our faculty are international professors with years of experience and a deep connection to the AUBG community. We’re pretty sure you’ll find your tribe here.
Affordable student life
Bulgaria is one of the most affordable places to live and study in Europe without compromising on quality. Accommodation and living expenses are a fraction of what you’d pay in Western Europe and the U.S. For example, the estimated monthly cost for a single person is 43.1% lower than in the U.S. and students in Bulgaria typically pay 73.8% less than their U.S. counterparts.
Blagoevgrad is a city built around student life, with two universities in its center. Rent prices range from €120 to €400 per month.
When it comes to student life, there are plenty of hip spots – cozy Italian restaurants, local sandwich shops, specialty coffee and cocktail bars, lively nightclubs and more hidden spots around the city. Plus, Blago is just an hour away from the capital Sofia, where you can segway into a more vivid student life on weekends.
Your physical and mental health will be well taken care of too, with parks and gyms on and around campus. The region boasts a natural spa haven – forests, mountain walks, and mineral baths all around. So that’s that for a healthy and fun student city.
Great career opportunities
What’s a great university without post-grad career prospects? At AUBG, we take your professional development seriously. From the moment you step foot on campus to long after graduation, you’ll have access to ample opportunities that build your career and skillset beyond the classroom. You just have to grab them.
Our Career Center is always here to guide you in finding and applying to jobs, meeting you with potential employers, and practicing your interviewing skills. AUBG has strong ties with global companies that can help you secure internships and job placements.
We host a regular Job & Internship Fair, where you get to meet esteemed companies and even land a position on the spot. Many of our graduates have eighter founded or built successful careers in multinational companies, start-ups, and NGOs, benefiting from the university’s extensive professional network.
Student clubs that replicate real-world business models, such as Investment club and Model EU (MEU), give you the opportunity to take on a leadership role. . Whether you want to be a President, Treasurer, or a Marketing Manager, the choice is yours. You can even work on campus as a student assistant or resident advisor, gaining real-world experience while earning extra income.
Strong Alumni Network
The benefits of studying at AUBG don’t end with graduation. Once you turn the tassel, you automatically become part of the AUBG Alumni Association – your golden ticket to priceless networking opportunities, leadership talks, and exciting events. Many alumni remain actively involved, offering mentorship and sharing career insights.
But perhaps most importantly, your AUBG friends remain for life, and they often end up becoming your business or life partners. AUBG is the birthplace of many thriving companies, co-founded by classmates turned business partners – just like SiteGround.
Student clubs for every interest
We mentioned them briefly, but let’s give them the spotlight they deserve. AUBG’s student clubs are one of the most defining parts of your university experience. Whether your interest is music, politics, investing, sustainability, or entrepreneurship, there’s a club ready to welcome you.
Here, you not only make good friends and have fun, but you also gain real-world experiences. Want to direct a musical? Organize a TEDx event? Build a start-up and earn prizes? Compete in the AUBG Olympics? At AUBG, it’s all possible.
Safe and student-friendly city
Bulgaria is one of the world’s safest countries, ranked 30th out of 163 in the Global Peace Index 2023 – higher than Spain, Italy, and the UK.
Blagoevgrad is a peaceful, student-centric city in Southwest Bulgaria where you’ll feel both welcomed by the local community and comfortable walking home at all hours. It’s small enough to feel like home, but just diverse enough to keep things interesting.
Plus, the surrounding nature is breathtaking. The New York Times named Bulgaria a top place to visit in 2025, and once you’re here, you’ll see why. Check out our recommendations of sites to visit around Blago and beyond.
Well-connected with Europe
Speaking of travels, Bulgaria is incredibly well-connected with the Balkans and the rest of Europe.
From here, it’s easy to reach Greece, North Macedonia, and Serbia by bus or car. Budget airlines also make cities like Vienna, Berlin, and Rome just a short flight away.
Being in the European Union and Schengen area means all students in Bulgaria can freely visit 28 other countries across Europe without having to worry about visas and border controls.
Liberal arts education: honing your soft skills
AUBG follows a liberal arts model that goes beyond the curriculum and subject knowledge; it builds your soft skills. You won’t just learn how to solve problems; you’ll learn how to think critically, be creative and adaptable, and collaborate. You’ll become a leader who leads with empathy.
These are the skills that employers crave, and we make sure to cultivate them through hands-on classes, group work, real-life case studies, and extra-curricular actives.
Bonus: Exchange programs abroad
Our exchange programs provide you with even more opportunities to explore different cultures and expand your horizons while studying at AUBG.
We partner with prestigious universities across the globe through programs like Erasmus+, ISEP, OSUN, and direct partnerships with institutions such as UMaine and Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University in Japan.
To get inspired for your own study abroad, check out the stories of Greti Georgieva’s semester in Japan, Georgi Nichev’s time at Truman in the U.S., and Teona Sima’s adventures in Vienna. Once you’re convinced, our Erasmus and study abroad office will assist you with your application.
Ready to start your journey at AUBG? Check out our bachelor’s programs and start the application process. We will be waiting for you!
