Welcome to Sofia, the vibrant capital city of Bulgaria! If you’re considering studying here, let’s take a closer look at the cost of living and what it’s like to be a student in this exciting European city.

Accommodation

The cost of accommodation in Sofia is generally affordable compared to other European capitals. Students often have various options, such as university dormitories, shared apartments, or private rentals.

Transportation

Sofia offers an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro network. The cost of a single public transport ticket is relatively low, making it easy for students to explore the city and commute to their universities. A monthly student transport pass costs around 25 Euros.

Food and Dining

Sofia boasts a diverse culinary scene with a mix of traditional Bulgarian cuisine and international restaurants. Students can enjoy a meal at a budget-friendly restaurant for around 5 to 10 Euros. Cooking at home can be even more cost-effective, as groceries are reasonably priced, especially if you shop at local markets.

Entertainment and Activities

Being a student in Sofia means you’ll have plenty of opportunities for entertainment and cultural experiences. From visiting museums and galleries to exploring the city’s historical landmarks, many attractions offer discounted entry for students. Additionally, there are numerous student-friendly cafes, bars, and clubs where you can socialize with your peers without breaking the bank.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Bulgaria is generally affordable. As an international student, you may have access to basic healthcare services through the national health insurance system, provided you have valid health insurance coverage. It’s essential to check the specific requirements and options available for international students at your chosen university.

Language and Communication

While Bulgarian is the official language, many Bulgarians, especially in Sofia, speak English, especially the younger population and those involved in the tourism and education sectors. As a student, you will likely find it relatively easy to communicate in English.

Overall, studying in Sofia offers an enriching experience both academically and culturally, without putting a significant strain on your finances. The city’s welcoming atmosphere, combined with its affordable cost of living, makes it an attractive destination for students from around the world. So, if you’re ready for a memorable academic journey, consider making Sofia your home away from home!

Accommodation costs – Kitchen59

We can accommodate you in two types of rooms – single and shared.
Prices are the following:

Bed in a Double shared room for 250 EUR per month.
Bed in a Corner shared room for 270 EUR per month. This room is slightly bigger than the standard shared and has a lot more light because of the second big French window in it.

Single Medium for the price of 370 EUR per month
Single Large for the price of 440 EUR per month
Single XL for 480 EUR per month.

• includes weekly cleaning
• the shared rooms come with a fellow student roommate for FREE.
• all the rooms have private bathrooms and fridges.
• since cleanliness is essential for comfort, students can book weekly linen change which includes towel and linen change weekly for the price of 50 BGN per month per person.

The rent of the room covers all the bills for Wi-Fi, heating, water, electricity, etc.

Students can also benefit from a huge common room, a professionally equipped common kitchen, access to restaurant, deli and rooftop café/bar.
We value other people’s privacy and cultural difference.
Staff is available 24/7 and the whole building is secured at night.

You can see pictures of our rooms on www.kitchen59.bg/campus

In order to book a room a student has to send us:
1. Deposit (amount of one month’s rent) which we return at the end of the stay if there are no damages to the room and
2. The rent for the first month

The programs costs

Culinary Arts

HRC Culinary Academy offers a 2-year associate’s degree program crafted by top chefs and educators, focusing on classic and modern cooking techniques. Hands-on labs and internships in Europe and the USA provide real-world experience. Highlights:

• Integrated 2-year program
• Hands-on training by international chefs
• Two paid internships in Europe and the USA
• Business and soft skills included
• Enhance your culinary skills with practical lab classes and gain a competitive edge in the industry.
• Internships in Europe and the USA provide valuable experience. Business and soft skills training included.

Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts for Local (Bulgarian) Students

Tuition fee €2200 per semester

Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts for International Students

Tuition fee €3400 per semester

Additional fees:

One-time equipment fee of €500 (includes a professional knife roll, chef’s gear and kitchen shoes)
Non-EU Students* pay an enrollment fee of €1300 (the fee includes assistance for the process, preceding visa application, and students status for 2 years without interruption of the program (possible break between the semesters might incur additional fees).

*Please note that due to Visa requirements, the admission process for Non-EU students might be different.

*You can find our refund policy here.

Hospitality Management & Innovation Degree

Excel in Hospitality Management with our program:

• 2 semesters in Sofia, 12-month USA internship
• In-depth understanding of hospitality, finance, events, and more
• Hands-on training at our boutique hotel
• Specializations available in final semester
• Real-life exposure with paid internships
• Your path to a successful hospitality career starts here!

The tuition fee is €2200 per semester

Non-EU Students* pay an additional enrollment fee of €1300 (the fee includes assistance for the process, preceding visa application, and students status for 2 years without interruption of the program (possible break between the semesters might incur additional fees).

Food preparation certificate

Get certified in Food Preparation:

• 24-week intense practice
• Covers Culinary Arts modules
• Cold & Hot Kitchen, Pastry & Bakery
• Internationally accredited Certificate
• Explore career and internship opportunities
• Internships based on skills and motivation
• Documentation fees are not included in the fee

Tuition fee €2700
Equipment fee €500 (includes a professional knife roll, chef’s gear and kitchen shoes)

The amount can be paid in two installments as follows – 50% upon enrollment and 50% up to 14 days after the start of the course

Non-EU Students pay an additional enrollment fee of €500. The fee includes assistance for the process, preceding visa application. In case you need to prolong your stay in Bulgaria after your visa expires, additional fees will apply.

Professional Chef’s Certificate

Elevate Your Culinary Career with Our 1-Year Professional Chef’s Certificate Program:

• 1-year comprehensive culinary immersion
• Created by top international chefs
• Essential culinary skills and knowledge
• Applied lab classes in classic and contemporary techniques
• Personalized guidance from expert instructors
• Business and soft skills for a well-rounded education
• Transformative culinary journey
• Hands-on learning and industry exposure
• Flourish as a sought-after professional chef

Professional Chef’s Certificate for Local (Bulgarian) Students

Tuition fee €2200 per semester

Professional Chef’s Certificate for International Students

Tuition fee €3400 per semester

Additional fees:

One-time equipment fee of €500 (includes a professional knife roll, chef’s gear and kitchen shoes)
Non-EU Students* pay an enrollment fee of €1300 (the fee includes assistance for the process, preceding visa application, and students status for 2 years without interruption of the program (possible break between the semesters might incur additional fees).

*Please note that due to Visa requirements, the admission process for Non-EU students might be different.

*You can find our refund policy here.

Pastry and Bakery Course

Join our 7-week professional certificate course and master the art of preparing a diverse range of desserts and pastries. Through hands-on sessions and engaging demonstrations, you’ll grasp essential concepts and applications crucial for success in the pastry industry. Our experienced instructors will unveil the secrets behind classical desserts, pastry techniques, bread-making, chocolate work, sugar craft, and cake preparation.

Upon finishing the 7-week Pastry and Bakery Course, you’ll have the opportunity for an optional 2-week internship at our teaching restaurant, Talents, and HRC Bakery.

Achieve recognition with our internationally accredited Pastry and Bakery Professional Certificate, setting you on the path to culinary excellence.

Tuition fee €1100
Equipment fee €300 (includes pastry equipment and chef’s gear)

The amount can be paid in two installments as follows – 50% of the tuition fee 14 days before the start date and 50% up to 14 days after the start of the course

Hot and Cold Kitchen Course

14 weeks of intense practice and theory taught by international chef instructors. The course includes various lectures and directly applied practical approach. After successfully finishing the course you should be able to independently prepare salads and starters, soups and sauces, treat, cook and fillet different meats and fish. You will be able to expand on vegetarian main dishes, as well as some ethnic dishes from diverse world cuisine styles.

Tuition fee €1600
Equipment fee €500 (includes a professional knife roll, chef’s gear and kitchen shoes)

The amount can be paid in two installments as follows – 50% upon enrollment and 50% up to 14 days after the start of the course