Bulgaria
Local Representative
Dr. Lydia Dachkova
lydia.dachkova@assistscholars.org
+359-895-772-508
Important Dates
Early Application Deadline: November 1st Application Deadline: December 10th Interviews: Mid-January (dates TBD)
APPLICATION FEE
Early: 29 BG Lev Regular: 59 BG Lev
PROGRAM FEE
USD $7,050 for Sanderson Scholarship, $36,250 for Lindfors Scholarship
Bulgaria
ASSIST became active in Bulgaria to help young Bulgarian students currently in the 10th grade who would like to spend one year as exchange students in the United States as 11th graders.
Our work in Bulgaria began in the 1993/94 academic year. Our first Bulgarian scholars distinguished themselves in their American independent schools, and ultimately 187 Bulgarian students have studied in the States under our auspices. It is through the leadership of our partner, the Bulgarian Reading Association, that this scholarship competition is made possible.
Virtual Information Sessions
Please email bulrakonkurs@gmail.com for more information regarding the sessions or to register and get your Zoom link to the meeting. The webinars will be given in Bulgarian or English.
Application Process
To apply for the 25/26 school year, you will log into ASSIST's application portal. The application process for scholarships for the 2025/26 school year will begin in early September, 2024.
Additional Materials:
- Teacher recommendations from your current English teachers, Math teacher and a school administrator.
- Grade transcripts
- Casual photos
Finalists will be invited to write a spontaneous essay and to an in-person interview.
Interview info:
Finalists will be invited to interview in Sofia in mid-January. Exact dates TBD.
Duolingo/English Test:
After reviewing your application materials, we will invite qualified applicants to take a Duolingo test. ASSIST will provide a code for a prepaid test.
Financial Support for Bulgarian Scholars
American schools are generous in offering scholarships to ASSIST students. Throughout our time in Bulgaria, ASSIST has identified sponsors to help students and their families pay for the cost of participating in the program. The Ranch Spur Charitable Trust and many other American donors have stepped forward to support deserving Scholars. Please go to the BulRA website for more about this generous opportunity.