Admissions

The American College of Sofia, accredited by the Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science, Middle States Association (MSA) and International Baccalaureate (IB), admits both Bulgarian and international students based on their results on admissions exams.

The American College of Sofia (ACS) is one of the oldest American educational institutions outside the United States, with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1860. As the school prepares to celebrate its 165th anniversary in 2025, ACS continues to uphold its tradition of academic excellence. ACS is an English-language high school that admits students after 7th grade, with additional openings for international students and Bulgarian students after 8th grade through an entrance exam in English.

ACS is accredited by the Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science, the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools in the United States (MSA), and the International Baccalaureate (IB), making it an esteemed institution with a global reputation for quality education. It is an IB World School, offering a challenging and internationally recognized curriculum to its students.

At ACS, the emphasis is on providing a rigorous university preparatory education, designed for motivated and ambitious students. The majority of courses are taught in English, except for Bulgarian and foreign language classes, fostering a truly bilingual and culturally rich environment. Students have the opportunity to specialize in one of several academic profiles, tailoring their education to their interests and strengths. These profiles include mathematics, software & hardware technology, humanities, foreign languages, natural sciences, and entrepreneurship, allowing students to delve deeply into the areas they are most passionate about.

The faculty at ACS is comprised of highly qualified professionals, many of whom are international educators from countries such as the United States, Great Britain, and Canada. Approximately 35% of the teachers come from these international backgrounds, bringing diverse perspectives and innovative teaching methods to the classroom. This global influence ensures that students are not only receiving a top-tier education but are also prepared to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

The American College of Sofia is a prestigious institution that combines academic rigor, a diverse and innovative teaching staff, and a broad range of academic concentrations. It continues to inspire young people to reach their full potential, preparing them for success in both university and beyond.

936

students

36 %

international faculty

85 %

financial aid applications approved

HIGH QUALITY EDUCATION

Admission to ACS is highly selective, requiring students to successfully pass the college's entrance exam. Once accepted, students embark on a challenging academic journey that emphasizes both the acquisition of knowledge and its practical application.

In addition to rigorous academics, ACS offers a well-rounded extra-curricular program designed to complement students' studies and foster their personal development. This holistic approach helps students build academic skills while also growing into well-rounded individuals.

The College's high standards are maintained by a diverse faculty, consisting of both experienced Bulgarian and international professionals, who bring a variety of teaching methods and global perspectives to the classroom. These progressive educational practices, centered on interactive learning, form the foundation of the ACS curriculum.

ACS graduates are equipped to think critically and solve complex problems. They set clear goals, achieve them, and are socially conscious, ready to compete with top students around the world.

Tuition Fee Reduction for Students Who Have Successfully Passed the Entrance Exam

Scholarships

Scholarships for Students

Who Have Successfully Passed the Entrance Exam after Grade 7

The College offers five full scholarships to entering students, accepted after Grade 7: two Polansky Scholarships, one Oberbauer Scholarship, one Gipson Scholarship, and one Sunrise Scholarship. These scholarships cover tuition fees for the five years that students are enrolled at the American College.

Although the selection committee considers a number of different criteria, financial need is the most important criterion in the selection process.

Bulgarian Students

The American College of Sofia admits applicants with Bulgaria ID (EGN) numbers, in the 7^th grade in the year they are applying and earn a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 5.00 (Very Good on the Bulgarian grading system).

Прием

International Students

International students are admitted on a rolling basis (year-round) according to space availability and the College’s acceptance of prior official high school records indicating achievement at a level which corresponds to that required of all students at the College.

Admission

Director of Admissions & International Student Coordinator

Sarah Skaggs, s.skaggs@acsbg.org

Sarah Skaggs was born in the United States and has been living in Bulgaria for the past 22 years. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from the University of Central Oklahoma, USA, and has an extensive professional background in the outsourcing industry with a focus on marketing, branding, and communications. She has also been active in the NGO sector in the United States, Romania, and in Bulgaria.

“My two daughters are the light of my life, they are my travel partners, life teachers, and good friends. I believe in the value of education and the mission that the American College of Sofia has chosen to pursue. I hope that one day my own children will be able to earn an ACS education.

I’m looking forward to working with the families of future ACS students.”

To get in touch with Ms. Skaggs, e-mail s.skaggs@acsbg.org or call (359-2) 434-1008.