Learn Bulgarian and Russian in Varna – discover slavic languages and culture
Varna: Bulgaria’s sun-drenched, sandy superstar is the third-largest city, after Sofia and Plovdiv. it’s where lush greenery meets the sparkling Black Sea along a coastline that goes on forever. Wander through its historic heart, and you’ll find architectural gems galore and locals living their best lives. But enough chit-chat from me—let’s dive deeper into Varna’s academic charm!
See the 3 prominent Language schools in Varna for courses at the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast – find details about their courses and pricing. By default, the primary focus for learners coming to Varna would typically be Bulgarian or Russian Language courses. Prices here are indicative and it’s always recommended to visit the schools’ official websites, if possible, to get the information and exact start dates.
1. Astoria Language Center
This Language Center is a well-established and highly-rated language school in Varna with language courses for various needs.
Location in central Varna the school is accessible to students. They also have multiple branches in different cities, including Varna. Details: experienced and qualified teachers, a communicative approach to language learning and focusing on practical skills. The place is known for its high success rates in exam preparation. Provides group and individual training, and flexible schedules (morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend courses). Emphasis on creating a comfortable and motivating learning environment.
Courses Offered: Bulgarian for Foreigners: From beginner (A1) to advanced levels, including intensive and extensive options. Russian Language Courses Online Courses: For remote learners.
Prices ( based on typical Bulgarian language school pricing for group courses):
Bulgarian for Foreigners (Group Course, e.g., 60-80 academic hours per level): Expect prices in the range of 250 – 450 BGN (approx. €128 – €230) per level/module. Intensive Summer Courses: May be priced per week, e.g., 150 – 250 BGN (approx. €77 – €128) per week for a certain number of hours. Individual Lessons: Around 25 – 40 BGN (approx. €13 – €20) per academic hour (45 minutes).
Additional Fees: Course materials: Usually separate (e.g., 40 – 70 BGN). Registration fee: Uncommon for standard courses, but confirm.
2. Fast Forward Language Center
Fast Forward is another reputable language center in Varna that provides a modern approach to language education with certified teachers.
Location: Central Varna (specific address readily available on their website).: Focuses on modern teaching methodologies and interactive learning. Offers courses across various European languages. Employs highly qualified and certified teachers. Provides classes in small groups for effective learning. Known for preparing students for internationally recognized certificates. Offers flexible course formats to suit different schedules.
Courses: Bulgarian for Foreigners: Structured courses from beginner to advanced. Russian language Individual Training: One-to-one tailored lessons for any language Online Courses: Available for remote learning
Prices (based on common pricing for language schools in Varna):
Bulgarian for Foreigners (Group Course, e.g., 60-80 academic hours per level): Expect prices in the range of 280 – 480 BGN (approx. €143 – €245) per level/module. Individual Lessons: Around 28 – 45 BGN (approx. €14 – €23) per academic hour (45 minutes). Additional Fees: Course materials: Usually separate (e.g., 50 – 80 BGN).Registration fee: Unlikely for standard courses.
3. Alpha Language Center
Alpha Language Center provides language training programs with a focus on comprehensive language development and exam readiness.
Location: Varna (specific address available on their website). Details:Offers language courses for adults, teenagers, and children. Emphasizes developing all four language skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Qualified teachers with experience in various methodologies. Provides a supportive learning environment. Often has flexible start dates for individual lessons and fixed dates for group courses.
Courses Offered: Bulgarian for Foreigners: From basic communication to advanced proficiency. Russian: General courses. Individual Language Training: Personalized one-on-one lessons. Corporate Language Training: Customized programs for businesses.
Prices ( for group courses):
Bulgarian for Foreigners (Group Course, e.g., per level/module of 60-80 academic hours): Expect prices to be in the range of 270 – 470 BGN (approx. €138 – €240). Individual Lessons: Around 27 – 42 BGN (approx. €14 – €21) per academic hour. Additional Fees: Textbooks and workbooks are usually not included in the course price (e.g., 40 – 70 BGN). No typical registration fee for standard courses.
Important Notes for all Schools in Varna:
“Academic Hour”: In Bulgaria, a “lesson” or “academic hour” (учебенчас) is typically 45 minutes long, not a full 60 minutes.
Payment: Prices are usually quoted in Bulgarian Leva (BGN). The exchange rate is fixed at 1 EUR = 1.95583 BGN.
Levels: All schools cater to various proficiency levels, from A1 (beginner) to C1/C2 (advanced/proficiency) according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Start Dates: Group courses for beginners often have fixed start dates (e.g., monthly or every few months). Higher levels usually start upon sufficient enrollment. Individual lessons offer maximum flexibility.
Visa Requirements: If you are coming to Bulgaria specifically for long-term study, ensure the school can provide necessary documentation for visa purposes, if applicable.
Accommodation:
Language schools in Varna typically focus on tuition and do not usually offer accommodation as part of their packages, but they might provide recommendations for local options.
Where to Pitch Your Tent in Varna?
Forget battling city noise! Just a breezy 15-minute drive from central Varna lies the gloriously named St. Constantine and Helena Resort. This officially recognized Black Sea gem has it all: fancy hotels, stadiums (because, why not?), enough restaurants to keep your taste buds busy, and all the essentials like liquor stores, supermarkets, and even a charming church. It’s nestled north of the city, surrounded by calming greenery. Feeling energetic? It’s even walkable if you’re really up for it!
Varna’s Seaside Siren Song (my personal experience)
As I mentioned, Varna gets its delightful dampness from the Black Sea. And what a sea it is! Shallow, sandy, and boasting an absolutely colossal expanse of white sand coastline. Seriously, it stretches forever. I spend one week there (in 07. 2022) and most days, we were blessed with a high tide, which meant we got to splash around like excited toddlers. Pure bliss! Your go-to spots for soaking up the sun are the famous Golden Sands Beaches and the sprawling beach lining the Sea Garden. And fear not, you’ll find plenty of beach bars ready to serve up cocktails and delicious bites.
For the Gap Year, or a full semester, you may need an affordable transport to explore the country. You can check the public BDZ Rail transport here, or you can opt for cheap second car offers for student’s budget. (I only found this in-depth article related to the second hand cars for international students in Varna)
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