American English Academy vs The American College of Sofia

	A American English Academy Sofia, Bulgaria	T The American College of Sofia Sofia, Bulgaria
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year €55 - 15,600	Fees / year €10,040 - 28,600
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 13 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum American Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP)	Curriculum American Curriculum, IB (DP), Bespoke Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 200	Pupils 954
Typical class size	Typical class size 10	Typical class size 19
Instruction language	Instruction language English, Bulgarian	Instruction language English, Bulgarian
Opened	Opened 1992	Opened 1860
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Lozen Area, Sofia, Bulgaria; campus in the foothills outside the city near Lozen, with views toward the mountains.	Location The American College of Sofia is in Sofia, Bulgaria, at Floyd Black Lane, Mladost 2, 1799. The campus is located in the Mladost district and is accessible by public transport. By bus, take #76 or #111 with a transfer if needed, and follow local landmarks such as the HIT store and the yellow gate at the end of the street to reach ACS. The campus is near the MVR Police Academy Simeonovo area as a reference point.
Stages	Stages Pre-kindergarten through Grade 12.	Stages Grades 9–12. All students pursue the USA High School Diploma Programme (Grades 9–12). Bulgarian students in Grades 11–12 enter the Bulgarian Diploma Programme (academic stream) with profiles such as Humanities, Foreign Languages, Mathematics & Physics, Software & Hardware Sciences, Natural Sciences, or Entrepreneurship. International students participate in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
School type	School type Day, coeducational international school.	School type Private, coeducational, language high school. The college is described as a private, language-based American-style preparatory school offering American and Bulgarian/IB diplomas.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix About 200 students from 35+ countries; 40% international, 60% local.	Pupil nationality mix Bulgarian students make up about 96% of the student body, with international students comprising about 4%.
Additional learning support	Additional learning support —	Additional learning support Student Support Team provides counseling and programs for social-emotional development and mental health. Services include Confidential Individual Counseling, Group Counseling, Academic Support Groups, Health Courses, and mentorship for clubs and events; the team collaborates with faculty and families.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation —	Country affiliation Affiliated with the United States as the oldest American educational institution outside the USA.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation No religious affiliation	Religious affiliation —
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details Public transit serves the campus area. Bus routes include #76 (to Mladost) and #111; a subway connection can be used with a transfer to reach ACS. Directions note landmarks and a gate at the end of the street for campus entry.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and one‑time fees - Application fee: EUR 450, due upon student application; this fee is non‑refundable (siblings of current AEA students are exempt from the application fee). - Wait‑pool registration (when applicable): EUR 55. - Capital fee (new students only): EUR 1,950, payable with the contract signing; this is a one‑time fee and is non‑refundable. The capital fee covers educational materials (books, models, etc.) for the student's entire period at AEA. Annual tuition fees (school year 2026/27) and standard term breakdown All tuition figures are stated per academic year. The school uses a standard payment plan of three installments (50% / 30% / 20%) with due dates shown in the Billing section below. Per‑installment amounts shown here follow that split. - Kindergarten K3–K5: Annual tuition EUR 10,500. Installments: Payment 1 (50%) EUR 5,250; Payment 2 (30%) EUR 3,150; Payment 3 (20%) EUR 2,100. - Advanced Kindergarten (K6): Annual tuition EUR 12,200. Installments: Payment 1 EUR 6,100; Payment 2 EUR 3,660; Payment 3 EUR 2,440. - Grade 1–7, International Program: Annual tuition EUR 14,500. Installments: Payment 1 EUR 7,250; Payment 2 EUR 4,350; Payment 3 EUR 2,900. - Grade 1–7, Dual Language Program: Annual tuition EUR 15,600. Installments: Payment 1 EUR 7,800; Payment 2 EUR 4,680; Payment 3 EUR 3,120. - Grade 8: Annual tuition EUR 14,600. Installments: Payment 1 EUR 7,300; Payment 2 EUR 4,380; Payment 3 EUR 2,920. - Grades 9–10: Annual tuition EUR 12,200. Installments: Payment 1 EUR 6,100; Payment 2 EUR 3,660; Payment 3 EUR 2,440. - Grades 11–12: Annual tuition EUR 13,400. Installments: Payment 1 EUR 6,700; Payment 2 EUR 4,020; Payment 3 EUR 2,680. Billing schedule and payment terms - Standard payment plan: three installments — 50% due by March 31, 30% due by June 30, and 20% due by December 15. Returning students' first installment is scheduled for March 31. New students' first installment is due within one month after enrollment. - For more than one child enrolled, the family receives a 5% discount on the fee with the lower amount. All fees listed are VAT inclusive. Boarding fees - AEA is a day school (coeducational day international school); there are no boarding services or boarding fees. Other costs and optional services (typical annual fees) - School meals (breakfast and lunch): K6–Grade 3: EUR 1,656; Grades 4–7: EUR 1,808; Grades 8–12: EUR 1,992. A lunch‑only option is available: K6–Grade 3: EUR 1,368; Grades 4–7: EUR 1,532; Grades 8–12: EUR 1,700. A 10% discount applies if the full school‑meals program is prepaid for the entire academic year. - Transportation (annual): round‑trip EUR 2,570 per student (fee is updated annually); one‑way EUR 1,740 per student. - After‑school activities: charged separately; fees are set according to the activity and local Sofia market rates. - AP exam costs and certain examination or exam‑preparation fees: AP courses and some AP exam administration are included in the weekly schedule for high‑school students, but additional fees apply if students self‑prepare for more than the mandatory AP exams. Field trips, ski trips, and certain overseas trips are charged separately. - Uniforms, textbooks, and educational materials are provided as part of the tuition/capital fee coverage; parents are not charged a separate standard uniform fee. Specific optional personal or replacement items remain the parents' responsibility. Partial‑year enrolment and early withdrawal (refund treatment and pro‑rata) - Tuition for partial‑year enrolment or early withdrawal is calculated on a prorated basis according to the enrollment quarter: students enrolled in the 1st quarter are charged the full annual tuition; 2nd quarter enrolment is charged 75% of the annual tuition; 3rd quarter enrolment 50%; 4th quarter enrolment 25%. Application and capital fees are non‑refundable. Payment methods and billing notes - Admissions procedures reference payment by bank transfer (bank transfer receipts) or cash receipt for application and capital fee payments; bank transfer is the standard method documented in admissions steps. The school issues invoices and schedules payments according to the standard plan. No general credit‑card acceptance for tuition is specified in the published admissions/fee documents. VAT and inclusions - All listed fees are VAT inclusive. The tuition fee is described as all‑inclusive for educational provision (access to facilities, tests, selected exam administration, student insurance, counseling, and provision of uniforms/textbooks/materials), while optional non‑pedagogical services (meals, transport, after‑school activities, trips) are charged in addition.	Fee details Application fees - ISEE (Independent School Entrance Exam) registration: USD 160, payable by credit card directly to the Educational Records Bureau (ERB). - Historic/legacy application fee noted in ACS application materials for international applicants: EUR 350 (appears on ACS published application requirements document). Tuition fees (annual amounts by student category) - Bulgarian students (standard Bulgarian-student rate): EUR 10,040 per academic year (BGN 19,636.54). - International students (International Student Program): EUR 21,700 per academic year (BGN 42,441.52). - Bulgarian students transferring from international schools: charged at the International Student rate (EUR 21,700 per academic year). Per-term detail - The published figures are stated as annual tuition rates (see amounts above). A per-term (semester/term) breakdown is not published alongside those annual rates in the College's tuition materials; families should expect the headline amounts to represent the total tuition for the full academic year. Boarding / dormitory fees - Dormitory fee for Bulgarian citizens (2025/2026 academic year): EUR 6,100 per year. - Dormitory fee for international students (2025/2026 academic year): EUR 6,900 per year. - The dormitory fee covers three weekday meals in the school cafeteria, internet, laundry, room cleaning, and related residential services. Other costs and fees (what is included / excluded) - The annual tuition covers instruction, academic and extracurricular activities, study materials (including a personal Chromebook), and access to school laboratories, libraries, sports facilities, and college-counseling services. - The following are not included in the listed tuition and are charged separately where applicable: meals for day students, transportation, school trips and excursions, certain school supplies, and IB exam fees. - Elective clubs and extracurricular participation are stated as having no separate participation fee. Billing schedule and payment terms - Annual tuition is published as the total yearly charge by student category. Specific public-facing materials do not publish a detailed per-term invoice schedule or payment-due dates alongside the headline annual amounts; billing and enrollment paperwork (distributed after admission) define exact payment deadlines and any installment arrangements. - The College allows tuition to be invoiced and paid by a juridical person (legal entity) when parents request this arrangement; such arrangements require an additional trilateral agreement among parents, the College, and the paying company. Refund information - Publicly available admissions and tuition materials do not publish a detailed general tuition-refund or standardized withdrawal-refund schedule alongside the headline tuition figures; families complete enrollment paperwork and any applicable admission/enrollment agreements that set out specific refund or cancellation terms. Fee payment options - ISEE registration is paid by credit card to ERB (the test administrator). - The College can invoice a legal entity for tuition (see above); invoicing implies accepted electronic or bank payment methods for third-party payers under the trilateral arrangement, with specific payment instructions provided on the invoice or enrollment agreement. Practical notes for parents (concise) - Headline annual tuition: Bulgarian students EUR 10,040; International students EUR 21,700. - Boarding (dorm) is an additional annual charge: EUR 6,100 (Bulgarian citizens) or EUR 6,900 (international students) for the 2025/2026 figures published by the College. - The ISEE test registration fee (required for admissions testing) is USD 160, charged by ERB and payable by credit card. Brief note on scope and missing public details - The College's public tuition materials state annual tuition and dormitory amounts and describe what the tuition covers and excludes, and they confirm the ISEE registration charge; those materials do not publish a public per-term fee breakdown, a standard public billing-calendar with installment due dates, or a standard public refund table alongside the headline rates. For precise invoice dates, installment options, payment methods (bank details, card acceptance for tuition), and formal refund terms, families receive and sign the College's enrollment documents and invoices after admission.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements The school is a day school with no boarding.	Boarding arrangements Perske House Dormitory is on campus and can accommodate 28 students in four double bedrooms, four rooms with three beds, and two rooms with four beds. Two dormitory supervisors oversee operations, and the facility includes laundry, luggage storage, ski equipment storage, a computer room, and a lounge with a TV, refrigerator, and microwave. The dormitory fee covers three meals a day at the school cafeteria on weekdays, as well as internet access and room cleaning.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The school has a dress code. Students wear AEA-branded sweaters, tops, and t-shirts with the AEA logo.	Uniform requirement —
Food options	Food options The school has an on-site cafeteria serving freshly cooked meals daily; a lunch menu is provided for students to choose from.	Food options The America for Bulgaria Campus Center houses the Cafeteria and kitchen facilities and the campus cafe. A 2019-2020 ACS brochure notes the cafeteria serves fresh and warm options, including vegetarian choices. The dormitory fee covers three meals a day at the cafeteria on weekdays.
House system	House system —	House system —
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is privately owned by Markan Holding AD. It is an independent, secular private school with a governing School Board.	Governance and ownership ACS is governed by a Board of Trustees. It is operated as Sofia American Schools, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation chartered in Massachusetts since 1926.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details The American English Academy offers a U.S. standards-based program from pre-kindergarten through Grade 12, with instruction in English. The curriculum follows U.S. Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and mathematics, and includes literacy in history, science, and technical subjects. The program is organized by grade level: Middle School (5th–7th), 8th grade, 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grade, with core courses across English, math, science, social studies, and electives including Art, Music, IT, and Physical Education, plus after-school activities. An optional Dual Language Program for Bulgarian students (Pre-school to Grade 12) is taught in Bulgarian and English and provides double certification after each grade, aligning with both U.S. and Bulgarian standards. The school is an official Advanced Placement (AP) center; students may prepare for up to five AP exams during high school.	Curriculum details English is the primary language of instruction. Grades 9–10 Bulgarian and international students follow almost the same ACS curriculum. In Grades 11–12 Bulgarian students pursue the Bulgarian Diploma Program with advanced profiles, while international students are admitted to the two-year IB Diploma Programme. International students begin the IB Diploma Programme in 11th grade and can earn the American High School Diploma by completing ACS coursework and the CAS portfolio. The IB Diploma Programme has been offered since 2005. Bulgarian Diploma Profiles cover Humanities, Foreign Languages, Mathematics and Physics, Software & Hardware, Natural Sciences, and Entrepreneurship; all profile courses are advanced honors, and every student completes a 75-hour CAS portfolio.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio 1:4 teacher-student ratio; average class size is 12 students.	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results 100% of graduates are admitted to university or college.	Exam results SAT middle 50%: 1310-1470; Highest SAT score: 1580. Scores for SATs were reported for 102 students in the class of 2024, August 2022–October 2023. National Exams (matura) were taken by more than 50% of ACS students (class of 2023). On average, 92% of ACS seniors apply to non-Bulgarian colleges and universities, and typically 100% earn the American Diploma and either the Bulgarian or IB Diploma.
Higher education progression	Higher education progression All graduates are admitted to university or college. The AP program supports college readiness and offers on-site AP exams.	Higher education progression ACS graduates attend universities around the world. On average, 92% of ACS seniors apply to non-Bulgarian colleges and universities. Institutions attended include Brown University, Columbia University, NYU, and University of California campuses, among others. Bulgarian universities such as Medical University of Sofia and Sofia University also enroll ACS graduates.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented Bulgarian Diploma Profiles are advanced honors programs with concentrations in Humanities, Foreign Languages, Mathematics & Physics, Software & Hardware, Natural Sciences, and Entrepreneurship. International students on the IB Diploma Programme undertake English A Literature and other higher-level subjects. All students complete a 75-hour CAS portfolio.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The middle school develops self-confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset. Relationships are built through empathy in a secure and welcoming environment.	Social & emotional learning The Student Support Team prioritizes student well-being and provides counseling and programs to support social-emotional development and mental health. The team comprises psychologists and social-emotional counselors. Services include confidential individual counseling, group counseling, academic support groups, health courses, and mentorship for clubs and events. They work closely with faculty and families to support students' academic and personal journeys. Contact: studentsupport@acsbg.org.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) Language support and special needs are considered during admissions.	Special educational needs (SEN) —
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The learning program is in English. English Reinforcement is provided in middle school. The curriculum follows the U.S. Common Core State Standards. A Dual Language Program is available for Bulgarian students, taught in Bulgarian and English.	English as an additional language —
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing The environment is safe, caring, and stimulating, supporting students' emotional, intellectual, physical, and social growth.	Mental wellbeing Mental health support is provided through confidential counseling, group counseling, and health education. The team includes psychologists and social-emotional counselors. They address adolescent development and mental health needs. They collaborate with families and faculty to support student well-being. For support, contact: studentsupport@acsbg.org.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The school emphasizes a secure environment and safe practices, aligning with its mission to support students' emotional and social development.	Safeguarding The school has a Child Protection Officer as part of the Student Support Team. The Student Support Team includes highly trained professionals, including psychologists and social-emotional counselors. Safeguarding work is conducted in collaboration with faculty and families to protect students. Confidential individual counseling and group counseling are among the safeguarding and wellbeing services. For support, contact: studentsupport@acsbg.org.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The American English Academy is located in the Lozen area just outside Sofia. The campus covers 7,400 square meters and has been recognized with Bulgaria's Building of the Year award in educational facilities. From the green surroundings to mountain views, the campus provides a purpose-built environment. Classrooms are designed by age group and are equipped with Promethean Smartboards to integrate digital learning daily. The campus includes a modern library, an on-site cafeteria serving freshly cooked meals, and a campus-wide Green Policy.	Facilities overview The American College of Sofia sits on a multi-building campus with seven academic buildings and 62 classrooms. The campus includes four computer labs and three science labs for STEM teaching. A 380-seat theater and an 180-seat concert hall host performances and assemblies. A 28-bed student dormitory and a large 1,276-square-meter multi-purpose gymnasium anchor indoor life. Outdoor facilities include a tennis court, a basketball court, and playing fields; the America for Bulgaria Campus Center houses Gipson Library, the Cafeteria and kitchen facilities, the campus cafe, spaces for student activities, the Ferren Meeting Room, and the Jim Clayton Writing Center.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities —	Sports facilities A spacious 1,276-square-meter multi-purpose gym anchors indoor athletics. Two small sport rooms in the basement of Djerassi Hall are for fitness and gymnastics, and Abbott Hall houses three small sport rooms for fitness, table tennis, and gymnastics. Outdoor facilities include a tennis court, a basketball court, and playing fields. The Bubble hosts ACS Open tournaments on campus.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Learning spaces are designed to support age-appropriate engagement and collaboration. All classrooms are equipped with Promethean Smartboards, integrating digital technologies into daily teaching. The library provides desktop computers and access to online resources, with an interactive Promethean Table for searching and discovery. Temperature, ventilation, lighting, and seating arrangements are adjusted to create a comfortable learning atmosphere.	Academic facilities Seven academic buildings offer 62 classrooms. There are four computer labs and three science labs. The Gipson Library occupies about 300 square meters and supports study and research. The Jim Clayton Writing Center provides academic writing support, and the Ferren Meeting Room and other Campus Center facilities support student collaboration.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The school offers a wide range of after-school activities and sports. School Life features include Winter Musical Production, Anti-Bullying Week, International Culture Week, and a Science Fair. Students also publish the AEA Science Journal and participate in a Spelling Bee Contest. These activities complement the academic program and foster student engagement beyond the classroom.	Extra curricular facilities The American College of Sofia offers a broad range of clubs and activities beyond the classroom. Arabian Culture Club explores cuisine, calligraphy, language and arts of the Arab world. Art Club organizes schoolwide art activities; Chemistry Club conducts science-related projects. Muzeiko Volunteering Club connects students with weekend volunteering at Muzeiko; New Hope Club fosters national pride and charitable events; Photography Club provides creative and technical training.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History The American English Academy was established in 1992 by Frank and Ruth Munsey as one of the first international schools in Bulgaria. Initially the school followed the ABeka curriculum and now offers a U.S. standards-based Common Core curriculum and an Advanced Placement program. The school currently serves about 200 students from more than 35 countries. Since 2014, the Dual Language Program based on U.S. and Bulgarian standards has been offered, delivered in cooperation with Abraham Lincoln Private School and fully accredited by the Bulgarian Ministry of Education. In 2014 AEA opened a new state-of-the-art campus outside Sofia, which won the Building of the Year Award. As of 2015 the school is privately owned by Markan Holding AD. The school year starts on September 15 and ends on June 30.	History Founded in 1860, The American College of Sofia is one of the oldest American educational institutions outside the United States. The College traces its roots to a boys' school opened in Philippopolis by American missionaries for the 1860–61 school year and a girls' school opened three years later in Eski Zagra. The schools were relocated to Samokov in 1871, later merged into Sofia American Schools, Inc., and moved to a new Simeonovo campus in the 1920s. World War II and its aftermath led to the campus's confiscation in 1947, and the campus became the headquarters of the Bulgarian state police. The College reopened in Sofia in 1992, and in 2025–2026 celebrates the 165th anniversary of its founding.
Community	Community AEA has a diverse international community with more than 35 nations represented and about 200 students from around the world. The student body comprises a 40:60 ratio of international to local students. The staff speaks 12 languages, the teacher-student ratio is 1:4, and the average number of students per class is 12. All graduates are admitted to university or college, and 55% of teachers have 7+ years of experience. School life includes events such as a Winter Musical Production, Anti-Bullying Week, International Culture Week, a Science Fair, the AEA Science Journal, and Spelling Bee Contests.	Community ACS operates on a park-like campus with eight renovated classical buildings on 28 acres, including a 380-seat theater and a 180-seat concert hall, and a 28-bed student dormitory. Campus life includes ACS Clubs, a Student Council, Sports, and a vibrant Performing Arts program that features Bulgarian-language theater and collaborations with Sofia Opera and Ballet. Gipson Library provides extensive resources with about 16,500 volumes and access to online databases.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association —	Parent teacher association ACS has an active Parent Teacher Association (PTA). Parents may participate through the ACS PTA to support student activities and school initiatives. There is also a Parent Ambassador program and an Annual General Meeting as part of parent involvement, per ACS communications and reports. Parents are encouraged to participate in their child's education, including parent–teacher meetings.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school offers a wide range of opportunities to challenge students beyond the core curriculum, spanning performing arts, athletics, technology, and community responsibility. These activities enable individual discovery and personal growth outside academic subjects. The yearly calendar features events where students showcase knowledge, creativity, and social responsibility to teachers and families. The extracurricular program supports students in reaching their fullest potential through engagement outside the classroom.	Academic & intellectual The school offers a broad extracurricular program with over 120 student clubs and activities. FISSION Club organizes an international student‑run science fair. The 3D Printing Club teaches 3D modeling and printing. The Robotics Club participates in the FIRST Robotics Competition, and the TEDxYouth@ACSofia and Fountain Journal Club provide platforms for public speaking, research, and publishing.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative The Winter Musical Production is the school's annual performing arts event that involves the whole student body and the parent community. Students participate in acting, dance, solo singing, choir, props, makeup, and stage lighting. Through this project-based activity, students develop presentation and communication skills, teamwork, and time management. Participation yields memorable experiences and practical skills applicable to future endeavors.	Arts & creative ACS provides extensive arts and creative activities, including a performing arts program that produces English-language plays and a major dance program linked to Sofia Opera and Ballet. Arts Fest showcases student performances and works. Clubs cover music, visual arts, film, and literary publishing, including Rock Band Club, Photography Club, Video Production Club, The Fountain Journal Club, and Yearbook Club.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language International Culture Week celebrates the school's cultural diversity. The Culture Week aims to create a multicultural environment and educate global citizens. Events help students experience the richness of different nationalities at AEA and develop a broader understanding of the world. These activities align with the school's mission to educate global citizens.	Cultural & language Model United Nations is active, with ACS hosting MUN conferences and students participating in international MUN events. German language competitions and other language clubs are offered. The New Hope Club fosters national pride and cultural service activities.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies The Spelling Bee Contest is conducted in front of the parent community. It provides a platform for students to demonstrate spelling skills and perseverance. The contest serves as a public showcase of knowledge, character, and dedication.	Social & hobbies The school offers numerous social and hobby clubs such as 3‑in‑1 Club, 3D Printing Club, Adventure Club, Animal Rescue Volunteers Club, New Hope Club, Photography Club, Podcast Club, Psychology Club, Red Cross Bulgarian Youth Club, Robotics Club, Rock Band, Running Club, Science Club, Sports Bridge Club, Swifties Club, Table Tennis Club, Teach For Bulgaria Club, TEDxYouth@ACSofia, Fountain Journal Club, TimeHeroes ACS, and Yearbook Club.
Community & service	Community & service Anti-Bullying Week creates a safe and positive atmosphere for all students. It emphasizes instruction on the personal and social aspects of aggression and bullying. The school promotes mutual respect and tolerance to support a healthy school climate.	Community & service Students participate in community service through clubs such as TimeHeroes ACS and Teach For Bulgaria. TimeHeroes ACS coordinates ACS's volunteer efforts with Bulgaria's largest charity platform.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional —	Leadership & professional Leadership opportunities come from Model United Nations participation and club leadership roles; TEDxYouth@ACSofia develops public speaking and project management skills. Debates and entrepreneurship‑oriented activities are supported through dedicated clubs and scholarships.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The School Life program provides opportunities in athletics, performing arts, technology, and community responsibility. These activities support physical and social well-being by encouraging teamwork, self-expression, and active participation beyond the classroom. Participation helps students develop balanced, healthy lifestyles and resilience.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Sports and fitness are central to life at ACS, with teams in volleyball, football, basketball, and table tennis. Additional activities such as tennis, golf, calisthenics, running, climbing, wrestling, and cheerleading are offered through the clubs program.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The standard program is taught in English (U.S. standards-based). An optional Dual Language Program provides instruction in Bulgarian and English from age 5 to Grade 12, following both U.S. and Bulgarian standards with double certification; aims to develop bilingualism, biliteracy, and biculturality.	Language provision Instruction is in English except for other languages. In grades 9 and 10 all courses are taught in English except Bulgarian and foreign languages. In grades 11-12 Bulgarian language and literature, foreign languages, Bulgarian geography and philosophy (in grade 12) are taught in Bulgarian; other courses are taught in English. International students begin the IB Diploma Programme in grade 11; all students are enrolled in the USA High School Diploma Programme (grades 9-12); ACS is an authorized IB World School and has offered the IB Diploma Programme since 2005.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching Dual Language Program available; Bulgarian and English instruction from pre-school through Grade 12; licensed by the Bulgarian Ministry of Education; follows both the U.S. Common Core and Bulgarian standards; students receive double certification after each grade.	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards Innovative School designation by the Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science for forward-thinking projects.
Accreditations	Accreditations MSA-CESS accreditation from the Middle States Association – Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools.	Accreditations Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science accreditation. Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation since 2005. International Baccalaureate Organization certified IB World School since 2004.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions The American English Academy operates a selective admissions policy and evaluates all applicants for Grades 1-12 with an entrance interview and English language skills assessment. Admissions are based on the school's ability to meet the educational needs of the applicant and the applicant's potential to benefit from the education, with consideration of language support, special needs, class size and demographics. All admissions are subject to availability; if the designated grade level is full, students may be placed in the wait pool upon parental request. Priority of admission is given to: children with siblings currently studying at AEA; children who have studied in other international schools; children of parents with international citizenship; and children of Bulgarian citizens. AEA accepts students throughout the school year; applications are reviewed individually with possible statuses of “approved”, “rejected”, or “continued for further assessment”. Approved candidates are enrolled after signing an Agreement for educational services, and the full process typically takes 10–15 days if documents are complete. Admissions are based on the chronological order of application submission, acceptance, and registration. New student grade placement is determined by previous educational experience and age; generally students should be no more than twelve months older or younger than the average age for their grade.	Admissions The American College of Sofia is the oldest American educational institution outside the USA. In 2025, it celebrated its 165th anniversary. The College is a language high school with admissions after grade 7, accredited in Bulgaria by the Ministry of Education and Science, and in the USA by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools (MSA) and the International Baccalaureate Organization (IB). The College also accepts Bulgarian students who have completed grade 8 in Bulgarian schools within the Republic of Bulgaria, after passing an entrance exam in English. The College welcomes applications from Bulgarian students who have studied at foreign schools (in Bulgaria or abroad) during the previous year, as well as applicants with foreign or dual citizenship. Admissions for these students are year-round and depend on available spots and academic results. We teach all subjects in English, with the exception of Bulgarian Language and Literature and foreign languages. We offer specialized education in mathematics, software & hardware technology, humanities, foreign languages, natural sciences, and entrepreneurship. We work with highly qualified teachers, 35% of whom are foreigners, primarily from the USA, Great Britain, and Canada. 934 students; 31% of faculty are international; 87% of financial aid applications approved. HIGH QUALITY EDUCATION. We admit students based on the academic results of the applicants, only after successfully passing 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, the College 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 College curriculum. American College of Sofia 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.
Scholarships	Scholarships AEA Scholarship Program offers limited partial scholarships for new high school enrollees joining after February 1, 2020. Priority is given to high-achieving international or local students with exceptional academic records whose sponsoring agencies do not provide full tuition. Applicants must submit: standard AEA Admission Application; a scholarship request letter from parents; academic records; a teacher recommendation; letters from parents and the applicant detailing motivation; proof of financial need (i.e., a letter from the embassy or employing company); and evidence of satisfactory behavior and a willingness to participate in Advanced Placement exams. Scholarship applicants must also undergo the standard entrance assessment; funding is for one school year and may continue in subsequent years based on yearly reviews of academic/behavioral performance and financial situation. Only students not currently enrolled at AEA or who have not previously been enrolled at AEA are eligible to apply for a scholarship. The scholarship program is funded by Markan Holding AD and approved by the AEA Scholarship Committee; applicant's Admission Application must be submitted online and all other documentation sent by email to admissions@aeasofia.com.	Scholarships Who Have Successfully Passed the Entrance Exam after Grade 7. The College offers full scholarships for newly admitted students who successfully pass the Grade 7 entrance exam. The scholarships are granted once and cover the full tuition fee for the five years at the American College. All families of Bulgarian students who successfully pass the grade 7 entrance exam and are invited to enroll in the College may apply for the scholarships. The Committee is guided by several criteria when awarding them, with financial need being the most important. CRITERIA FOR AWARDING FULL SCHOLARSHIPS: 1. Approved documents for the tuition fee reduction program. 2. Essay results - essay answer to a question. Candidates will be invited to write the essay at the College. 3. Interview with candidates selected based on essay results. 4. Total score from the entrance exam. FULL SCHOLARSHIPS. The Polansky and Oberbauer Scholarships were established in 2008, and the Gipson Scholarship in 2018. They cover the full tuition fees for students who demonstrate a high academic level throughout their course of study. Polansky Scholarship; Oberbauer Scholarship; Gipson Scholarship; Sts. Cyril and Methodius Scholarship. The Domuschiev Impact Foundation established the Sts. Cyril and Methodius Scholarship, which covers the full tuition fee for five Bulgarian students from the Class of 2030 at the American College of Sofia for the entire five-year period of study. The scholarship is awarded with priority to students with a single parent/guardian who have also demonstrated high financial need. Recipients of the Sts. Cyril and Methodius Scholarship who are from outside Sofia may be accommodated in the College dormitory as part of the financial support provided by the Domuschiev Impact Foundation. The Sunrise Scholarship was established in 2021 by an alumnus who wished to remain anonymous. The scholarship covers the full tuition fee for three Bulgarian students for the five years of study. The Sunrise Scholarship is awarded with preference to a student from Plovdiv whose family demonstrates financial need. Bulgarian students from outside Sofia who are awarded the Sunrise Scholarship also receive the opportunity to use the College dormitory free of charge. Recipients of the scholarship must maintain a minimum average grade of 5.25 each semester and exemplary behavior during the five-year term of study at the American College of Sofia. The Robin Mittenthal Scholarship was created in 2023 by Daniela Mole, a 1997 graduate from the first class after the school's restoration, in memory of her late husband. The scholarship covers the full tuition fee for one Bulgarian student for the entire five-year term of study. The first recipient of the Robin Mittenthal Scholarship was an 8th grader in the 2023-24 academic year. The scholarship will be offered again in 2028 to a student from a minority, from a single-parent household, or living outside Sofia, whose family has high financial needs. Scholarship recipients who are not from Sofia receive the opportunity to reside in the College dormitory free of charge. Recipients of the scholarship must maintain a minimum average grade of 5.25 each semester and exemplary behavior during the five-year term of study at the American College of Sofia. Partial Scholarships. Teodora and Darina Spasovi Scholarship. The Teodora and Darina Spasovi Scholarship, the first scholarship from Bulgarian citizens, is named after the sister-alumnae of the College, from the Classes of 2004 and 2005, respectively. The scholarship was established in 2005 and aims to partially support the neediest girl from the respective graduating class who maintains a minimum average grade of 5.00 and excellent behavior throughout the entire course of study. Boris Lozanov and Maria Vladimirova Scholarships. The Boris Lozanov Scholarship was established during the 2021-2022 academic year by a parent of a College student, Lyubomir Lozanov, in honor of his father. This scholarship grants 5,000 euros annually to an excellent student for each of the five years of study at the American College of Sofia. To be eligible, the student's family must demonstrate significant financial need, and the student must maintain an average grade above 5.00 and have no disciplinary issues throughout their stay at the College. In 2024, Mr. Lozanov introduced a second scholarship – the Maria Vladimirova Scholarship – in honor of his mother. This scholarship follows the same application procedure and criteria as the Boris Lozanov Scholarship. We express our sincere gratitude to all the donors for their generous contribution to education in Bulgaria and their long-standing support for the American College of Sofia."
Waitlist	Waitlist If a grade level is full, a student may be placed in the wait pool upon parental request.	Waitlist —
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