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American English Academy

Bulgaria, Sofia

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English, Bulgarian
Fees €55 - 15,600
Ages 3 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 200
Type Co-educational
Opened 1992
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum American Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP)
Taught languages Spanish, Bulgarian
Typical class size 10
Strengths Performing Arts, STEM, Languages
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language
Stages Preschool, Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle School, High School
Introduction

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 Standards for English Language Arts and mathematics and includes literacy in history, science, and technical subjects. The program is organized by grade level, with core courses in English, math, science, and social studies, plus electives in Art, Music, IT, and Physical Education, and 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 AP center; students may prepare for up to five AP exams during high school. Founded in 1992 by Frank and Ruth Munsey, AEA serves about 200 students from more than 35 countries. In 2014 a new campus outside Sofia opened, earning the Building of the Year Award. The Lozen campus covers 7,400 square meters, with Promethean Smartboards, a modern library, an on-site cafeteria, and a Green Policy. Extracurriculars include Winter Musical Production, International Culture Week, Science Fair, Spelling Bee, and the AEA Science Journal. Markan Holding AD has owned the school since 2015.

ул. Орлова круша 1, 1151 Sofia, Bulgaria

The Essentials

American English Academy has 200 pupils, typical class sizes of 10, instruction in English, Bulgarian.

Location
Lozen Area, Sofia, Bulgaria; campus in the foothills outside the city near Lozen, with views toward the mountains.

Stages
Pre-kindergarten through Grade 12.

Type
Day, coeducational international school.

Pupil Nationality Mix
About 200 students from 35+ countries; 40% international, 60% local.

Religious affiliation
No religious affiliation
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
The school is a day school with no boarding.

Uniform Requirement
The school has a dress code. Students wear AEA-branded sweaters, tops, and t-shirts with the AEA logo.

Food Options
The school has an on-site cafeteria serving freshly cooked meals daily; a lunch menu is provided for students to choose from.

Governance and Ownership
The school is privately owned by Markan Holding AD. It is an independent, secular private school with a governing School Board.
Fees

Annual tuition at American English Academy ranges from EUR 55 to EUR 15,600 for 2026/27.

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.
Academics

American English Academy teaches American Curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP) for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum
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.

Student Teacher Ratio
1:4 teacher-student ratio; average class size is 12 students.

Exam Results
100% of graduates are admitted to university or college.

Higher Education Progression
All graduates are admitted to university or college. The AP program supports college readiness and offers on-site AP exams.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The middle school develops self-confidence, resilience, and a growth mindset. Relationships are built through empathy in a secure and welcoming environment.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Language support and special needs are considered during admissions.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
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.

Mental Wellbeing
The environment is safe, caring, and stimulating, supporting students' emotional, intellectual, physical, and social growth.

Safeguarding
The school emphasizes a secure environment and safe practices, aligning with its mission to support students' emotional and social development.
Parent Experience

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.

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.
Facilities

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.

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.

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 Activities

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
Languages

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.

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.
Reputation

Accreditations
MSA-CESS accreditation from the Middle States Association – Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools.
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.

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.

Waitlist
If a grade level is full, a student may be placed in the wait pool upon parental request.
School Events
The school has not added events
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