Salaries at SU

Salary expectations at Sofia University "St Kliment Ohridski," located in Sofia, Bulgaria, are influenced by several factors including academic rank, years of experience, field of study, and specific roles within the institution. Salaries for academic and administrative staff are generally aligned with public sector pay scales in Bulgaria, as the university is a state-funded entity. While Sofia University does not publicly publish detailed or transparent salary bands, remuneration is typically determined by government regulations and collective bargaining agreements for higher education institutions. Additional income may come from research grants, consulting, or project funding, particularly for senior academic staff.

• Professor: Typical salary range is approximately 2,000–3,000 BGN per month (about 1,100–1,650 USD), depending on seniority and department. Additional income may be derived from research projects or international collaborations.
• Associate Professor: Average salary falls between 1,500–2,200 BGN monthly (around 825–1,200 USD), with variations based on experience and academic output. Bonuses for publications or grants are sometimes available.
• Assistant Professor: Entry-level academic staff earn around 1,000–1,500 BGN per month (approximately 550–825 USD). Salary progression often depends on achieving higher academic ranks or securing funding.
• Administrative Staff: Salaries range from 800–1,200 BGN monthly (about 440–660 USD), influenced by role complexity and years of service. These positions typically offer less variability in pay compared to academic roles.

In general, salaries at Sofia University are considered modest compared to those at universities in Western Europe or North America, reflecting Bulgaria's lower cost of living and public sector wage constraints. Progression often requires achieving higher academic titles or securing external funding, as base salaries are tied to government budgets. While competitive within the local context, these salaries may not attract international talent without additional incentives. For prospective employees, understanding the public sector benchmarking and potential for supplementary income is crucial when considering a career at this historic institution.