How is the school system structured and are diplomas recognised in the EU?

Secondary school ends with the Diploma za sredno obrazovanie, Bulgaria's secondary-education diploma. Important: university admission additionally requires the state matriculation exams (DZI) — without them, students only receive a certificate that does not qualify for higher education. Recognition across the EU follows the Lisbon Recognition Convention, in force for Bulgaria since 1 July 2000; the actual assessment is carried out by the competent recognition authority of the destination country. Details and links in our guide.