Double Diplomas, Global Standards: ASB’s Cognia-Accredited Hybrid Program Empowers Bulgarian Students

At the American School of Bulgaria (ASB), we believe students shouldn’t have to choose between their local education and a globally respected diploma. That’s why we created the ASB Hybrid Program—a unique learning pathway that allows students attending Bulgarian schools to earn a U.S. High School Diploma without leaving their community.

And now, this program is backed by the highest level of international recognition: ASB is officially accredited by Cognia—making us the only Cognia-accredited school in Bulgaria.

What Is Cognia and Why Does It Matter?

Cognia is a globally recognized, nonprofit accreditation agency that evaluates schools based on rigorous standards for teaching, learning, leadership, and continuous improvement. Accreditation from Cognia ensures:

• Your diploma is recognized worldwide

• Courses meet international benchmarks for quality

• Students receive an education that supports university readiness and global mobility

ASB’s Cognia accreditation gives families the confidence that the Hybrid Program meets the highest international educational standards—online, in-person, and everywhere in between.

How the ASB Hybrid Program Works

The Hybrid Program is designed for Bulgarian students in 8th grade or above who are enrolled in a local school but want to earn a second diploma from an accredited American high school.

• Online courses are completed throughout the school year

• In-person summer classes are held at ASB in Varna for hands-on instruction and assessments

• Students typically complete 8 required U.S. courses across 3–4 summers

Students work through accredited online courses year-round, supported by certified teachers.

U.S. Diploma Courses Offered

Each summer, students complete two accredited U.S. high school courses. Over 3–4 years, the following subjects are covered:

1. English 1

2. English 2

3. English 3

4. English 4

5. American History

6. American Government

7. Economics

8. Health or an elective (AP Prep, or another subject)

Sample Study Plan:

Summer

Courses

Year 1

English 1 + American History

Year 2

English 2 + American Government

Year 3

English 3 + Economics

Year 4

English 4 + Health or Elective

All coursework is supervised by certified teachers trained in U.S. standards and vetted by Cognia.

Who Should Apply?

The Hybrid Program is ideal for:

• Ambitious Bulgarian students in 8th–10th grade

• Those who want to earn an international diploma while continuing at their Bulgarian school

• Students preparing for universities abroad (U.S., UK, EU, and beyond)

• Learners who thrive with flexibility and clear goals

Applicants should demonstrate solid academic performance, English proficiency, and the motivation to manage online coursework.

What Kind of Support Do Students Receive?

With Cognia-accredited systems in place, ASB ensures students are never on their own:

• Access to certified English-speaking instructors

• A custom digital dashboard for each course

• Transcript evaluation and guidance for diploma requirements

• Career counseling and university preparation in the final year (resume building, application assistance, exam orientation)

ASB counselors guide students from the first course to final graduation and beyond.

Why Choose ASB’s Hybrid Program?

Here’s why the program stands out—not just in Bulgaria, but across Europe:

• Dual Diploma – Graduate with both Bulgarian and U.S. diplomas

• Cognia Accreditation – The only school in Bulgaria with this international seal of quality

• Flexible Format – Online during the school year, in-person in the summer

• College Readiness – Recognized by universities worldwide

• Affordable Excellence – High-quality American education without the cost of relocation: €2600 per two subjects

“The ASB Hybrid Program gave me the confidence to apply abroad. The U.S. diploma, combined with university prep, made me competitive in ways I never imagined.”

– Kristiyan M., Class of 2023

How to Enroll

Enrollment is open now for new students entering 8th grade and up.

To begin your dual diploma journey:

• Visit americanschoolbg.com/hybrid-program

• Schedule a consultation with our admissions team

• Prepare for a summer of growth, discovery, and global opportunity

A World-Class Future Starts Here

By earning a Cognia-accredited U.S. diploma, students in ASB’s Hybrid Program gain access to a future without borders. Whether your goal is to study abroad, improve your English, or strengthen your academic profile, this program is your pathway to excellence.

We’re proud to offer Bulgaria’s only Cognia-accredited hybrid diploma program—and we invite you to be part of it.

Ready to get started?

Learn more and apply today »