The study presents an analysis of existing university policies pertaining to academic ethics and integrity, teaching and learning practices, the transparency of applying those practices, as well as the responsibility of all parties concerned. The policies of 52 higher education institutions in Bulgaria, which are officially recognised by the National Evaluation and Accreditation Agency, are examined. This investigation is the first stage of a comprehensive state of the art review of plagiarism and academic misconduct-related issues in Bulgaria and draws from previous findings of non-uniform perceptions of what qualifies as plagiarism breaches. The study follows the methodological steps outlined in an Australian study for locating and coding the relevant policy documentation. The analysis starts from the assumption that policy should be based upon the principles of transparency, respect, and responsibility and that these principles are directly related to the quality of academic output in both students and academics. The results demonstrate that the said principles are not reflected in the policies of Bulgarian institutions and their application, and it is therefore highly recommended that the documentation be revised accordingly.