Ivan Buljovčić was born in Subotica to an ethnic Croat family.[1] He graduated from the school in Subotica and the Faculty of Music and Education Belgrade Academy of Music (1960). In 1960-1971 taught music in Sombor, in 1971-1975 - in the Bačka Palanka. From 1975 Deputy Director, in January–May 1978 Acting Director of the Serbian National Theatre in Novi Sad. Then in 1978-1992 director of the Isidor Bajić Secondary School of Music.[2]
Ivan Buljovčić was repeated participant of the Yugoslav Chess Championships in individual and team events. He played for the clubs Spartak (Subotica), Novosadsky chess club (1973-1982, 1987–1994),[3][4] Sombor chess club, chess club Palich. His best result is 5th place in the 1st league (elite division) of the Yugoslav Team Chess championship with the Sombor chess club.[5]
Ivan Buljovčić was 10 times champion of Vojvodina.[1] In 1974, he was awarded the FIDE International Master (IM) title.
Ivan Buljovčić played for Yugoslavia in the European Team Chess Championship:[6]
- In 1965, at second reserve board in the 3rd European Team Chess Championship in Hamburg (+2, =1, -1) and won team silver medal.
Ivan Buljovčić played for Yugoslavia in the Men's Chess Mitropa Cup:[7]
- In 1976, at first board in the 1st Chess Mitropa Cup in Innsbruck (+1, =2, -0) and won individual gold medal.
