Study in Hungary
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1. Introduction
Hungary has become one of Europe’s emerging hubs for international education, renowned for its high academic standards, research-oriented universities, and cost-effective study environment. Strategically located in Central Europe, it offers a blend of rich cultural heritage, modern infrastructure, and globally recognized degrees under the Bologna Process. Hungarian universities are especially respected in fields such as medicine, engineering, agriculture, and
natural sciences. With an increasing number of programmes offered in English, attractive scholarship schemes, and favorable post-study opportunities, Hungary is steadily positioning itself as a competitive destination for students seeking quality education within the European Union.
This guide presents a precise, formal, and comprehensive overview of everything international students should know before pursuing higher education in Hungary.
2. Why Study in Hungary?
2.1 Academic Excellence and Global Recognition: Hungarian universities—such as Eötvös Loránd University, the University of Debrecen, the University of Szeged, Semmelweis University, and Budapest University of Technology and Economics—are internationally acclaimed for their research contributions, particularly in health sciences and engineering.
2.2 Affordable Education: Compared to Western Europe, Hungary offers significantly lower tuition fees and living expenses, making it a financially accessible option for international students.
2.3 English-Taught Programmes: Over 500 Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programmes are available in English across disciplines.
2.4 Cultural Richness: Hungary’s historical landmarks, UNESCO sites, thermal spas, and vibrant cultural life create an enriching student experience.
2.5 Safe and Modern Environment: Hungary consistently ranks as one of Europe’s safer nations, supported by efficient transportation, advanced healthcare, and student-friendly public services.
2.6 EU Benefits: As an EU member state, degrees obtained from Hungarian universities are recognised across Europe, facilitating mobility and employment.
3. Cost of Studying in Hungary
Studying in Finland involves tuition fees, living costs, and other academic expenses. While
education is free for EU/EEA students, non-EU/EEA students generally pay tuition fees.
3.1 Tuition Fees
Tuition fees vary by university and programme:
● Undergraduate Programmes: €1,500 – €5,500 per year
● Postgraduate Programmes: €2,000 – €7,000 per year
● Engineering and Technology: €3,000 – €7,000 per year
● Business and Management: €2,000 – €6,000 per year
● Medical, Dentistry, Pharmacy: €12,000 – €18,500 per year
● Arts and Design: €2,500 – €8,000 per year
3.2 Living Costs
Hungary is significantly more affordable than Western Europe.
● Monthly Living Expenses: €450 – €750
● Accommodation:
○ Student dormitories: €80 – €150
○ Shared apartments: €200 – €350
○ Private flats: €350 – €550
● Food and Groceries: €120 – €200 per month
● Public Transport: €10 – €20 per month (student discounts included)
● Health Insurance: €30 – €60 per month
Additional Costs
● Residence permit fee: €110
● Medical check-up (varies): €60 – €150
● Books and study materials: €150 – €350 per year
Overall, an international student typically spends €5,000 – €9,000 annually excluding tuition.
4. Admission Requirements for Studying in Hungary
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
● Completed secondary education equivalent to 12 years of schooling
● Minimum academic standing as required by the programme
● English proficiency proof (if applicable):
○ IELTS: 5.5 – 6.5
○ TOEFL iBT: 60 – 90
○ PTE: 50 – 58
Postgraduate Admission Requirements
● Recognised Bachelor’s degree relevant to the chosen programme
● CGPA requirement typically ranging from 2.5 – 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
● Proficiency in English (IELTS 6.0 – 7.0)
● Updated CV
● Statement of Purpose (SOP)
● Letters of Recommendation
● Research Proposal (for PhD programmes)
Additional Documents
● Passport
● Academic transcripts
● Application fee (if applicable)
● Portfolio (for arts/design)
● Entrance exam or interview (depending on programme)
Many Hungarian universities conduct entrance tests in biology, mathematics, physics, chemistry,
or general academic reasoning for specific programmes, particularly medicine and engineering.
5. Student Visa Requirements (Residence Permit for Study Purpose)
Hungary, as part of the Schengen Zone, requires non-EU/EEA students to apply for a Residence
Permit for Study Purposes rather than a traditional “student visa.”
Key Requirements
● Valid passport
● Completed visa/residence permit application form
● Acceptance letter from a Hungarian university
● Proof of sufficient funds
● Bank statements (usually past 3–6 months)
● Proof of accommodation in Hungary
● Comprehensive health insurance
● Passport-size photos
● Receipt of visa application fee
● Travel itinerary and supporting documents
Financial Requirement
Students must demonstrate the ability to cover:
● Tuition fees, and
● Living expenses of €500 – €700 per month
Processing Time
● Typically 4 – 8 weeks
Upon arrival in Hungary, students must pick up their residence permit card from the immigration
office.
6. Scholarships for International Students
Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
The most prestigious government scholarship offering:
● Full tuition fee coverage
● Monthly stipend
● Free dormitory accommodation (or housing allowance)
● Health insurance
Erasmus+ Mobility Scholarships
Offered for short-term studies, exchange programmes, and internships across Europe.
Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship
Targets students with Hungarian ancestry living abroad.
University-Specific Scholarships
● ELTE Faculty Scholarships
● University of Debrecen International Scholarship
● Pecs Stipend Program
● BME Stipends for Engineering Students
CEEPUS Scholarships
Supports mobility within Central European universities.
Scholarships in Hungary significantly reduce the financial burden, making the country one of the
most affordable European study destinations.
7. Total Intakes in Hungary: What International Students Should Know
Hungarian universities follow a structured admissions cycle.
Primary Intakes
1. September Intake (Fall Semester) – Main intake
2. February Intake (Spring Semester) – Limited availability
Application Deadlines
● Fall Intake: January – June
● Spring Intake: August – November
Medical and health-science programmes usually accept applicants only for the September
intake, and admissions are competitive.
Early application is advisable due to visa processing times.
8. Work Opportunities While Studying
International students are allowed to work:
● Up to 24 hours per week during the academic semester
● Full-time during semester breaks
Popular Part-Time Jobs
● Hospitality and tourism
● Retail and customer service
● Campus administrative roles
● Private tutoring
● Freelancing (design, writing, IT services)
Internships
Many universities have built-in internship modules, especially in business, engineering, IT, and
medical programmes (clinical placements).
Working part-time helps students gain European work experience and supplement living costs.
9. Post-Study Work Visa (PSW)
Graduates can apply for the Residence Permit for Job-Seeking or Entrepreneurship, valid for 9 months after graduation.
This permit allows students to:
● Seek employment
● Start a business
● Transition into long-term employment or EU Blue Card
After securing a full-time job, graduates may apply for:
● Work Permit, or
● EU Blue Card (for highly skilled professions)
Hungary’s central location gives graduates access to employment opportunities across the wider
European Union.
10. Popular Courses in Hungary
Hungarian institutions are known for academic strengths in:
● Medicine, Dentistry & Pharmacy
● Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical)
● Computer Science & Information Technology
● Agricultural Science & Veterinary Medicine
● Architecture
● Business, Economics & International Relations
● Law
● Natural Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
● Psychology
● Music, Arts & Design
Medical education in Hungary, in particular, attracts thousands of international students annually
due to its high standards and global recognition.
11. Life in Hungary as an International Student
Cultural Environment
Hungary offers a blend of historical depth and modern European lifestyle. Cities like Budapest,
Debrecen, Pécs, and Szeged are vibrant student hubs.
Safety
Hungary maintains a high safety index with strong public order and low crime rates in university towns.
Transportation
Efficient, affordable public transport systems include:
● Buses
● Trams
● Metros (Budapest)
● Intercity trains
Healthcare
Students with insurance have access to both private and public healthcare facilities.
Social Integration
Universities host cultural events, international days, language exchange programmes, and student clubs.
Cost of Living
Hungary offers one of the most affordable living environments in the EU.
12. Before moving to Hungary
Students should prepare the following:
Documentation
● Original acceptance letter
● Passport
● Certified academic documents
● Visa/residence permit approval
● Health insurance papers
Accommodation
Arrange one of the following:
● University dormitory
● Private apartment
● Shared student housing
Financial Preparation
Understand banking options, open an international or local account, and plan for initial expenses.
Packing Essentials
● Weather-appropriate clothing (cold winters, warm summers)
● Basic medicines
● Laptop and academic supplies
Initial Orientation
Familiarise yourself with:
● Currency (Hungarian Forint – HUF)
● Public transport routes
● Local emergency numbers
● University support services
13. Conclusion
Hungary offers a distinctive combination of academic excellence, affordability, and cultural richness, making it a highly attractive study destination within Europe. Its universities feature strong research culture, globally recognised degrees, and expanding English-taught programmes. With scholarships like the Stipendium Hungaricum, reasonable cost of living, favourable work policies, and clear post-study pathways, Hungary provides international students with both
quality education and long-term career prospects. For students seeking a European academic experience grounded in history, innovation, and inclusivity, Hungary represents a compelling and competitive choice.
Jump to Topic | Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Why Study in Hungary?
- 3. Cost of Studying in Hungary
- 4. Admission Requirements for Studying in Hungary
- 5. Student Visa Requirements (Residence Permit for Study Purpose)
- 6. Scholarships for International Students
- 7. Total Intakes in Hungary: What International Students Should Know
- 8. Work Opportunities While Studying
- 9. Post-Study Work Visa (PSW)
- 10. Popular Courses in Hungary
- 11. Life in Hungary as an International Student
- 12. Before moving to Hungary
- 13. Conclusion
