Study in Hungary

Embarking on a study abroad journey is an exciting choice, but selecting the perfect destination can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you're considering whether Hungary is suitable for international students, this guide will provide the information you need. In this blog, we’ll explore why Hungary is an ideal location for students from abroad.

Study in Hungary

Studying in Hungary offers numerous advantages for international students. By studying there, students immerse themselves in Hungarian culture, experience diverse traditions, and create unforgettable memories. The country’s breathtaking beauty, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere make it a top destination for learning.

Hungary takes pride in its high-quality education system, with globally recognized universities attracting students from around the world. Whether you are interested in fields like medicine, engineering, business, or the arts, Hungary has top-tier universities. Many Hungarian universities collaborate with international institutions, offering students a global perspective and numerous career opportunities.

Hungary is an appealing study destination due to its wide range of English-taught programs, making education accessible to international students. From bachelor’s to master’s and doctoral degrees, there are many academic options across various disciplines. This ensures that language barriers are minimized, allowing students to fully engage in their coursework and academic discussions.

Hungary participates in the Bologna Process, which seeks to standardize higher education across EU countries. Hungarian universities offer degrees that are recognized worldwide, following the LMD system (Licence, Master, Doctorate). Hungarian institutions grant various degrees, such as:

• Bachelor’s degree (equivalent to Bac+3)
• Master’s degree (Bac+4 and Bac+5)
• MBA (Bac+6 equivalent)
• PhD (Doctorate)

These degrees span across disciplines like Medicine, Dentistry, Management, Engineering, IT, and more, in institutions like art schools, architecture schools, and doctoral institutes.

Best Universities in Hungary

Hungary has some great universities that are known for being excellent, affordable, and having many international students. Here are five of the best universities according to the QS World University Rankings for 2025:

1. Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE)

This university is one of the oldest and most famous in Hungary. It was founded in 1635. ELTE offers more than 60 degrees in English. Popular master's degrees include Applied Mathematics, Data Science, and English Studies.

1. University of Szeged (SZTE)

SZTE has over 1,200 international students every year. It offers many different programs across 12 faculties. Popular master's degrees include Dental Medicine, Computer Science, and Educational Science.

1. University of Debrecen

The University of Debrecen was founded in 1538 and is Hungary's oldest continuously operating university. It offers over 100 programs in English. Popular master's degrees include Chemical Engineering, International Business Law, and Mechanical Engineering.

1. Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME)

BME is Hungary's leading university for technology and engineering. It is known as the world's oldest institute of technology. Notable programs include Logistic Engineering, Art and Design, and Transport Engineering.

1. University of Pecs

The University of Pecs is Hungary's oldest university, founded in 1367. It offers over 100 programs in English and German. It is known for being affordable and having a good international student community. Popular master's degrees include American Studies, Archaeology, and Classical Music Performance.

Required Documents to Study in Hungary

Hungary’s universities follow a bi-annual intake system, with two periods:

• Autumn Intake (September): The primary intake, with all universities offering courses.
• Spring Intake (February): The secondary intake, available for students who miss the autumn registration.

To apply for a Residence Permit for the Purpose of Study, students must visit the local Hungarian Embassy to obtain the necessary documents. Some of these documents are also required for university admission. Applicants will need to provide a copy of their high school diploma to verify eligibility for higher education.

Typically, the following documents are required:

• Up-to-date CV
• Motivation letter
• Copy of passport or ID
• Proof of language proficiency
• English translations of transcripts and diplomas
• Two academic reference letters

Tuition Fees in Hungary

Tuition fees at Hungarian universities vary depending on the degree level and the student's nationality. EU and non-EU students often have different fee structures. Here is an overview of the annual tuition fees for international students in Hungary:

• Bachelor’s: €2,300 — €7,000 (EU/EEA) | €6,400 — €8,000 (Non-EU/EEA)
• Master’s: €5,600 — €7,000 (EU/EEA) | €7,600 — €10,000 (Non-EU/EEA)
• PhDs: €6,500 — €16,900 (EU/EEA & Non-EU/EEA)

Scholarships in Hungary for International Students

There are numerous scholarships available for international students in Hungary, ranging from partial to fully funded. These scholarships typically cover tuition fees, provide monthly stipends, accommodation, health insurance, and travel allowances. Below is a list of scholarships for international students:

1. Hungary Government Scholarship

• The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship is a fully funded program for international students, covering tuition fees, a monthly stipend of HUF 43,700, an accommodation allowance of HUF 40,000, and health insurance of up to HUF 65,000 per year.
• Institution: Hungarian Universities
• Level of Study: Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD

1. Budapest Metropolitan University Scholarships
   •  
   • These partially funded scholarships provide a €500 discount per semester (€1,000 annually) for undergraduate and master's students.
   • Institution: Budapest Metropolitan University
   • Level of Study: Undergraduate, Master’s

1. Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program
   •  
   • A fully funded scholarship for PhD students, providing up to $42,750 net per fellow for an 8-month fellowship.
   • Institution: World Bank
   • Level of Study: PhD

1. IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Program
   •  
   • This fully funded PhD scholarship from the International Mathematical Union covers up to $10,000 per year for tuition, accommodation, travel, and living expenses.
   • Institution: International Mathematical Union
   • Level of Study: PhD

1. Schlumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowships
   •  
   • These fellowships provide funding of up to $50,000 per year for PhD students and $40,000 per year for postdoctoral studies. The scholarships may be renewed until the completion of studies.
   • Institution: Leading universities worldwide
   • Level of Study: PhD (Doctoral), Postdoctoral

Hungary Student Visa

The student visa requirements for Hungary vary based on your nationality. To obtain a visa, you need an official offer from a Hungarian university, and you must apply for the visa before leaving your home country at the relevant Hungarian Consulate or Embassy. Visa processing can take around a month, so it’s best to apply early.

To get a student visa for Hungary, you must:

• Be accepted into an accredited secondary or higher education institution or a preparatory course.
• Demonstrate the required language proficiency for your studies.
• Have a valid travel document for your intended stay.
• Secure appropriate accommodation (university-provided or rental agreement).
• Prove sufficient financial resources (translated bank reference and six months of bank statements).
• Obtain health insurance valued at HUF 1,185,243.

Do I Need a Visa to Study in Hungary?

Whether or not you need a visa depends on your nationality:

• Non-EU/EEA citizens: A student visa and residence permit are required to enter Hungary for educational purposes.
• Exemptions: Nationals from the US, Japan, and Canada, among others, do not need a visa but must apply for a residence permit for the purpose of education.

Hungary Student Visa Document Checklist

Here’s a list of the required documents to submit for your Hungary student visa application:

• Valid passport: Must be original and have two blank pages for stamps. It must be issued within the last 10 years.

• Visa application form: Complete the student visa application form with accurate information.

• Passport-sized photographs: Attach two recent photos, one on the application form and another enclosed, following Schengen photo requirements.

• Medical insurance: Ensure you have medical insurance for the entire Schengen Area, covering at least €30,000. The university may include this in your invitation letter.

• Acceptance letter from university: The letter should detail the start date of classes and any payment information (if applicable).

• Proof of accommodation: If your university provides housing, ensure this is noted in the invitation letter. Otherwise, submit a rental agreement.

• Proof of fee payment: This is typically required unless you are a recipient of the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship.

• Financial documentation: Provide a translated bank reference and bank statements from the last six months to demonstrate financial stability.

Living Expenses in Hungary

Living costs in Hungary are significantly lower compared to many Western European countries. For example, the cost of living in the UK is about 48% higher than in Hungary. Accommodation, food, and transportation are reasonably priced, making it more affordable for international students. On average, the monthly cost of living in Hungary is around HUF 250,868, excluding rent.

Here’s a breakdown of typical living expenses in Hungary:

• Rent for 1 Bedroom Apartment in City Centre: HUF 181,125
• Meal for 2 People at a Mid-Range Restaurant: HUF 18,000
• Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling): HUF 53,200
• One-Way Ticket (Local Transport): HUF 450

Students have various accommodation options in Hungary, including university dormitories, private dormitories, flats, and private rooms. University dormitories are the most affordable choice for international students. Private dormitories are available in some cities and tend to be cheaper than renting a flat or a private room, making them a viable alternative.

Post-Study Work Visa in Hungary

Hungary offers a post-study work visa for international students, often referred to as a "study-to-work" permit. This visa allows graduates to remain in the country for up to 9 months to seek employment or start a business. After securing a job, this interim visa can be converted into a full residence permit. Applications for the post-study work visa must be submitted at least 15 days before the student’s residence permit expires.

Eligibility Requirements for Post-Study Work Visa:

• The applicant must be an international student who has completed a degree at a Hungarian university or college.
• Applications for the work visa must be submitted no later than 15 days before the student residence permit expires.
• The applicant must be actively seeking a job or intending to start a business in Hungary.
• The student must have sufficient funds, accommodation, and health insurance.

Documentation Required for Post-Study Work Visa

To apply for a post-study work visa, the following documents are necessary:

• Proof of intent to find a job or start a company in Hungary.
• Documentation of accommodation in Hungary.
• Bank statements demonstrating sufficient funds to live in Hungary during the visa period.
• Valid health insurance coverage.
• Proof of sufficient means to leave the European Union in case the visa application is denied.

Steps to Convert a Student Visa to a Full Residence Permit

International students who wish to stay in Hungary after completing their studies can convert their student visa into a full residence permit by following these steps:

1. Apply for the "study-to-work" residence permit, which is available to graduates of Hungarian universities.

1. Within the 9-month period, secure a job or start a business in Hungary.

1. After obtaining employment or starting a business, apply for a residence permit based on gainful activity.

1. Upon approval, the student visa will be successfully converted into a full residence permit.