Hungary
Hungary
Explore the endless opportunities in top study-abroad destinations
Studying in Hungary offers a unique blend of high-quality education, rich cultural heritage, and affordable living costs, making it an increasingly popular destination for international students. Hungarian universities, such as Eötvös Loránd University, University of Szeged, and University of Debrecen, are renowned for their strong academic programs in medicine, engineering, social sciences, and the arts. Many programs are available in English, and the country participates in the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), ensuring that degrees are recognized across Europe and beyond.
Beyond academics, Hungary provides a vibrant student life with its historic cities, thermal baths, and dynamic festivals. Budapest, the capital, is a hub of innovation and tradition, offering students a safe and stimulating environment to live and learn. With a lower cost of living compared to Western Europe and various scholarship opportunities like the Stipendium Hungaricum, Hungary is an ideal choice for students seeking both academic excellence and cultural immersion.
Highlights of studying in Hungary
Factors
Hungary
Average Tuition Fees (Per Year)
Bachelor's and Master's Degrees – €1,200 – €5,000 Ph.D. – Often Fully Funded or €2,000 – €6,000
Eligibility criteria
Academic Credentials – High school diploma, Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field Documents – Passport, student visa, motivation letter, recommendation letters, academic transcripts Test Scores – IELTS, TOEFL, or other English proficiency tests (if applicable)
Test score requirements
IELTS – 6.0–6.5 TOEFL – 72–90 Duolingo – 95–120 (GRE/GMAT usually not required except for specific programs)
Popular courses
Medicine Engineering Computer Science International Relations Psychology
Student visa fees
€110–€150 (varies by embassy and nationality) Note: Always check with the Hungarian consulate for the latest fees.
Why study in Hungary
Hungary offers world-class education at affordable tuition rates, with many programs taught in English and recognized across Europe. Students benefit from a vibrant cultural scene, historic cities, and generous scholarships like the Stipendium Hungaricum.
Globally Recognized Education
Hungary is home to over 60 higher education institutions, including top-ranked universities like Eötvös Loránd University, University of Szeged, and Semmelweis University. Known for strong programs in medicine, engineering, and sciences, Hungarian degrees are recognized across Europe and globally, offering excellent academic quality and international career prospects.
Diverse Course Options
From medicine, engineering, and computer science to international relations and psychology, Hungary offers a wide range of programs aligned with global career demands. With many courses taught in English and a growing international student community, Hungary ensures both academic excellence and cultural diversity in higher education.
Shorter, Cost-Effective Degrees
In Hungary, most bachelor’s degrees take 3–4 years, and master’s degrees are typically completed in 1.5–2 years. The country also offers affordable tuition and short-term programs, making it a budget-friendly option for quality European education.
Strong Post-Study Work Options
Hungary offers international graduates the chance to stay and work for up to 9 months after graduation through a residence permit for job search or entrepreneurship. Graduates can also apply for EU Blue Card or work permits, with growing opportunities in sectors like IT, healthcare, and engineering.
Student Visa Requirements for Hungary
International students should apply for a Hungarian student visa as soon as they receive their Letter of Acceptance. The visa process usually takes around 30 days when applying from outside Hungary.
For programs longer than 90 days, students must apply for a Residence Permit for the Purpose of Studies. For short-term courses (up to 90 days), a Short-Term Study Visa is required.
Student visa requirements for Hungary
International students should apply for a Hungary Student visa as soon as they receive the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from their respective university or college. The overall Hungary student visa process typically takes around three weeks if applying from outside the Hungary.
Applicants must apply for a Student visa (which replaced the Tier 4 (General) student visa) for programs longer than six months or a Short-term Study visa for courses lasting six months or less.
Documents Required for a Hungary Student Visa (Updated for 2025)
- Valid passport
- Letter of acceptance from a Hungarian university or college
- Proof of sufficient financial means (minimum €1,000/month for at least 12 months)
- Parental or legal guardian consent (if under 18)
- Proof of relationship with parents or guardian (if under 18)
- Valid health insurance covering the entire stay in Hungary
Top Courses to Study in Hungary
The ten most popular courses in the Hungary that international students typically pursue while studying are mentioned below:
Course name
Top universities
Average tuition fees (per year)
Medicine
Semmelweis University, University of Szeged, University of Debrecen
€6,000 – €16,000
Engineering
Budapest University of Technology and Economics, University of Pécs
€2,000 – €5,000
Computer Science & IT
Eötvös Loránd University, University of Debrecen, Óbuda University
€2,000 – €6,000
Business & Management
Corvinus University of Budapest, University of Szeged, University Of Pannonia
€2,500 – €7,000
Psychology
Eötvös Loránd University, University of Pécs
€2,000 – €4,500
International Relations
University of Public Service, Corvinus University of Budapest
€2,000 – €5,000
Top Universities to Study in Hungary
Top 10 Universities to Study in Hungary (QS World University Rankings 2025)
Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE)
QS World University Rankings 2025: 601–610
University of Szeged
QS World University Rankings 2025: 701–710
University of Debrecen
QS World University Rankings 2025: 801–850
Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME)
QS World University Rankings 2025: 801–850
University of Pécs
QS World University Rankings 2025:901–950
Corvinus University of Budapest
QS World University Rankings 2025: 1001–1200
University Of Pannonia
QS World University Rankings 2025: 1001–1200
Óbuda University
QS World University Rankings 2025: 1201–1400
University of Miskolc
QS World University Rankings 2025: 1201–1400
Scholarships to Study in Hungary
Hungary offers a wide range of government-funded, university-specific, and bilateral scholarships for international students. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria and application process.
- Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship – Fully funded by the Hungarian government, this scholarship covers tuition fees, monthly stipend, accommodation contribution, and medical insurance for Bachelor's, Master's, and Ph.D. programs.
- Erasmus+ Program – Offers mobility grants for students enrolled in Hungarian universities to study or intern in other European countries
- CEEPUS Scholarships – Available for students from Central and Eastern Europe to study in Hungary under academic exchange agreements.
- University-Specific Scholarships – Many Hungarian universities, such as Eötvös Loránd University and University of Debrecen, offer merit-based or need-based scholarships for international students.
- Bilateral State Scholarships – Offered through agreements between Hungary and other countries, supporting short- and long-term study or research stays.
