Hungary Beckons – World-Class Education, Historic Cities & Global Networks

From Historic Classrooms to Global Careers – Study in Hungary

Top Universities preferred by international students

Highly ranked universities

University NameKey Strengths/Highlights
Semmelweis UniversityTop-ranked for Medicine in Europe, globally known clinical research
University of SzegedRanked in QS Top 650; strong in Life Sciences, Humanities, Law
Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE)Oldest in Hungary, top choice for Sciences, Psychology, Humanities
Budapest University of Technology & EconomicsHighly rated for Engineering, Computer Science & Applied Sciences
Central European University (CEU)International reputation, top-tier for Social Sciences & Policy

Most affordable universities

University NameKey Strengths/Highlights
University of DebrecenLow tuition & living costs, strong in Medicine, Agri, Engineering
University of PécsBudget-friendly city, English-taught programs in Health & Arts
Óbuda UniversityPractical engineering programs, low fees, Budapest-based
University of DunaújvárosFocus on industry-ready skills in Engineering & Business
Károli Gáspár UniversitySmall-sized, English-medium Theology & Psychology programs

Strong placement record

University NameKey Strengths/Highlights
Budapest University of Technology & EconomicsIndustry collaboration, EU internships, strong alumni network
Corvinus University of BudapestHigh employability in Economics, Finance, and Business fields
Central European University (CEU)Outstanding postgrad placement globally – NGOs, UN, research roles
Hungarian University of Agriculture & Life Sci.Opportunities in sustainability, agri-tech, and EU-funded projects

Key


QS Ranking 2026: International reputation based on research, teaching, and global presence.

Tuition Fees: Approximate annual cost for international students.

Living Costs: Monthly estimated expenses including housing, food, and transport.

Placement: Based on employer reputation, alumni network, and job outcomes.

👉 Essential Resources for Studying in Hungary

📌 Study in Hungary Official Portal – Central hub for programs, scholarships (Stipendium Hungaricum), application guidance, living costs, and student life:
🔗 https://www.studyinhungary.

📌 Tempus Public Foundation – Manages government scholarships like Stipendium Hungaricum, Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship, and student mobility grants:
🔗 https://tka.hu/englishtka.hu

📌 Hungarian ENIC-NARIC Office – Academic recognition of foreign diplomas/degrees for higher education admission and professional use:
🔗 https://www.naric.hu

📌 Hungarian Rectors’ Conference – Directory of accredited universities, guidance on internationalization, Bologna system, and partner institutions:
🔗 https://mrk.hu/en

📌 StudyLink Hungary Guide – Visa steps, tuition fees, scholarships, student lifestyle tips, and useful prep for international applicants:
🔗 https://studylink.com/countries/hungary/

📌 Times Higher Education (THE) – Hungary University Rankings & Programs – In-depth profiles of top Hungarian universities, research strength, global performance, and student reviews:
🔗 https://www.timeshighereducation.com (search “Hungary universities”)

👉 Want to explore other destinations

Also explore: Top UK Universities
Also explore: Top US Universities

Hungary offers several fully funded and partially funded scholarships to attract talented international students to its universities. From government-backed programs to university-specific awards, students can access a range of financial support for undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD studies.


🇭🇺 Stipendium Hungaricum

Flagship government scholarship open to students from 90+ countries. Covers full tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation/housing allowance, and medical insurance.
🌐 stipendiumhungaricum.hu


🌍 Erasmus+ Mobility Grants

EU-funded support for short-term exchange and joint degree programs in Hungary. Includes tuition waiver, monthly living support, and sometimes travel allowance.
🌐 ec.europa.eu/erasmus-plus


🤝 Bilateral State Scholarships

Offered under agreements between Hungary and countries like India, Indonesia, and China. Covers tuition, stipends, and accommodation support.
🌐 tka.hu


🏫 University Scholarships

Many Hungarian universities offer merit-based or need-based scholarships for international applicants:

  • University of Debrecen – Tuition discounts
  • Budapest Metropolitan University – Excellence awards
  • University of Pécs – Entrance and academic scholarships
    🌐 international.pte.hu, edu.unideb.hu

🧳 CEEPUS Exchange Program

Supports regional academic mobility within Central Europe. Offers tuition waiver and monthly grants.
🌐 ceepus.info


💡 Tip: Apply early (Dec–Jan), prepare a strong motivation letter, and check each university’s scholarship page for deadlines.

🧭 More Info: studyinhungary.hu | apply.stipendiumhungaricum.hu

Hungary offers affordable and student-friendly housing options, ranging from university dormitories to private rentals. Costs are lower compared to Western Europe, making Hungary a top choice for budget-conscious international students.


🏫 University Dormitories

Most Hungarian universities provide on-campus or affiliated dormitories at subsidized rates.
✅ Shared rooms, utilities included
✅ Monthly cost: €80–€150
🎯 Great for socializing and proximity to campus
🌐 Check university websites like unideb.hu or elte.hu


🏘️ Private Student Residences

Fully furnished, purpose-built housing with modern amenities:


🏢 Shared Apartments / Private Rentals

Ideal for senior students or those seeking independence:


🌍 Global Platforms

Search and book from anywhere in the world:


🇮🇳 South Asian Student Housing Help

Indian, Nepali, and Pakistani students often use community-run groups for help:

  • WhatsApp & FB groups like “Indians in Hungary”, “Nepalis in Budapest”
  • Indian restaurants and cultural centers often post room listings

💡 Tip: Start searching early (May–July for September intake). Always verify listings before payment.

Hungary offers affordable and diverse food options, from traditional Hungarian meals to international cuisines. Students can easily manage monthly food expenses with local markets, budget supermarkets, and South Asian stores available across cities.


🥘 Eating Out

  • Student meals at university canteens: €2–€4
  • Budget-friendly restaurants (daily menus): €5–€8
  • Traditional dishes: Goulash, Lángos, Chicken Paprikash
  • Popular chains: Menza, KFC, Burger King, TGI Fridays

🛒 Grocery Shopping

Monthly grocery costs: €100–€150
Top supermarket chains:

  • 🏪 Spar, Lidl, Aldi, Tesco, Auchan
  • Weekly markets for fresh produce: Great Market Hall (Budapest), local farmer markets in Szeged, Pécs, Debrecen
    🌐 aldi.hu, tesco.hu

🍛 Indian & Asian Grocery Stores

Easily available in major cities like Budapest and Debrecen:

  • Asia Market Budapest
  • India Bazaar
  • Himalaya Market
  • 🌐 asiafood.hu

Find rice, lentils, spices, ready meals, Maggi, and Halal items. Many offer online delivery.


💡 Tip: Cook at home for savings. Join WhatsApp/FB groups like “Indian Students in Hungary” to share meals or grocery tips.

Hungary offers a vibrant, affordable, and multicultural student life. With world-class universities, rich history, and low living costs, it’s an ideal destination for international students seeking both academic and cultural growth.


🎉 Campus & Social Life

  • Active student unions, sports clubs, and international student associations (ESN Hungary)
  • Cultural events, music festivals, weekend trips across Europe
  • Budapest, Szeged, and Debrecen are top student cities with great nightlife and cafes
    🌐 esnhungary.org

🧑‍🎓 Work Opportunities

  • Students can work up to 30 hours/week during studies
  • Internships available through Erasmus+, Tempus Foundation, and career offices
  • Popular sectors: IT, hospitality, research, English tutoring

🛂 Student Visa (Type D)

Non-EU students must apply for a long-term residence visa (Type D).
Key documents:

  • University admission letter
  • Proof of accommodation & funds
  • Health insurance
  • Visa fee (~€60)
    Apply at your local Hungarian embassy/consulate.
    🌐 konzinfo.mfa.gov.hu

💡 Tip: Start your visa process at least 2–3 months before semester start. Carry all original documents when arriving in Hungary.

Hungary has an efficient and affordable public transportation system. Students can easily travel within cities and across the country using buses, trams, metros, and trains—many at discounted fares with a valid student ID.


🚇 Public Transport in Cities

  • Budapest offers metro, trams, buses, trolleybuses, and HEV suburban trains
  • Other student-friendly cities like Debrecen, Szeged, and Pécs have trams and local buses
  • Monthly student pass in Budapest: ~HUF 3,450 (€9)
    🌐 bkk.hu, dkv.hu

🚆 Intercity Travel

  • Trains: Operated by MÁV – student discounts available with Hungarian student card
  • Long-distance buses: Volánbusz, FlixBus for regional/international routes
  • Discounted student train tickets: up to 50% off with ISIC or local student card
    🌐 jegy.mav.hu, flixbus.com

🚲 Biking & E-Scooters

  • Budapest has bike lanes and bike-sharing services like MOL Bubi
  • E-scooters available via apps like Lime and Tier
    🌐 molbubi.bkk.hu

💡 Tip: Always carry your student ID to avail discounts. Download apps like BKK FUTÁR or MÁV app for real-time schedules and e-tickets.

Hungary offers a variety of student discounts on transport, food, entertainment, and services, making it easy to live on a budget. Carry your ISIC card or local university student ID to avail benefits.


🚍 Transport Discounts

  • 50% off on train and intercity bus tickets with valid student ID
  • Budapest monthly public transport pass for students: ~HUF 3,450 (€9)
    🌐 bkk.hu, jegy.mav.hu

🍔 Food & Cafes

  • University canteens offer subsidized meals: €2–€4
  • Discounts at chains like Subway, Burger King, and some local restaurants with student ID

🎬 Entertainment & Museums

  • Reduced entry fees at museums, theaters, cinemas, and thermal spas
  • Look for student pricing at places like Szechenyi Baths, Hungarian National Museum, and Cinema City
    🌐 cinemacity.hu, mnm.hu

🛍️ Shopping & Services

  • Student deals at stores like H&M, Pull&Bear, Decathlon, and DM
  • Discounts on mobile/data plans from providers like Yettel and Vodafone Hungary
    🌐 yettel.hu, vodafone.hu

💡 Tip: Register for an ISIC card or check your university’s local discount partners. Always ask for student pricing—many offers aren’t advertised!

📑 Academic Requirements – For bachelor’s programs, students typically need a high school leaving certificate with good grades. Master’s applicants must hold a relevant bachelor’s degree. Some programs may require entrance exams or portfolio reviews.

🗣️ English Language Proficiency – Most universities in Hungary offer English-taught programs. Accepted tests include:

  • IELTS: Minimum 5.5–6.5 band score
  • TOEFL iBT: 60–80
  • Duolingo English Test: 90–105
  • Cambridge English: B2 First or higher
    Many universities waive English test requirements if previous education was in English (with a medium of instruction letter).

🛂 Visa Preparation – Students need to apply for a D-type Student Visa before entering Hungary. Required documents include:

  • Letter of Acceptance
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Financial proof (approx. €600/month)
  • Valid passport
  • Medical insurance
    Refer to the Hungarian Consulate/Embassy in your country for updated checklists.

🎓 Application Timeline – Most Hungarian universities have intakes in September (Fall) and February (Spring). Start preparing documents 6–8 months in advance.
Applications for the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship usually open in November and close by mid-January.

🔗 Useful Links: