Study in Hungary for International Students: Universities, Courses & Fees

The education system in Hungary has represented academic excellence for more than 650 years. Enrolling to study in Hungary means following the footsteps of Europe’s greatest thinkers, such as mathematician John von Neumann and Nobel laureate Albert Szent-Györgyi! 

Needless to say, if you’re a student considering studying abroad, Hungary should be at the top of your list. 

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Did you know that the Loránd University (ELTE) in Budapest is currently ranked 564 in the QS world rankings and 26th in the EECA region? This insight further proves that this country offers an educational experience like no other.  

From the historic University of Pécs, founded in 1367, to the modern and dynamic Budapest University of Technology and Economics, the academic opportunities are as diverse as the country’s famous thermal baths.

Looking for more information on where to study in Hungary? This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know, from the cost of studying and available scholarships to securing a student visa and exploring the top universities in Hungary. 

Dive right in –  “Egészségedre” (cheers)!

Key Highlights

The table below summarises all the information covered in this blog on study in Hungary.

Why Study in Hungary?

In the 2023 academic year, over 30,000 international students were studying in Hungary! And why not? This charming Central European gem is quickly becoming a top destination for students worldwide. Imagine studying at a top medical university in Hungary, like ​​the University of Pécs, while using state-of-the-art labs and technology. 

From the amazing streets of Budapest to the charm of Szeged, Hungary University for international students offers a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural richness. Plus, where else can you discuss quantum physics while munching on a chimney cake?

Need more reasons to study in Hungary to achieve your career goals? Here are five! 

1. High-Quality Education at Affordable Costs

Hungary offers a high-quality education at very affordable tuition fees compared to many other European countries. For example, a Medical University in Hungary, the University of Debrecen, provides excellent value, with a 6-year program costing around INR 13.7L (EUR 15.2k) annually. Hungarian university degrees are recognised worldwide, providing prestige and value.

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2. Diverse Range of Study Programs

Hungarian universities offer a broad choice of degrees in subjects like medicine, engineering, business, arts and more. There are over 60 higher education institutions ranging from small colleges to top research universities. You can find programs to suit your interests and career goals.

3. Excellent Travel Connections

Studying in Hungary provides easy access to travel around Europe. As a Schengen country member, you can explore historic cities, stunning landscapes and cultural hotspots across the continent. With generous summer breaks of 12-14 weeks, there’s plenty of time to travel. 

You can expect to spend around INR 3.3k to 4.9k (EUR 37 to 55) per day in Hungary, including accommodation, transportation, meals, and activities.

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4. Exciting Start-Up Scene and Career Prospects

Hungary has an emerging start-up ecosystem, making it an attractive destination for business and entrepreneurship students. Many local and international companies offer internships to students after graduation to help launch their careers. 

For example, SEON is a leading fraud detection startup headquartered in Hungary. It recently raised  INR 777Cr (EUR 87.1M) in Series B funding, making it one of the most valued startups in the country. 

5. Scholarship Opportunities to Study in Hungary

Another compelling reason to study in Hungary is the financial support offered to you in the form of scholarships. These scholarships, often merit-based, cover tuition fees, living costs, and additional expenses. 

For example, the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship is the most prestigious program by the Hungarian government, fully covering tuition fees and a monthly stipend of EUR 120 (INR 10.5k) per month. 

Top 5 Universities to Study in Hungary 

Did you know that the University of Szeged, with a rich history dating back to 1581, has produced many influential figures, including Nobel laureate Albert Szent-Györgyi, who discovered vitamin C? Imagine studying in a place with such a remarkable legacy.

Now, choosing the right Hungary university for international students like yourself can feel a bit overwhelming. There are many more fantastic options, all boasting prestigious programs and great student life, but where do you even begin?

Ready to find your perfect match? Read on to discover the five most popular universities in Hungary! 

1. Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE)

Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), founded in 1635 by Cardinal Péter Pázmány as a Catholic university for theology and philosophy in Nagyszombat (now Trnava, Slovakia), is the oldest and largest university in Hungary. 

Today, ELTE is a public research university based in Budapest, boasting over 28,000 students across nine faculties, including Humanities, Science, Law, Medicine, and Informatics.

ELTE is renowned for its academic excellence and is considered one of the most prestigious higher education institutions in Hungary. It is a leading scientific establishment with 118 PhD programs offered at 17 doctoral schools. 

The university is affiliated with five Nobel laureates. It has connections to recipients of the Wolf Prize, Fulkerson Prize, and Abel Prize, further highlighting its significant contributions to research and academia.

Here is a table with the entry requirements for Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) to study in Hungary. 

Here is the table based on your request:

Here are details of the top courses offered at this Hungary university for international students. 

2. University of Szeged

The University of Szeged (SZTE), founded in 1581, is a prestigious research university located in Szeged, Hungary. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across 12 faculties in the arts, humanities, sciences, and medicine. 

With over 20,000 students, including around 4,500 international students from about 130 countries, SZTE provides a diverse and inclusive academic environment.

The university offers more than 70 full-time degree programs taught in English, German, and French. Consistently ranked among the top universities in Hungary and the top 500 worldwide by QS, SZTE boasts an impressive legacy of producing influential figures, including Nobel laureates Albert Szent-Györgyi in medicine and Katalin Karikó in physiology.

To study in Hungary at this university, you must be at least 17 years old by December 31st of the admission year, with no upper age limit. 

Here are the other requirements to keep in mind. 

Here are details of the top courses offered at this Hungary university for international students.

Here’s the table based on your request:

3. University of Debrecen

The University of Debrecen (UD), founded in 1538, is the oldest continuously operating higher education institution in Hungary, with around 28,500 students across 14 faculties. UD offers over 80 degree programs in English, including Medicine and Engineering, and has nearly 6,000 international students. 

UD’s diplomas are widely accepted in the EU, with programs accredited by the Hungarian Accreditation Board and international bodies like WHO and the State Education Department (NY, USA). 

As a research university, UD hosts agricultural research institutes and the largest computing cluster in Hungary, “Leo.” It also offers the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship and other funding options for international students, including Indians,  to study in Hungary.

Here is a table with the entry requirements for UD to study in Hungary. 

Here’s the table with the provided information:

Here are details of the top courses offered at this Hungary university for international students. 

Here’s the table with the provided information:

4. Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME)

The Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME), founded in 1782, is Hungary’s most significant university of technology and one of the oldest in the world. Located in Budapest, BME educates over 21,000 students in five languages: Hungarian, English, German, French, and Russian. 

It issues about 70% of Hungary’s engineering degrees and is highly ranked globally in engineering disciplines. BME’s faculties include Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Architecture, and more.

Renowned for academic excellence, BME has 34 professors in the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and is affiliated with Nobel Prize winner György Oláh. 

The university leads in international research collaborations and has been rising in global rankings. It hosts significant events like the EELISA Workshop on AI Ethics and Law and offers summer courses with NASA researchers, enhancing its global reputation.

Here is the table with the entry requirements to study in Hungary at The Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME).

Here’s the table with the provided information:

Here are details of the top courses offered at this Hungary university for international students. 

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5. University of Pécs

The University of Pécs (PTE), founded in 1367, is the oldest university in Hungary and the fourth oldest in Central Europe. With around 22,000 students across ten faculties, it is one of the largest higher education institutions in Hungary. The university offers over 100 programs taught in English and German, covering a wide range of disciplines. 

It boasts a significant international presence with approximately 4,900 international students,, the University of Pécs is renowned for its high-quality education. 

The university’s long history and evolution, including its merger with Janus Pannonius University in 2000, contribute to its popularity among international students due to its reasonable costs and supportive environment. 

Here is the table with the entry requirements to study in Hungary at The University of Pécs (PTE). 

Here’s the table with the provided information:

This table organizes the requirements and details for qualifications, entrance exams, TOEFL iBT scores, and IELTS scores by academic level.

Here are details of the top courses offered at this Hungary university for international students.

Here’s the table with the provided information:

Intakes at the Best Universities in Hungary

Ready to swap the crowded streets of Mumbai or the bustling markets of Delhi for the picturesque landscapes of Budapest or the charm of Szeged? Hungarian universities are set to welcome you with open arms! 

But before you pack your bags to study in Hungary and start dreaming about indulging in goulash or sipping Tokaji wine by the Danube, time to get into those all-important intakes and deadlines. After all, missing an application deadline is like forgetting your passport – a serious faux pas! 

There are two primary intake periods at the best universities in Hungary –  the Fall Semester starting in September and the Spring Semester starting in February.

Here are the intake details you must know to study in Hungary.

Please note: You must visit university websites for specific application deadlines and details.

Application Process to Study in a Hungary University for International Students

Hungary offers a great opportunity for Indian students to pursue quality education at affordable costs. Tuition fees at Hungarian universities range from INR 4.5L to 14L (EUR 5k to 16k) per year, making it a budget-friendly study destination, making it a budget-friendly study destination.

Here is a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth and stress-free application process for you to study in Hungary. 

• Explore programs in English to study in Hungary.
  
• Consider tuition fees in Hungary for international students, university rankings, location, and specialisations.
  
• Contact international offices at universities in Hungary for detailed program information.
  
• Prepare your academic transcripts, certificates (with English translations), and proof of English proficiency (TOEFL iBT 60+ or IELTS 5.0+).
  
• Gather additional documents: passport, CV, motivation letter, two recommendation letters, and portfolio/entrance exam results (if required).
  
• Apply through online portals, upload your documents, and pay the application fee. Check the specifics of Hungary university fees for international students.
  
• Ensure any postal documents are sent before the deadlines (Fall intake: February; Spring intake: November).
  
• Wait 1-2 months for admission decisions and have backup plans ready. Consider alternatives like applying for a master’s degree in Hungary or a PhD in Hungary.
  
• Explore scholarships like Stipendium Hungaricum; prepare financial statements and submit them by the deadlines (around January 15). Scholarships can significantly reduce tuition fees in Hungary for international students.
  
• Apply for a residence permit and national visa at the Hungarian Embassy, submit the required documents, and allow 20-25 days for processing.
  
• Arrange your accommodation, obtain health insurance, book your flights, attend orientation, and complete enrollment formalities at your chosen Hungary university for international students.

Student Visa Requirements to Study in Hungary

Congratulations! You’ve cleared the first step. Now, it’s time to turn that acceptance letter from your Hungarian university into an official student visa. Don’t worry; the process to obtain a visa to study in Hungary is pretty smooth. 

In fact, the Hungarian visa approval rate in 2023 was approximately 87.4%, which means most applications were accepted, and the visa is relatively easy to obtain. 

Here is an overview of the types of visas to study in Hungary. 

*Please Note: Non-EU/EEA refers to countries that are not part of the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), which includes the EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.

To apply for a student visa to study in Hungary, you’ll need to submit the following documents. 

• Valid passport with at least two blank pages and six months validity beyond your stay.
  
• Completed and signed visa application form.
  
• 2-3 recent passport-size photographs.
  
• Letter of acceptance from a Hungarian university.
  
• Proof of sufficient funds for tuition and living costs: INR 2.5L to 6.5L (EUR 3k to 7.8k).
  
• Medical insurance with minimum coverage of INR 26L (EUR 30k).
  
• Flight ticket proving travel to Hungary.
  
• Academic transcripts, CV and motivation letter. 

The Process to Apply for a  Visa to Study in Hungary 

Applying for a visa to study in Hungary involves several important steps and procedures. Whether you’re planning to pursue undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral studies, understanding the application process is crucial to ensuring a smooth transition to studying abroad. 

Time to go through the steps for getting your student visa to study in Hungary.

• Apply to your chosen program and receive an acceptance letter including course name, duration, start date, and tuition fees.
  
• Submit your visa application and documents at the Hungarian Embassy in India and pay the visa application fee of approximately INR 5k (EUR 55).
  
• Schedule a visa interview appointment early and allow 20-25 days for visa processing.
  
• Collect a passport with an approved D-type single-entry visa.
  
• Travel to Hungary before visa expiry.

Cost of Living in Hungary for Indian Students

The average cost of accommodation in Hungary ranges from approximately INR 2.5L to 4.15L  (EUR 3k to 5k) per year, making it an affordable option for students. Also, compared to countries like Germany, the cost of living in Hungary is 49.1% lower.  If you are budget-minded, Hungary is a dream come true!

The table below summarises the cost of living in some of Hungary’s major cities. 

Please note: The cost of living depends on the city you choose to study in, the programme you opt for, and additional expenses such as transportation, accommodation, food, and personal expenses. 

Cost of Living in Hungary vs USA, UK and Australia: A Comparative Analysis

Did you know that the cost of living in the United States is 101% more expensive than in Hungary? That’s right. 

Comparing monthly living costs can offer valuable insights into the affordability of studying or residing in various countries. Accordingly, it can help you make informed decisions based on your budget and preferences.

Here’s a breakdown of the cost of living in Hungary compared to the USA, UK, and Australia.

Scholarships in Hungary for Indian Students

Did you know? With the Hungarian Government’s Stipendium Hungaricum, international students from nearly 70 countries can apply for a EUR 150 (INR 13.5k) per month stipend and shared accommodation while studying in Hungary. You can also explore university-specific scholarships.

Here is a table summarising the key details of scholarships available for Indian students in Hungary. 

Top 5 High-Paying Job Roles for International Students in Hungary

Hungary’s GDP is projected to be around INR 14.9T (EUR 161B) this year-end, with an expected growth rate of 4%, making it one of the fastest-growing economies in Europe. That said, finding a job in Hungary is relatively easy, provided you have the right skill set and experience. 

The table below has listed the popular job roles with average pay.  

Please note: The salary will vary based on experience level and skill set. 

Top 5 Recruiters in Hungary 

The employment rate in Hungary increased to 65.07% in April from 64.96% in March of 2024. This definitely indicates a positive trend in employment opportunities in Hungary. 

Curious about which top companies are actively seeking talented students like you?

Here is a list of the renowned companies you should know. 

• Randstad Hungary: Recruits software developers, IT project managers, and HR specialists.
  
• ManpowerGroup Hungary: Recruits engineers, sales representatives, and customer service agents.
  
• Adecco Hungary: Recruits administrative assistants, finance analysts, and marketing coordinators.
  
• Grafton Recruitment Hungary: Recruits IT specialists, financial analysts, and engineers.
  
• Hays Hungary: Recruits accountants, legal advisors, and healthcare professionals.

Conclusion

So, why not take the plunge and study in Hungary? The opportunities are as rich and diverse as the country’s storied history.

Remember the feeling of riding an auto-rickshaw through the bustling lanes? Imagine that same thrill as you move through Hungary’s fascinating blend of mediaeval and modern architecture, from the Buda Castle to the iconic Chain Bridge. Studying in Hungary is not just about earning a degree; it’s about embracing a whole new cultural adventure.

Beyond the affordable tuition fees and world-class education, Hungary offers a unique blend of academic rigour and an amazing student life too. The average tuition fee ranges from INR 4.5L to 6.3L (EUR 5k to 7k) per year, making it a budget-friendly option for you. The cost of living is also reasonable, averaging around INR 47k (EUR 520) per month.

So, whether you’re from up north like Delhi or down south like Bangalore, Hungary is calling you with a promise of a bright future. Who knows, your journey in Hungary might just be the best chapter of your life! 

Also Read HISA Youth Dialogue 2024, Hungary. 

Frequently Asked Questions