Study in Hungary

Country: Studying in Hungary provides international students with an excellent opportunity to access high-quality education at an affordable cost. Hungary is known for its strong academic institutions, offering a range of programs in various fields, including science, technology, engineering, medicine, and humanities. The country’s universities have a long-standing tradition of research and innovation, attracting students from around the world. Hungary’s rich history and cultural heritage provide students with a unique backdrop for their studies, making it an ideal place to experience European culture.

Hungary’s strategic location in the heart of Europe allows students to easily travel and explore neighboring countries. The cost of living in Hungary is relatively low compared to other European countries, making it an attractive option for students seeking to balance quality education with budget-friendly living expenses. Many Hungarian universities offer courses in English, making it accessible for international students who may not speak Hungarian. The diverse and welcoming student community in Hungary provides an opportunity to meet peers from different cultures and backgrounds.

Hungarian universities also offer various support services, including career counseling, internships, and language courses, to help students integrate into the academic and cultural environment. The vibrant student life in Hungary includes numerous cultural events, festivals, and sports activities, providing a well-rounded student experience. Studying in Hungary is an investment in both education and personal growth, allowing students to gain valuable skills and knowledge while enjoying a dynamic and diverse environment.

International Student: Hungary is home to a diverse and growing community of international students, particularly from countries such as India, China, Iran, and Nigeria. The country attracts students with its affordable education, English-taught programs, and welcoming environment. The number of international students in Hungary has been steadily increasing, with over 12,000 students from around the world now enrolled in higher education institutions. This growth reflects Hungary’s rising popularity as a study destination. The diverse student body contributes to a rich, multicultural campus experience in Hungary.

Facilities:  In Hungary, international students have access to a variety of accommodation options, ranging from student dormitories to private apartments, allowing them to find suitable housing for their needs. Libraries and study facilities across universities are well-equipped with modern resources, offering quiet spaces and computer labs to support academic work and research. Student support services are available to assist with administrative processes, visa issues, and cultural integration, helping students adjust to life in Hungary. Health services include on-campus medical clinics and access to health insurance, ensuring that students receive the care they need. Sports and recreation facilities are plentiful, with gyms, sports halls, and outdoor areas for activities such as soccer, basketball, and running. IT services are readily accessible, providing high-speed internet, computer labs, and technical support for students. Support for language barriers includes language courses and tutoring services, helping students improve their Hungarian language skills. Many universities also offer language exchange programs, connecting students with native speakers for practice. The combination of these facilities helps international students thrive academically and socially in Hungary, providing them with the tools and support they need to succeed.

Cost of Living & Tuition and Scholarship:

Living Costs:

Student Residences: Rent for university-provided accommodation ranges from HUF 60,000 to HUF 150,000 per month, depending on the location and type of housing (e.g., shared rooms, private studios).

Private Rentals: Private accommodation can be more expensive, typically ranging from HUF 80,000 to HUF 200,000 per month for a private apartment in major cities like Budapest.

Tuition Fees:

Public universities

International students can expect to pay between €1,200–5,000 per year for most degrees, and €12,000–16,000 per year for Medicine and Dentistry degrees.

Private universities

Private universities typically charge higher tuition fees.

EU vs non-EU

Both public and private universities can decide if they charge the same tuition to EU and non-EU citizens, but non-EU citizens sometimes pay higher fees.

Programs

Tuition fees vary by program, with less specialized programs being less expensive.

The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship is a government-funded program that covers tuition fees, accommodation in university dormitories, and a monthly stipend for living expenses, along with health insurance coverage. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees provide similar financial support, including tuition fees, travel costs, and a monthly stipend, aimed at students from non-EU countries. University-specific scholarships, like those from ELTE and BME, offer partial or full tuition fee waivers based on academic merit and extracurricular involvement. Additionally, the Hungary Helps Scholarship Program provides scholarships for students from specific countries, covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.

English Language: Only a handful of exams are required to pursue studies in Hungary. If English isn’t your first language, you should consider taking the TOEFL or the IELTS. The lowest score for TOEFL in Hungary is 60, while the minimum score for IELTS is 5.0.

PSW Opportunities: Post-Study Work (PSW) opportunities for international students in Hungary are limited compared to other countries, but graduates still have options to gain work experience after completing their studies. International students can apply for a temporary residence permit to search for a job related to their field of study for up to one year. To qualify, students must have completed an eligible degree from a Hungarian higher education institution. During this period, graduates are allowed to work full-time if they find relevant employment, and the job must meet specific salary and skill requirements, typically above the median income in Hungary. If graduates secure a suitable job, they can apply for a residence permit for skilled employment, allowing them to stay in Hungary for up to two years with the possibility of renewal. Proficiency in Hungarian is beneficial, and many universities offer language courses to help graduates improve their language skills. Additionally, career services provided by Hungarian universities can assist students in transitioning from academia to work, offering workshops, job fairs, and internships.