Why Study in Hungary?
Hungary has quietly become one of Europe’s most popular destinations for international students, particularly for medicine and dentistry. Hungarian medical degrees are recognized throughout the EU and in most countries worldwide, and the cost of earning a medical degree in Hungary is roughly one-quarter of what it would cost in the UK or US. Semmelweis University in Budapest, the University of Debrecen, and the University of Szeged all offer fully English-taught medical programs that attract thousands of international students annually.
Beyond medicine, Hungary offers strong programs in engineering, computer science, business, and the arts at a fraction of the cost of Western European alternatives. Tuition fees typically range from 1,200 to 6,000 EUR/year for non-medical programs, and the cost of living is among the lowest in the EU. A student can live comfortably in Budapest — one of Europe’s most beautiful and culturally rich capitals — for under 700 EUR/month.
Hungary’s central location in Europe makes it an ideal base for students who want to explore the continent. Vienna, Bratislava, Prague, and Zagreb are all within a few hours by train. The country’s Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship program, funded by the Hungarian government, provides fully funded study opportunities (tuition, accommodation, and stipend) to students from over 80 partner countries, making Hungarian education accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds.
Top Universities
Semmelweis University
Hungary’s oldest and most prestigious medical university, located in Budapest. Named after Ignaz Semmelweis, the pioneer of antiseptic procedures. Known worldwide for its English-taught medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy programs.
University of Debrecen
One of Hungary’s largest universities, located in the country’s second city. Strong in medicine, engineering, agriculture, and sciences. Its medical school is one of the most popular among international students, with over 5,000 foreign students enrolled.
Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME)
Central Europe’s oldest technical university, founded in 1782. Top choice for engineering, architecture, and computer science in Hungary. Located on the Buda side of the Danube with a historic campus.
Eotvos Lorand University (ELTE)
Hungary’s most prestigious university for natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences. Founded in 1635, based in Budapest. Strong in mathematics, physics, and computer science.
University of Szeged
Located in southern Hungary near the Serbian border. Known for its medical, pharmacy, and science programs. Szeged is one of Hungary’s sunniest cities with one of the lowest costs of living.
Corvinus University of Budapest
Hungary’s leading business and economics university. Strong in finance, management, and social sciences. Centrally located in Budapest with strong ties to Hungarian and international businesses.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared apartment) | 200-400 (Budapest: 300-500) |
| Food & groceries | 150-250 |
| Health insurance | 30-60 |
| Public transport | 15-30 (student pass) |
| Study materials | 20-40 |
| Personal expenses | 80-150 |
| Total | 495-930 |
Tuition fees: 1,200-6,000 EUR/year for most programs. Medical programs are higher at 8,000-16,000 EUR/year (still far below Western European or American medical school fees). Stipendium Hungaricum scholars pay no tuition.
Student discounts: Hungarian student cards provide significant discounts on public transport (50%), museums, cultural events, and even some restaurants.
Visa Process
- Receive your admission letter from a Hungarian university
- Gather required documents: admission letter, proof of financial means (~500 EUR/month), health insurance valid in Hungary, accommodation proof, criminal background check, and medical certificate
- Apply for a Type D student visa at your local Hungarian embassy or consulate
- Processing time: 2-4 weeks typically
- Arrive in Hungary and apply for a residence permit at the Regional Directorate of the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing within 30 days
- Register your address at the local district office (kormanyablak)
- Residence permit validity: Issued for up to 2 years and renewable
Scholarships
- Stipendium Hungaricum: Hungary’s flagship government scholarship for international students. Covers full tuition, accommodation (or housing allowance of HUF 40,000/month), monthly stipend (HUF 43,700-140,000 depending on level), and health insurance. Available for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs.
- Bilateral state scholarships: Agreements between Hungary and specific countries providing fully or partially funded study places.
- University-specific scholarships: Many Hungarian universities offer merit-based tuition reductions for self-funded international students.
- Erasmus+ and CEEPUS: Exchange scholarships for students from European and Central European partner institutions.
Ready to Study in Hungary?
Hungary could be the right destination for your academic goals. Use our university matcher to find programs that fit your profile, or talk to an applyportal.ai advisor who can guide you through the entire application process — from choosing a university to obtaining your student visa.