Study In Hungary

Why Hungary is a Popular Destination for International Students

Hungary has become an increasingly popular study destination for international students, especially due to its rich cultural heritage, affordable cost of living, and high-quality education system. With several world-renowned universities, particularly in fields such as medicine, engineering, and business, Hungary offers students a unique opportunity to experience central European culture while receiving an excellent education.

Academic Calendar and Intakes

Hungary follows a standard European academic system, with two main intakes:

Fall Intake (September): This is the primary intake for most undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Classes usually begin in September, and students must apply by June or July.
Spring Intake (February): Some universities offer a second intake in February for certain programs, such as postgraduate courses, with applications due in November or December.

It is important to verify with the specific institution about intake deadlines and program availability.

Popular Courses to Study in Hungary

Hungary is particularly known for its high-quality programs in various fields. The following are some of the most popular courses offered by Hungarian universities:

Medicine: Hungary is famous for its medical education, with several medical schools ranked among the top in Europe. Many international students pursue undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in medicine and related fields.
Engineering: Hungary offers numerous engineering programs in fields like mechanical, civil, electrical, and software engineering.
Business and Economics: With a strong focus on international business, finance, and management, Hungary is an attractive destination for business students.
Computer Science and Information Technology: Hungary has many universities that offer top-tier IT programs.
Pharmacy: The pharmacy programs in Hungary are highly regarded, attracting many international students.
Arts and Humanities: Hungary also offers programs in the fields of fine arts, literature, history, and social sciences.
Agriculture and Environmental Sciences: Hungary has a rich agricultural history and offers degrees in agriculture, environmental science, and related areas.

Top Universities in Hungary

Some of the top universities and higher education institutions in Hungary include:

Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE): One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Hungary, offering a wide range of programs.
University of Szeged: Known for its medical, science, and engineering programs.
Semmelweis University: Renowned for its medical and health science programs, particularly in medicine and pharmacy.
Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME): A leading technical university offering engineering, computer science, and architecture programs.
Corvinus University of Budapest: Famous for its business, economics, and social sciences programs.
Central European University (CEU): Known for its international orientation and high academic standards in fields like political science, economics, and humanities.

English Language Requirements

Hungary is an attractive destination for students because many programs are taught in English, especially at the postgraduate level. The general English language requirements are as follows:

IELTS: Minimum score of 6.0 to 6.5 for undergraduate programs and 6.5 to 7.0 for postgraduate programs.
TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 to 90 for undergraduate programs and 90 to 100 for postgraduate programs.
PTE Academic: Typically, a score of 50 to 58 is required.

Some universities may accept other language proficiency tests, so it’s essential to check the specific institution’s requirements.

Cost of Study in Hungary

Hungary is known for its affordable tuition fees compared to other European countries, making it an attractive destination for international students. The tuition fees vary depending on the program and institution but generally fall within the following ranges:

Undergraduate programs: Tuition fees for undergraduate programs typically range from €3,000 to €8,000 per year.
Postgraduate programs: Master’s degree programs usually cost between €4,000 and €10,000 per year.
Medical programs: These are among the most expensive programs, with tuition fees ranging from €10,000 to €15,000 per year.
PhD programs: These programs can cost between €4,000 and €8,000 per year, but many institutions offer scholarships or funding opportunities for PhD students.

Cost of Living in Hungary

Hungary offers one of the lowest living costs in Europe, making it an attractive choice for international students. The cost of living depends on the city you choose to live in, with Budapest being more expensive than smaller cities like Szeged or Debrecen.

Here’s an estimate of monthly living expenses:

Accommodation: Rent for student dorms or shared apartments ranges from €150 to €400 per month.
Food: Monthly grocery costs are generally between €150 and €250, depending on your lifestyle.
Transport: A monthly public transport pass in Budapest costs around €15 to €25.
Other Expenses: Including entertainment, mobile phone plans, and personal items, students typically budget an additional €100 to €150 per month.

On average, international students should budget around €500 to €800 per month for living expenses, depending on the city and lifestyle.

Work Opportunities for International Students

International students in Hungary are allowed to work part-time during their studies. The general regulations are as follows:

On-campus jobs: Universities may offer on-campus employment opportunities, such as research assistantships or roles in university departments.
Off-campus jobs: Students can also work part-time in the hospitality, retail, or service industries. Most international students can work up to 24 hours per week during the academic year.
Summer Work: During the summer months, students can work full-time, which is an excellent opportunity to earn extra income and gain work experience.

Post-graduation, Hungary offers various options for students to apply for work permits and stay in the country to seek employment in their field.

Visa and Immigration Policies

To study in Hungary, international students need to apply for a student visa (D visa). The requirements typically include:

Acceptance letter from a recognized Hungarian university or higher education institution.
Proof of sufficient financial resources to cover tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of your studies.
Health insurance: Proof of valid health insurance for the duration of your stay in Hungary.
Accommodation proof: Evidence of accommodation arrangements.
Visa application fee: Around €60.

After graduation, students can apply for a Residence Permit for Job-Seeking to remain in Hungary while searching for work in their field.

Cultural and Social Environment

Hungary offers a vibrant student life, with a rich cultural history, beautiful architecture, and a thriving arts scene. The country is known for its festivals, historical sites, and outdoor activities, making it an exciting place to live and study.

Language: Hungarian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in major cities and universities.
Student Life: International students will find plenty of opportunities to meet others and participate in social, cultural, and extracurricular activities. There are various student associations and events throughout the year.
Travel: Hungary’s central location in Europe makes it an ideal base for traveling around the continent. Students can easily explore neighboring countries like Austria, Slovakia, and Croatia during their breaks.

Recent Updates and Developments

Increased Focus on International Students: Hungary continues to invest in its higher education system and attract more international students, particularly in fields such as medicine, engineering, and business.
Post-graduation Work Visa: Hungary offers post-graduation work visas to help students transition into the workforce after completing their studies.
Affordable Education: Hungary remains one of the most affordable countries in Europe for higher education, with a high standard of teaching and a strong support system for international students.