Hungary has become one of Europe's leading study destinations for international students. It combines high academic standards with relatively affordable tuition fees, a strategic Central European location, a vibrant student culture – and, crucially, one of the most generous government scholarship programmes in the region: the Stipendium Hungaricum.
This guide covers the best universities in Hungary for international students, the English-taught programmes they offer, cost information, and how to apply – whether you are self-funding or looking for a scholarship.
Why Study in Hungary?
- Affordable tuition: €1,500–8,000/year for most programmes – significantly cheaper than Western Europe or the UK
- English-taught programmes: hundreds of bachelor and master programmes taught entirely in English
- EU recognition: Hungarian degrees are recognised across the entire European Union
- Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship: fully-funded scholarship covering tuition, accommodation and a monthly stipend
- Low cost of living: Budapest living costs are 30–40% lower than cities like Vienna or Munich
- Safe, welcoming student cities: Budapest, Debrecen and Pécs consistently rank highly for student quality of life
Best Universities in Hungary for International Students
1. University of Debrecen
Debrecen · Public university · ~28,000 students, 6,000+ international
The University of Debrecen is the most internationally diverse university in Hungary and one of the most popular choices for students from Azerbaijan and Central Asia. It offers a wide range of English-taught programmes spanning Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Business Administration, Engineering and IT.
Tuition fees: €1,800–16,000/year depending on programme (medical programmes
higher)
Known for: Medical and health programmes, high acceptance rate for
international applicants
2. Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME)
Budapest · Public technical university · ~25,000 students
BME is Hungary's most prestigious technical university and one of Europe's oldest engineering institutions. It offers English-taught engineering, computer science and architecture programmes at bachelor and master level, and is one of the primary Stipendium Hungaricum partner institutions.
Tuition fees: €2,500–5,500/year
Known for: Engineering, IT, architecture and STEM disciplines
3. Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE)
Budapest · Leading research university · ~30,000 students
ELTE is the largest and highest-ranked university in Hungary. It excels in humanities, social sciences, law, natural sciences and information technology. Several English-taught programmes in economics, computer science and international studies attract strong international interest.
Tuition fees: €2,000–4,500/year
Known for: Research quality, broad disciplines, Budapest campus life
4. Corvinus University of Budapest
Budapest · Business-focused university
Corvinus is one of Central Europe's leading business and economics universities, particularly suited to students interested in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, International Relations and Management. It has strong industry partnerships and an active international student community.
Tuition fees: €3,000–6,000/year
Known for: Business, finance, economics – best choice if you want a career in
European business
5. University of Pécs
Pécs · Founded 1367 – one of Europe's oldest universities
The University of Pécs has a long history and particularly strong programmes in Medicine, Law and Health Sciences. Its International Medical School is a popular destination for students seeking a medical degree in an accessible, English-taught environment.
Tuition fees: €5,000–16,000/year (medical/health programmes)
Known for: Medicine, healthcare, law
The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
The Stipendium Hungaricum is a Hungarian government-funded scholarship for students from eligible countries, including Azerbaijan. It covers:
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend (approximately 40,000–43,700 HUF, roughly €110–120/month)
- Free or subsidised on-campus accommodation
- Health insurance contribution
Stipendium Hungaricum applications are made through your home country (in Azerbaijan, this is typically coordinated through the relevant state body). Applications usually open in October–November for studies starting the following September.
How to Apply to a Hungarian University
- Choose your university and programme – check entry requirements and English language proficiency requirements
- Prepare documents – transcripts, diplomas, English proof, CV, motivation letter
- Submit your application – most universities have online portals; some require direct contact
- Receive your acceptance letter – typically within 4–8 weeks
- Apply for a student visa – at the Hungarian Embassy in Baku
- Register on arrival – at your university's international student office
Cost of Living in Hungary
In addition to tuition, your monthly expenses in Hungary will typically be:
- Accommodation: €200–500/month (dormitory €150–300, private room €350–550)
- Food: €150–250/month (significantly cheaper if you cook yourself)
- Transport: €15–30/month (student discount cards available)
- Total: approximately €400–800/month depending on lifestyle
Thinking About Studying in Hungary?
TLM Education can help you choose the right university, prepare your application, apply for Stipendium Hungaricum and handle everything visa-related in one place.
Get a Free ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
Is it hard to get into a Hungarian university as an international student?
Entry requirements vary by university and programme. Most bachelor programmes require a secondary school diploma with good grades. Medical programmes are more competitive. With the right preparation and documentation, acceptance rates at most Hungarian universities for international students are relatively high compared to Western Europe.
Is IELTS required for Hungarian universities?
Many Hungarian universities accept alternatives to IELTS – previous education in English, institutional language tests, or certificates like Cambridge B2. Read our full guide: How to Study in Europe Without IELTS.
Can I work while studying in Hungary?
Yes. International students in Hungary can work up to 24 hours per week during the semester and full-time during official holidays, without a separate work permit.