Study in Budapest
World-class universities, low living costs, a vibrant international community, and one of Europe's most beautiful cities as your campus.
Why Study in Budapest?
Budapest has become one of Central Europe's top student cities — here's why thousands of international students choose it each year.
Prestigious Universities
Home to institutions with centuries of history, including the oldest university in Central Europe and leading medical, technical, and arts faculties.
Affordable Living
Living costs are significantly lower than Western Europe. Students typically spend €500–€800/month including rent, food, and entertainment.
International Community
Over 30,000 international students study in Budapest from 100+ countries, creating a vibrant, welcoming, English-friendly environment.
English-Taught Programmes
Hundreds of degree programmes taught entirely in English across medicine, business, engineering, arts, and humanities.
Quality of Life
Consistently rated one of Europe's most liveable cities — safe, walkable, with world-class culture, food, nightlife, and thermal baths.
Central Location
Budapest's central European position makes weekend travel easy — Vienna, Prague, Bratislava, and Krakow are all within a few hours.
Top Universities
Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE)
Founded 1635Hungary's largest and most prestigious university. Internationally ranked in law, humanities, sciences, and education. Multiple campuses across Budapest.
Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME)
Founded 1782One of the oldest technical universities in the world. Renowned for engineering, architecture, and computer science. Strong industry partnerships.
Semmelweis University
Founded 1769Central Europe's leading medical school, attracting thousands of international medical students annually. English-taught MD programmes widely respected globally.
Corvinus University of Budapest
Founded 1920Hungary's top business and economics university. Strong MBA programmes, excellent international connections, and a central Buda campus.
Central European University (CEU)
Founded 1991An internationally accredited graduate university with a global reputation for social sciences, law, and humanities. A truly international campus community.
Hungarian University of Fine Arts
Founded 1871Hungary's premier arts institution for fine arts, design, and restoration. Part of Budapest's rich creative and cultural tradition.
Cost of Living
Estimated monthly costs in euros for a student in Budapest.
Accommodation
€250–€500/moStudent dormitory €100–€200 / private room €300–€500 / shared apartment from €250
Food
€150–€250/moStudent canteens (menza) from €2/meal, supermarket shopping very affordable, eating out €5–€12/meal
Transport
€15–€30/moStudent monthly pass for all public transport within Budapest — excellent coverage
Books & Supplies
€30–€60/moUniversity libraries are excellent; most materials available digitally or through university systems
Social & Entertainment
€50–€100/moStudent discounts on museums, cinemas, theatres. Ruin bar entry often free, drinks very affordable
Phone & Internet
€10–€25/moCompetitive mobile plans. University accommodation typically includes internet.
Visas & Registration
Key administrative steps for international students coming to Hungary.
EU/EEA Students
EU citizens do not need a visa. Register with the local government immigration office within 90 days of arrival to obtain a registration certificate.
Non-EU Students
Apply for a long-stay visa (D visa) at the Hungarian embassy in your home country before departure. Required documents: university acceptance, proof of funds, accommodation, health insurance.
Student Residence Permit
Non-EU students must apply for a student residence permit within 30 days of arrival. Apply through the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (OIF) or electronically via ENTER Hungary.
Registering Your Address
All students must register their address at the local government office ("okmányiroda"). Your landlord or university can assist with the necessary documents.
Health Insurance
EU students: bring your EHIC card. Non-EU students must have private health insurance or join the Hungarian public health system (OEP) — your university can advise.
TAJ Card
The TAJ card (social security number) gives you access to the Hungarian healthcare system. Apply through the National Health Insurance Fund (NEAK) after registering your address.
Student Life
Budapest's student scene is vibrant, international, and endlessly entertaining.
Culture
Opera, theatre, and concerts at heavily discounted student rates. The State Opera House offers €5 standing tickets.
Nightlife
Legendary ruin bar scene in the Jewish Quarter. Open mic nights, quiz nights, and international student events every week.
Sports
University sports teams, public swimming pools, and the Danube riverside path for running and cycling.
Erasmus Network
Active ESN (Erasmus Student Network) Budapest runs social events, city trips, and language exchange programmes.
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