How to apply to university in Hungary

When I think about counselling students toward non-traditional destinations, Hungary stands as a surprising gem in the landscape of global higher education. Affordable tuition, high-quality programmes taught in English, and one of the most generous government scholarships in the world – Stipendium Hungaricum – make Hungary an interesting pathway that is both academically enticing and financially accessible.

I work in Brazil, where the current landscape for Brazilian students is challenging – the Brazilian currency is undervalued, the US situation is uncertain when it comes to immigration, and other, more sought-after European countries may present a bigger financial challenge, not to mention potential language barriers. 

For many of my students over the years, Hungary has offered exactly the right combination of affordability, academic reputation and student life.

Hungary is an ideal option for students who are adventurous, cost-conscious or eager to study in Europe without following the more mainstream routes. 

Applying to university in Hungary

Hungary is home to several internationally recognised universities, including Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), University of Szeged and Semmelweis University (especially known for medicine). Many programmes are available in English, especially in fields such as medicine, business, international relations, engineering and the humanities.

There are two main pathways for applying to Hungarian universities.

1. Direct university application

Students can apply directly to the university of their choice through its admissions portal. Required documents typically include:

• Completed application form
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL or a high-school diploma from an English-medium school)
• High school transcripts
• Motivation letter
• Passport copy
• Letters of recommendation, depending on the course

Applications usually open between November and February, with some flexibility depending on the institution.

2. Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship

Particularly interesting for students who do not have a vast income at their disposal, full funding is available. Offered by the Hungarian government through the Tempus Public Foundation, the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship covers tuition, a monthly stipend, accommodation and health insurance. It is open to students from a range of countries, including many Global South nations and emerging markets.

Documents required include:

• Application form (online)
• Motivation letter (mandatory, and often a deciding factor)
• School certificates and transcripts
• Proof of language proficiency (English or Hungarian, depending on programme)
• Medical certificate
• Passport scan
• Optional: portfolio (for art or design programmes)

Start early. The Tempus Foundation portal can be clunky, and students often struggle to upload documents, especially at the last minute, when the portal faces higher traffic.

Apart from Stipendium Hungaricum, other funding options include the Diaspora Scholarship for students of Hungarian descent. University-specific scholarships may offer partial tuition reductions based on merit.

Applying for a Hungarian student visa

Once admitted (either directly or via scholarship), students need a D-type student visa. They will need to submit their university letter of acceptance and visa application form, as well as proof of accommodation in Hungary – which can be provided by their university. They will also need to provide proof that they are able to support themselves financially – which means bank statements for self-funded students or the scholarship letter from the Stipendium Hungaricum. Students should also provide travel insurance policies and passport-sized photos, along with the visa fee.

Most students will receive their visa within 30 to 60 days. However, to avoid unnecessary stress, I advise adding buffer time, especially when working with students from regions with complex diplomatic relations with Hungary.

Other tips

Involve parents early: many are unfamiliar with Hungary and need reassurance about safety, cost of living (which is relatively low) and career outcomes.

Highlight alumni success: connect students with current undergraduates or recent graduates via LinkedIn, so they can discuss what life in Hungary is really like.

Run a workshop: include Hungary in your annual international universities information session to expand parent and student mindsets.

Helping a student choose Hungary might take more work upfront but it’s deeply rewarding when that choice aligns with their goals, identity and ambitions.