Studying a bachelor’s in Hungary for free in 2025 has become a popular choice among international students, especially from India. With over 500 English-taught programs across fields like engineering, medicine, business, and IT, Hungary offers globally recognized education at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe.
The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship 2025 continues to be the biggest opportunity, covering full tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, and a monthly stipend. In recent years, Hungary has also expanded other funding options, including Erasmus+ exchanges and university-specific scholarships, making education more accessible.
With affordable living costs (€400–600 per month) and strong post-study opportunities through the EU job market, Hungary stands out as a cost-effective yet high-quality destination for international undergraduates.
Ready to study in Hungary for free? Explore top scholarships and universities —study in Hungary with upGrad today!
Why Choose Hungary for Bachelor’s Studies?
Choosing Hungary for your bachelor’s degree offers a mix of academic excellence, affordability, and global exposure. Here's why more students are exploring the opportunity to pursue a bachelor’s in Hungary for free:
1. Affordable or Fully Funded Education
Hungary provides access to tuition-free bachelor’s programs through scholarships like the Stipendium Hungaricum, which covers:
Full tuition fees
Monthly stipend
Free or subsidized accommodation
Health insurance
2. High-Quality, Globally Recognised Degrees
Hungarian universities like Eötvös Loránd University, University of Debrecen, and Budapest University of Technology and Economics offer bachelor’s degrees recognized across Europe and globally.
3. English-Taught Programs
Over 500 bachelor’s programs are available in English in fields like:
€400–€600 (INR 36,000–55,000) including rent, food, transport, and personal costs.
5. Student-Friendly Environment
Safe cities with rich cultural heritage
Active international student communities
Central European location with travel access to nearby countries
6. Part-Time Work Opportunities
International students can work up to 24 hours/week during the semester, and full-time during holidays, helping offset living expenses.
Is It Possible to Study Bachelors in Hungary for Free?
Yes, it is possible to study a bachelor’s in Hungary for free, thanks to a range of fully funded government and institutional scholarships offered to international students.
The most prominent among them is the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship, funded by the Hungarian government. It allows students from selected partner countries, including India, to study at top Hungarian universities without paying tuition fees.
Here’s what you can get under these scholarships:
100% tuition fee waiver
Monthly stipend of HUF 43,700 (approx. INR 10,000–11,000)
Free or heavily subsidized student housing
Medical insurance for the entire duration
Discover merit-based, need-based, and country-specific scholarships and explore Study Abroad Scholarships with upGrad.
Top Scholarships to Study in Hungary for Free
Hungary offers several fully funded and partial scholarships that allow international students to complete their bachelor's in Hungary for free. These scholarships are either provided by the Hungarian government or individual universities and cover tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation, and more.
Whether you're applying for a degree in engineering, medicine, business, or the arts, these scholarship programs make higher education in Hungary affordable and accessible, especially for Indian students and others from partner countries.
Below are the top scholarships you should explore if you want to study in Hungary without paying tuition fees:
1. Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship is the most popular and widely accepted scholarship that helps students pursue their bachelor's in Hungary for free. Launched by the Hungarian Government in 2013, this scholarship is available to students from over 90 partner countries, including India.
Key Benefits:
100% tuition fee coverage
Monthly stipend: HUF 43,700 (~INR 10,000)
Free dormitory accommodation or a housing allowance
Medical insurance for the entire duration of the study
Eligibility:
Must be a citizen of a Stipendium partner country
Should meet university admission criteria
English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent)
How to Apply:
Apply through the official Stipendium Hungaricum portal
Select your preferred courses and universities
Submit all documents before the yearly deadline (usually in January)
2. Erasmus+ Scholarship
The Erasmus+ Scholarship is a European Union initiative that supports students to study abroad in other European countries, including Hungary. While it is more commonly known for exchange programs, certain full-time bachelor’s programs in Hungary also accept Erasmus+ funding.
Key Benefits:
Tuition fee support (partial or full, depending on program)
Monthly living allowance of €800–€1,000 (INR 72,000–90,000 approx.)
Travel allowance and visa support
Opportunities to study in multiple European countries
Eligibility:
Must be enrolled in an eligible Erasmus+ program or university
Strong academic background
Proof of English or European language proficiency
How to Apply:
Apply through your university’s Erasmus+ coordinator
Submit academic transcripts, a motivation letter, and language scores
Selection is merit-based and competitive
3. University-Specific Scholarships in Hungary
Apart from government-funded options, many Hungarian universities offer merit-based scholarships and tuition waivers that can help you pursue your bachelor’s in Hungary for free or at a very low cost.
These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic performance, entrance exam scores, or extracurricular achievements.
Popular Universities Offering Scholarships:
University of Debrecen – offers Stipendium Hungaricum & its merit scholarships
Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) – provides faculty-level tuition discounts
Budapest University of Technology and Economics – merit scholarships and fee reductions
University of Pécs – tuition-free programs under Stipendium Hungaricum and Erasmus+
Benefits:
Partial or full tuition waivers
Monthly stipends (varies by university)
Discounted accommodation and meal plans
How to Apply:
Apply directly to the university during admission
Submit scholarship applications along with academic documents
Some scholarships are automatically awarded based on grades
Tuition-Free Universities in Hungary (with Scholarships)
To study for a bachelor’s degree in Hungary for free, it’s essential to know that some top universities offer tuition-free education only when it is combined with a scholarship, such as the Stipendium Hungaricum or Erasmus+.
Below are some of the most reputable Hungarian universities where international students can study for free, provided they secure a scholarship:
University
Available Scholarships
Tuition Fees Without Scholarship
University of Szeged
Stipendium Hungaricum, Erasmus+
€3,000–€5,000/year (INR 2.7–4.5 lakhs)
Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME)
Stipendium Hungaricum, University Merit Scholarships
€2,500–€5,000/year (INR 2.25–4.5 lakhs)
University of Debrecen
Stipendium Hungaricum
€5,000–€6,500/year (INR 4.5–5.8 lakhs)
Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE)
Stipendium Hungaricum, Erasmus+
€2,000–€4,000/year (INR 1.8–3.6 lakhs)
University of Pécs
Stipendium Hungaricum, University Scholarships
€3,000–€5,000/year (INR 2.7–4.5 lakhs)
Discover the best options for your higher education abroad! Explore the topuniversities in Hungary with upGrad’s expert guidance today.
Eligibility Criteria for Free Bachelor's in Hungary
To study a bachelor’s in Hungary for free, students must meet specific academic and documentation requirements, especially when applying for scholarships like the Stipendium Hungaricum or university-level financial aid.
Here are the common eligibility criteria:
Academic Requirements:
Must have completed 12 years of formal education or equivalent (higher secondary school)
Minimum 60–70% score or GPA equivalent in qualifying exams (varies by university)
Strong performance in core subjects relevant to the chosen bachelor’s program
Language Proficiency:
Most English-taught programs require IELTS (6.0+), TOEFL (iBT 72+), or equivalent
Some universities may accept proof of English as a medium of instruction (MOI)
For Hungarian-taught programs, basic Hungarian language proficiency may be required
Documents Needed:
Valid passport
Academic transcripts and certificates (with English translations)
Scholarship-specific documents (like a motivation letter for Stipendium Hungaricum)
Scholarship-Specific Criteria:
Must be a citizen of an eligible country (for Stipendium Hungaricum – India is eligible)
No prior studies in Hungary under the same scholarship
Fulfill all deadlines and documentation requirements
How to Apply for Free Bachelor Programs in Hungary
If you want to pursue a bachelor’s in Hungary for free, applying through the right scholarship programs and following the correct procedure is essential. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you apply successfully:
Step-by-Step Application Process:
Step 1: Choose Your Program & University
Visit the official websites of Hungarian universities
Shortlist bachelor’s programs offered in English
Check if they are eligible under Stipendium Hungaricum or other scholarships
Step 2: Check Eligibility Criteria
Review academic, language, and nationality requirements
For Stipendium Hungaricum, apply via: stipendiumhungaricum.hu
Select your preferred university and program
Submit your application before the annual deadline (usually January–February)
Step 5: Apply on the University’s Website
Many universities require a parallel application directly on their portal
Pay attention to specific university instructions and deadlines
Step 6: Attend Interviews or Submit Additional Material
Some courses (e.g., arts, architecture) may require entrance exams or interviews
Be prepared with portfolios or writing samples, if needed
Step 7: Wait for Results
Scholarship and university results are typically announced in May–June
Selected students receive an offer letter and visa instructions
Cost of Living in Hungary for International Students
Studying in Hungary is an appealing option for international students due to its affordable living costs, high-quality education, and vibrant cultural scene. The overall cost of living for international students in Hungary ranges from €4,200–8,900/year (€350–750/month), excluding tuition fees (approx. ₹3.78–8 lakh/year or ₹31,500–67,500/month).
Compared to other European countries, Hungary offers a budget-friendly lifestyle, particularly in cities like Debrecen, Szeged, and Pécs, though Budapest is pricier.
Below is an introduction to the key expenses international students can expect:
Expense Category
Cost in €/Month
Cost in INR/Month
Accommodation
€150–500
₹13,800–46,000
Food and Groceries
€115–200
₹10,580–18,400
Transportation
€10–25
₹920–2,300
Health Insurance
€15–25
₹1,380–2,300
Personal/Leisure
€20–30
₹1,840–2,760
Total Monthly Cost
€350–750
₹32,200–69,000
Notes:
Accommodation: Includes options like university dormitories (€80–250), shared flats (€150–350), or private apartments (€275–635). Budapest is pricier than other cities.
Food: Covers groceries, university canteen meals (€4–6), and occasional dining out.
Transportation: Reflects student-discounted public transport passes (€8.50–15) and minimal intercity travel.
Health Insurance: Mandatory for non-EU students; EU students may use EHIC but often opt for private coverage.
Leisure: Includes entertainment like cinema (€6–9) and moderate nightlife or sports activities.
Costs are lower in cities like Debrecen or Szeged (€300–500/month) compared to Budapest (€400–750/month).
Scholarships (e.g., Stipendium Hungaricum) and part-time work can offset expenses.
Part-Time Work and Internships in Hungary
International students pursuing a bachelor’s in Hungary for free often explore part-time jobs or internships to support their daily expenses and gain work experience. Hungary allows students from outside the EU to work legally during their studies, under specific rules.
Part-Time Work Regulations
During the academic semester, Students can work up to 24 hours per week
During university breaks, Students are allowed to work full-time (up to 90 days or 66 working days per year)
A valid student residence permit is required to work legally
Common Part-Time Jobs for Students
English language tutoring
Waiter/barista in cafes or restaurants
Retail assistant in supermarkets or clothing stores
Campus jobs like administrative or library support
Internships for Bachelor’s Students
Several Hungarian universities include compulsory internships as part of the curriculum
Internships are available in fields like IT, business, marketing, tourism, and engineering
Major cities such as Budapest, Szeged, and Debrecen offer more options, especially in startups and international firms
Completing a bachelor’s in Hungary for free can lead to strong career prospects across growing sectors. Hungary is an emerging hub for international talent, especially in fields like IT, finance, and healthcare. The country also offers a clear pathway to stay and work after graduation.
Research Assistant, Lab Technician, Medical Support
HUF 500,000 – 750,000 (₹1.13L – ₹1.69L)
Finance & Business
Financial Analyst, Accountant, Business Consultant
HUF 650,000 – 900,000 (₹1.47L – ₹2.03L)
Education
English Tutor, Research Support, Academic Assistant
HUF 450,000 – 700,000 (₹1.02L – ₹1.58L)
Manufacturing
Quality Controller, Production Planner, Line Engineer
HUF 500,000 – 750,000 (₹1.13L – ₹1.69L)
Source: Glassdoor estimates may vary based on company, experience, and city.
Conclusion
Pursuing a bachelor’s in Hungary for free in 2025 is an excellent pathway for international students, particularly from India, to access world-class education, tuition-free universities, and top scholarships like Stipendium Hungaricum.
With affordable living costs, English-taught programs, and increasing global recognition, Hungary offers both academic excellence and career mobility within the EU.
By planning early, meeting eligibility requirements, and applying for the right scholarships, students can secure a high-quality education in Europe without financial burden.
Planning to study in Hungary but confused about where to start from? Book a free 1:1 counselling sessionwith our experts today!
FAQs
Which are the best universities in Hungary for bachelor’s programs?
Top universities include Eötvös Loránd University, University of Debrecen, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, and University of Szeged. These institutions are known for strong research facilities, English-taught programs, and growing international student communities.
Can Indian students work while studying a bachelor’s in Hungary?
Yes, Indian and other international students can work part-time up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks. This helps students manage living expenses while pursuing their bachelor’s degree in Hungary.
What are the English language requirements for bachelor’s in Hungary?
Most Hungarian universities require international students to provide IELTS (6.0–6.5) or TOEFL (iBT 72–90) scores for admission. Some institutions also accept alternative proficiency tests or exemptions if prior education was in English.
How competitive is the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship for 2025?
The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship 2025 is highly competitive, with thousands of applicants worldwide. Selection is based on academic merit, motivation letter, and supporting documents, making early preparation crucial for students seeking fully funded study in Hungary.
What are the application deadlines for bachelor’s in Hungary 2025?
For most universities, the application period runs from November to January for the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship. Direct applications to universities often close by April or May 2025 for September intake.
Do Hungarian universities offer STEM bachelor’s programs in English?
Yes, Hungary offers a wide range of STEM programs in English, including engineering, computer science, medicine, and biotechnology. These are popular among international students due to high-quality faculty, affordable fees, and global recognition of degrees.
What is the Hungary student visa process for Indian students?
Indian students must apply for a D-type study visa after securing admission. Requirements include an acceptance letter, proof of funds, health insurance, and accommodation details. Processing typically takes 4–6 weeks, so applying early is essential.
Are there affordable student accommodations in Hungary?
Yes, most universities provide dormitory housing at €100–150 per month. Private rentals cost around €250–400 monthly, depending on the city. Shared apartments are popular among international students to balance comfort and affordability.
What are the living expenses for students outside Budapest?
Living outside Budapest is cheaper, with costs averaging €350–500 per month. Cities like Debrecen, Pécs, and Szeged are popular choices for international students due to lower rents and reduced overall living expenses.
Do Hungarian bachelor’s degrees allow students to pursue a master’s in Europe?
Yes, bachelor’s degrees from Hungarian universities are Bologna Process-compliant, meaning they are recognized across Europe. Graduates can directly apply for master’s programs in EU countries without additional equivalency requirements.
What cultural experiences can international students expect in Hungary?
International students in Hungary enjoy a mix of European history, festivals, affordable travel, and multicultural communities. Cities like Budapest offer vibrant nightlife, museums, and student-friendly events, enriching the overall study abroad experience.
upGrad abroad Editorial Team |2862 articles published
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