Is it Possible to Study in Hungary for Free?

Latest update: In 2025, 90% of Stipendium recipients from India study STEM fields, with a 15% increase in applications due to Hungary’s affordable living costs.

Bachelors in Hungary for Free is becoming a popular choice among international students, thanks to government-funded scholarships and low-cost universities. Hungary offers some of the most affordable programs in Europe, with scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and health insurance. 

Every year, thousands of international students choose Hungary for its excellent education and low living costs. If you're looking to study bachelor's in Hungary with free education options, this could be your ideal destination.

Why Study for a Master’s in Hungary for Free?

• Programs like Stipendium Hungaricum offer full tuition coverage, free accommodation, and a monthly stipend to help with living costs.
• On average, students in Hungary spend around €500-700 per month (₹44,000-₹61,000), which is much lower compared to other European countries.
• A degree from Hungary is respected across Europe and beyond, opening doors to international career opportunities.
• Many master’s programs are available in English, so you won’t need to learn Hungarian to get started.

What You’ll Learn in This Article:

• How to find fully funded scholarships in Hungary.
• Eligibility requirements for tuition-free programs.
• Practical tips to improve your scholarship application.

Keep reading to explore how you can study in Hungary for free and secure a quality education without financial stress!

Discover merit-based, need-based, and country-specific scholarships and explore Study Abroad Scholarships with upGrad. 

Looking for globally recognized degrees at lower tuition costs? Explore Study Abroad Programs in Hungary with upGrad!

Fully Funded Scholarships to Study in Hungary for Free

Hungary offers multiple fully funded scholarships that cover tuition fees, living expenses, and even travel costs for international students. Here’s a look at some of the best scholarship options available.

1. Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship

This is Hungary’s largest government-funded scholarship program, offering full financial support to international students.

• Available for: Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programs
• Who can apply? Students from over 90 eligible countries, including India
• What’s covered?
  • Full tuition fee waiver
  • Monthly stipend (€120–€450, depending on the study level)
  • Free dormitory housing or a monthly housing allowance
  • Health insurance
• How to apply? Submit your application through the official Stipendium Hungaricum portal, including academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and recommendation letters.
• Deadline: Applications typically close in January for the upcoming academic year.

2. Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship

This scholarship is designed for students of Hungarian heritage who live outside Hungary and want to study in the country.

• Available for: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs
• Who can apply? Applicants must have Hungarian ancestry and reside outside Hungary
• What’s covered?
  • Full tuition fee coverage
  • Monthly stipend based on the level of study
  • Free dormitory or rent allowance
  • Medical insurance
• How to apply? Apply with proof of Hungarian ancestry, academic records, and a motivation letter.
• Deadline: Applications are usually accepted until March each year.

3. Erasmus+ Scholarships for Hungary

The Erasmus+ program funds international exchange students and full-degree seekers across Europe, including those studying in Hungary.

• Available for: Exchange students, full-degree Master’s programs, and some joint PhD programs
• Who can apply? Students enrolled at universities participating in Erasmus+ programs
• What’s covered?
  • Tuition fee waiver (for exchange students)
  • Monthly stipend (€800–€1,200)
  • Travel grant for relocation
  • Health insurance
• How to apply? Apply through your home university’s Erasmus+ office. If applying for a full degree, check Hungarian university partnerships under Erasmus+.
• Deadline: Varies by institution but generally falls in early spring.

4. CEEPUS Scholarship (For Central European Students)

The CEEPUS (Central European Exchange Program for University Studies) scholarship supports student and faculty exchanges within Central and Eastern Europe, including Hungary. It allows students to study at Hungarian universities for a semester or a full academic year.

• Available for: Undergraduate, Master's, and PhD students (short-term and full-degree options)
• Who can apply? Students from CEEPUS member countries, including Austria, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and others
• What’s covered?
  • Tuition fee waiver
  • Monthly stipend (€350–€500 based on study level)
  • Free or subsidized accommodation
  • Health insurance
• How to apply? Submit your application through the CEEPUS portal, providing proof of enrollment, a study plan, and academic records.
• Deadline: Applications are usually open twice a year (May and October).

5. University-Specific Scholarships (Budapest University of Technology, University of Szeged, etc.)

Many Hungarian universities offer their own merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students. These scholarships are either tuition fee reductions or fully funded opportunities depending on the university and program.

• Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) Scholarships

• Who can apply? International students enrolled in Engineering, IT, and Business programs.
• Funding coverage: Partial tuition waiver, research grants, and performance-based stipends.
• Application process: Apply directly through BME’s financial aid office along with academic records and a motivation letter.

• University of Szeged Scholarships

• Who can apply? Students applying for Bachelor's, Master’s, or PhD programs in Science, Medicine, Humanities, and Business.
• Funding coverage:
  • Full or partial tuition fee waivers
  • Monthly stipend for high-achieving students (€200–€400)
• How to apply? Students must apply through the University of Szeged’s scholarship portal and provide proof of academic excellence.

• Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) Scholarships

• Who can apply? International students enrolling in Social Sciences, Law, or Psychology.
• Funding coverage: Partial tuition fee waivers and research funding.
• How to apply? ELTE requires students to submit a strong academic profile, an SOP, and recommendation letters.

6. Hungarian Government Bilateral State Scholarships

The Hungarian Government Bilateral State Scholarships are based on bilateral agreements between Hungary and other countries, offering financial aid to international students for full-degree and short-term studies.

• Available for: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students
• Who can apply? Students from countries that have a bilateral agreement with Hungary (e.g., India, China, Pakistan, Indonesia, and several EU countries)
• What’s covered?
  • Full or partial tuition fee waiver
  • Monthly stipend (€130–€450 depending on study level)
  • Free dormitory accommodation or additional housing allowance
  • Medical insurance
• How to apply? Students must apply through their home country’s Ministry of Education or designated scholarship authority, which will forward applications to the Tempus Public Foundation in Hungary.
• Deadline: Varies by country but usually falls between December and March.

7. Dr. Ámbédkar Scholarship Program (For Students of Indian Origin)

The Dr. Ámbédkar Scholarship Program is an initiative by the Embassy of India in Hungary in partnership with Hungarian universities. It aims to support students of Indian origin who wish to study in Hungary.

• Available for: Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in STEM, Business, and Social Sciences
• Who can apply? Indian students with a strong academic background and financial need
• What’s covered?
  • Full or partial tuition fee waiver
  • Monthly stipend (€200–€500)
  • Support for accommodation costs
• How to apply? Submit applications through the Embassy of India in Hungary along with academic transcripts, SOP, and financial need documentation.
• Deadline: Applications typically open in March-April every year.

Tuition-Free and Low-Cost Universities in Hungary

Hungary ranks among the top 20 countries in Europe for affordable higher education. Several universities in Hungary offer tuition-free or low-cost options, particularly for master's and PhD students, with the possibility of scholarships or financial aid.

Public Universities Offering Full Tuition Waivers

University	Tuition Waiver Programs	Notable Features
Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE)	Full scholarships for research-based master’s and PhD students	One of Hungary’s top-ranked universities, strong research programs
University of Szeged	Stipendium Hungaricum and university-funded waivers for top international applicants	Recognized for academic excellence, strong international student support
Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME)	Low tuition fees for engineering and science programs	Leading technical university in Hungary, high employability rates

Research-Based Master’s & PhD Programs with Tuition Exemptions

Many Hungarian universities offer tuition-free PhD programs for students engaged in research, with funding from Stipendium Hungaricum or CEEPUS scholarships.

University	Tuition-Free Programs	Additional Support
Central European University (CEU)	PhD students receive full tuition waivers and stipends	Fully funded PhD programs with research grants
University of Pécs	Research-based master's and doctoral programs with tuition exemptions	Merit-based financial aid for postgraduate research students

Affordable Universities for International Students

Some universities have low tuition fees while also offering additional financial aid:

University	Tuition Fees (Per Year)	Notable Financial Aid Options
Óbuda University	From €2,000 (₹1.8 lakhs)	Merit-based scholarships for engineering and business programs
University of Debrecen	From €3,000 (₹2.7 lakhs)	Reduced tuition fees for high-performing international students

How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Hungary

Step 1: Research and Select Scholarships

• Look for scholarships like Stipendium Hungaricum, Erasmus+, or university-specific grants.
• Check each scholarship’s eligibility and funding coverage.

Step 2: Prepare Academic Documents

• Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Explain your motivation and academic goals.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs) – Get references from professors or employers.
• Transcripts & CV – Submit detailed academic records and achievements.

Step 3: Meet Language Requirements

• English-taught programs require IELTS or TOEFL scores.
• Some programs require Hungarian language proficiency tests.

Step 4: Submit Applications Before Deadlines

• Most scholarships have deadlines between December and March.
• Apply through the university’s online portal or the Tempus Public Foundation (for government-funded scholarships).

Step 5: Interview & Selection Process

• Some scholarships require online or in-person interviews.
• Prepare for academic and research-related questions.

Part-Time Work Opportunities to Cover Living Expenses

Work Rights for International Students in Hungary

International students in Hungary can work up to 30 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during semester breaks. Part-time job options include:

• Retail & Hospitality – Cashiers, baristas, waiters, and hotel assistants.
• Freelancing – Online tutoring, content writing, graphic design.
• Campus Jobs – Library assistants, administrative work, and language tutoring.

Internships and Research Assistantships

For students looking to gain professional experience, Hungary offers various paid internships and assistantship roles:

• Internships – Many multinational companies in Budapest hire interns in business, IT, and engineering.
• Research Assistantships – Universities like ELTE and BME offer paid assistantship positions for research-focused master’s and PhD students.

Cost of Living in Hungary for International Students: Budgeting Tips

Living in Hungary is more affordable compared to many Western European countries. Below is a breakdown of expected monthly expenses:

Estimated Monthly Cost of Living in Hungary

Expense Category	Monthly Cost (HUF)	Key Considerations
Accommodation (Shared Apartment)	HUF 80,000–150,000  (₹18,000–₹35,000)	Budapest is more expensive; smaller cities are cheaper
Food & Groceries	HUF 40,000–60,000  (₹9,000–₹14,000)	Cooking at home is more budget-friendly
Public Transport	HUF 10,000–12,000  (₹2,500–₹3,000)	Student passes available for discounts
Health Insurance	HUF 10,000–15,000  (₹2,500–₹3,500)	Private insurance is recommended for additional coverage
Miscellaneous (Leisure, Internet, Mobile)	HUF 20,000–30,000  (₹5,000–₹7,000)	Entertainment and mobile plans vary by provider

Budgeting Tips for Students on Scholarships

• Opt for student dorms – University housing is cheaper than private rentals.
• Use student discounts – Public transport and some restaurants offer discounts.
• Work part-time – Helps cover rent and daily expenses without overburdening studies.

Post-Scholarship Benefits: Job Opportunities and PR Pathways in Hungary

Work Rights for International Graduates in Hungary

After graduation, international students can stay in Hungary for up to 9 months on a job-seeker or entrepreneur permit. Many industries in Hungary actively hire skilled professionals, especially in high-demand fields.

High-Demand Job Sectors for International Students & Average Salaries

Sector	Average Salary (HUF per month)	Key Employers in Hungary
IT & Software Development	HUF 700,000–1,200,000 (₹1.5–₹2.5 lakh)	IBM, Ericsson, Nokia, EPAM Systems
Engineering & Manufacturing	HUF 600,000–1,000,000 (₹1.3–₹2 lakh)	Audi, Bosch, GE Hungary
Finance & Accounting	HUF 500,000–900,000 (₹1.1–₹1.8 lakh)	KPMG, Deloitte, Citibank
Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals	HUF 550,000–1,000,000 (₹1.2–₹2 lakh)	Gedeon Richter, Pfizer, TEVA
Business & Management	HUF 450,000–850,000 (₹1–₹1.7 lakh)	BP, Vodafone, ExxonMobil

PR Pathways After Studying in Hungary

Hungary offers multiple immigration options for international graduates who wish to stay long-term.

How Studying in Hungary Can Lead to PR

1. Job-Seeker Visa – After completing your studies, you get 9 months to find a job or start a business.
2. Work Permit & Residence – After securing a job, you can apply for a work permit and residence permit based on employment.
3. Long-Term Residency – After 3 years of working in Hungary, you can apply for a long-term residence permit.
4. Permanent Residency (PR) – After 5 years of legal residence in Hungary, you become eligible for PR.

Immigration Policies for International Graduates

• Salary requirements – Your job should meet the minimum income threshold for work permit eligibility.
• Hungarian language skills – Not mandatory but helpful for long-term residency applications.
• EU Blue Card option – If you get a high-paying job, you may qualify for an EU Blue Card, which allows work mobility across the EU.

How upGrad Abroad Can Help You Study in Hungary for Free

Many universities offer low-cost or tuition-free programs with scholarships. upGrad Abroad helps you find the best universities, apply for funding, and prepare for admission.

Find Affordable or Free Universities in Hungary

Hungary has many universities that offer low fees or full tuition waivers. upGrad Abroad helps you choose the right one based on your course and budget.

Want to explore more affordable options in Europe? Check out:
✔ Study in Germany
✔ Study in Ireland
✔ Study in  France
✔ Study in UK

Apply for Scholarships and Study for Free

Hungary offers many fully funded scholarships that cover tuition, living costs, and travel expenses. 

Check out the list of scholarships and reduce your study costs.

Improve Your Chances of Admission

A strong application increases your chances of getting into a good university. upGrad provides resources to help with:

✔ SOP format – Create a statement that stands out.
✔ LOR format – Get strong recommendations from professors.
✔ Scholarship updates – Learn how to write a winning application.

A well-prepared application can help you get admission and scholarships.

Prepare for Entrance Exams with upGrad Abroad

Some universities in Hungary require standardized tests for admission. upGrad provides study materials and expert guidance for:

✔ IELTS – Required for English-taught programs.
✔ TOEFL – Another English test accepted in Hungary.
✔ GRE – Needed for some master’s and PhD programs.

Access free resources, practice tests, and expert tips to improve your scores.

From choosing universities and applying for scholarships to preparing for entrance exams, upGrad guides you at every step.

Explore your study options with upGrad Abroad today!