Study in Hungary

Studying in Hungary offers Indian students affordable, high-quality, EU-recognized education with strong global value. Tuition fees range from €2,500–€8,000 per year (₹2.2–7.0L), while Medicine and Dentistry programs cost more, around €12,000–€16,000 (₹10.5–14.1L). Living expenses are relatively low, averaging €600–€900 per month (₹52K–79K), making Hungary one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe. 

A major benefit of studying in Hungary is the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship, which covers tuition, accommodation, and provides a monthly stipend. With thousands of Indian applicants each year, this program has become a gateway to affordable European education. 

The application process involves selecting a university, preparing transcripts and English proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL), applying online, and securing a student visa through the Hungarian Embassy in India. Students can also work part-time during studies and apply for post-study work permits, making Hungary a practical choice for long-term career growth. 

Key Highlights (2026):  

Why Hungary is the Right Study Abroad Destination for You? 

Study in Hungary has become increasingly popular among Indian students in 2026 due to its affordability, EU-recognized degrees, and scholarship opportunities. The Hungarian government has announced 200 scholarships for Indian students across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, reinforcing its commitment to attracting talent. 

Key Reasons Why Choose Hungary: 

• Affordable universities such as Eötvös Loránd University, University of Szeged, and Budapest University of Technology & Economics offer globally recognized programs. 
• Diverse university types, public institutions with low tuition, private universities with specialized programs, and research-focused institutes. 
• Strong academic fields like Medicine, Engineering, Computer Science, Business, and Arts are highly sought after. 
• Scholarship dominance, such as The Stipendium Hungaricum 2026/27, provides full tuition, accommodation, medical insurance, and a monthly stipend of €120 (₹10,500). 
• EU mobility; Degrees are recognized across Europe, enabling seamless career transitions. 
• Popular high-demand courses such as Medicine, Dentistry, Engineering, IT, Business, and Arts. 
• Straightforward admissions; Apply online with transcripts, proof of English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), statement of purpose (SOP), and letters of recommendation. 

Recent Updates in Hungary (2026): 

• 200 scholarships for Indian students announced under bilateral agreements. 
• Stipendium Hungaricum 2026/27 intake open until January 15, 2026. 
• Residence permit for studies requires admission to a recognized institution, proof of funds, valid travel documents, and health insurance. 
• Part-time work capped at 20 hrs/week during studies; full-time allowed during breaks. 
• Graduates can apply for a residence permit for job seekers or entrepreneurs, valid up to 9 months 

 Education System in Hungary (2026) 

The education system in Hungary for international students is built on the Bologna Process, ensuring compatibility with other European countries. Students can choose between state universities, private institutions, and church-funded colleges, depending on their academic background, career goals, and budget. 

Hungarian higher education emphasizes skill development through electives, internships, and research projects. For Indian students planning to study in Hungary after 12th or pursue postgraduate courses, the system offers clear pathways: Bachelor’s (3 years), Master’s (1.5–2 years), and Doctorate (3–6 years). 

Education Levels: Key Duration & Outcomes 

Higher education levels in Hungary build progressively from foundational knowledge to advanced research leadership. 

Credit & GPA Score System 

Hungary uses the ECTS credit system, aligned with EU standards. 

Types of Institutions: Key Features and Examples 

Hungarian institutions vary by funding and focus, offering diverse options for international students. 

Top Universities to Study in Hungary for Indian Students (2026) 

Hungary offers over 250 English-taught programs across leading universities such as the University of Debrecen (#563 QS 2026) and Eötvös Loránd University (#584). Tuition fees for non-EU students range from €2,500–€8,000 per year (₹2.2–7.0L), with Medicine and Dentistry programs higher at €12,000–€16,000 (₹10.5–14.1L). 

Engineering 

Engineering programs in Hungary are wellknown for practical training, especially in mechanical, civil, and IT engineering, with strong ties to EU industries. 

Management / MBA 

MBA and management programs emphasize EU business networks, leadership, and entrepreneurship, with affordable tuition compared to Western Europe. 

MS (Computer Science / Data Science) 

Hungary is building a reputation in AI, machine learning, and data science, with programs linked to EU tech clusters and research hubs. 

H3: LLM (Law) 

LLM programs in Hungary focus on European Union law, international business law, and human rights, preparing graduates for global practice. 

Masters in Management (MIM) 

MIM programs in Hungary build leadership, analytics, and sustainability skills, ideal for young professionals entering EU markets. 

Acceptance Rate in Hungary Universities for Indian Students (2026) 

Hungary’s education system is known for affordability and accessibility, with 250+ Englishtaught programs available in 2026. International students, including Indians, benefit from straightforward admissions and a high residence permit success rate (85–90%). 

Rate Breakdown by Tier:  

Key Influencing Factors: 

• Academic Metrics: Strong transcripts, IELTS/TOEFL (IELTS 6.0+, TOEFL iBT 80+) are typically required. 
• Holistic Review: SOP, recommendation letters, and motivation essays weigh heavily, especially for scholarship applicants. 
• Indian Competition: Medicine, Dentistry, and Computer Science programs see higher demand, lowering acceptance rates. 
• Application Timing: Applying early in the Stipendium Hungaricum 2026/27 cycle (deadline Jan 15, 2026) improves chances. 

Popular Courses to Study in Hungary for Indian Students 

Popular courses to study in Hungary for Indian students span medicine, engineering, business, and IT, with strong offerings at Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), University of Szeged, Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME), Semmelweis University, and Corvinus University of Budapest. These programs balance affordability with EU-recognized career returns, making Hungary a rising destination for Indian students. 

Top 10 Courses & Universities (2026): 

Note: The amounts mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on exchange rates. 

Admission Requirements for Study in Hungary (2026) 

Admission to Hungarian universities for Indian students follows the Bologna Process. Requirements scale by degree level: Bachelor’s requires a high school diploma, Master’s requires a recognized bachelor’s degree, and Doctorates require a master’s plus a research proposal. Applications are submitted directly to universities or via the Stipendium Hungaricum portal, and a Residence Permit for Study must be obtained through the Hungarian Embassy in India.  

Eligibility by Degree Level 

Requirements scale with degree level, with a bachelor’s degree requiring high school completion and a master’s degree requiring a recognized bachelor’s degree.  

Required Documents 

Applicants must provide academic, personal, and financial documents for both admission and residence permit stages. 

Standardized Tests 

Hungary does not mandate GRE or GMAT for most programs. Admissions rely on transcripts, motivation letters, and sometimes entrance exams. 

Language Proficiency 

English proficiency is mandatory for all English-taught programs. 

Residence Permit Process (Student Visa) 

Indian students must apply for a Residence Permit for Study after securing admission. 

Cost of Studying in Hungary for Indian Students (2026) 

The cost of studying in Hungary for Indian students averages €2,500–€8,000/year (₹2.2–7.0L) for most bachelor’s and master’s programs. Medicine and Dentistry are higher at €12,000–€16,000/year (₹10.5–14.1L). Living expenses add €7,200–€10,800/year (₹6.3–9.5L). Doctoral programs often have reduced tuition or are funded through scholarships like Stipendium Hungaricum. Residence permit fees remain around €60 (₹5,280). 

Total Annual Cost Breakdown 

Breakdown covers tuition, housing, and daily expenses; Budapest is ~20–25% higher than mid-sized cities like Szeged or Debrecen. 

Note: The amounts are approximate and may vary depending on exchange rates and city. 

Tuition Fees (Semester Wise) 

Hungarian universities bill per semester; full-time load is 30 ECTS credits/semester for visa compliance. 

Tuition Fees (Course Wise) 

STEM and Medicine programs command higher tuition; humanities and social sciences are more affordable. 

Note: Doctoral programs are often tuition-free under scholarships like Stipendium Hungaricum. 

Cost of Living in Hungary for Indian Students (2026) 

The monthly cost of living in Hungary for Indian students averages €600–€900 (₹52K–79K) excluding tuition. Budapest is the most expensive (~€900+ ≈ ₹94.5K+), while cities like Szeged, Debrecen, and Pécs are more affordable (~€600–€750 ≈ ₹63K–₹78.8K). Housing is the largest expense, with dormitories and shared flats reducing costs by 30–40%. Residence permits require proof of funds (~€7,000–€15,000/year) and valid health insurance. 

Monthly Expense Breakdown:  

Total Monthly: ~€600 (₹52K) shared; ~€900 (₹79K) private. 

Note: The amounts are approximate and may vary depending on exchange rates and city. 

Most Preferred Cities for Indian Students in Hungary 

The best cities for Indian students in Hungary attract the majority of international enrolments due to strong universities, affordability, and cultural life. 

1. Budapest: Capital & Academic Hub 

Budapest is Hungary’s largest city and home to top universities like Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), Corvinus University of Budapest, and Budapest University of Technology & Economics. It offers diverse programs in engineering, business, law, and IT. Living costs are higher (~€900/month; ₹79K), but the city provides excellent public transport, cultural life, and part-time job opportunities. 

2. Debrecen: Medical & Research City 

Debrecen is famous for the University of Debrecen, one of Hungary’s oldest and largest institutions, especially strong in Medicine, Dentistry, and Engineering. The city is quieter and more affordable (~€700/month; ₹61K), making it ideal for focused study. It also has a growing international student community and modern research facilities. 

3. Szeged: Student-Friendly City 

Szeged hosts the University of Szeged, ranked among Hungary’s top universities for sciences, humanities, and law. Known as the “City of Sunshine,” it offers a vibrant student atmosphere, cultural festivals, and affordable living (~€650/month; ₹57K). Many Indian students choose Szeged for its balance of quality education and lower costs. 

4. Pécs: Cultural & Arts Hub 

The University of Pécs is Hungary’s oldest university, specializing in arts, law, medicine, and social sciences. The city is rich in history and culture, with affordable living (~€600/month; ₹52K). Pécs is popular among Indian students seeking a smaller, welcoming environment with strong academic traditions. 

5. Győr: Engineering & Business Center 

Győr is known for its Széchenyi István University, offering programs in engineering, automotive studies, and business. Located near Austria and Slovakia, it provides international exposure and industry connections. Living costs are moderate (~€650–€700/month; ₹57K–61K). 

6. Miskolc: Applied Sciences & Technology 

Miskolc hosts the University of Miskolc, strong in engineering, applied sciences, and IT. It is one of the more affordable student cities (~€600/month; ₹52K), with a calm environment suited for technical studies. 

Scholarships in Hungary for Indian Students (2026) 

Hungary offers Indian students generous scholarship opportunities, primarily through the Stipendium Hungaricum programme, which covers full tuition, accommodation, health insurance, and a monthly stipend. Additional scholarships include the Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship and university-specific grants. Applications are managed via the Tempus Public Foundation and coordinated with the University Grants Commission (UGC) in India. 

Major Scholarships for Indian Students Studying in Hungary (2026):  

How to Apply to Scholarships for Indian Students 

Scholarship applications in Hungary are integrated into the Stipendium Hungaricum portal and coordinated with the UGC in India. Students apply for scholarships at the same time as their degree program. 

Key Deadlines (2026 Cycle): 

• Stipendium Hungaricum Application Period: October 2025 – 15 January 2026 
• University Scholarships: Same as admission deadlines (Jan–March 2026) 
• Tempus Research Grants: Rolling applications year-round 

PR and Settlement in Hungary (2026) 

Hungary offers Indian students a clear pathway from student residence permits to permanent residency (PR) and eventually citizenship. Students begin with a Residence Permit for Studies, can transition to a jobseeker or work permit after graduation, and become eligible for PR after 8 years of continuous legal residence. Citizenship typically requires 8 years of residence, language proficiency, and a clean record. 

Pathway from Student to PR 

Students begin with a Residence Permit for Studies, valid for the duration of their program. After graduation, they can apply for a residence permit for job seekers or entrepreneurs (valid up to 9 months) or transition to a work-based residence permit if employed. Continuous residence leads to PR eligibility. 

1. Student Visa & Residence Permit for Studies 

• Issued upon admission to a Hungarian university. 
• Valid for the duration of the program, renewable annually. 
• Requires proof of admission, sufficient funds (~€7,000–€15,000/year; ₹6.2–13.2L), and health insurance. 
• Allows part-time work (20 hrs/week) during studies. 

2. Post-Study Work Opportunities 

• Graduates can apply for a jobseeker residence permit valid for 9 months. 
• Once employed, transition to a work residence permit (valid 2–3 years, renewable). 
• Popular sectors: IT, engineering, medicine, business, and research. 
• Average graduate salaries: €1,200–€2,000/month (₹1.05–1.76L). 

3. Permanent Residency (PR) Eligibility 

• As of 2026, PR requires 8 years of continuous legal residence (study + work combined). 
• Must show stable income, accommodation, valid insurance, and integration into Hungarian society. 
• National Permanent Residence Permit (NPRP) available for long-term residents. 
• Fast-track PR available for highly skilled professionals, investors, and family reunification cases. 

4. Citizenship Pathway 

• Eligible after 8 years of residence (or 3 years if married to a Hungarian citizen). 
• Requires Hungarian language proficiency and a clean record. 
• Grants full EU rights, including free movement, work, and residence across Europe. 

Key Requirements for PR (2026 Update): 

• Residence Duration: Minimum 8 years continuous stay. 
• Employment/Income: Proof of stable job or sufficient income. 
• Integration: Demonstrated integration (language, community ties). 
• Clean Record: No criminal offenses or immigration violations. 

Job Opportunities in Hungary for Indian Students (2026) 

Hungary offers Indian students strong job opportunities in ICT, engineering, healthcare, and business. International graduates can work part-time during studies (up to 30 hours/week) and apply for a 9-month jobseeker permit after graduation. Average salaries for skilled professionals range between €18,000–€35,000 annually (₹15.8–30.7L) depending on role and experience. 

In-Demand Domains as per the Current Market Scenario 

The jobs in Hungary for Indians are evolving with the country’s focus on technology, healthcare, and EU integration. Current highdemand sectors include: 

• Technology & ICT: Software Development, Data Science, AI & Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing 
• Engineering: Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Automotive, Environmental Engineering 
• Healthcare & Life Sciences: Nursing, Medical Research, Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology 
• Business & Finance: Consulting, Financial Analysis, International Business, Supply Chain Management 
• Green Technology & Sustainability: Renewable Energy, Smart Manufacturing, Circular Economy Solutions 

Top Job Roles and Salary 

Indian students graduating in these fields often secure competitive packages: 

Note: Salaries are approximate and may vary depending on employer, experience, and exchange rates. 

Future Trends 

Looking ahead, certain domains are projected to see rapid growth in Hungary: 

• Artificial Intelligence & Automation: Expanding across ICT and manufacturing. 
• Green Technology & Renewable Energy: Hungary’s EU climate goals drive demand for engineers and sustainability experts. 
• Healthcare & Biotech: Growing opportunities due to aging population and medical research focus. 
• Fintech & Data Analytics: Increasing adoption of digital financial services and smart solutions. 

Work While Studying in Hungary 

According to the Study in Hungary official guidelines: 

• International students with a residence permit for studies can work up to 30 hours per week during the study period. 
• During holidays, students may work full-time (up to 90 days or 66 working days per year). 
• Internships and thesis work that are part of the degree program are exempt from hour limits. 
• After graduation, students can apply for a jobseeker residence permit valid for 9 months to find employment or start a business. 

Challenges Indian Students Face in Hungary (2026) 

While Hungary is known for its affordable education and welcoming environment, Indian students may encounter certain challenges when adapting to life and studies there. Understanding these in advance helps in planning better and settling smoothly. 

1. Language Barrier 

• Most degree programs are offered in English, but daily life (services, part-time jobs, integration) often requires Hungarian. 
• Learning Hungarian is essential for long-term career opportunities and PR eligibility. 

2. Paperwork & Administrative Hurdles 

• Immigration involves extensive paperwork for visas, residence permits, banking, and insurance. 
• Delays in residence permit processing are common, so starting early is crucial. 

3. Climate & Weather 

• Hungary has cold winters (temperatures can drop below –5°C to –10°C). 
• Adjusting to seasonal changes and shorter daylight hours can be difficult for newcomers. 

4. Cost of Living 

• Although tuition is lower than in Western Europe, living costs in Budapest average €900/month (₹79K). 
• Budgeting for housing, groceries, and transport is crucial; smaller cities like Szeged or Debrecen are more affordable (~€600–€700/month; ₹52K–61K). 

5. Limited Part-Time Jobs 

• Students can work up to 30 hours per week under Hungarian rules. 
• English-only jobs are limited; most part-time roles are in hospitality, retail, or university research projects. 

6. Integration & Social Life 

• Hungarian culture values privacy and independence, which may feel isolating initially. 
• Building networks through student unions, Indian associations, and international communities is important for smoother integration. 

Tips for Indian Students Planning to Study in Hungary 

• Learn Basic Hungarian Early: Even beginner level helps with daily life and increases employability. Free courses are often offered by universities. 
• Prepare for Winters: Invest in proper winter clothing and plan activities to stay active during colder months. 
• Budget Smartly: Choose shared student housing (€150–€250/month; ₹13K–22K) to save costs. Track expenses carefully, especially in Budapest. 
• Use University Career Services: Hungarian universities provide career support, internships, and links to companies. Take advantage of these to secure part-time work or research opportunities. 
• Engage in Student Communities: Join international student groups, Indian associations, and university clubs to build networks. Helps with integration and peer support. 
• Plan for PR & Settlement: Keep track of residence permit rules: PR requires 8 years of continuous stay as of 2026. Focus on language skills and stable employment to strengthen your PR application.