Masters Study in Hungary – A Guide for 2026

A Masters in Hungary may not be the obvious choice for international postgraduate study, but it can offer some unique training and research opportunities in a beautiful part of Europe.The Hungarian higher education system also has much to be proud of, with universities dating back to the fourteenth century and over 37,000 international students – including those on Masters degrees and other postgraduate courses.

As an emerging study destination, Hungary combines strong academic credentials with affordability and a high quality of life.

Here are some key reasons to consider Hungary for your postgraduate study:

• Affordable tuition fees and living costs – Hungary is significantly cheaper than many traditional study destinations in Western Europe and North America.
• Central Europe location – Positioned at the crossroads of Central and Eastern Europe, Hungary is ideal for travel, with easy rail links to cities such as Vienna and Bratislava.
• Internationally-recognised degrees – Hungarian Masters programmes follow the Bologna Process, meaning your qualification will be recognised across Europe and beyond.
• Growing range of English-taught courses – Universities have expanded their English-language provision to attract international students.
• Rich cultural environment – From classical music and literature to thermal baths and café culture, Hungary offers a distinctive and rewarding student experience.

Hungary’s higher education system includes public and private institutions such as universities, business schools, arts academies and specialist colleges. A number of foreign institutions also operate in Hungary, but you should always check that any institution is properly accredited in its country of origin.

All degrees, including Masters degrees, are awarded ECTS credits. Universities follow the Bologna three-tier system: Bachelor (three years), Master (one to two years), Doctorate (three to four years).

Despite its small size, Hungary boasts several historic universities and Nobel prize winners. This reputation is reflected in the academic league tables for 2026.

Masters programmes in Hungary typically last one or two years:

• Two-year programmes are standard at public/state universities
• One-year programmes are more common at private or foreign-accredited institutions

Courses are structured around core and optional modules, with teaching delivered through lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical sessions. Assessment usually includes coursework, exams and a final dissertation or thesis.

While Hungarian is the national language of instruction, many universities now offer full Masters programmes in English, making Hungary accessible to international students.

Postgraduate study in Hungary can be very affordable, but costs vary depending on your nationality, institution and funding status.

Tuition fees

There are two main categories of students:

• State-funded students – Primarily Hungarian nationals, but some EU/EEA students with excellent academic records may qualify. Tuition is covered, but other academic costs may still apply.
• Self-financed students – Most international students fall into this category.

For self-funded students, tuition fees usually range from €600 to €8,000 per year, depending on the university and programme.

In addition, most students pay application, registration and exam fees, typically between €100 and €150.

Scholarships and funding

Several funding opportunities are available:

• Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme – Aimed at talented international students, the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship covers tuition fees and medical insurance, as well as providing a monthly stipend and housing allowance.
• Bilateral State Scholarships
• The Council on International Educational Exchange have grants available for American students to study abroad, both merit-based and need-based.
• Fund for Education Abroad.
• Rotary Foundation Fellowships may be available. Candidates should contact the Rotary Foundation within their district.
• Fulbright (US citizens only) scholarships

You might be eligible to receive support through the Erasmus+ scheme, which provides funding for selected programmes like Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters, as well as Erasmus loans for students who want to study abroad.

The Hungarian academic year begins in September / October. The application deadline for most Masters programmes in Hungary is 15 February for a September start in the same year, and 15 November for a February start (although not many courses are available to start in the Spring, unless you are an exchange student). For courses delivered in English, the deadlines can vary considerably so be sure to check with your institution.

Entry requirements

In general, for entry onto a two-year Masters, applicants must hold or be about to receive a Bachelors degree pursued over a minimum of three years. For entry onto a one-year Masters (notably in private institutions which may offer courses accredited by foreign authorities), a four year undergraduate degree is required.

Decisions on applications are made on the basis of:

• Your academic performance (including your grade point average, if relevant).
• Your language skills: English or Hungarian if you are opting to pursue a Masters in the country’s language.
• Other faculty-specific requirements.

Some institutions may ask you to sit an admission test, submit a timed test of your writing ability or attend an interview (face-to-face or via Skype).

Application process

There are two ways to apply at universities in Hungary:

• Online through the FEVLI system (the equivalent of the UK UCAS/UKPASS system), although this will require a fairly good command of Hungarian language.
• Directly through the university by email or online.

Some of the documents you may have to provide include:

• A completed application form.
• Diplomas and transcripts.
• A CV.
• A scan of your passport.
• Evidence of professional experience, if required.
• Recommendation letters.
• Evidence of English-language proficiency for courses delivered in English, or a Hungarian language certificate if you are opting for a course delivered in Hungarian.

All students wishing to study a Masters in Hungary need to register with the local authorities, regardless of where they are from. There are also specific visa procedures that non-EU students have to go through. The Central European University has very detailed information for different categories of students. It links to official immigration information (which may not be available as extensively in English).

Health insurance

It is compulsory to have adequate healthcare insurance to study in Hungary. If you have a Hungarian governmental scholarship, you may be entitled to apply for a social security card (‘TAJ card’), which means you can access all kinds of public healthcare for free.

A number of institutions offer students the opportunity to purchase health insurance through the university itself. However, you don’t need to buy a health plan from your institution and you may wish to look at private providers.

If you’re an EU student, it’s strongly advised to get a European Health Insurance Card. This allows you to continue to have the same access to medical treatment as in your home country. However, outpatient treatments must be paid for and then claimed back, so you may choose to subscribe to a private plan.

Hungary offers a lively and affordable student lifestyle. From Budapest’s architecture and café culture to vineyard-covered hills and Lake Balaton, there’s plenty to explore outside your studies.

You’ll also be well placed for travel to neighbouring countries, with Austria and Slovakia just a short train ride away.

Although many Masters programmes are taught in English, learning some basic Hungarian will make everyday life much easier. Many universities offer low-cost or free Hungarian language classes for international students.

There are three main types of student accommodation:

• University residences – The cheapest option, typically €33–€91 per month, though places can be limited.
• Shared private flats – Popular with students, usually €201–€352 per month for a room.
• Private one-bedroom flats – Best for couples or families, costing around €340–€566 per month.

Non-EU students renting privately may need a Certificate of Property Ownership from their landlord when applying for a residence permit.

Living costs

Hungary has a relatively low cost of living compared to much of Europe. Students are generally advised to budget around €700 per month, though this depends on lifestyle and location.

Student discounts are widely available for public transport, cinemas and university dining facilities. Part-time work can be difficult to find without Hungarian language skills, so it’s best not to rely on employment income.

Working while studying

• EU/EEA students can work without a permit
• Non-EU students need a work permit as part of their residence application

International students are usually allowed to work up to 24 hours per week during term time, with additional days permitted during holidays. However, wages are relatively low and Hungarian language skills are often required.

Banking and transport

Opening a Hungarian bank account is not essential but can make managing rent and bills easier. Most banks offer debit cards and online services, though fees may apply.

Public transport in cities includes buses and trams, while Budapest also has a metro system. Hungary’s rail network connects major cities, and Budapest’s airport is the main international hub.

After your Masters

Many Hungarian Masters degrees have a strong research component and can lead to doctoral study. Universities offer career services to help students explore employment options in Hungary and the wider region. While local-language roles may be limited, international companies have a significant presence in Hungary.

• Start your accommodation search early – University housing is limited and private rentals in central Budapest go quickly.
• Learn a few key Hungarian phrases – Even basic language skills can make everyday tasks much smoother.
• Use student discounts – Transport passes and cultural venues can be much cheaper with a student card.
• Travel while you’re there – Hungary’s location makes weekend trips to other European cities easy and affordable.