Pecs is one of Hungary's best-known student cities. It is smaller and calmer than Budapest, but still has a strong university scene, lower living costs than the capital, and a good mix of English-taught options. If you want to study there, start with the university's admissions page and the official immigration and housing pages for the latest rules.
Why students choose Pecs
Pecs is in the south of Hungary and has a long university tradition. Many international students like it because the city is easy to live in, walkable in the centre, and often cheaper than larger Hungarian cities.
- Smaller city feel
- Student-friendly atmosphere
- Lower daily costs than Budapest in many cases
- Good access to cafes, libraries, and campus life
The main public university is the University of Pecs. It is the best-known higher education institution in the city and offers a wide range of programmes. If you want to compare options, always check each faculty and programme page, because English-taught choices can change.
Universities and what they are known for
The University of Pecs is the main university in town and has a broad academic offer. It is known in general for subjects such as medicine, pharmacy, humanities, business, engineering, law, and arts. It also has a large international student community.
- University of Pecs - the main choice for most international applicants
- Medical, health and pharmacy studies - often popular with international students
- Humanities and social sciences - common for exchange and degree students
- Business and management - often available in English
There may also be smaller training centres, private colleges, or partner schools in the city. Their offers can be more limited, so check the institution's own admissions page before you plan anything.
English-taught study
Pecs has a reputation for offering many English-taught programmes, especially at the University of Pecs. This can include bachelor's, master's, and doctoral level study, plus preparatory or foundation options in some fields. The exact list changes by year and faculty.
What to check before you apply:
- The programme language - some courses are fully in English, others are not
- Entry requirements - grades, subject background, tests, or portfolio
- English proof - usually IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted test
- Application steps - online form, documents, and any application fee
If you are not sure whether your school documents fit the entry rules, ask the admissions office early. They can tell you what format they want and whether certified translations are needed.
Costs, rent, and daily life
Compared with Budapest, Pecs is often cheaper. Compared with smaller Hungarian towns, it can feel a little more expensive because it is a major student centre. Your real cost depends on housing, transport, and how often you eat out.
- Rent - shared flats are usually cheaper than private studios
- Utilities - often extra, unless included in the rent
- Food - supermarket cooking is usually the cheapest option
- Transport - lower than in many bigger European cities
For current prices, check local rental sites, student groups, and the university housing office. Do not rely only on old social media posts, because prices can change fast. If you want to budget well, ask current students what they actually pay for rent, bills, and food.
Student housing and transport
International students in Pecs usually choose between university dormitories and private rentals. Dorms are often the cheapest option, but places can be limited. Private rooms or shared flats give more freedom, but they usually cost more.
Housing options to look at:
- University dormitories
- Shared apartments with other students
- Private studios for more privacy
- Short-term housing at first, then a longer rental
Pecs is compact, so many students walk or use local buses. This can make daily travel simple and cheap. If you plan to live outside the centre, check bus routes and pass prices with the local transport company or the university.
Part-time work and visa basics
Many international students want a part-time job while studying. Rules depend on your nationality and residence status, so you must check the official Hungarian immigration authority and the university's international office. Do not assume the same rules apply to everyone.
Useful things to check:
- How many hours you are allowed to work
- Whether you need a student residence permit first
- Whether your employer needs extra paperwork
- Whether your job can affect your studies or residence status
For practical work search, start with the university careers office, local student groups, and trusted job boards. If you do not speak Hungarian yet, some jobs may still be possible in cafes, hospitality, tutoring, delivery, or international student services, but this depends on the market and your documents.
How to get noticed by admissions offices
Admissions teams can only contact you if they can find a good match. That means your profile should be complete, clear, and easy to search. Use the exact field you want to study and keep your information up to date.
- List your education level clearly
- Add your field of interest, such as medicine, business, or engineering
- State your English level honestly
- Upload any available documents, such as transcripts or certificates
- Include your preferred country and city if you know them
Also check each university's admissions page and programme page. Some offices review applications in rounds, some reply quickly, and some only contact students after they have a full profile.
Common questions
Is Pecs cheaper than Budapest?
Usually yes, especially for rent and daily life. But the real cost depends on where you live, whether you choose a dorm or a flat, and how you spend money.
Can I study in English in Pecs?
Often yes, especially at the University of Pecs. Still, you should always check the current programme page because English-taught options can change.
How do I know if I can work part-time?
Check the Hungarian immigration authority and your university's international office. The rules depend on your permit and your student status.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
You stay visible to the right universities while you keep control of your next step.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.