Hungary can be a good place to study international relations if you want an English-taught degree in the EU. You can usually find both bachelor's and master's options, with entry based on your school records, language level and motivation. This guide shows the usual steps, costs and where to begin.
What degrees are available
International relations is usually offered as a social sciences or political science field. In Hungary, you can often find it at these levels:
- Bachelor's degree - for students who finish secondary school and want an undergraduate start.
- Master's degree - for students who already have a relevant bachelor's degree.
Some universities may also offer related names, such as international studies, political science, global studies or diplomacy. Check the programme page carefully, because the exact title and focus can vary.
Typical admission requirements
Entry rules depend on the university and the level. For bachelor's programmes, you usually need a secondary school diploma or school-leaving certificate. For master's programmes, you usually need a recognised bachelor's degree in a related field.
You are often asked for:
- academic transcripts and diploma or graduation certificate
- proof of English level, if the programme is taught in English
- a CV or resume
- a motivation letter
- copy of passport
- sometimes a short interview or entrance test
Some universities may ask for extra documents such as course descriptions, references or a portfolio of relevant academic work. Always check the admissions page of the exact programme.
English-taught study options
Many Hungarian universities offer English-taught programmes, especially in Budapest and other larger university cities. This makes Hungary a practical choice if you do not speak Hungarian yet.
For English proof, universities commonly accept one of these:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- Cambridge English exams
- proof that your previous education was fully in English, if the university accepts it
The exact score depends on the programme. Some schools set a minimum overall band or level, and some may have separate rules for writing or speaking. Always check the university's admissions page for accepted tests and the required score range.
Tuition and other study costs
Tuition in Hungary can differ a lot by university, city and level of study. For international students, a realistic yearly range for English-taught humanities and social science programmes is often in the low thousands of euros, but the exact fee can be higher or lower. EU students may sometimes pay the same as non-EU students, but some programmes or universities may offer different rules, so you must check the programme page.
In addition to tuition, plan for these costs:
- application fee, if the university charges one
- student visa or residence permit costs, if you need one
- health insurance
- books and study materials
- travel and local transport
For the official fee, always use the university's admissions page or the programme brochure. Do not rely on old forum posts or third-party websites, because fees can change.
Living costs in Hungary
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle. Budapest is usually more expensive than smaller cities. A student budget often includes rent, food, transport, phone, health insurance and personal spending.
Typical monthly costs may include:
- shared room or student housing
- food and groceries
- public transport
- basic insurance and study materials
Many students save money by sharing a flat, using a student dormitory or living outside the city centre. If you want a precise budget, check the university's accommodation page and compare with current rental listings in the same city.
When to start and how to apply
Start early. A good timeline is to begin 9 to 12 months before the study start date. That gives you enough time to compare programmes, prepare documents, take an English test and handle visa or residence steps if needed.
A simple plan looks like this:
- 9 to 12 months before - research programmes and entry rules
- 6 to 9 months before - prepare documents and language proof
- 3 to 6 months before - submit the application
- after admission - arrange housing, insurance and immigration steps
If you need a visa or residence permit, check the national immigration authority in Hungary and the nearest Hungarian embassy or consulate. Rules and document lists can change, so use official sources only.
How universities usually choose students
Universities usually look for a good academic fit. They want to see that you can handle social science or international studies work, write clearly and explain why you want the programme.
They may review:
- your previous grades
- your motivation letter
- your language level
- your relevant background or interest in politics, history, law or global affairs
- your interview performance, if one is required
Some programmes are more competitive than others. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, so apply to more than one programme if possible.
Common questions
Can I study international relations in Hungary without speaking Hungarian?
Yes, many programmes are taught in English. Still, daily life is easier if you learn some basic Hungarian after arrival.
Is Hungary cheaper than many other EU study destinations?
Often yes, but not always. Tuition and living costs vary by university and city, so compare the exact programme page and local housing prices.
Will I get a visa automatically if the university accepts me?
No. Admission and immigration are different steps. If you need a visa or residence permit, check the national immigration authority and your local Hungarian consulate.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, so universities can understand your background quickly. Admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
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.