Budapest is Hungary's main student city. It has many universities, lots of English-taught programmes, and a busy student life. Costs are usually higher than in smaller Hungarian cities, but still lower than in many Western European capitals.
Universities and colleges in Budapest
Budapest has a wide mix of public universities, private institutions, and colleges. Some are known for science and engineering, some for business, medicine, arts, or social sciences.
- Eotvos Lorand University (ELTE) - one of the biggest and best-known universities in Hungary, with many fields in humanities, science, law, and education.
- Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) - a major choice for engineering, architecture, and technical subjects.
- Corvinus University of Budapest - often linked with economics, business, management, and social sciences.
- Semmelweis University - well known for medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and health sciences.
- University of Theatre and Film Arts and other arts schools - for students in creative and performing arts.
- Private and international colleges - some offer business, IT, hospitality, or foundation pathways.
Always check the university's official admissions page for the exact programme list, entry rules, and language of teaching.
English-taught study
Budapest offers many English-taught bachelor's, master's, and doctorate programmes. This is one reason many international students choose the city.
- Some programmes are fully in English.
- Some are in Hungarian only.
- A few universities also offer mixed or bilingual options.
If you are applying from another country, check these points on the programme page:
- the level of English required
- which documents you need
- whether you need an entrance exam, interview, portfolio, or motivation letter
- whether the programme is open to non-EU students
Admission rules can differ a lot between universities and even between programmes at the same university.
Costs of living in Budapest
Budapest is usually the most expensive city in Hungary, but it is often still cheaper than many major European student cities. Your total monthly cost depends on your rent, food habits, and whether you live alone or share housing.
- Rent: a shared room or flat-share is usually cheaper than a studio or one-bedroom flat.
- Utilities: heating and electricity can raise costs, especially in winter.
- Food: supermarket prices are usually manageable if you cook at home.
- Transport: student travel passes are often one of the best ways to save money.
- Other costs: phone, study materials, gym, and social life can add up.
For current rent and price ranges, use local housing sites, student housing offices, and the university's own housing information. Prices change often, especially near the start of term.
Student housing and where to live
There are three common options in Budapest: university dorms, private dorm-style housing, and rented flats.
- University dorms: usually the cheapest option, but places can be limited. Apply early and check the university housing office.
- Private shared flats: popular with international students. This gives more freedom, but costs are usually higher than dorms.
- Studios and one-bedroom flats: good for privacy, but often the most expensive choice.
Many students choose areas with good transport links to their campus. The best area for you depends on your university, budget, and whether you want a quiet place or a more active neighbourhood.
Before you sign any housing contract, check:
- who pays utilities and internet
- the deposit amount
- the length of the contract
- what happens if you leave early
- whether the flat is registered legally for rent
Transport, part-time work and everyday life
Budapest has a strong public transport system with metro lines, trams, buses, and suburban rail. Many students use a monthly student pass or similar discounted ticket. Check the official transport company or city transport site for current student fare rules.
Part-time work can help with living costs, but you should first check visa rules, your residence permit conditions, and any work-hour limits on the official immigration authority site. If you are an EU student, your rules are different from those for non-EU students.
Helpful things to know about student life:
- many universities have international student offices
- student groups and Erasmus-style events are common
- some programmes have internships or company links
- Hungarian is useful in daily life, but many students manage with English in class and in central parts of the city
For banking, health insurance, residence registration, and work rules, always use official Hungarian government sources or your university's international office.
How to get noticed by admissions offices
Budapest universities often receive many applications. To stand out, make your application clear and complete.
- Use a short, honest motivation letter.
- Show your grades, certificates, and language level clearly.
- Upload documents in the format the university asks for.
- Check deadlines on the programme page and submit early if you can.
- If there is an interview or entrance test, prepare in advance.
If you are looking for a master's or bachelor's place, it also helps to make it easy for universities to understand your profile at a glance. Keep your study field, education history, English level, and documents updated.
Admissions teams often search for students who match a programme closely. A clear profile can help them find you faster.
Common questions
Is Budapest good for international students?
Yes. It has many universities, a large student population, and lots of English-taught options. It is also usually cheaper than many Western European capitals.
Is it hard to find housing in Budapest?
It can be, especially before the start of term. Dorm places may be limited, and private rents can rise quickly. Start your search early and check official university housing pages first.
Can I work while studying in Budapest?
Often yes, but the rules depend on your nationality and residence status. Check the Hungarian national immigration authority and your university before you accept any job.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents. 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.