Hungary is a popular destination for international students who want to study public health in English. You can find bachelor and master programmes at several public and private universities across the country. Admissions offices look for clear academic records and proof of English proficiency before you can enrol.
Degree levels and structure
Public health education in Hungary follows the Bologna system, which divides studies into three clear cycles. You can choose from the following options:
- Bachelor of Science in Public Health, typically lasting three years.
- Master of Public Health (MPH), typically lasting one or two years.
- Doctoral programmes for advanced research in health sciences.
Most international programmes use English as the language of instruction. You will study epidemiology, health policy, biostatistics, and environmental health.
Entry requirements and documents
To apply for a bachelor programme, you need a secondary school graduation certificate. For a master programme, you need a relevant undergraduate degree, often in health sciences, medicine, or social sciences. Universities also check your language skills.
- High school diploma or university degree with transcripts.
- English language certificate, such as IELTS or TOEFL, or proof of prior studies in English.
- Motivation letter explaining your career goals.
- CV detailing your academic and practical background.
Always check the specific programme page on the university website for exact document requirements and translation rules.
Tuition fees and scholarships
Costs vary depending on your nationality and the university you choose. EU and EEA students often pay lower fees or access state-funded spots, while non-EU students pay international tuition rates.
- Bachelor tuition typically ranges from 3,500 to 6,000 euro per year.
- Master tuition typically ranges from 4,000 to 8,000 euro per year.
- Stipendium Hungaricum scholarships offer tuition waivers, monthly stipends, and housing support for eligible international students.
Check the scholarship's own site for annual deadlines and eligible countries before you start your application.
Living costs in Hungary
Living expenses in Hungary are generally lower than in Western Europe, but they vary between Budapest and smaller university towns like Debrecen, Pécs, or Szeged. Plan your monthly budget carefully before you arrive.
- Rent and utilities typically range from 300 to 600 euro per month, depending on shared or private housing.
- Food and groceries typically cost 200 to 300 euro per month.
- Local public transport passes cost around 20 to 30 euro per month for students.
Make sure you have proof of sufficient funds when you apply for your student visa.
Application timeline
Planning ahead helps you avoid stress during the admissions process. Most Hungarian universities have two intakes per year, but the main intake starts in September.
- Start researching programmes and preparing documents nine to twelve months before the start date.
- Submit applications between January and May for the autumn semester.
- Apply for your student visa at the national immigration authority immediately after receiving your acceptance letter.
Check the national immigration authority website for current visa rules and processing times.
Common questions
Do I need to speak Hungarian to study public health?
No. Many universities offer full degrees taught entirely in English for international students.
Can I work while studying in Hungary?
Yes. International students from outside the EU can typically work part-time hours during the academic year, subject to local visa regulations.
How do I know if my degree is recognized?
Degrees from accredited Hungarian universities are recognized across the European Union and adhere to European standards.
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.
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.