Budapest Scholarships for International Students for All Disciplines and Degree Levels

If you’re dreaming of studying in Europe but want a destination that’s globally recognized, culturally rich, and surprisingly affordable — Budapest, Hungary deserves your full attention. The Hungarian capital isn’t just famous for its thermal baths and Baroque architecture — it’s a rising hub for international education. Every year, thousands of students from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas flock to Budapest’s historic universities to earn degrees fully taught in English, many of them under generous scholarship programs.

In 2026, Hungarian universities are opening their doors wider than ever. From Eötvös Loránd University’s humanities and social sciences to Budapest University of Technology and Economics’ world-class engineering programs, and Corvinus University’s business degrees, Budapest offers a degree for every ambition. Whether you aim to become a global engineer, healthcare professional, business leader, or designer — you’ll find your path here.

Why Study in Budapest?

Budapest combines the charm of old Europe with the energy of a modern student city. It offers internationally accredited degrees, English-taught programs at every level (bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD), and living costs up to 50% lower than Western Europe. Most international students can live comfortably on €650–€900 per month, including rent, transport, and meals — making Budapest one of the best-value destinations for higher education in the EU.

Moreover, Hungary’s government-funded Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, and monthly stipends — making it a fully funded opportunity for thousands of foreign students each year. Alongside this, Budapest universities such as METU, Óbuda University, and Corvinus University offer their own merit-based or early-bird scholarships to attract global talent.

What This Guide Covers?

This in-depth guide will walk you through everything an international student needs to know for 2026 admissions in Budapest — including:

• The top universities that admit foreign students and their most popular English-taught programs.
• Tuition fees and living costs to help you plan your budget accurately.
• The main scholarships available for 2026 (Stipendium Hungaricum and university-level awards).
• A month-by-month timeline to help you prepare and apply without missing deadlines.
• A step-by-step checklist for applications, visa procedures, and settling into Budapest life.

So if you’re ready to study in a UNESCO-listed city, surrounded by global students, renowned professors, and one of Europe’s most affordable cost structures — read on. The following sections will show you exactly how to apply, what it costs, and which scholarships you can win to turn your Budapest study dream into reality.

1. Leading Universities in Budapest Open to International Students

Budapest hosts several universities offering full English-taught degrees for international students at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels.

a) Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE): One of Hungary’s oldest and most prestigious universities. It offers English-taught programs in humanities, social sciences, law, psychology, informatics, and natural sciences.

b) Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME): A top-ranked technical university specializing in engineering, information technology, and applied sciences. The institution provides multiple bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs taught in English.

c) Corvinus University of Budapest: Renowned for its business, economics, and management programs, Corvinus offers international students master’s and bachelor’s degrees in English, including MBA and MiM programs.

d) Semmelweis University: Hungary’s leading medical and health sciences institution. It offers English-taught programs in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, and public health.

e) Budapest Metropolitan University (METU): A private university offering programs in business, media, communication, tourism, and design. METU also provides scholarship and tuition discount opportunities for international students.

f) Óbuda University: A technology-focused university with English-taught programs in engineering, IT, and applied sciences. It also offers affordable tuition fees and practical-oriented learning environments.

g) Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design (MOME): Hungary’s premier design university with English master’s programs in Animation, Photography, Interaction Design, Design Management, and related fields.

2. Available Programs and Study Duration

Bachelor’s Programs

Duration: 3–4 years
Fields: Engineering, IT, Business, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Design.

Master’s Programs

Duration: 1.5–2 years
Fields: Economics, Management, Engineering, Computer Science, Psychology, and Communication.

One-tier Master’s (Combined Bachelor’s + Master’s)

Duration: 5–6 years
Fields: Medicine, Dentistry, and Law.

Doctoral/PhD Programs

Duration: 3–4 years
Fields: Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, and Humanities.

4. Estimated Cost of Studying in Budapest

Tuition Fees per Year (for Non-EU Students)

• • Business, Social Sciences, and Arts: €3,000 – €7,000
  • Engineering and IT: €3,200 – €8,000
  • Medicine and Health: up to €22,000 (Semmelweis University)

Estimated Living Costs: Budget between €650–€900 per month, covering accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses.

Example Annual Budget:

• • Business Program: €5,000 tuition + €8,000 living = €13,000 total.
  • Medicine Program: €22,000 tuition + €9,000 living = €31,000 total.

5. Scholarship Opportunities for the 2026 Intake

a) Stipendium Hungaricum (Government of Hungary)

The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship is Hungary’s flagship program for international students. It offers full tuition waivers, monthly stipends, housing or accommodation allowance, and health insurance.

Coverage Includes:

• • Full tuition waiver.
  • Monthly living stipend.
  • Free dormitory or housing allowance.
  • Comprehensive health insurance.

Expected Application Timeline for 2026:

• • Applications Open: November 2025
  • Application Deadline: Mid-January 2026
    Eligible programs include Bachelor’s, Master’s, One-tier Master’s, and Doctoral degrees.

b) University-Level Scholarships and Discounts

Corvinus University:
Offers merit-based scholarships, full or partial tuition waivers for outstanding applicants, and specific funding for Master’s programs.

Budapest Metropolitan University (METU):
Provides merit scholarships, early-bird discounts, and tuition fee reductions for international students.

Óbuda University:
Offers internal scholarships, mobility programs, and research awards for high-achieving students.

MOME and ELTE:
Provide international mobility and merit awards under Erasmus+ or institutional grants.

6. Step-by-Step Process for Scholarship Admissions in Budapest

Step 1: Research Universities in Budapest as per your degree and subject choice

• • Select 2–3 universities aligned with your field and budget.
  • Review program requirements, admission deadlines, and language requirements.
  • Prepare all necessary documents: transcripts, diploma, passport, English test results, and recommendation letters.
  • For design or arts programs, start preparing a strong portfolio.

Step 2: Application (November 2025 – January 2026)

• • Apply through the Stipendium Hungaricum portal or directly to your chosen university.
  • For the scholarship, choose two universities or programs in your application.
  • Submit all required documents online before the deadline.
  • Pay the application fee if required by your university.

Step 3: Evaluation (February – April 2026)

• • Shortlisted applicants may be invited for online interviews or entrance exams (especially for medicine, design, or engineering).
  • Wait for university or scholarship selection results.

Step 4: Admission Confirmation (May – July 2026)

• • Receive and confirm your offer letter.
  • For self-funded students, pay your first-semester tuition or deposit.
  • For scholarship recipients, confirm your acceptance on the SH portal.

Step 5: Visa and Arrival (July – September 2026)

• • Apply for a Hungarian student residence permit.
  • Arrange accommodation (dormitory or private housing).
  • Purchase flight tickets and arrive in Budapest before orientation week.

7. Admission Requirements Checklist for Budapest

If you are applying for admissions at Budapest universities even on scholarships then make sure to have following set of documents ready:

• • Valid Passport (valid for at least one year).
  • Academic Transcripts and Diplomas (translated into English or Hungarian).
  • English Proficiency Test (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent).
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP).
  • Two Recommendation Letters.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV).
  • Portfolio (for arts and design programs).
  • Application Fee Receipt (if required).

8. Visa and Residence Permit

International students from non-EU countries must apply for a student residence permit to study in Hungary. Required documents include:

• • University admission letter.
  • Proof of financial means or scholarship.
  • Health insurance coverage.
  • Valid passport.
  • Proof of accommodation in Hungary.

Students are advised to start the visa process as soon as their offer letter is received to avoid delays.

9. Living in Budapest as an International Student

Budapest offers a blend of affordability, comfort, and cultural richness.

• • Accommodation: Student dormitories and private apartments are common options. Dormitories are cheaper but fill up quickly.
  • Transportation: Monthly student passes offer discounted rates for buses, trams, and metro.
  • Food and Essentials: Grocery shopping and cooking at home help save money.
  • Student Life: The city hosts various international student groups and cultural events throughout the year.

10. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• • Missing the scholarship or university deadline.
  • Ignoring entrance exam or portfolio requirements.
  • Not budgeting enough for living expenses.
  • Applying to programs without checking English proficiency conditions.
  • Waiting too long to apply for a residence permit.

11. 7-Day Starter Action Plan

Day 1: Choose your preferred study field and shortlist 3 universities.
Day 2: Visit each university’s website and download admission guidelines.
Day 3: Draft your Statement of Purpose and request recommendation letters.
Day 4: Take or book your English proficiency test.
Day 5: Register on the Stipendium Hungaricum portal.
Day 6: Submit one self-funded university application (as a backup).
Day 7: Plan your financial budget, including living expenses and fees.

12. Final Thoughts

Budapest is a top-tier destination for international students seeking affordable, high-quality education in Europe. With careful preparation, you can secure admission to a respected Hungarian university and possibly win a full scholarship under the Stipendium Hungaricum program.