Almost six centuries of academic excellence in many disciplines and an impeccable public education system sets the Hungarian education system apart from the rest of the world. Though less known compared to the other European countries, Hungary is rarely absent from the global academic platforms and rankings.
Hungary is a small, beautiful, and peaceful country, with Budapest as its capital. A very deep and rich culture and national spirit for progress and harmony can be seen everywhere. Hungarians take the utmost pride in their history and ancient culture. It is reflected in their festivals, architecture, lifestyle, businesses, and even their education system.
Hungarian higher education offers a wide array of fields and disciplines of study; Agriculture, information communication technology, computer sciences, medical and healthcare, philosophy, civil/mechanical/electrical/nuclear engineering, arts, economics, physics, and much more.
Some universities offer various programs, while others are focused on entirely one or two specific disciplines. Advanced research facilities and laboratories are hosted by many public sector universities, which provide scholarship and grant programs for outstanding performers throughout their research.
Structure of the Hungarian education system
Hungarian higher education structure usually follows 4 steps; college, university, vocational training, and doctoral programs. College education takes up to 4 years, during which a student is taught the fundamentals of entry-level principles. Depending on the interests of the students, they can further pursue their chosen field in universities, generally for 6 years. By the end of that period, students are prepared to meet the real challenges in their field and provide workable solutions.
To further strengthen and broaden their understanding, vocational training in their field is also available. Students can take up vocational training either before or after their secondary education. Lastly, the best brains and achievers in their field are offered doctoral programs and research opportunities abroad and locally.
Education of international students
Hungary is located in Central/Eastern Europe and shares borders with Austria and Romania in the west and east respectively. 3 million of the 10 million total population of the country reside in the capital, Budapest. Besides Budapest, other cities sought by students are Szeged, Pecs, and Debrecen.
Several universities in Hungary offer degree programs in all disciplines and fields in the English language. These degrees are accepted and recognized all around the world, and in some cases where the universities have collaborated with international education institutes, the credit hours are transferable too.
As a matter of fact, some of the brightest brains in the world are attracted to Hungarian colleges and universities as the country has produced many renowned scientists, mathematicians, and Nobel laureates.
Best internationally acclaimed universities
Hungary has a surplus of top-class universities and colleges with incredible scores and standards. We have narrowed down a few here.
- University of Szeged
- Semmelweis University, Budapest
- Eotvos Lorand University, Budapest
- University of Pecs
- University of Debrecen
- Corvinus University of Budapest
- Budapest University of technology and economics
- Budapest metropolitan university
Cost of education
Universities in Hungary charge a very reasonable and affordable tuition fee compared to their contemporary universities in Europe or elsewhere. A student may be expected to pay around EUR 3000 to EUR 4000 annually generally, however, the fee may vary from program and degree chosen. Engineering programs cost a little higher, approximately around EUR 6000 to EUR 8000 annually.
The living cost of students is very low. Accommodation, food, transportation, and occasional dining out, a student can manage easily within EUR 500 to EUR 600 per month. A student can work during his/her studies, the minimum hourly wage is EUR 5, however, it may be higher depending on the nature of the work.
Scholarship and grants
A very generous scholarship program known as Stipendium Hungaricum is offered to 5000 students each year. This scholarship covers all major expenses such as tuition fees, accommodation, medical insurance, and a decent monthly stipend. The students for the scholarship are chosen from 70 partner countries based on merit and eligibility.
Reasons to study in Hungary
- High standard of education at a very affordable and low cost
- Modern and safe living which is affordable
- Multicultural and multiracial interaction allows for a wider learning experience
