Why Choose Universities in Hungary as an International Student
Choosing a university to attend can be a difficult decision, especially if you're looking at higher education…
Choosing a university to attend can be a difficult decision, especially if you're looking at higher education institutions outside of your home country. Hungary is becoming an increasingly popular choice for international students, thanks to its affordable tuition fees paired with a high-quality education. In this article, we'll take a look at the main benefits of studying in Hungary and why it may be the right choice for you.
Why are universities in Hungary becoming increasingly popular for international students
Universities in Hungary are becoming increasingly popular for students who want to broaden their educational experience and cultivate a global perspective. Hungarian universities offer highly sought-after programs and have high scores in international rankings, like the Quacquarelli Symonds, or the Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
There are great opportunities for internships and job searches since most universities have strong connections with prominent companies. Vibrant cities like Budapest, Szeged, or Pécs offer multicultural experiences and an educational environment unlike any other while immersing the student in traditional Hungarian culture.
St. Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest. Photo credit: Elijah G / Unsplash
Additionally, due to the country's central location in Europe, universities in Hungary offer a unique experience to international students, allowing them to explore different cultures and experiences in other European countries as well. All these advantages make Hungary a top study-abroad destination for those looking to further their education at universities with a promising future.
What are the benefits of studying in Hungary
Studying in Hungary comes with numerous benefits! For starters, tuition fees, in general, tend to be lower than in other European countries, making it a great choice for anyone on a budget. On top of that, many universities offer generous scholarships and grants to international students which add an additional incentive. With all these benefits and more, it’s no wonder why universities in Hungary have become such popular study-abroad destinations.
Tuition fees and scholarships
Universities in Hungary offer relatively low tuition fees for international students. Depending on the program and the institution, tuition can range from approximately USD 2,500 to USD 9,000 a year. Medical degrees are in a higher price range and can cost up to USD 18,000 a year.
The fact that tuition fees - even those in medicine - are much lower than in other European countries, while the degrees earned here are accepted all over Europe, makes Hungarian universities attractive and affordable for prospective students with different financial backgrounds. Additionally, many universities offer scholarships and grants to international students, making it even more affordable to study in Hungary. Scholarships can range from a few hundred dollars to full tuition waivers, depending on the individual school and program.
Indonesian cultural event organized by IISMA awardees at the University of Szeged. Szilvia Molnar / Szegedify
Hungarian culture and history
Hungarian culture is also something that should not be overlooked - the country is full of exciting places to visit, delicious foods to try, and fun activities to engage in. With a culture that is deeply rooted in centuries of tradition, Hungary has a fascinating history that includes the Austro-Hungarian Empire and communism. Studying in Hungary is a great way for international students to learn more about the country's past, while they also have the opportunity to explore its stunning natural beauty and vibrant music and art scene. Hungary can offer an unparalleled cultural experience, one that will stay with a student long after they’ve graduated.
Food in Hungary
Hungarian cuisine is yet another remarkable attraction that draws people to the country. Food in Hungary is hearty, flavourful and incredibly diverse, with influences from German, Turkish, Bulgarian and Serbian cuisine, among others. Whether it's the classic goulash and paprikash, or something more simple like lángos - a deep-fried dough topped with cheese and sour cream - Hungarian food will tantalize any taste buds. Contemporary and international cuisines are also blooming in Hungary - from innovative street food options to Michelin-starred restaurants, there’s something to suit all tastes and budgets.
What types of programs are offered at Hungarian universities
Hungarian universities have a lot to offer when it comes to programs. From traditional degrees to specialized academic opportunities, there is a wide range of options available. These programs allow students to specialize in their field of interest, meaning they can expand their knowledge and pursue what they are truly passionate about. Most universities offer undergraduate/graduate degrees and PhDs as well as various short courses designed for professionals and those looking to switch careers. With such a large selection of programs, Hungarian universities are quickly becoming the perfect choice for ambitious students who want the chance to fully explore their potential.
Top universities in Hungary
Some of the top universities in Hungary include the University of Szeged, the University of Debrecen, and the Eötvös Loránd University. These universities are especially attractive to international students due to their high-quality education, cutting-edge research opportunities and scholarship programs. Major university cities include Budapest, Szeged, Debrecen and Pécs. All of these cities offer a vibrant cultural experience for students wishing to explore studies abroad.
Budapest
Budapest attracts international students because of its big city vibes, incredible architecture, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife. With several renowned universities like the Eötvös Loránd University, the Budapest University of Technology and Economics, the Corvinus University of Budapest, and the Semmelweis University, Budapest offers a wide range of possibilities.
Szeged
The University of Szeged currently ranks as the best higher education institution in Hungary, having reached the highest rankings among all Hungarian universities in the latest publications of Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), the Times Higher Education (THE), and the Academic Ranking of World Universities (Shanghai Ranking). The numerous educational programs of the 12 Faculties of the University of Szeged cover almost all fields of study, making it a great choice for studying abroad.
Over the years, Szeged has been a popular choice for international students due to the city's relatively small size - even compared to Budapest -, lively multicultural atmosphere, low cost of living, and wide-ranging academic opportunities. SZTE currently has a total of 22,000 students enrolled from 130 countries, of which nearly 5,000 are international students.
To learn more about the city of sunshine, check out our article about living and studying in Szeged:
Why Study in Szeged as an International Student
Exploring the Benefits of Living and Studying in Szeged
Pécs
Pécs is known for being home to the University of Pécs, the oldest university in Hungary. This institution has great programs in the fields of medicine and health sciences, economics, arts, humanities and engineering, and a total of 10 Faculties. Pécs offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, lovely parks and amazing cultural attractions.
Of the 20,000 students currently enrolled at the University of Pécs, more than 4,500 are international students. With its vibrant student life and relatively low living costs, Pécs is becoming an increasingly popular destination for international students who want to fully immerse themselves in the Hungarian culture.
Debrecen
The University of Debrecen is another great option for international students looking for quality education. Its 14 Faculties offer more than 80 English-language programs in medical and health sciences, humanities and social sciences, economics, and agriculture, among others. The University of Debrecen has nearly 29,000 students enrolled from more than 110 countries and a vibrant international student community of over 6,000 students. With its excellent facilities, low tuition fees and welcoming atmosphere, Debrecen is a great choice for those looking to explore the beauty of Hungary's second-largest city.
How to choose the right university in Hungary for you
Choosing the right university can be a daunting task, but when it comes to studying abroad in Hungary, you have an additional layer of consideration. With so many universities to explore and a vast array of education opportunities available, it can be difficult to decide exactly where your studies should take place.
To ensure you choose the best university for your needs, consider what kind of academic and experiential goals you hope to accomplish, then look for universities that offer those programs and resources. Consider the size of the university: if you thrive in larger environments with plenty of activities and interactions with peers or if smaller settings help you foster more meaningful relationships with fellow students and professors - whatever works best for your learning style.
To get an overall picture of the institutions, visit their websites, take part in online open days organized for prospective students, and read reviews online. Ultimately, by weighing all these factors, you’ll be ready to make an informed decision about which university will provide the most rewarding academic journey possible.
The application process for universities in Hungary
Applying to universities in Hungary is a straightforward process. You should start by researching the educational institutions you are interested in and making sure you meet any prerequisites. Once you have identified your top choices, you will need to complete an online application form. Official transcripts and records of past academic achievements may also be required as part of the application process.
You may have to submit a statement of purpose, as well as letters of recommendation from past teachers or mentors. Additionally, you will need to take an English language proficiency test such as the TOEFL or IELTS to demonstrate your ability to communicate in English. Upon submitting the forms, admittance is usually confirmed within a few weeks.
Tips for living and studying in Hungary
2022 Job Fair at the University of Szeged. Szilvia Molnar / Szegedify
Studying and living in Hungary can be an enriching experience, as universities here are increasingly popular choices for international students who want to explore the world. From finding suitable housing to getting used to the Hungarian culture, there are several tips to make sure you enjoy your time in the country. First of all, remember that owning a residence permit or a student visa is required when studying in Hungary; research all the necessary documents and get them ready before making your trip.
Second, it’s important to do plenty of research on Hungarian culture before arriving; learning some basic phrases can go a long way and help you fit in easier with locals. Third, don’t overlook the value of community; joining local clubs or societies related to your studies and interests can be beneficial for meeting new people with similar goals. Finally, take a break from studying every now and then and explore all the interesting sites and experiences Hungary has to offer!
Final thoughts
Universities in Hungary are becoming increasingly popular for students who want to study abroad due to the benefits they offer. These benefits include lower tuition costs, a wide variety of programs, and a high quality of education. If you are interested in studying at a Hungarian university, make sure to do your research so that you choose the right school for you. The application process is relatively straightforward, but there are a few things you should keep in mind. Lastly, remember to take some time to adjust to your new surroundings once you arrive in Hungary – it will be worth it!
Why Study in Szeged as an International Student? Exploring the Benefits of Living and Studying in Szeged
Studying in Szeged, Hungary's third-largest city, is an increasingly popular choice for international students…
University of Szeged main building. Szilvia Molnar / Szegedify
Studying in Szeged, Hungary's third-largest city, is an increasingly popular choice for international students. Szeged, located at the triple border of Hungary, Romania, and Serbia, is, without a doubt, one of the most attractive university cities in Hungary.
Szeged is famous for its multicultural environment, impressive architecture, culture, sports, and educational opportunities. In this article, we’ll be exploring why studying in Szeged is an excellent choice for international students.
Introduction to Szeged
Szeged is located on the banks of the Tisza river and is known for its breathtakingly beautiful architecture and vibrant culture. The city is home to many historic sites, including the iconic Szeged Dóm, also known as the Votive Church, and the University of Szeged (SZTE).
Szeged is also known for its nightlife, annual cultural and gastronomy festivals, and national and international sports events that attract thousands of visitors from all around the world.
Wine Festival at Széchenyi Square, May 2022. Szilvia Molnar / Szegedify
The city has won multiple awards for downtown development and was voted the second-best city to visit in the 2022 contest of the Hungarian accommodation portal Szállás.hu.
As you can see detailed below, Szeged is a great place to live, with a relatively low cost of living, excellent public transport, and an abundance of parks and green spaces.
The city has a warm climate and is known for its cultural diversity. In fact, since Szeged has the biggest number of sunny hours per year in Hungary, it is referred to as the city of sunshine. Szeged and its surroundings are also wonderful destinations for outdoor activities, such as hiking, running, cycling, and even birdwatching.
Benefits of Studying in Szeged as an International Student
One of the main benefits of studying in Szeged is the affordable tuition fees. The University of Szeged belongs to the top 250 universities in Europe and has EU accreditation but at the same time offers one of the lowest tuition fees in the European Union. This means that students can save money on their tuition fees, while still receiving a high-quality education.
Szeged is also an excellent choice for international students because of its vibrant multicultural atmosphere. The city is home to thousands of international students from all around the world, making it a great place to meet people from different cultures. Szeged also has a thriving cultural scene, with a wide range of clubs, bars, restaurants, and numerous cultural events throughout the year.
The city also presents excellent job and career opportunities for international students. The Career Office of the University of Szeged offers job and internship opportunities, along with various services to support the professional development of international students and recent graduates. At the spring and autumn SZTE Job Fairs, students can get an insight into the working structure, benefits, and expectations of more than 70 national and regional companies, including big names like Roche, Mercedes, and ExxonMobil, among others. The Job Fair is also a good place to build professional connections for the future.
SZTE Job Fair 2022. Szilvia Molnar / Szegedify
University of Szeged Academic Opportunities
The University of Szeged is one of the best and most prestigious universities in Hungary. It is top-ranked internationally - ranking at 225 in Europe according to QS World University Rankings 2023 - with a wide range of courses and programs. The university has courses in several disciplines, including law, economics, engineering, business, and medicine. SZTE also offers a range of English-language courses, making it an excellent choice for international students.
The University of Szeged also has a range of exchange programs that allow students to study in different countries. This is a great opportunity to gain international experience and broaden your horizons.
Szeged Culture and Leisure
Szeged is a great place to experience Hungarian culture and learn about the city's history. The city is home to many architectural attractions and historic sites, including the Reök Palace, the Votive Church, the National Theatre of Szeged, and the fourth-biggest Synagogue in the world.
There are numerous large-scale cultural and gastronomy festivals throughout the year, including the Wine Festival and Day of Szeged Celebrations in May, and the Szeged Christmas Weeks, among others. Szeged is also known for the SZIN festival - the Szeged Youth Days - featuring international superstars among the performers and welcoming thousands of music lovers from Hungary and abroad.
The city is also a great destination for those who are looking for vibrant nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Szeged is dotted with beautiful parks and green spaces suitable for outdoor activities.
Living in Szeged
Szeged is often referred to as a liveable city, with its comfortable size, good infrastructure, and low cost of living compared to other European cities with universities of this scale.
There is a wide range of accommodation options, from student dorms to room and apartment rentals. University students can search for rentals in dedicated Facebook groups or ask for help from their Faculty.
Szeged also has many restaurants, cafes, and bars that are very popular among university students, making it an ideal place to socialize with friends. Some even offer a student discount.
Another attractive characteristic is that most university buildings are in the downtown area, within walking distance from shops, restaurants, cafés, leisure, and entertainment possibilities.
Szeged has many bike routes and one of the largest numbers of bike users in Hungary, compared to other major cities in the country. The city also has excellent public transport, making it easy to get around.
Tram Train in downtown Szeged. Szilvia Molnar / Szegedify
Szeged is also well connected to Budapest - and the International Airport too - making it easy to reach the rest of Europe, as well as other parts of the world.
Cost of Living in Szeged
Although prices have gone up in the last few years, the cost of living in Szeged is still considered affordable for international students.
Accommodation rental options range from student dorms to private apartments, and rental prices are generally lower than in Budapest.
At the time of writing, accommodation in a student dorm costs around EUR 50 per month with utilities. A room rental without utilities is around EUR 120 per month, while a 1-bedroom apartment costs (without utilities) around EUR 190-460 a month, depending on the location.
Food, transport, and entertainment are also quite affordable in Szeged, and these costs are significantly lower than in Budapest and other major European cities.
Organic almond pancakes at ESSENTIALE Szeged. Szilvia Molnar / Szegedify
According to the calculation of SZTE, the average cost of living in Szeged is around EUR 500-600 a month, depending on the accommodation type. Another great reference is Numbeo, with a detailed and regularly updated list of prices in Szeged.
Scholarships for Studying in Szeged
The University of Szeged offers a range of scholarships for international students, including the Stipendium Hungaricum, Erasmus+, and the Indonesian International Student Mobility Awards (IISMA), among others. These scholarships can cover tuition fees and living expenses. The university also offers a range of grants and fellowships for students from certain countries.
Indonesian cultural event organized by IISMA awardees at the University of Szeged. Szilvia Molnar / Szegedify
For detailed information about scholarships, visit the website of the University of Szeged.
Support Services for International Students in Szeged
The University of Szeged offers a range of support services for international students. The SZTE website has plenty of information concerning applications, visas, and other topics.
When already in Szeged, students can get information and support from the dedicated international office of the university and also directly from their Faculties.
At the beginning of the academic year, the orientation days, organized by the SZTE Directorate for International Affairs and Public Relations, offer informative sessions, guided tours, games, and a Freshmen’s party.
The different units of the university also offer a range of programs throughout the year, which can help international students make friends and settle into the city.
SZTE Freshmen’s Party 2022. Szilvia Molnar / Szegedify
Szegedify Online Magazine
Szegedify, established in January 2022, is the first independent English-language magazine in Szeged. It is privately owned and funded by the owners.
The Szegedify Online Magazine was brought to life to serve the international community in Szeged, and beyond. Our magazine features programs and events in Szeged, general information about the city, and provides unbiased, politics-free news. The scope is mostly on Szeged, with additional news and events from Hungary and the world.
Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your Time in Szeged
Studying in Szeged is an excellent choice for international students. The city has a vibrant culture, a low cost of living, and outstanding academic opportunities. Szeged is a great place to meet people from different cultures and gain international experience.
If you are considering studying in Szeged, make sure to make the most of your time in the city. Explore the historical sites, enjoy the vibrant cultural and gastronomy festivals, and take advantage of the job opportunities for students.
