How to Apply to University in Hungary: Start Here

A practical application guide for international students applying to universities in Hungary. Check deadlines, documents, admission interviews, costs and next steps before you submit your application.

How to Apply to University in Hungary as a Self-Funded International Student

Applying to university in another country can feel confusing. Every university has its own deadlines, document requirements, admission rules and payment instructions. If you are applying to a university in Hungary in May or June, the process can feel even more stressful because deadlines may be close and some programmes may already be full.

This guide helps you check the most important things before you apply.

Before submitting your application, you should be able to answer five questions:

Can I still apply?

What documents do I need?

Will I need an admission interview or entrance test?

What happens if I am accepted?

Can I realistically pay, prepare documents, find housing and arrive on time?

This page is written for international students applying to English-taught Bachelor’s, Master’s or doctoral programmes in Hungary, especially students considering Budapest as their study destination.

Step-by-Step: Self-Funded Application Process

Step 3: Prepare Documents (2–3 weeks)

The Self-Funded Document Checklist:

Essential (All Programs):

• Application form (online, through university portal)

• Passport copy (valid 6+ months beyond intended stay)

• High school diploma / Bachelor's degree (scanned, color, PDF)

• Academic transcripts (all high school years, with grades)

• CV/Resume (Europass format recommended)

• Motivation letter (500–1,000 words, program-specific)

• Proof of English proficiency (test certificate or exemption letter)

• Application fee payment receipt (€100–150)

Program-Specific:

• Recommendation letters (1–2, academic or professional—required for Master's/PhD)

• Portfolio (architecture, design, arts and sports programs)

• Entrance exam registration (medicine, engineering, some business programs)

• Research proposal (PhD programs)

• Work experience certificates (MBA, executive programs)

• Medical certificate (standard template, includes HIV test for health sciences) 

Translation & Legalization:

• Documents in English or Hungarian: Upload as-is

• Other languages: Certified translation required (sworn translator or notarized, but always check with the university admission team  first.)

• Some countries require Apostille (Hague Convention) or consular legalization—check with your local Hungarian embassy

Step 4: Entrance Examinations & Interviews

Medical Programs (High Demand):

• Format: Written test (Biology, Chemistry, General English, Biomedical English) + Interview

• Duration: varies, but usually 20-30 minutes

• Location: Online via Moodle/Zoom or at test centers worldwide

• Preparation: Universities offer PREMED courses (€89–249) covering exam topics 

• Passing score: Varies by competition, typically 60–70%

Engineering/Technical:

• Mathematics and/or physics test (online or on-campus)

• May include logic/reasoning sections

Business/Humanities:

• Often interview-only or motivation letter assessment

• Some require short essays on current topics

What to Expect in Interviews:

• Why this program/university?

• Career goals and how the degree fits

• Knowledge of current trends in your field

• Problem-solving scenarios (business/engineering)

Step 5: Admission Decision & Acceptance

Timeline: 2–6 weeks after application completion/exam

If Accepted:

• Receive Letter of Admission or Conditional Acceptance (official PDF via email)

• Pay tuition deposit (typically €500–1,000, deducted from first semester)

• Sign and return acceptance form

• Receive final enrollment letter (needed for visa)

If Rejected:

• Request feedback (some universities provide this)

• Consider alternative programs at same university (preparatory program)

• Apply to backup universities immediately

Understanding the Costs

• Tuition Fees (Annual): depending on the program this can range from 5 800-16 000 euro yearly. Payment installment plans are not available to international students.

• Application fee: €100–150 (one-time, non-refundable)

• Entrance exam fee: €50–200 (if applicable)

• Tuition deposit: €500–1,000 (credited to first semester)

• Health insurance: €150–300/year (mandatory for residence permit)

• Student visa: €60–120 (depending on nationality)

Total First-Year Budget Estimate:

• Tuition: €3,000–8,000 (non-medical)

• Living costs: €4,800–8,400 (€400–700/month × 12)

• Initial costs: €1,000–1,500 (deposit, insurance, visa, setup)

• Total: €8,800–17,900 (significantly less than UK/US/Australia)