All you need to know about studying in Hungary

Studying in Hungary is a fabulous option.

If you are considering the idea of moving to Hungary with the purpose of studying abroad, you have come to the right place for some expert advice. In this post, we will be taking a look at the Hungarian higher education system and requirements for studying in Hungary as an expat.

Basics of studying in Hungary

In Hungary, universities are the best place to study at as far as theoretical knowledge is concerned. The Hungarian higher education system also has colleges, which focus on practical knowledge and physical training.

Aside from universities and colleges, you also have the option of studying at a Church-college. Church-colleges offer theological subjects but also offer subjects such as Administration.

In total, Hungary has 62 universities. Here is a summary:

• 17 state universities
• 13 colleges
• 26 church-colleges
• 6 private foundations

Understanding Hungarian university tuition

You are required to pay university tuition fees in Hungary if you do not receive state stipend. The tuition costs for Hungarian universities vary based on course length and subject. Hungarian universities receive funding from the state and may award these funds to their students.

Generally speaking, 80% of those funds are for students with the highest grades. 20% of these funds are allocated based on student backgrounds. Students that study at Hungarian universities with the help of scholarship programs also receive free learning materials.

As an expatriate (international student), you will have to pay tuition fees for Hungarian universities. Depending on which university you choose to study with, the fees will vary. If you require foreign-language courses, the fee will be considerably higher.

What does the academic year look like in Hungary?

If you are studying in Hungary, your academic year consists of two semesters. The first semester runs from September through January. This is the winter semester and is used for attending lectures, seminars, and for work placements. During the last six weeks of the semester, students write their exams.

The second semester starts in February and runs through the end of May. There is another six-week test period included in the second semester. Per semester, students sit through roughly 900 hours of lectures and exams.

How do Hungarian university degrees work?

Hungarian college degrees are similar to common “Bachelor” degrees. University degrees issues in Hungary are similar to common “Master” degrees. Hungary also has a newly launched PhD degree, which is internationally recognised. When studying in Hungary, you can obtain any one of the following degrees:

• MA (medicine and law)
• Postgraduate degree (1-3 years)
• Doctoral (PhD Doctor of Liberal Arts)
• Bachelor’s degree
• State certificates (vocational)

How to enrol for studying in Hungary

If you would like to apply to study at a Hungarian university, you need to have graduated from high school. You will also be required to pass certain entrance exams. Acceptance for Hungarian universities works on a 120 point system. 60 points go towards average high school grades. 60 points go towards for university entrance exams.

If you feel like you need any help with applying for studying in Hungary, we are here to help. Feel free to get in touch with our team of expert immigration lawyers who can help you plan your studies abroad.