Hungary Study FAQs
≫ Hungary is becoming an increasingly popular study destination. Hungarian higher education has gained great credibility over the years and has a strong tradition in the sciences. Small, beautiful, with a safe and friendly environment, in Hungary, you can study many top-quality Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. Several universities from Hungary have been acknowledged for their good academics and they are always present in leading world university rankings. Considering its geographical position, you can quickly visit any of the countries in the European Union on your student visa.
≫ Some course admission requirements in Hungary also ask students to take an entrance exam, offered at locations all over the world. For English-speaking education programs in Hungary, part of the entrance exam tests students’ English skills. Otherwise, students may be asked to provide proof of their English skills.
≫ Fully immersing yourself in a different culture for a few years is an incredible experience, but one of the hardest things to deal with when living abroad can be the language barrier. But lucky for you who are interested in studying in Budapest, Hungary, where the English proficiency is high in the city. Hungary is after all in the 15th place in the world on the English Proficiency Index. However, we would suggest you get Duolingo to brush some basics while you study and live in Hungary.
≫ For English-speaking education programs in Hungary, part of the entrance exam evaluates students’ English skills. Otherwise, students may be asked to provide proof in the form of IELTS or TOEFL test scores. The minimum average English language score that schools in Hungary ask for is:
For bachelor degrees:
- between 5.0 – 6.0 for the IELTS test
- between 60 – 80 for the TOEFL test
For master degrees:
- between 5.5 – 6.5 in IELTS
- between 70 – 90 in TOEFL test
≫ The average costs of living in Hungary range between 375 – 550 EUR a month depending on your spending habits and type of accommodation. This covers the costs of accommodation including utilities, food, local transport, and even going out occasionally.
≫ Some of you might decide to work part-time during your studies or in the summer holiday to finance your living costs or to gain valuable work experience. Currently, depending on your citizenship, there are different rights and obligations. EU and EEA nationals have access to work just like any other Hungarian citizen, meanwhile non-EU nationals will need a work permit. Work permit application is undertaken as part of your residency application. Generally, you may work up to 24 hours per week during your study period, and 66 days working outside your study period (such as during holiday periods).
≫ As a student, you have access to a wide range of student organizations, special programmes, student discounts (ISIC card) and deals offered throughout the country. Using these resources, you will be able to quickly adapt in the new environment.