Hungary

Hungary

Quick Facts & Figures

  • capital

    Budapeste
  • language

    Hungarian
  • currency

    Florint (HUF)
  • government

    Parliamentary Constitutional Republic
  • religion

    Top 3: Christian, Lutherans, Greek Catholics
  • weather

    Continental
  • timezone

    UTC +1 / (DST) UTC +2
  • internet domain

    .hu

Located in the heart of Europe, Hungary is bordered by 7 countries including Croatia, Austria, and Romania. Despite being landlocked, there is no shortage of water here! Hungary is home to the largest lake in Europe, and is uniquely famous for its authentic bath house culture with over 300 geothermal hot springs supplying water to its bath houses. Hungary is one of the oldest countries in Europe, as reflected in its architecture. The Roman, Gothic, and Baroque architecture that makes up the city streets makes walking feel like a trip back in time.
 
There are many similarities in culture between Hungary and the Philippines. The family is at the center of the Hungarian social structure and elders are especially well-respected. Hungary is predominantly Roman Catholic, although there is also a large number of people from other religions as well. Just like Filipinos, Hungarians show their hospitality towards guests through food. Filipinos should find little trouble with conversing – Hungarians, especially those who live in the capital, are able to speak English.
 
Filipinos who would like to study in Hungary would be pleasantly surprised to find that cost of living in Hungary is comparable, if not cheaper, to living in the Philippines. Even in its capital of Budapest, food and rent are relatively cheap.

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Studying in Hungary

What are the requirements for studying at a school in Hungary?
Generally, schools in Hungary will ask for your:
  • Education credentials,
  • Proof of financial capability
  • Proof of Hungarian or English proficiency (depending on your language of instruction)
The specific requirements will vary depending on your school, course, and level of study. Visit the Edukasyon profile of the school you like to find their specific requirements. For a list of schools in Hungary looking for Filipino students, see here.
 
Do I need a visa to study in Hungary? How do I get it?
If you’re a Philippine passport-holder, you’re going to need a student visa to attend school in Hungary. The process involves:
  1. Scheduling your interview with the Hungarian embassy
  2. Completing the online application form
  3. Gathering all the required documents
  4. Attending your interview
Note that you can’t start processing your student visa until you get accepted by a school in Hungary. For the full list of details, please visit the Hungarian embassy website or contact the Hungarian embassy in Manila.
 
What are the required languages for studying in Hungary?
Even though Hungarian is the native language of Hungary and is the primary language of 97% of its population, most Hungarian universities offer courses in English. However, every foreign student is required to submit proof that they are proficient in English through a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL®).

If you wish to study  with Hungarian as the language of instruction, you will also need to submit proof of your proficiency in the language through a Origó Hungarian language proficiency exam. If you’re worried about your English language proficiency, check out our partner language centers that can help you improve your skills!
Why should I study in Hungary?
While there are only 10 recognized Hungarian universities, all of them offer high-standard programs that match the quality of other EU nations, despite their lower tuition rates. In fact, higher education has existed within the country since the 1300s! Diplomas from Hungarian institutions have high value and prestige around the world.

The cost of living in Hungary is also rather affordable, allowing 40,000 international students to study there each year. Aside from this, most universities in Hungary offer courses in English as well. So if you're on a tight budget but still want a quality education with a European lifestyle, then Hungary may be a good choice for you!
 
Are there scholarships available? How can I finance my studies?
There are many scholarships offered by the Hungarian government and even the schools themselves. Visit the Edukasyon profiles of the schools you are interested in to check if they are offering any scholarships. Explore our partner schools here, and inquire to get connected with your university representative.
 
How do I choose a school in Hungary?
Schools in Hungary offer many undergraduate and graduate programs in every academic field. After deciding (1) What your career goals are and (2) What academic programs can help you achieve those goals, it's time to do some research on which school is best for you! There are schools in Hungary that are looking for Filipino students just like you! Explore them here.

Living in Hungary

How much is the cost of living in Hungary?
Living costs will vary depending on your location and lifestyle. You will need around 150,000 forints (around 520 euros) to cover everything aside from your tuition. This includes rent, utilities, transportation, food, and shopping.  Expect your monthly rental fees to be your largest expense during your stay. Fees would depend on your location; living in Budapest, the nation’s capital, will be more costly than living in other Hungarian cities.

Average monthly expenses in Budapest
Rent and utilities: 190-230 euros/month
Transportation: 12 euros

Average prices in the countryside:
Rent and utilities: 60-155 euros/month
Transportation: 11 euros

University representatives are great resources to understand the cost of living in their school's city! Explore our partner schools here, and inquire to get connected with your university representative.

Working in Hungary

What are the benefits of graduating from a school in Hungary?
Graduating from a school in Hungary can greatly benefit your future career! Depending on your school and their industry connections, your university could connect you to some of your dream Hungarian companies, internships, and maybe even foreign companies. Schools in Hungary are also generally high in quality and are recognized all over the world. You can also expand your set of languages and expand your network by meeting fellow students from all walks of life. These, among other factors, can improve your employability once you graduate!
Can I work while I’m studying in Hungary?
International students like you are allowed to work part-time while studying, but most jobs would require you to have a background in their native language. Wages for most student jobs are also relatively low, at 1.25-2 euros per hour.