Hungary has become a popular European study destination, offering a range of universities in Hungary. Many international students are also attracted to its culture, landscapes, and relatively affordable study-abroad options.
If you are a degree-seeking student planning to move to Hungary but are unsure which city to choose, read on as we walk you through five popular cities for international students. Let’s dive in!
Top Cities to Study in Hungary for International Students
For international students seeking a dynamic learning experience, Hungary offers several destinations to consider. The following cities are home to established universities and active student communities.
1. Budapest
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a bustling city that attracts a large international student community. It is home to numerous universities, including Eötvös Loránd University and Budapest University of Technology and Economics.
International students planning to move to Budapest should carefully consider their living and transportation expenses. The monthly Budapest student pass currently costs HUF 3,450. Eligibility depends on the type of student identification used. Students with eligible foreign student IDs must meet BKK’s applicable citizenship and Hungarian-address requirements, while different conditions apply to students with Hungarian student IDs.
Accommodation, food, and other daily expenses vary considerably depending on location and lifestyle. Students should therefore prepare an individual budget.
Tuition fees at Budapest Metropolitan University vary according to a student’s citizenship. Its English-taught Business Administration and Management BSc costs EUR 2,800 per semester for students from the EU, EEA, and Turkey and EUR 3,500 per semester for other non-EU students.
2. Debrecen
Debrecen is home to one of Hungary’s largest international student communities. The University of Debrecen reports an international community of almost 7,500 students from approximately 130 countries. It describes itself as Hungary’s oldest higher education institution operating continuously in the same city and one of the country’s largest educational centers. The university offers a broad range of programs through 14 faculties and 24 doctoral schools.
Debrecen can also be a relatively affordable option for students pursuing higher education in Hungary. The university estimates that students spend approximately USD 800 per month on shared private accommodation, food, study materials, local transportation, and other everyday expenses. Actual costs depend on each student’s housing arrangements and lifestyle.
Students can choose between university hostels and private rentals. The university’s official accommodation guide currently lists options such as Auguszta Hotel and Student Hostel and Study K & M Hotel. Prices and availability should be confirmed directly with the accommodation provider.
3. Szeged
Szeged, a picturesque city in southern Hungary, is a popular destination for international students seeking a combination of university education and cultural experiences. The city is known for its historic architecture, compact center, and active student community.
The University of Szeged’s general cost-of-living guide estimates that students may need approximately EUR 700 to EUR 800 per month, depending largely on their accommodation and spending habits. Students should treat this as a planning estimate rather than a fixed amount.
The University of Szeged offers programs across numerous academic fields, with tuition varying by program and citizenship. For the 2026/27 academic year, the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration lists the tuition fee for its English-taught Business Administration and Management BSc at EUR 2,700 per semester for non-EU students.
4. Pécs
Pécs, which has a rich cultural heritage, is another popular destination for international students in Hungary. The University of Pécs offers a wide range of academic programs across fields such as medicine, business, engineering, law, humanities, and the arts.
Living expenses in Pécs vary according to a student’s housing arrangements and lifestyle. The university’s current cost-of-living guide recommends a minimum budget of approximately HUF 250,000 per month for rent, food, and occasional leisure activities.
Students can consider dormitories, shared apartments, and private flats. The university’s guide lists different price ranges for each housing type and notes that private rental costs depend on the property’s location and the number of tenants. Students should also account for utilities and other fees that may not be included in the advertised rent.
5. Miskolc
Miskolc, located in northeastern Hungary, offers students a study environment close to the Bükk Mountains and other natural attractions. Although it is less internationally prominent than Budapest or Debrecen, the city is home to the University of Miskolc, which offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs across several academic fields.
Housing costs can be lower than in Hungary’s capital, although expenses vary by property and location. According to the university’s official housing information, a two-room private apartment typically costs between HUF 120,000 and HUF 180,000 per month. Utility bills and property-management fees are generally not included.
The city’s housing options, natural surroundings, and university campus may appeal to international students seeking an alternative to Hungary’s larger and more heavily visited student destinations.
Hungary’s established universities and comparatively affordable study options continue to attract students from around the world. The country also provides convenient access to other European destinations. For international students considering Hungary for their study-abroad experience, cities such as Budapest, Pécs, Debrecen, Szeged, and Miskolc each offer distinct academic and lifestyle options.
This article highlights several Hungarian cities that are popular among international students. For more study options, visit our Study in Hungary guide and Available Courses for International Students!
