Hungary is a Central European country with a range of higher education options for international students. Its universities offer programs in English and other foreign languages, and students can use the official Study in Hungary portal to explore available programs and practical information. Students should check the recognition requirements for their chosen degree and destination country.
Hungary’s cities offer different student experiences and budgets. Living costs vary by city and lifestyle, so students should estimate their expenses before applying. Below are several universities with English-taught study options in Hungary.
Top Universities for English-taught Programs in Hungary
1. University of Szeged
The University of Szeged is located in Szeged, Hungary’s third-largest city. The university offers English-language study options for international students across multiple academic levels.
Students can access the SZTE Klebelsberg Library, which the university describes as Central Europe’s biggest university library. Students in relevant fields may also have opportunities to collaborate with the ELI-ALPS Laser Research Centre.
Students can choose from academic fields such as the humanities, sciences, medicine, pharmacy, law, and economics. Applicants should review the official page for each program to confirm its language of instruction, curriculum, and entry requirements.
2. Semmelweis University
Semmelweis University has more than 250 years of tradition in medicine and health sciences. Located in Budapest, it is the largest provider of healthcare services in Hungary. Its clinics and hospitals also provide practical teaching and care for patients who require complex treatment.
The university lists English-language one-tier, undergraduate, and Master’s programs in medicine and health-related fields. Its Doctoral College also admits students to Ph.D. studies.
Semmelweis offers programs in Hungarian, English, and German at six faculties. The university reports that approximately one-third of its students come from 129 countries across five continents. Hungarian language study is included in the curricula of its English-language training programs, and students begin meeting Hungarian patients in preclinical modules.
3. Eötvös Loránd University
Eötvös Loránd University is the oldest continuously operating university in Hungary. Its predecessor was founded in 1635. Based in Budapest, ELTE offers study and research opportunities across a broad range of academic fields.
ELTE’s official materials list more than 1,400 Erasmus+ agreements with more than 600 partner universities, as well as memberships in international university networks. The university also participates in joint degree programs with other European universities.
ELTE offers more than 100 degree programs to international students, and its official materials state that Hungarian is not required for these programs. Applicants should review each official program page to confirm the language of instruction and the admission requirements. Zhibek, a Bachelor’s student in International Relations at ELTE, said that all of her classes are conducted in English and that students in an English-language program should not face academic problems because they do not know Hungarian.
In her account, Zhibek described her overall experience at ELTE as mostly positive. She said that the academic quality is strong, professors are supportive and knowledgeable, and course topics are relevant and engaging. She also mentioned services such as the International Office, Student Council, and mentorship programs.
4. University of Debrecen
The University of Debrecen is one of Hungary’s largest higher education institutions. Located in Debrecen, it offers English-taught programs in a wide range of fields.
The university offers more than 80 degree programs fully taught in English, including foundation, undergraduate, graduate, and Ph.D. or doctoral programs. It also offers one-tier medical degree programs.
Applicants should review the official page for each program to confirm the curriculum, duration, fees, entry requirements, and any practical components.
5. University of Pécs
The University of Pécs is the oldest university in Hungary, with roots dating back to 1367. It is also one of the country’s largest higher education institutions, with approximately 25,000 students, more than 5,700 international students, and 10 faculties.
The university’s official pages describe Pécs as a secure and affordable study destination. The university offers more than 90 English-taught degree programs across foundation, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. levels.
Studying an English-taught program at one of Hungary’s universities can allow international students to experience European cultures and pursue an education outside their home country. This experience can open doors to career opportunities, international networks, and lasting academic experiences. If you are considering studying in Hungary, review the institutions listed above and check each official program page before applying.
We hope this article on the best English-taught universities in Hungary was helpful! If you plan to pursue a degree in this country, check out our Hungary Page or explore the Available Programs in Europe for International Students for more study options on the continent.
