Hungary offers some of the most affordable programs in Europe, with scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, and health insurance. Every year, thousands of international students choose Hungary for its excellent education and low living costs.
If you're looking for an affordable place to study abroad, Hungary could be your ideal destination.
Why Study for a Master’s in Hungary for Free?
Programs like Stipendium Hungaricum offer full tuition coverage, free accommodation, and a monthly stipend to help with living costs.
On average, students in Hungary spend around €500-700 per month (₹44,000-₹61,000), which is much lower compared to other European countries.
A degree from Hungary is respected across Europe and beyond, opening doors to international career opportunities.
Many master’s programs are available in English, so you won’t need to learn Hungarian to get started.
What You’ll Learn in This Article:
How to find fully funded scholarships in Hungary.
Eligibility requirements for tuition-free programs.
Practical tips to improve your scholarship application.
Keep reading to explore how you can study in Hungary for free and secure a quality education without financial stress!
Fully Funded Scholarships to Study in Hungary for Free
Hungary offers multiple fully funded scholarships that cover tuition fees, living expenses, and even travel costs for international students. Here’s a look at some of the best scholarship options available.
1. Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
This is Hungary’s largest government-funded scholarship program, offering full financial support to international students.
Available for: Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programs
Who can apply? Students from over 90 eligible countries, including India
What’s covered?
Full tuition fee waiver
Monthly stipend (€120–€450, depending on the study level)
Free dormitory housing or a monthly housing allowance
Health insurance
How to apply? Submit your application through the official Stipendium Hungaricum portal, including academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and recommendation letters.
Deadline: Applications typically close in January for the upcoming academic year.
2. Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship
This scholarship is designed for students of Hungarian heritage who live outside Hungary and want to study in the country.
Available for: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs
Who can apply? Applicants must have Hungarian ancestry and reside outside Hungary
What’s covered?
Full tuition fee coverage
Monthly stipend based on the level of study
Free dormitory or rent allowance
Medical insurance
How to apply? Apply with proof of Hungarian ancestry, academic records, and a motivation letter.
Deadline: Applications are usually accepted until March each year.
3. Erasmus+ Scholarships for Hungary
The Erasmus+ program funds international exchange students and full-degree seekers across Europe, including those studying in Hungary.
Available for: Exchange students, full-degree Master’s programs, and some joint PhD programs
Who can apply? Students enrolled at universities participating in Erasmus+ programs
What’s covered?
Tuition fee waiver (for exchange students)
Monthly stipend (€800–€1,200)
Travel grant for relocation
Health insurance
How to apply? Apply through your home university’s Erasmus+ office. If applying for a full degree, check Hungarian university partnerships under Erasmus+.
Deadline: Varies by institution but generally falls in early spring.
4. CEEPUS Scholarship (For Central European Students)
The CEEPUS (Central European Exchange Program for University Studies) scholarship supports student and faculty exchanges within Central and Eastern Europe, including Hungary. It allows students to study at Hungarian universities for a semester or a full academic year.
Available for: Undergraduate, Master's, and PhD students (short-term and full-degree options)
Who can apply? Students from CEEPUS member countries, including Austria, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and others
What’s covered?
Tuition fee waiver
Monthly stipend (€350–€500 based on study level)
Free or subsidized accommodation
Health insurance
How to apply? Submit your application through the CEEPUS portal, providing proof of enrollment, a study plan, and academic records.
Deadline: Applications are usually open twice a year (May and October).
5. University-Specific Scholarships (Budapest University of Technology, University of Szeged, etc.)
Many Hungarian universities offer their own merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students. These scholarships are either tuition fee reductions or fully funded opportunities depending on the university and program.
Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) Scholarships
Who can apply? International students enrolled in Engineering, IT, and Business programs.
Funding coverage: Partial tuition waiver, research grants, and performance-based stipends.
Application process: Apply directly through BME’s financial aid office along with academic records and a motivation letter.
University of Szeged Scholarships
Who can apply? Students applying for Bachelor's, Master’s, or PhD programs in Science, Medicine, Humanities, and Business.
Funding coverage:
Full or partial tuition fee waivers
Monthly stipend for high-achieving students (€200–€400)
How to apply? Students must apply through the University of Szeged’s scholarship portal and provide proof of academic excellence.
Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) Scholarships
Who can apply? International students enrolling in Social Sciences, Law, or Psychology.
Funding coverage: Partial tuition fee waivers and research funding.
How to apply? ELTE requires students to submit a strong academic profile, an SOP, and recommendation letters.
6. Hungarian Government Bilateral State Scholarships
The Hungarian Government Bilateral State Scholarships are based on bilateral agreements between Hungary and other countries, offering financial aid to international students for full-degree and short-term studies.
Available for: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students
Who can apply? Students from countries that have a bilateral agreement with Hungary (e.g., India, China, Pakistan, Indonesia, and several EU countries)
What’s covered?
Full or partial tuition fee waiver
Monthly stipend (€130–€450 depending on study level)
Free dormitory accommodation or additional housing allowance
Medical insurance
How to apply? Students must apply through their home country’s Ministry of Education or designated scholarship authority, which will forward applications to the Tempus Public Foundation in Hungary.
Deadline: Varies by country but usually falls between December and March.
7. Dr. Ámbédkar Scholarship Program (For Students of Indian Origin)
The Dr. Ámbédkar Scholarship Program is an initiative by the Embassy of India in Hungary in partnership with Hungarian universities. It aims to support students of Indian origin who wish to study in Hungary.
Available for: Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in STEM, Business, and Social Sciences
Who can apply? Indian students with a strong academic background and financial need
What’s covered?
Full or partial tuition fee waiver
Monthly stipend (€200–€500)
Support for accommodation costs
How to apply? Submit applications through the Embassy of India in Hungary along with academic transcripts, SOP, and financial need documentation.
Deadline: Applications typically open in March-April every year.
Tuition-Free and Low-Cost Universities in Hungary
Hungary ranks among the top 20 countries in Europe for affordable higher education. Several universities in Hungary offer tuition-free or low-cost options, particularly for master's and PhD students, with the possibility of scholarships or financial aid.
Public Universities Offering Full Tuition Waivers
University
Tuition Waiver Programs
Notable Features
Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE)
Full scholarships for research-based master’s and PhD students
One of Hungary’s top-ranked universities, strong research programs
University of Szeged
Stipendium Hungaricum and university-funded waivers for top international applicants
Recognized for academic excellence, strong international student support
Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME)
Low tuition fees for engineering and science programs
Leading technical university in Hungary, high employability rates
Research-Based Master’s & PhD Programs with Tuition Exemptions
Many Hungarian universities offer tuition-free PhD programs for students engaged in research, with funding from Stipendium Hungaricum or CEEPUS scholarships.
University
Tuition-Free Programs
Additional Support
Central European University (CEU)
PhD students receive full tuition waivers and stipends
Fully funded PhD programs with research grants
University of Pécs
Research-based master's and doctoral programs with tuition exemptions
Merit-based financial aid for postgraduate research students
Affordable Universities for International Students
Some universities have low tuition fees while also offering additional financial aid:
University
Tuition Fees (Per Year)
Notable Financial Aid Options
Óbuda University
From €2,000 (₹1.8 lakhs)
Merit-based scholarships for engineering and business programs
University of Debrecen
From €3,000 (₹2.7 lakhs)
Reduced tuition fees for high-performing international students
How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Hungary
Step 1: Research and Select Scholarships
Look for scholarships like Stipendium Hungaricum, Erasmus+, or university-specific grants.
Check each scholarship’s eligibility and funding coverage.
Step 2: Prepare Academic Documents
Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Explain your motivation and academic goals.
Letters of Recommendation (LORs) – Get references from professors or employers.
Transcripts & CV – Submit detailed academic records and achievements.
Step 3: Meet Language Requirements
English-taught programs require IELTS or TOEFL scores.
Some programs require Hungarian language proficiency tests.
Step 4: Submit Applications Before Deadlines
Most scholarships have deadlines between December and March.
Apply through the university’s online portal or the Tempus Public Foundation (for government-funded scholarships).
Step 5: Interview & Selection Process
Some scholarships require online or in-person interviews.
Prepare for academic and research-related questions.
Part-Time Work Opportunities to Cover Living Expenses
Work Rights for International Students in Hungary
International students in Hungary can work up to 30 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during semester breaks. Part-time job options include:
Retail & Hospitality – Cashiers, baristas, waiters, and hotel assistants.
Campus Jobs – Library assistants, administrative work, and language tutoring.
Internships and Research Assistantships
For students looking to gain professional experience, Hungary offers various paid internships and assistantship roles:
Internships – Many multinational companies in Budapest hire interns in business, IT, and engineering.
Research Assistantships – Universities like ELTE and BME offer paid assistantship positions for research-focused master’s and PhD students.
Cost of Living in Hungary for International Students: Budgeting Tips
Living in Hungary is more affordable compared to many Western European countries. Below is a breakdown of expected monthly expenses:
Estimated Monthly Cost of Living in Hungary
Expense Category
Monthly Cost (HUF)
Key Considerations
Accommodation (Shared Apartment)
HUF 80,000–150,000
(₹18,000–₹35,000)
Budapest is more expensive; smaller cities are cheaper
Food & Groceries
HUF 40,000–60,000
(₹9,000–₹14,000)
Cooking at home is more budget-friendly
Public Transport
HUF 10,000–12,000
(₹2,500–₹3,000)
Student passes available for discounts
Health Insurance
HUF 10,000–15,000
(₹2,500–₹3,500)
Private insurance is recommended for additional coverage
Miscellaneous (Leisure, Internet, Mobile)
HUF 20,000–30,000
(₹5,000–₹7,000)
Entertainment and mobile plans vary by provider
Budgeting Tips for Students on Scholarships
Opt for student dorms – University housing is cheaper than private rentals.
Use student discounts – Public transport and some restaurants offer discounts.
Work part-time – Helps cover rent and daily expenses without overburdening studies.
Post-Scholarship Benefits: Job Opportunities and PR Pathways in Hungary
Work Rights for International Graduates in Hungary
After graduation, international students can stay in Hungary for up to 9 months on a job-seeker or entrepreneur permit. Many industries in Hungary actively hire skilled professionals, especially in high-demand fields.
High-Demand Job Sectors for International Students & Average Salaries
Sector
Average Salary (HUF per month)
Key Employers in Hungary
IT & Software Development
HUF 700,000–1,200,000 (₹1.5–₹2.5 lakh)
IBM, Ericsson, Nokia, EPAM Systems
Engineering & Manufacturing
HUF 600,000–1,000,000 (₹1.3–₹2 lakh)
Audi, Bosch, GE Hungary
Finance & Accounting
HUF 500,000–900,000 (₹1.1–₹1.8 lakh)
KPMG, Deloitte, Citibank
Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
HUF 550,000–1,000,000 (₹1.2–₹2 lakh)
Gedeon Richter, Pfizer, TEVA
Business & Management
HUF 450,000–850,000 (₹1–₹1.7 lakh)
BP, Vodafone, ExxonMobil
PR Pathways After Studying in Hungary
Hungary offers multiple immigration options for international graduates who wish to stay long-term.
How Studying in Hungary Can Lead to PR
Job-Seeker Visa – After completing your studies, you get 9 months to find a job or start a business.
Work Permit & Residence – After securing a job, you can apply for a work permit and residence permit based on employment.
Long-Term Residency – After 3 years of working in Hungary, you can apply for a long-term residence permit.
Permanent Residency (PR) – After 5 years of legal residence in Hungary, you become eligible for PR.
Immigration Policies for International Graduates
Salary requirements – Your job should meet the minimum income threshold for work permit eligibility.
Hungarian language skills – Not mandatory but helpful for long-term residency applications.
EU Blue Card option – If you get a high-paying job, you may qualify for an EU Blue Card, which allows work mobility across the EU.
How upGrad Abroad Can Help You Study in Hungary for Free
Many universities offer low-cost or tuition-free programs with scholarships. upGrad Abroad helps you find the best universities, apply for funding, and prepare for admission.
Find Affordable or Free Universities in Hungary
Hungary has many universities that offer low fees or full tuition waivers. upGrad Abroad helps you choose the right one based on your course and budget.
A strong application increases your chances of getting into a good university. upGrad provides resources to help with:
✔SOP format – Create a statement that stands out. ✔ LOR format – Get strong recommendations from professors. ✔ Scholarship updates – Learn how to write a winning application.
A well-prepared application can help you get admission and scholarships.
Prepare for Entrance Exams with upGrad Abroad
Some universities in Hungary require standardized tests for admission. upGrad provides study materials and expert guidance for:
✔ IELTS – Required for English-taught programs. ✔ TOEFL – Another English test accepted in Hungary. ✔ GRE – Needed for some master’s and PhD programs.
Access free resources, practice tests, and expert tips to improve your scores.
From choosing universities and applying for scholarships to preparing for entrance exams, upGrad guides you at every step.
Explore your study options with upGrad Abroad today!
(FAQs)
1. What is the difference between fully funded and partially funded scholarships in Hungary?
Fully funded scholarships cover all your expenses, including tuition, living costs, and sometimes travel expenses.
Partially funded scholarships cover only part of the costs, like tuition fees or a partial stipend for living expenses.
2. Can I apply for Hungarian scholarships without IELTS or TOEFL?
Yes, some Hungarian universities offer scholarships that do not require IELTS or TOEFL scores, especially if you’ve completed your previous education in English.
3. Do Hungarian universities offer free education for master's and PhD students?
Yes, some Hungarian universities offer free education for master’s and PhD students, particularly for those awarded scholarships through government programs like the Stipendium Hungaricum.
4. Are scholarships in Hungary limited to specific fields of study?
Many scholarships in Hungary are available across various fields of study, but some may focus on specific areas like STEM, business, or arts, depending on the scholarship provider.
5. Can I get financial aid if I don’t qualify for a scholarship?
Yes, there are other forms of financial aid available, such as loans, grants, or part-time work opportunities for international students in Hungary.
6. What are the chances of getting a scholarship in Hungary with an average academic record?
While having an exceptional academic record improves your chances, many scholarships in Hungary also consider factors like motivation, extra-curricular activities, and personal statements. Even with an average academic record, a strong application could still be successful.
7. How do I prove financial need when applying for scholarships in Hungary?
You’ll typically need to provide bank statements, income declarations, or any other official documentation that proves you lack sufficient funds to cover the cost of education.
8. Can I apply for Hungarian scholarships if I am already studying in another country?
Yes, you can apply for scholarships in Hungary, even if you’re studying in another country, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria set by the scholarship provider.
9. Are there age restrictions for scholarships in Hungary?
While most scholarships have age limits, they typically apply only to undergraduate scholarships. For master's and PhD scholarships, age restrictions are usually more flexible.
10. Do Hungarian universities allow students to defer admission if they receive a scholarship?
This depends on the scholarship and university. Some may allow you to defer your scholarship and admission, while others may require you to reapply in the next cycle.
11. Can I combine multiple scholarships to cover my full expenses in Hungary?
In some cases, you can combine multiple scholarships or financial aids, but it’s essential to check the terms and conditions for each scholarship as some may have restrictions on this.
12. How does Hungary’s cost of living compare to other European countries for students?
Hungary is one of the most affordable European countries for students. On average, living costs in Hungary are lower than in countries like the UK, Germany, or France, making it a great choice for budget-conscious students.
13. What documents are required when applying for fully funded scholarships in Hungary?
Common documents include academic transcripts, recommendation letters, proof of English proficiency (if applicable), financial need documents, and a personal statement.
14. Are there any government or university-sponsored grants that cover only research costs?
Yes, some Hungarian universities and the government offer research grants that cover only specific research-related expenses like materials, equipment, or research trips. Check with individual universities for specific opportunities.
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education process for all. Our diverse experience as journalists, content writers, editors, content strategists, and marketers helps create the most relevant and authentic blogs for our readers.
GPA CALCULATOR
EXPENSE CALCULATOR
Ielts band calculator
Education Loan Calculator
University partner
ACCOMMODATION
experience-center
)
