Hungary is an increasingly popular choice for Pakistani students pursuing affordable, English-taught degrees in Europe. Tuition fees typically range from $1,400–$5,000/year for most degrees. Top institutions like Semmelweis University, University of Szeged, and Eötvös Loránd University provide internationally recognized qualifications. Cities like Budapest, Debrecen, and Pécs combine strong academic environments with manageable living costs.
Moreover, students benefit from low-cost dormitories, subsidized transportation, and student dining facilities. On average, monthly living expenses, including accommodation, food, transport, and utilities—range between $350 and $600, making Hungary a cost-effective yet academically competitive destination for Pakistani students.
Tuition Fees in Hungary for Pakistani Students
Plan your academic investment wisely by consulting trusted education experts in Pakistan, who can help with tuition comparisons, admission requirements, and scholarship guidance for Hungarian universities. The following table shows the general fees range.
Program Type | Tuition Fee Range (USD/year) | Notes |
Bachelor’s Programs | $2,000 – $8,000 | Varies by field and university |
Master’s Programs | $1,200 – $16,000 | Engineering, economics, sciences, and humanities |
Medical (MBBS/MD) | $14,000 – $20,000 | English-medium programs at top medical universities |
Preparatory/Foundation Year | $4,500 – $7,000 | For students needing language or subject bridging |
Scholarships | Covers 50%–100% | Government-funded (Stipendium Hungaricum) and university-based |
Accommodation Costs
Housing is a key component of your budget, but students who study in Hungary benefit from options tailored to various needs and price ranges. These options include:
- University Dormitories: Most public universities offer dormitories for $100–$200/month. Shared rooms with basic furniture and Wi-Fi included.
- Private Rentals: A one-bedroom apartment in Budapest costs $350–$500/month. In cities like Szeged or Pécs, it’s $250–$350.
- Shared Apartments: Sharing reduces costs to $150–$250/month per student.
Tip: Living outside Budapest significantly lowers rental and general living expenses.
Food and Groceries
Hungary offers budget-friendly food choices for students, with fresh produce and halal options available in most cities. The estimated cost of food and groceries is as follows.
- Groceries: Expect monthly grocery bills between $100 and $150. Chains like Aldi, Lidl, and Spar offer student-friendly prices.
- Eating Out: Budget meals in student canteens or fast food cost $4–$6. A three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant is $12–$20.
- Halal Food: Halal-certified stores and Turkish restaurants are common in Budapest and other student hubs.
Transportation
Hungary boasts an extensive and affordable public transport network ideal for international students. The cost of transportation’s general range is the following:
- Student Monthly Passes: Cost around $10–$15 in most cities, covering buses, trams, and metros.
- Taxi & Ride Apps: Bolt and Főtaxi are commonly used. Rates start from $1.20 base fare plus $0.70/km.
- Inter-city Travel: Student discounts apply to trains and long-distance buses. Budapest–Szeged by train costs around $8–$12 with discount.
Health Insurance
All international students must have valid health insurance throughout their stay. The health insurance costs are discussed below:
- Private Insurance: Annual premiums range from $100–$200 depending on coverage. Includes GP visits, emergency care, and specialist referrals.
- University-arranged Packages: Many institutions assist with health coverage during admission.
Mobile and Internet
Staying connected in Hungary is affordable for students, with budget-friendly mobile data plans, SIM cards, and fast internet access both on-campus and in private accommodations. The mobile and internet costs are the following:
- SIM Cards: Available for under $5. Monthly plans with 10–20GB data range from $5 to $10. Providers include Telenor, Vodafone, and Yettel.
- Internet: Dorms usually offer free Wi-Fi. Private plans cost $10–$15/month.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Miscellaneous expenses in Hungary include entertainment, gym fees, toiletries, and seasonal clothing—small but essential costs that students should factor into their overall monthly budget. Apart from major costs, other miscellaneous expenses ranges are following:
- Entertainment: Movie tickets cost $5–$8. Student discounts available at museums, theaters, and cultural venues.
- Gym Memberships: Monthly fees are $15–$30.
- Winter Clothing: Budget $100–$200 for essential winter wear.
- Stationery & Toiletries: Around $20–$40/month.
Total Estimated Monthly & Annual Budget
Explore the total estimated monthly and annual living budget for Pakistani students in Hungary to help you financially prepare for your academic journey abroad. The following table shows the annual and monthly ranges.
Expense Category | Monthly Range (USD) | Annual Range (USD) |
Accommodation | $100 – $500 | $1,200 – $6,000 |
Food & Groceries | $100 – $150 | $1,200 – $1,800 |
Transportation | $10 – $15 | $120 – $180 |
Health Insurance | $8 – $17 (avg/month) | $100 – $200 |
Mobile & Internet | $8 – $15 | $96 – $180 |
Miscellaneous | $30 – $60 | $360 – $720 |
Total Estimate | $350 – $600 | $3,000 – $9,080 |
FAQs
Is Hungary affordable for Pakistani students?
Yes. Hungary offers a high-quality European education at lower costs than Western Europe, making it ideal for budget-conscious Pakistani students.
Can I study in Hungary on a $400 monthly budget?
Yes, especially if you stay in dormitories and maintain a modest lifestyle in smaller cities like Szeged or Debrecen.
Are Pakistani students allowed to work part-time in Hungary?
Yes. Students can work up to 20 hours/week during semesters and full-time during vacations.
Is halal food available in Hungary?
Yes. Budapest and larger cities have halal restaurants, but availability may be limited in smaller towns.
Is IELTS required for Hungary?
Not always. Many universities accept MOI (Medium of Instruction) letters or conduct internal English proficiency exams.
What is the average tuition fee in Hungary?
It ranges from $1,500 to $16,000/year depending on the program, with medicine and engineering at the higher end
