Are you looking for an affordable way to study in Europe? Hungary may be worth considering. The country offers international students a range of bachelor’s, master’s and other higher-education programmes, with tuition fees that vary by university and course.

For students from Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa and other African countries, studying in Hungary could provide an opportunity to earn a European qualification while experiencing life in another country. However, applicants need to understand the costs, admission requirements, student residence rules and visa process before making a decision.

In an interview featured in a travel and migration video, a guest identified as Pascal in Europe discussed his experience helping students relocate to Hungary. He shared information about tuition fees, accommodation, documents, working while studying and the application process.

This guide explains the main points from that interview and highlights important details applicants should confirm directly with Hungarian universities and immigration authorities.

Why Consider Studying in Hungary?

Hungary is a European country and a member of the Schengen Area. It offers international students access to universities teaching a variety of subjects, including business, engineering, technology, agriculture, social sciences and the humanities.

Some reasons students may consider Hungary include:

Hungary is not automatically an easy route to European residence. Admission, financial requirements and residence permission must all be assessed individually.

1. How Much Does It Cost to Study in Hungary?

One of the main subjects discussed in the interview was affordability. The guest said that some universities may offer tuition fees starting at approximately €3,000 per academic year.

He also mentioned a possible university accommodation cost of around €130 per month. These figures are examples from the interview, not guaranteed prices for every university or student.

According to the official Study in Hungary website, tuition fees vary by institution and programme. Applicants should check the current fee schedule published by their chosen university.

Official tuition information: https://www.studyinhungary.hu/index.php/study-in-hungary/menu/studying-in-hungary/tuition-fees-and-funding-options.html

Expenses to budget for

Before applying, prepare a budget that considers:

Do not assume that the lowest advertised tuition fee represents the total amount needed to relocate.

Can you pay tuition fees in instalments?

The interview explained that payment arrangements differ between universities. Some may require full payment for a semester or another specified period before enrolment, while other arrangements may be available.

Contact the university’s admissions office to confirm:

Always obtain the university’s payment instructions in writing.

2. What Are the Admission Requirements for Hungary?

Requirements depend on your chosen programme and institution. The following documents were mentioned during the interview as common starting points.

For a bachelor’s degree

Applicants may be asked to provide:

For Ghanaian applicants, this may include relevant WASSCE results. Nigerian applicants may need WAEC, NECO or other accepted qualifications, depending on the institution.

For a master’s degree

Applicants may need:

Do not assume that IELTS, TOEFL, reference letters or an academic CV are unnecessary simply because they were described as non-compulsory in the interview. Each university and programme sets its own admission criteria.

Can applicants with a third-class degree or HND apply?

The interview suggested that some universities may not accept third-class degrees or Higher National Diploma qualifications directly into a master’s programme. It also mentioned a possible pre-master’s pathway at a university in Hungary.

This is not a universal admission rule. Eligibility depends on the institution, the qualification awarded, the intended course and the university’s recognition policies.

If you hold an HND or a third-class bachelor’s degree, contact the admissions office and ask whether you qualify for:

Request written confirmation before paying an application or tuition fee.

3. Do You Need IELTS or TOEFL to Study in Hungary?

Not every programme necessarily requires IELTS or TOEFL. Some universities may accept alternative evidence of English proficiency, such as a previous qualification taught in English, an official medium-of-instruction letter or an interview.

However, requirements vary. A university may still require a recognised language certificate or another assessment of your ability to study in the programme’s language.

Check the exact language requirements on the official course page and confirm which documents are accepted for applicants from your country.

4. Can International Students Work While Studying in Hungary?

Yes. Hungary’s immigration authority states that eligible non-EU international students holding a residence permit for study purposes may work for up to 30 hours per week during the study period. Outside the study period, they may work full-time for a maximum of 90 days per year.

Official information: https://oif.gov.hu/factsheets/residence-of-the-student-pupil

This is important for applicants who hope to support some of their expenses while studying.

However, part-time employment is not guaranteed. The availability of jobs, language requirements, timetable, location and personal circumstances can affect your ability to find work.

Do not rely on future part-time earnings as your only source of money for tuition or visa requirements. You should have a realistic financial plan before travelling.

5. How to Apply to a Hungarian University: Step-by-Step Guide

The interview described a process that begins with finding a suitable university and ends with preparing a student residence application. Here is a practical sequence to follow.

Step 1: Choose your course and university

Search for a recognised institution offering your preferred subject at the level you want to study.

The official Study in Hungary website provides a university directory where you can explore institutions, study areas, cities, degree levels and languages of instruction.

University directory: https://www.studyinhungary.hu/study-in-hungary/menu/universities.html

Step 2: Review the entry requirements

Read the official programme page carefully. Confirm the accepted academic qualifications, language requirements, application deadline, tuition fee and any entrance examination or interview.

If your qualifications are unusual or you have a third-class degree or HND, ask the university to assess your eligibility before proceeding.

Step 3: Prepare your documents

Gather the documents required for your specific programme. Make sure your name and personal details match across your passport, certificates and application.

Ask the university whether certificates must be translated, authenticated or legalised. Do not assume that every institution follows the same procedure.

Step 4: Submit your university application

Follow the university’s official application instructions. Some institutions may use their own online application portals.

Complete the form accurately, upload the requested documents and keep copies of all correspondence and payment receipts.

Step 5: Attend any required assessment

The university may ask you to complete an entrance examination, interview or additional assessment. Follow the instructions provided by the admissions team.

Step 6: Obtain your admission decision

If you are accepted, review the offer carefully. Confirm the programme, start date, tuition fee, payment deadlines and conditions attached to your admission.

Step 7: Pay the required tuition fees

Pay only through the official payment method specified by the university. Keep the receipt and obtain any confirmation needed for your residence application.

Step 8: Prepare your student residence application

An admission letter alone does not give you permission to move to Hungary for long-term study.

The Hungarian immigration authorities require evidence relating to the purpose of study and other applicable conditions. Depending on your circumstances, this may include proof of admission, tuition payment, accommodation, sufficient financial resources, healthcare coverage and a valid travel document.

Official student residence information: https://oif.gov.hu/factsheets/residence-of-the-student-pupil

Applicants should also confirm the application procedure and document checklist with the Hungarian diplomatic mission responsible for their country of residence.

Step 9: Wait for a decision before making irreversible plans

Do not buy non-refundable tickets or make major financial commitments based only on an admission offer. Follow the official instructions regarding your visa or entry authorisation and the collection of your residence permit.

6. How Much Money Do You Need to Show for a Hungarian Student Visa?

The interview stated that applicants should consider tuition fees and living expenses when preparing their proof of funds. It also suggested keeping money in a bank account for several months before applying.

However, the interview did not establish a single official financial threshold that applies to every applicant. The amount and acceptable evidence must be checked against the current requirements for your application.

Hungary’s official immigration guidance requires applicants to demonstrate that they can meet the applicable conditions for their stay. Depending on the case, evidence may include bank statements, scholarship documentation or qualifying financial support from a sponsor.

For example, the Hungarian Embassy in Abuja lists bank statements covering the previous six months among the documents that may be required for student applications submitted through its jurisdiction. Applicants should use the checklist applicable to their own location.

Official embassy information: https://abuja.mfa.gov.hu/en/residence-permit-for-the-purpose-of-study

Before applying, prepare a budget that accounts for tuition, accommodation, daily living expenses, healthcare and travel. Confirm the required evidence and acceptable funding arrangements with the relevant embassy or consulate.

7. Is Hungary Open for the February 2027 Intake?

In the interview, the guest said that applications were open for a February 2027 intake.

That statement should not be treated as confirmation that every Hungarian university offers a February intake or is still accepting applications. Intake dates vary by institution and programme, and application windows can close at different times.

If you are interested in starting in February 2027, check the official programme page immediately and ask the admissions office:

If the deadline has passed, ask whether another intake is available.

8. What Happens After Graduation?

Graduating from a Hungarian university does not automatically give you permanent residence or citizenship.

Hungary does have a residence permit route for certain graduates who have successfully completed their studies and want to seek a job or start a business. The official immigration authority says the application must meet the applicable conditions, including that the intended job or business is appropriate to the level of the completed studies.

The permit can be issued for a maximum of nine months and cannot be extended under that same category.

Official information: https://oif.gov.hu/factsheets/residence-permit-for-the-purpose-of-seeking-a-job-or-starting-a-business

If you obtain suitable employment, you must then meet the requirements for the relevant residence and employment permission. You should not assume that graduation automatically converts your student status into a work permit.

The interview also mentioned an approximate five-year period for permanent residence. This should not be interpreted as a guaranteed route: the eligibility rules depend on the specific residence status, qualifying periods and applicable law. In particular, Hungary’s immigration authority states that holders of a residence permit for study purposes cannot be granted a national residence card solely on the basis of their student residence. Seek official advice on the route that would apply to your circumstances.

9. Can a Hungarian Visa Allow You to Live and Work in Other European Countries?

Hungary is part of the Schengen Area, but this does not mean that a Hungarian student residence permit automatically allows you to live or work in every Schengen country.

Schengen arrangements can facilitate short visits to other participating countries, subject to the relevant rules. The right to live, study or work long-term in another country is a separate matter and generally requires meeting that country’s immigration requirements.

If your goal is to relocate to another European country after graduation, research its rules independently. Do not treat Hungary as a guaranteed shortcut to permanent residence elsewhere.

10. What Universities Can You Research?

The interview mentioned several Hungarian institutions, including:

This is a starting list, not a confirmation that every institution offers your preferred programme, accepts your qualification or is currently accepting applications.

Use the official Study in Hungary directory to find university websites and verify programme details before applying.

11. Important Advice for Ghanaian and African Applicants

Before spending money on an application, take the following precautions:

The guest featured in the interview said he was willing to review applicants’ circumstances and assist with the process. Anyone considering paid assistance should independently check the person’s credentials, service fees, written terms and refund policy. You should retain control of your application documents and university payments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hungary affordable for international students?

It may be more affordable than some other destinations, but the total cost depends on the course, university, city, accommodation and personal expenses. Check current fees rather than relying on general estimates.

Can I study in Hungary with a third-class degree?

Possibly, depending on the institution and programme. Ask whether you qualify for direct admission or an alternative pathway, such as a pre-master’s programme, where available.

Can I apply with an HND?

Admission depends on how the university evaluates your qualification and whether it meets the programme’s entry requirements. Obtain confirmation directly from the institution.

Is IELTS compulsory?

Not necessarily for every programme. Some universities may accept alternative evidence of English proficiency, but you must verify the specific requirements for your course.

Can I work while studying in Hungary?

Eligible international students with a study residence permit may work up to 30 hours weekly during the study period and full-time for up to 90 days per year outside that period, subject to the applicable rules.

Can I stay in Hungary after graduation?

Eligible graduates may apply for a residence permit to seek a job or start a business. The official route has specific conditions and a maximum validity of nine months; approval is not automatic.

Does studying in Hungary guarantee permanent residence?

No. Graduation does not guarantee permanent residence or citizenship. You must meet the rules for the relevant immigration status.

Where can I find Hungarian universities?

Start with the official Study in Hungary university directory: https://www.studyinhungary.hu/study-in-hungary/menu/universities.html

Final Thoughts

Hungary may be a worthwhile destination for African students looking for European higher education, particularly those comparing tuition fees and entry requirements across different countries.

The best starting point is to identify a recognised university and a programme that matches your qualifications and budget. Verify admission requirements, tuition payments, financial evidence and residence rules before making a commitment.

Remember: An affordable tuition fee does not guarantee admission, a student residence permit, employment or permanent residence. Careful planning and accurate information are essential.

For more scholarship opportunities, international study guides and migration information, visit OWAFK Africa at https://owafk-africa.com/ .

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