Why Hungary Is Gaining Popularity Among Pakistani Students
Hungary is fast becoming a popular European destination for Pakistani students. With over 34,000 international students enrolled in its universities as of 2023, Hungary offers a perfect balance of affordability, academic quality, and vibrant cultural life. It is especially appealing for students looking for a cost-effective entry into Europe without compromising on education standards.
For Pakistani students, Hungary presents a unique opportunity: internationally recognized degrees, low tuition fees, and one of Europe’s most generous government-funded scholarships—the Stipendium Hungaricum. Add to that the friendly visa policies, low cost of living, and historic cities like Budapest and Debrecen, and you have a destination that ticks all the boxes for a successful study abroad experience.
Affordable Education with Strong Academic Standards
Hungarian universities maintain strong academic reputations across Europe, especially in the fields of medicine, engineering, business, and social sciences. Many programs are taught entirely in English, making them accessible to international students, including those from Pakistan.
- Bachelor’s degree: €2,000 – €5,000/year
- Master’s degree: €3,000 – €6,000/year
- Medicine/Dentistry: €12,000 – €16,000/year
Many public universities offer competitive tuition compared to Western European countries. Pakistani students who are not on a scholarship still find Hungary manageable financially when compared to countries like the UK or USA.
Stipendium Hungaricum: A Fully Funded Scholarship
One of the biggest advantages for Pakistani students is the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship, offered by the Hungarian government. This program covers Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, and One-tier Master programs, and is fully funded.
What does it cover?
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Monthly stipend (HUF 43,700 for Bachelor’s/Master’s; HUF 140,000–180,000 for PhD)
- Free accommodation or monthly housing allowance
- Medical insurance
This program is highly competitive but tailored for students from partner countries, including Pakistan. The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan facilitates the application process on the Pakistani side.
Top Universities in Hungary for International Students
Here are some top institutions Pakistani students commonly apply to:
- University of Debrecen – Renowned for medicine and health sciences
- Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) – One of the oldest universities, known for humanities and social sciences
- Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) – Ideal for engineering and IT
- University of Szeged – Ranked among the top 500 globally
All of these offer English-taught programs and participate in the Stipendium Hungaricum scheme.
Cultural Richness & Life in Hungary
Hungary is not just academically rewarding—it’s also culturally immersive. With its historical cities, affordable transport, and rich traditions, students enjoy a vibrant social life outside the classroom. Budapest, the capital, is home to a variety of museums, universities, and a thriving international student scene.
Pakistani students will also find cultural familiarity in places of worship, halal food options, and a growing Pakistani student community in major university cities.
Cost of Living:
- Rent (shared accommodation): €150–€250/month
- Food and groceries: €100–€150/month
- Transportation: €10–€20/month (student discounted)
Student Visa Process for Pakistani Applicants
Pakistani students must obtain a D-type student visa before arriving in Hungary. After admission (especially if you’re awarded Stipendium Hungaricum), the visa process involves:
- Valid admission letter from a Hungarian university
- Proof of scholarship or financial ability
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond stay)
- Proof of accommodation
- Health insurance
- Visa application form
- Visa fee (~€60, waived for scholarship holders)
Visa processing is handled by the Embassy of Hungary in Islamabad, and the process usually takes 3–6 weeks.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply early: Stipendium Hungaricum opens around November–January every year.
- Prepare complete documents: Especially financials, medical reports, and transcripts.
- Stay in touch with HEC Pakistan: They shortlist and nominate candidates for the scholarship.
- Improve your English: IELTS is recommended (not always required but strengthens your application).
- Write a strong motivation letter: This plays a key role in scholarship selection.
Hungary offers an ideal combination of academic excellence, financial accessibility, and cultural diversity. For Pakistani students, it stands out as a European destination where you can earn a respected degree, enjoy a full scholarship, and experience European life—all without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re applying through Stipendium Hungaricum or self-financing your studies, Hungary is a smart choice for 2025.