So, you’re thinking about studying abroad. In fact, you’ve decided that, of all the places in the world, you’d like to study in Hungary. While it may seem like an unexpected choice, in a lot of ways, it makes sense. After all, in Hungary university fees for international students are far lower than they would be in other parts of the world, such as the United States. You begin to dig into Hungary’s universities for international students. A fair number of questions then arise—how to begin? Where to apply to? What would I like to study? How do I even begin figuring all this out?

While it may seem surprising, your actual problem won’t be that of too few choices. In fact, you might find that you actually have too many. Don’t worry though—that’s where we come in. What follows, while nowhere near comprehensive, is a brief dive into Hungary—a sort of university list for international students. The schools listed below all offer training in English, and are all great choices in their own way. Read on to find out more!

Schools in Hungary for International Students

Eötvös Loránd University

If there’s one truly wide-ranging Hungarian university for international students, Eötvös Loránd University (commonly known as ELTE) might be it. Known long ago as the University of Budapest, ELTE has campuses around the city, offering programs in a wide variety of departments and fields.

If you’re interested in a shorter course of study, ELTE offers both Erasmus programs, and an intensive Hungarian-language program.

For those hoping to stay longer in Hungary’s beautiful capital, ELTE offers a truly broad array of international degrees for students from all over the world. In fact, ELTE’s status as a member of several university consortia means that it can grant dual degrees, too.  These programs give you a chance to study both at ELTE and another university, and receive diplomas from both! For a full list of programs offered, be sure to check out ELTE’s website for more information.

Semmelweis University—Study Medicine in Budapest, in English

If you’re looking for a Hungarian medical university for international students, Budapest’s Semmelweis is, without question, your best bet. Named after one of the pioneers of germ theory, Semmelweis is “the largest provider of healthcare services in Hungary.” As such, you’ll have no problem gaining the hands-on, practical medical knowledge that will be sure to prove vital in your future career.

What’s more, among universities in Budapest for international students, Semmelweis stands out with a truly global student body. Arriving from all over the world, international students account for nearly one-third of Semmelweis’ 14,000 students. Whether your fellow classmates are from Budapest or Botswana, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make new friendships that will last a lifetime.

Corvinus Unversity

Another great choice for international students looking to study in Hungary is Corvinus University. Situated on the banks of the Danube, Corvinus offers English-language programs at both the undergraduate and Master’s levels. What’s more, the school offers courses in English toward degrees in a variety of fields, with a particular focus on business, economics, sociology, and international relations.

And, importantly, Corvinus also offers a variety of scholarships for international students–making your education even more affordable!

McDaniel College: An American Campus in Budapest

If you happen to be an America looking for universities in Budapest for international students, there’s still one that will also grant you a US-accredited diploma for your trouble. That, of course, is McDaniel College!

Haven’t heard of McDaniel? That’s perhaps unsurprising, as this private college based in Maryland has just about 3,000 students total. Nevertheless, it is unique, in that it doesn’t just have a campus in Maryland. Perhaps unsurprisingly for a school on this list, it has one in Budapest as well.

At McDaniel College Europe, you can study in a “number of dynamic major programs, from art history, business, and communication, to political science and psychology—a variety of majors for a variety of students.” With small, intimate class sizes, you’ll be able to engage hands-on with your professors and instructors. This is a great opportunity for in-depth learning that might not be possible at other, bigger schools. And, of course, since McDaniel is accredited in the US, completion of a degree here means that you will be the proud recipient of an American university diploma. This, in and of itself, sets it apart among Hungarian universities for international students.

The Balassi Institute—Learning Hungarian in Budapest

Have you decided to try to learn what is, by some accounts, the hardest language in Europe for non-native speakers? Well, if you’re committed to a true challenge, then, of all the schools in Hungary for international students, this might just be the one for you. The Balassi Institute offers a variety of training and certificate programs. These are great for those interested in learning the Hungarian language, or learning more about Hungarian culture. Learn more about the Balassi Institute’s Summer University here.

Bonus: CEU Summer University

While its main campus has been moved to Vienna, Central European University, formerly Hungary’s highest-ranked institution of higher learning, continues to host a world-class summer university. Geared toward a variety of students, scholars, and professionals, the summer university is “a unique combination of study and professional development programs aimed at academics and practitioners from all over the world.” What’s more,  the summer university features courses taught by world-class scholars, experts in their fields of study, who have spent their lives dedicated to their craft. If you’re a graduate student, or an undergraduate looking for a truly intellectually rewarding experience, CEU’s Summer University might just be the perfect fit.

Dean’s: Top-Notch Housing for International Students

Regardless of which Hungarian university you ultimately choose, as an international student in Budapest, you’re going to need a place to stay. Certainly, you can stay in university dorms—although, more often than not, they’re cramped, with tiny rooms and no real accommodations to speak of. Alternately, you could try to find yourself an apartment or long-term Airbnb—but these are often pricey, and hard to navigate for a student unfamiliar with both the language and the city.

Luckily, though, there is a third way—Dean’s. Dean’s is a unique style of lodging in Budapest. Located conveniently near the city centre, Dean’s plays host to both short-term travelers, and international students staying in Budapest for a longer term. But whether your stay is long or short, Dean’s is your best bet!