Budapest Business School
Hungary
Budapest Business School (Budapest University of Economics and Business)
Budapest, Hungary
Founded
1857
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
20,000+
International Students
80+ Countries
Discover Budapest Business School: The Oldest Public Business School in the World
Discover Budapest Business School: The Oldest Public Business School in the World
Budapest Business School, now officially known as Budapest University of Economics and Business (BUEB), is a public institution specializing in business studies and social sciences located in Budapest, Hungary. Founded in 1857 by the merchants and bankers of Austria-Hungary as the Pest Academy of Commerce, it holds the distinction of being the oldest public business school in the world and the second oldest among all business schools, after ESCP Business School in Paris.
The university was formally established in its current form on January 1, 2000, through the merger of three previously successful colleges: the College of International Management and Business, the College of Finance and Accountancy, and the College of Commerce, Hospitality and Tourism. In February 2025, the institution was reclassified from a university of applied sciences to full university status by the Hungarian Parliament, reflecting its academic growth and research achievements.
As the largest business school in Hungary with a vibrant student community of over 20,000, the university conducts education and research in leadership, economics, operations management, marketing, entrepreneurship, and organizational behavior. It offers programs in Hungarian, English, French, and German, and maintains professional connections with more than 200 institutions of higher education across 46 countries.
Key Milestones
- 1857: Founded as the Pest Academy of Commerce, the first business school in Austria-Hungary and Central Europe
- 2000: Budapest Business School established through the merger of three successful colleges
- 2010: Awarded the Higher Education Quality Award by the Hungarian Ministry of Education
- 2025: Reclassified to full university status and renamed Budapest University of Economics and Business
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
Budapest Business School is organized into three main faculties, each with deep historical roots and specialized expertise in different areas of business education. The university offers 12 bachelor's degree programs and 12 master's degree programs, as well as doctoral studies, with instruction available in English, French, German, and Hungarian.
Faculty of Finance and Accountancy (FFA)
The top-ranked faculty in Hungary for finance education, FFA offers rigorous programs in financial analysis, accounting, and economic policy. Located in the Zugló district on Buzogány Street, it has consistently ranked first on Hungary's university faculty popularity list.
- Finance and Accounting (BSc)
- Master of Finance (MSc)
- Economic Analysis (BA)
Faculty of International Management and Business (FIMB)
Tracing its origins to 1957 as the Foreign Trade Vocational School, FIMB specializes in preparing students for international business careers with intensive foreign language training in languages including Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Arabic.
- International Business Economics (BSc)
- Master of International Business (MSc)
- Business Administration and Management (BA)
Faculty of Commerce, Hospitality and Tourism (FCHT)
Located on Alkotmány Street in the heart of Budapest near the Parliament Building, FCHT carries on the legacy of the original 1857 Pest Academy of Commerce. It is a leading center for tourism management and hospitality education in Central Europe.
- Tourism and Catering (BA)
- Commerce and Marketing (BSc)
- Master of Tourism Management (MSc)
Doctoral School of Entrepreneurship and Business
The BUEB Doctoral School focuses on research and education related to business and management issues in small and medium-sized enterprises. It offers PhD-level studies for students seeking to advance academic and applied research in entrepreneurship.
- PhD in Entrepreneurship and Business
- Doctoral Research in SME Management
- Applied Business Research
Budapest LAB Entrepreneurship Centre
One of four centres of excellence at BUEB, Budapest LAB supports entrepreneurial education, startup incubation, and innovation-driven research. It connects students with the Hungarian startup ecosystem and business community.
- Startup Incubation Programs
- Entrepreneurship Workshops
- Innovation and Business Development
Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Hospitality
This research centre focuses on sustainable practices in the hospitality and tourism sectors, aligning with the university's commitment to responsible business education and environmental sustainability through the PRME network.
- Sustainable Tourism Research
- Green Hospitality Management
- ESG and Corporate Responsibility
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- EducationCompleted high school diploma or equivalent
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 72 minimum (B2 level)
- Entrance ExamOnline admission interview and mathematics test
- DocumentsTranscripts, motivation letter, passport copy, CV
- Academic RecordStrong GPA required; varies by program
Graduate Admission
- EducationCompleted bachelor's degree in a related field
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 79 minimum
- Entrance ExamOnline interview assessing motivation and English skills
- DocumentsTranscripts, motivation letter, letters of recommendation, CV
- Additional RequirementsResearch proposal required for doctoral applicants
Application deadline for the Hungarian government-funded scholarship programme for the following academic year
Final deadline for self-funded international applications for the September intake
Beginning of the academic year for all undergraduate and graduate programs
Start of the spring semester for programs offering a February intake
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Budapest Business School offers highly affordable tuition compared to Western European and North American institutions, making it an attractive option for international students. Fees vary by program and level of study, and several scholarship opportunities are available to reduce costs further.
| Fee Category | EU/EEA Students (per year) | Non-EU Students (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | EUR 2,500 | EUR 2,500 |
| Graduate Tuition | EUR 3,000 | EUR 3,000 |
| Dormitory Accommodation | EUR 100/month (shared) | EUR 100/month (shared) |
| Estimated Living Costs | EUR 400-600/month | EUR 400-600/month |
| Total | Approx. EUR 4,000-5,500/year total | Approx. EUR 4,000-5,500/year total |
Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
A fully funded scholarship programme offered by the Hungarian government for international students from partner countries, covering tuition, accommodation, and providing a monthly stipend plus healthcare insurance.
- Coverage: Full tuition, dormitory, monthly stipend, healthcare
- Eligibility: Citizens of partner countries with bilateral agreements
- Application: Apply via apply.stipendiumhungaricum.hu by January 15
Erasmus+ Exchange Scholarship
Through the Erasmus+ programme, BBS students can spend one or two semesters at partner universities across the EU and receive a monthly scholarship of EUR 470-520 to support their study abroad experience.
- Monthly Stipend: EUR 470-520 per month
- Duration: 2-12 months per study cycle
- Requirement: B2 language proficiency in instruction language
Campus and Facilities Across Budapest
Campus and Facilities Across Budapest
Budapest Business School operates multiple campuses spread across the Hungarian capital, each housed in architecturally significant buildings with deep historical connections. The university's facilities include modern libraries, computer labs, sports facilities, student lounges, and dormitories to support a comprehensive student experience.
The historic downtown campus built in 1885, home to the Faculty of Commerce, Hospitality and Tourism, located next to the Hungarian Parliament Building
The university's main administrative headquarters in a neoclassical building designed in 1872, located in downtown Budapest's 5th district
The suburban campus in Budapest's 16th district, housing the Faculty of International Management and Business with green surroundings
Housing and Student Services
Accommodation Options
The university provides on-campus dormitory accommodation for students at affordable rates, as well as assistance with finding off-campus apartments in Budapest's rental market.
- BBS Hall of Residence dormitories (approx. EUR 100/month shared)
- Off-campus apartment assistance (EUR 200-300/month)
- Student kitchens and canteens available on campus
Academic Facilities
Each campus is equipped with modern facilities to support teaching, research, and student life, including well-stocked libraries and digital learning platforms.
- University libraries with extensive book and journal collections
- Computer labs and online learning platforms
- Sports facilities and student recreation areas
Student Life at Budapest Business School
Student Life at Budapest Business School
Budapest Business School offers a vibrant student life with more than 25 student organizations, cultural events, and a strong international community with students from over 80 countries. From freshman camps to annual balls and business competitions, there are numerous ways to engage beyond the classroom.
Budapest: A Vibrant European Capital for Students
Budapest: A Vibrant European Capital for Students
Living and Studying in Budapest
Budapest, the capital and most populous city of Hungary, is one of Europe's most exciting and student-friendly cities. With its rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and affordable cost of living compared to other European capitals, Budapest offers an ideal environment for international students seeking a memorable study abroad experience in the heart of Central Europe.
Affordable Cost of Living
Budapest offers significantly lower living costs than Western European capitals, with affordable public transport, dining, and entertainment options for students
Central European Hub
Budapest's strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring Europe, with easy access to Vienna, Prague, and other major cities by train or budget airlines
Rich Cultural Heritage
From thermal baths and ruin bars to world-class museums and the UNESCO-listed Danube riverbanks, Budapest offers a unique blend of history and modern culture
International Business Hub
Numerous multinational companies maintain offices in Budapest, providing internship and career opportunities for business students in Central Eastern Europe's leading business city
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Notable Business Partners and Employers
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The university's International Office provides comprehensive assistance with visa applications, academic counseling, cultural adjustment, and administrative matters for students from over 80 countries.
Non-EU students need to apply for a student visa at the nearest Hungarian embassy or consulate. Required documents include the acceptance letter, proof of financial means, valid passport, and health insurance.
International students are required to have valid health insurance during their studies. Stipendium Hungaricum scholars receive healthcare coverage as part of their scholarship package. A medical certificate of satisfactory health is required for enrollment.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University Rankings and Academic Recognition
University Rankings and Academic Recognition
Budapest Business School has earned recognition both nationally and internationally for its business education programs. As the largest business school in Hungary and one of the oldest in Europe, it consistently ranks among the top institutions for business and economics education in the region.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Business | EduRank | #14 in Hungary |
| Economics | EduRank | #14 in Hungary |
| Finance & Accounting | HVG Diploma | #1 in Hungary |
| Tourism Management | HVG Diploma | #1 in Hungary |
Features
At the request of the Minister for Innovation and Technology, since 1 August 2021 I have had the privilege of supporting, in this capacity, the operation and development of the Budapest University of Economics and Business as it transitions to an institution of higher education maintained by a foundation. \n\nI believe that, by building on BUEB’s traditions and community, renewal offers opportunities for further development and innovation. \n\nBuilding on its nearly 170-year history and on the synergy between education, research, and the business world, BUEB continues to contribute to the development of our country through highly qualified professionals possessing up-to-date, competitive knowledge, and through research that directly benefits society. It can justifiably be proud of its achievements, its outstanding professionals, and its students.
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
May - July
Location
1055 Budapest, Markó u. 29-31.
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