Budapest Metropolitan University
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest Metropolitan University
Budapest, Hungary
Founded
2000
Institution Type
Private
Total Students
8,000+
QS Stars Rating
4 out of 5
Discover Budapest Metropolitan University (METU)
Discover Budapest Metropolitan University (METU)
Budapest Metropolitan University (METU) is the largest private university in Hungary, specializing in creative industries, business, communication, media, tourism, and the arts. Founded in 2000 as the Budapest College of Communication, the institution received state accreditation from the Hungarian Accreditation Committee and commenced teaching in 2001 with an initial enrollment of just 126 students.
Over two decades, METU has grown into a vibrant academic community of over 8,000 students, including approximately 1,000 international students from more than 100 countries. The university follows the Bologna Process and the ECTS credit system, ensuring that its degrees are internationally recognized across Europe and beyond.
METU distinguishes itself through its innovative myBRAND portfolio-based education system, which helps students build professional profiles from the start of their studies. The university also holds a partnership with Arizona State University, named the most innovative university in the United States for ten consecutive years by U.S. News and World Report.
Key Milestones
- 2000: Budapest College of Communication established with state accreditation from the Hungarian Accreditation Committee.
- 2009: Merged with Heller Farkas College of Economics and Tourism, becoming the largest private higher education institution in Hungary.
- 2016: Officially designated as Budapest Metropolitan University (METU), reflecting its expanded academic scope and metropolitan focus.
- 2020: METU becomes the University of Creative Industries, building upon its unique portfolio-based education method, myBRAND.
Academic Structure and Programs
Academic Structure and Programs
Budapest Metropolitan University offers a diverse range of bachelor's, master's, and higher-level vocational programs organized across specialized institutes. Programs are available in both Hungarian and English, with a strong emphasis on practical, industry-oriented education in four core fields: communication, business, tourism, and arts.
Institute of Business
Focuses on developing business professionals with strong analytical and managerial skills through practical training and industry partnerships with over 400 Hungarian and 300 international companies.
- BA in International Business Economics
- BA in Business and Management
- BBA in Business Administration
Institute of Digital Studies
Examines the relationship between digital technologies and social sciences, focusing on the impact of digital culture on communications, media, politics, and the economy.
- BA in Communication and Media Studies
- BA in International Relations
- MA in Communication and Media Studies
Institute of Tourism and Marketing
Provides tourism-focused education with extensive professional connections to the Hungarian Tourism Agency, hotel chains, and major hospitality organizations.
- BA in Tourism and Catering
- BA in Commerce and Marketing
- MA in Tourism Management
Institute of Visual Arts
Houses one of the largest art faculties in Hungary, offering creative programs in photography, graphic design, media design, film, and animation.
- BA in Graphic Design
- BA in Photography
- BA in Animation
Institute of Fashion and Textile Design
Emphasizes theory and practical research in fashion design, encouraging experimentation and innovation while preparing students for the creative industry.
- BA in Fashion and Textile Design
- BA in Media Design
- BA in Environmental Design
Institute of Methodology and Foreign Languages
Provides foundational courses in mathematical economics, statistics, informatics, and foreign language training, functioning as an official EURO, ITK-Origo, and TOEIC exam center.
- Mathematical Economics
- Statistics and Informatics
- Business and Special Language Courses
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Educational BackgroundCompleted secondary school education (high school diploma or equivalent)
- English ProficiencyIntermediate level: IELTS 5.5+ or TOEFL 69+ (certificate not always required)
- Academic TranscriptsOfficial transcripts translated into English or Hungarian
- GPA Requirement (BSc)GPA above 60% annually and in final exam; math grade above 60%
- Additional Requirements (BSc)Online mathematics test for BSc applicants
Graduate Admission
- Educational BackgroundBachelor's degree or above in a related field
- English ProficiencyUpper-intermediate level: IELTS 6.0+ or TOEFL 79+
- GPA RequirementOverall GPA above 60%
- Supporting DocumentsCV, motivation letter, and proof of relevant experience (for MBA)
- TranscriptsOfficial transcripts with English translation of previous academic records
Primary intake period. Most undergraduate and graduate programs are available for the September start.
Secondary intake with a limited selection of programs available for the February start.
Application deadline for the Hungarian government's fully funded scholarship program managed by the Tempus Public Foundation.
Non-EU students who pay first-year fees before the early bird deadline receive a 10% tuition discount.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Budapest Metropolitan University lists all tuition fees in euros. Costs vary by program level and specialization. Non-EU students may benefit from early bird discounts, and the university participates in several government-funded scholarship programs.
| Fee Category | EU/EEA Students | Non-EU Students |
|---|---|---|
| BA/BSc Tuition (per year) | EUR 4,750 - EUR 6,000 | EUR 4,750 - EUR 6,000 |
| MA/MSc Tuition (per year) | EUR 7,000 - EUR 7,200 | EUR 7,000 - EUR 7,200 |
| Accommodation (per year) | EUR 2,800 - EUR 3,500 | EUR 2,800 - EUR 3,500 |
| Living Expenses (per month) | EUR 150 - EUR 250 | EUR 150 - EUR 250 |
| Total | Contact the university for current totals | Contact the university for current totals |
Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
A fully funded scholarship by the Hungarian government covering tuition, monthly stipend, housing allowance, and health insurance for international students from 90+ partner countries.
- Coverage: 100% tuition waiver, monthly stipend, housing allowance, health insurance
- Monthly Stipend (BA/MA): HUF 43,700 per month (approximately EUR 135)
- Eligibility: Citizens of 90+ partner countries via bilateral agreements
METU Merit Scholarships
Internal scholarships awarded to fee-paying students pursuing full-time bachelor's or master's degrees, based on academic performance measured by the highest credit index.
- Types Available: National Higher Education Scholarship, MNB Scholarship of Excellence, Public Life Scholarship, METU Scholarship
- Eligibility: Full-time students with outstanding academic records and community contributions
- Early Bird Discount: 10% discount for non-EU students paying first-year fees before the early bird deadline
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
Budapest Metropolitan University operates across multiple campuses in Budapest, each designed to support specialized academic disciplines. The campuses feature modern buildings, creative studios, and a welcoming atmosphere that fosters collaboration and innovation.
The main campus hosts business, communication, and social science programs with modern classrooms and over 400 computer stations.
Opened in 2014, this campus is dedicated to media arts students with specialized studios for film, photography, and design.
Reconstructed and opened in 2010, this campus serves art, tourism, and catering students with dedicated workshop spaces.
Housing and Student Services
Accommodation Options
While METU does not operate its own dormitory, it assists students in finding suitable off-campus housing and partners with nearby residences such as Nova Inn in downtown Budapest.
- Partner dormitories near campus
- Shared apartment assistance service
- Affordable housing options from EUR 250-350 per month
Campus Technology and Resources
All campuses provide modern technologies including smart boards, a multimedia library, free WiFi, and dedicated studios for radio, television, and sound production.
- 400+ computer stations across campuses
- Radio and television production studios
- Language laboratory and official exam center
Student Life at METU
Student Life at METU
Life at Budapest Metropolitan University is dynamic and creatively charged. Students enjoy a vibrant international community with peers from over 100 countries, along with numerous extracurricular activities, workshops, and professional development opportunities throughout the academic year.
Budapest: A Vibrant European Capital
Budapest: A Vibrant European Capital
Living and Studying in Budapest
Budapest is Hungary's capital and largest city, strategically located in the heart of Europe with easy access to major European cities. The city is renowned for its rich cultural scene, UNESCO World Heritage sites, thermal baths, and an affordable cost of living compared to Western European capitals. International students benefit from monthly living costs of approximately EUR 600-1,000 including rent, food, and transportation.
Central European Location
Budapest's strategic position in the heart of Europe offers easy access to Vienna, Prague, and other major cities, with free movement within the EU Schengen Area.
Rich Cultural Heritage
The city boasts over 30 theaters, art galleries, numerous museums, and UNESCO World Heritage sites including the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue.
Affordable Cost of Living
Hungary offers a cost-effective living environment with rent prices on average less than half those in the UK or Germany, while providing a high quality of life.
Excellent Public Transport
A well-connected network of metro lines, trams, and buses makes commuting easy, with discounted student transportation passes available throughout the city.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Notable Employers of METU Graduates
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
METU assists international students with the student visa application process. You will need an acceptance letter, proof of financial means, health insurance, and accommodation details to apply at the nearest Hungarian consulate.
The Career Center provides job-seeking support, coaching, training services, and a Career Management Class at the start of each semester. The university also offers guidance on Hungarian work permits and job search strategies.
METU offers foundation and preparatory courses in 12 languages, along with Hungarian language classes to help international students integrate into local life and improve their employability.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Budapest Metropolitan University Rankings
Budapest Metropolitan University Rankings
Budapest Metropolitan University has earned recognition through various quality assessment frameworks. The university holds a 4-star QS Stars rating out of a maximum 5 stars, with the highest rating in the field of internationalization. As a specialized private institution focused on creative industries and applied sciences, METU's rankings reflect its niche strengths rather than broad research output.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Communication and Media Studies | QS Stars Specialist Criteria | Top Rated in Hungary (Private Sector) |
| Business and Management | QS Stars Specialist Criteria | Highly Rated |
| Arts and Design | QS Stars | Highly Rated |
| Internationalization | QS Stars | 5 Stars (Highest Rating) |
Features
Founded in 2000, Budapest Metropolitan University serves as the largest private higher education institution in Hungary. The university currently hosts 7,000 students across faculties including Arts, Business, and Communication. An academic staff of 400 members provides practical and industry-led instruction. Recognized for its international atmosphere and creative education model, the institution remains a key provider of career-focused learning in Budapest.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
January - June
1 week
September - November
1 week
Location
Budapest, Nagy Lajos király útja 1-9, 1148 Hungary
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