Budapest University of Economics and Business
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest University of Economics and Business
Budapest, Hungary
Founded
1857
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
~20,000
Faculties
3
Discover Budapest University of Economics and Business (BUEB)
Discover Budapest University of Economics and Business (BUEB)
Budapest University of Economics and Business (BUEB) is the largest university dedicated to business education in Hungary, with nearly 20,000 students enrolled across its programs. Its roots trace back to 1857, when the Pest Academy of Commerce was founded by the merchants and bankers of Austria-Hungary, making it the oldest public business school in the world and the second oldest among all business schools globally, after ESCP Business School in Paris.
In its current form, BUEB was established in 2000 through the merger of three highly successful colleges, each of which became a faculty of the new institution. In December 2024, the Hungarian Parliament reclassified BUEB from a university of applied sciences to full university status, effective February 1, 2025, reflecting the institution's growing academic stature and research output.
BUEB emphasizes practical, experience-based learning and maintains active professional relationships with more than 1,000 companies, including prestigious partners such as Ernst and Young, KPMG, PwC, Nokia, and Ritz-Carlton. The university also hosts joint departments with Robert Bosch, Citi Global, and Microsoft, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the global job market.
Key Milestones
- 1857: Pest Academy of Commerce founded, establishing the oldest public business school in the world.
- 2000: Three colleges merged to form Budapest Business School, creating a unified institution with three faculties.
- 2017: Received NIBS accreditation and completed the Smart Campus on Berzsenyi Daniel Street.
- 2025: Reclassified to full university status and renamed Budapest University of Economics and Business (BUEB).
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
BUEB is organized into three faculties, each specializing in different areas of business and economics. The university offers 12 bachelor's degree programs in English, French, German, and Hungarian, along with 12 master's programs and a doctoral school, covering virtually all areas of economic sciences.
Faculty of Finance and Accountancy (FFA)
The most popular faculty in Hungary by enrollment, FFA offers programs in finance, accounting, and business informatics. It traces its origins to the Pest Academy of Commerce and is located on the Zuglo campus.
- Finance and Accounting (BSc/MSc)
- Business Informatics (BSc)
- Master of Finance (MSc)
Faculty of Commerce, Hospitality and Tourism (FCHT)
Located in District V on Alkotmany Street, FCHT specializes in commerce, hospitality, and tourism management. Its programs are accredited by the Institute of Hospitality and rank among the top in Hungary.
- Tourism and Catering (BSc)
- Commerce and Marketing (BA)
- Tourism Management (MSc)
Faculty of International Management and Business (FIMB)
FIMB focuses on international business, management, and communication. It offers multilingual programs and has a strong emphasis on preparing students for careers in global trade and multinational corporations.
- International Business Economics (BSc)
- Business Administration and Management (BA)
- Master of International Business (MSc)
Doctoral School of Entrepreneurship and Business
BUEB's doctoral school focuses on research and education related to business and management issues, with special attention to small and medium-sized enterprises. It offers an English-language PhD program.
- PhD in Management
- Applied Business Research
- Entrepreneurship Studies
Budapest LAB Entrepreneurship Centre
One of four centers of excellence at BUEB, Budapest LAB supports entrepreneurship education, startup incubation, and applied research in business development across all faculties.
- Startup Incubation Programs
- Business Development Workshops
- Entrepreneurship Mentoring
Centre of Excellence for Cybereconomy
This center focuses on applied research in digital economy, fintech, and data-driven business models. It supports cross-faculty initiatives in technology-enabled commerce and finance.
- Digital Economy Research
- Fintech Innovation
- Data Analytics for Business
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary EducationCompleted secondary school diploma or equivalent with good academic standing
- English ProficiencyB2 level or IELTS 6.0 (no subscore below 5.0), or equivalent proof
- Academic PerformanceScore or grading at the 75% level or higher recommended
- Application DocumentsTranscripts, motivation letter, copy of passport, and diploma
- Application MethodOnline application via the BUEB international admissions portal
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeCompleted bachelor's degree in a relevant field from an accredited institution
- English ProficiencyB2 level minimum; IELTS 6.0 or equivalent recommended
- Academic TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all previous higher education institutions
- Motivation LetterStatement of purpose outlining academic and career goals
- CV / ResumeUpdated curriculum vitae detailing academic and professional experience
Recommended deadline for international applicants seeking visa processing time and scholarship consideration.
Standard deadline for fall semester enrollment for self-funded international students.
Deadline for the Hungarian government scholarship program covering tuition, stipend, and housing.
Final deadline for applications, subject to available places. Visa processing may be tight for non-EU students.
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
BUEB offers competitive tuition fees compared to other European business schools, making it an attractive destination for international students. Fees vary by program and level of study, and multiple scholarship options are available.
| Fee Category | EU Students (per semester) | Non-EU Students (per semester) |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Programs | EUR 1,500 - EUR 2,500 | EUR 1,800 - EUR 2,500 |
| Master's Programs | EUR 2,000 - EUR 3,000 | EUR 2,500 - EUR 3,000 |
| PhD Program | Contact university | Contact university |
| Registration / Admin Fees | Included | Included |
| Total | EUR 3,000 - EUR 5,000 per year | EUR 3,600 - EUR 6,000 per year |
Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
A fully funded scholarship provided by the Hungarian government for international students, covering tuition fees, a monthly stipend, dormitory accommodation, and healthcare insurance.
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, dormitory, healthcare
- Eligibility: Citizens of partner countries with strong academic records
- Application Deadline: January 31 annually
Erasmus+ Exchange Scholarship
Available to students participating in the Erasmus+ program, providing a monthly grant of EUR 470-520 for study periods at BUEB partner universities across the EU.
- Monthly Grant: EUR 470 - EUR 520
- Duration: 1-2 semesters (2-12 months)
- Requirement: B2 language proficiency in the language of instruction
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
BUEB operates across multiple campuses in central Budapest, combining historic European architecture with modern educational facilities. The university has invested significantly in campus modernization, including the Smart Campus and the UniZone multifunctional student centre.
Completed in 2017, the Smart Campus features sustainable design, cutting-edge digital solutions, and flexible learning spaces for the Team Academy programme and Budapest LAB.
Inaugurated in 2023, UniZone houses the university library, sports facilities, study rooms, conference rooms, a restaurant, and flexible community spaces.
The university headquarters is located in a classic building on Marko Street in the 5th district, originally built as a grammar school and always serving educational purposes.
Housing and Student Services
Accommodation Options
While BUEB does not operate its own dormitories, students can choose from partner residences or the private rental market. Sharing a flat is a popular and affordable option among students in Budapest.
- Partner student residences available
- Private rental market assistance provided
- Stipendium Hungaricum covers dormitory costs
Campus Amenities
BUEB campuses offer modern learning environments with state-of-the-art laboratories, digital classrooms, and dedicated study spaces designed for collaborative and independent work.
- University library and digital resources
- Sports facilities and recreation areas
- Fintelligence Financial Education Centre
Student Life at BUEB
Student Life at BUEB
With nearly 20,000 students from over 90 countries, BUEB offers a vibrant and diverse campus community. The university organizes numerous cultural programs, professional events, and social activities throughout the academic year.
Budapest: A Vibrant European Capital
Budapest: A Vibrant European Capital
Living and Studying in Budapest
Budapest is one of Europe's most exciting and student-friendly cities, offering a rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and a vibrant social scene at a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other European capitals. The city's efficient public transportation system, including buses, trams, and the metro, makes commuting easy and convenient for students.
Affordable Cost of Living
Budapest offers significantly lower living costs than Western European capitals, with affordable accommodation, dining, and entertainment options ideal for students on a budget.
Rich Cultural Heritage
From the Buda Castle and thermal baths to world-renowned museums and the vibrant ruin bar scene, Budapest provides endless cultural and leisure experiences.
Central European Location
Budapest's central location in Europe makes it an ideal base for exploring neighboring countries, with Vienna, Prague, and Bratislava all easily accessible by train.
Student-Friendly City
With numerous universities and a large international student community, Budapest offers student discounts, events, and a welcoming atmosphere for young people from around the world.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Notable Employers and Partners
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
Non-EU students need a student visa and residence permit to study in Hungary. BUEB provides guidance on the application process. Apply early to allow sufficient processing time.
All international students must have valid health insurance during their studies. Stipendium Hungaricum scholars receive healthcare coverage; self-funded students must arrange their own insurance.
Programs for international students are taught in English. BUEB also offers language courses in Hungarian and other foreign languages to help students integrate and develop additional skills.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University Rankings and Recognition
University Rankings and Recognition
Budapest University of Economics and Business has earned recognition as Hungary's leading business education institution. In 2020, BUEB was ranked by Webometrics Research as the number one business school in Hungary, number 33 in Europe, and number 66 in the world. The university has also been included in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings for its sustainability activities.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Finance and Accounting | HVG Diploma Magazine | #1 in Hungary |
| Tourism Management | HVG Diploma Magazine | #1 in Hungary |
| Human Resource Management | HVG Diploma Magazine | #1 in Hungary |
| Business (overall) | EduRank | #14 in Hungary |
Features
Founded in 1857, Budapest University of Economics and Business serves as the primary hub for business education in Hungary. The university currently hosts 20,000 students across three specialized faculties. An academic staff of 1,100 members leads practical instruction and industry-focused research. Renowned for its historical legacy and high graduate employment rates, the institution remains a top destination for students pursuing commerce, hospitality, and finance in Europe.

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
April - May
3 week
September - November
3 week
Location
Budapest, Buzogány u. 10-12, 1149 Hungary
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