Budapest University of Economics and Business - Uni4edu

Budapest University of Economics and Business

Budapest, Hungary

Panoramic view of Budapest University of Economics and Business campus buildings in central Budapest, classical European architecture, tree-lined streets, Danube River visible in the distance, soft afternoon light

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)

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

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

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
Some programs do not require a formal IELTS or TOEFL score if English proficiency can be demonstrated through other means. Contact the admissions office for program-specific requirements.

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
PhD applicants must submit a research proposal and may be required to complete an interview. Contact the Doctoral School for specific requirements.
February 15
Early Application Deadline

Recommended deadline for international applicants seeking visa processing time and scholarship consideration.

April 30
Regular Application Deadline

Standard deadline for fall semester enrollment for self-funded international students.

January 31
Stipendium Hungaricum Deadline

Deadline for the Hungarian government scholarship program covering tuition, stipend, and housing.

June 30
Late Application Deadline

Final deadline for applications, subject to available places. Visa processing may be tight for non-EU students.

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 CategoryEU Students (per semester)Non-EU Students (per semester)
Bachelor's ProgramsEUR 1,500 - EUR 2,500EUR 1,800 - EUR 2,500
Master's ProgramsEUR 2,000 - EUR 3,000EUR 2,500 - EUR 3,000
PhD ProgramContact universityContact university
Registration / Admin FeesIncludedIncluded
TotalEUR 3,000 - EUR 5,000 per yearEUR 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

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.

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

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.

Student Organizations and Activities

BUEB students can join a wide variety of clubs, organizations, and professional associations that encourage networking, cultural exchange, and personal development.

Professional and Business Clubs

Student-run organizations focused on finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, and consulting, offering case competitions, guest lectures, and networking events with industry professionals.

Cultural and International Groups

International student associations and cultural clubs that organize events celebrating the diversity of the university's student body from over 90 countries.

Sports Communities

Various sports teams and fitness groups offering opportunities for recreational and competitive sports, from football and basketball to running and yoga.

Academic and Research Societies

Student research societies that participate in the National Student Research Society Conference, offering opportunities for academic publishing and presentation competitions.

Sports and Recreation

Hungarian University Sports Federation (HUSF)

  • Football
  • Basketball
  • Volleyball
  • Swimming
  • Running
  • Table Tennis
Active member of Hungarian university sports community

Budapest: A Vibrant European Capital

Panoramic view of Budapest cityscape at golden hour, Hungarian Parliament Building along the Danube River, Chain Bridge connecting Buda and Pest, thermal baths steam rising, historic rooftops
Budapest, the Pearl of the Danube, offers an extraordinary blend of history, culture, and modern urban life.

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

80%
Employed Within 2 Months
of graduates find employment shortly after completing their degree
1,000+
Corporate Partners
active professional relationships with leading companies
20,000+
Alumni Network
the largest business community alumni network in Hungary

Notable Employers and Partners

Ernst & Young KPMG PwC Nokia Robert Bosch Citi Global Microsoft Ritz-Carlton

Practical Information for International Students

For International Students

Visa and Residence Permit

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.

Health Insurance

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.

Language Support

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

International Admissions Office
  • +90 5435286292
  • +44 7868736984
  • corporate@uni4edu.com
  • info@uni4edu.com

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.

QS Sustainability Ranking
#1401-1500
2026
Times Higher Education Impact Rankings
Ranked
2025
Webometrics (Business Schools)
#1 Hungary / #33 Europe / #66 World
2020
EduRank National
#18 in Hungary
2025
SubjectRanking BodyRank
Finance and AccountingHVG Diploma Magazine#1 in Hungary
Tourism ManagementHVG Diploma Magazine#1 in Hungary
Human Resource ManagementHVG Diploma Magazine#1 in Hungary
Business (overall)EduRank#14 in Hungary
medal icon
#1401
Ranking
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4500
Graduate Students
badge icon
1100
Academic Stuf
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20000
Students
apartment icon
Public
Instution Type

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

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

Work While Studying

See guidelines on working while studying here.

Co-op/Internship Participation

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

Location not found

Map not found.

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