Budapest University of Technology and Economics
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest University of Technology and Economics
Budapest, Hungary
Founded
1782
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
~24,000
International Students
~3,000
Discover Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME)
Discover Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME)
Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) is a public research university located in Budapest, Hungary, and is considered the world's oldest institute of technology with university rank and structure. Founded in 1782 by Emperor Joseph II as the Institutum Geometricum, it was the first institution in Europe to train engineers at university level and continues to award approximately 70% of Hungary's engineering degrees.
Today, BME comprises eight faculties with more than 110 departments and institutes. The university offers over 50 English-language degree programmes across engineering, natural sciences, economics, and management, with courses also available in German, French, and Russian alongside Hungarian.
BME's alumni include four Nobel Prize winners and world-renowned scientists and inventors, such as Ernő Rubik, inventor of the Rubik's Cube, and Dennis Gabor, who received the Nobel Prize in Physics for inventing holography. The university's strong industry connections and research output make it a leading force in Central European higher education.
Key Milestones
- 1782: Emperor Joseph II establishes the Institutum Geometricum, the first institution in Europe to award engineering degrees.
- 1872: Royal Joseph University gains full autonomy and becomes one of Europe's first institutions to train engineers at university level.
- 1984: Instruction begins to be offered in English alongside Hungarian, opening the university to international students.
- 2000: The institution is officially renamed Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME).
Academic Faculties and Programmes
Academic Faculties and Programmes
BME is organized into eight faculties covering a broad range of engineering, science, and economics disciplines. With more than 110 departments and over 50 English-language programmes, BME provides students with a strong theoretical foundation complemented by practical training shaped by industry requirements.
Faculty of Civil Engineering
One of BME's founding faculties, offering programmes in structural engineering, geotechnics, water resources, and infrastructure development with a strong emphasis on practical design projects.
- BSc in Civil Engineering
- MSc in Structural Engineering
- MSc in Infrastructure Engineering
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering
Covers a wide spectrum of mechanical engineering disciplines including energy engineering, manufacturing, and mechatronics, with access to advanced laboratories and industry partnerships.
- BSc in Mechanical Engineering
- MSc in Mechanical Engineering Modelling
- MSc in Energy Engineering
Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Informatics
A leading faculty in Hungary for electrical engineering and computer science, offering programmes that span embedded systems, telecommunications, software engineering, and artificial intelligence.
- BSc in Electrical Engineering
- BSc in Computer Science and Engineering
- MSc in Computer Science
Faculty of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology
Provides training in chemical engineering, pharmaceutical engineering, and biotechnology, with strong connections to Hungary's chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
- BSc in Chemical Engineering
- MSc in Pharmaceutical Engineering
- MSc in Biotechnology
Faculty of Transportation Engineering and Vehicle Engineering
Focuses on transport systems, logistics, vehicle engineering, and autonomous vehicle technology, combining theoretical knowledge with cutting-edge research in mobility.
- BSc in Transportation Engineering
- BSc in Vehicle Engineering
- MSc in Logistics Engineering
Faculty of Economic and Social Sciences
Offers programmes in business management, economics, and social sciences with a technology-oriented perspective, preparing graduates for leadership roles in technical and economic sectors.
- BSc in International Business Economics
- MSc in Finance
- MSc in Leadership and Organisation
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate (BSc) Admission
- Secondary EducationCompleted high school diploma or equivalent with strong academic standing, especially in mathematics and sciences
- English ProficiencyMinimum B2 level: IELTS 5.0, TOEFL iBT 72, Cambridge B2 First 160, or PTE Academic 29
- Entrance ExamElectronic e-admission exam or placement test required for most BSc programmes
- Application FormOnline application via the BME e-admission portal with supporting documents
- Additional DocumentsPassport copy, CV, motivation letter, and certified academic transcripts
Graduate (MSc / PhD) Admission
- Prior DegreeBachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field from a recognized institution
- English ProficiencyMinimum B2 level: IELTS 5.0, TOEFL iBT 72, or equivalent (PhD may have additional faculty-specific requirements)
- Entrance AssessmentElectronic e-admission exam or placement test; PhD applicants may have an interview with supervisor
- Application FormOnline application via the BME e-admission portal with all required supporting documents
- Additional DocumentsPassport copy, CV, motivation letter, academic transcripts, and reference letters (for PhD)
The application period for fee-paying international students begins for programmes starting in September.
Deadline for submitting applications and all supporting documents for the fall intake.
Deadline for applications to the Hungarian Government's Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship programme.
Deadline for spring intake applications; note that not all programmes are available for the spring semester.
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
BME offers competitively priced education compared to many Western European universities. Tuition fees are stated in EUR and vary by faculty and programme level. Several scholarship options are available to help international students fund their studies.
| Fee Category | EU Citizens (per year) | Non-EU Citizens (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| BSc Programmes (Engineering) | EUR 2,200 - 3,200 | EUR 3,200 - 5,000 |
| MSc Programmes (Engineering) | EUR 2,200 - 3,500 | EUR 3,500 - 5,000 |
| Pre-Engineering Programme | Contact university | EUR 3,200 approx. |
| PhD Programmes | Contact university | Contact university for current fees |
| Total | EUR 2,200 - 3,500 per year (varies by programme) | EUR 3,200 - 5,000 per year (varies by programme) |
Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
A fully funded scholarship by the Hungarian Government available to international students, covering tuition, monthly stipend, accommodation, and healthcare insurance.
- Coverage: Full tuition, monthly stipend, housing allowance, and medical insurance
- Eligibility: Citizens of partner countries with strong academic records
- Deadline: January 31 annually
BME Merit-Based Scholarships
BME offers its own merit-based scholarships for students demonstrating excellent academic performance during their studies.
- Type: Partial tuition reduction based on academic merit
- Eligibility: Enrolled BME students with outstanding grades
- Application: Contact BME International Office for details
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
BME's campus stretches along the Buda bank of the Danube River, divided into a historic Core Campus with classical buildings set among parks and a modern Southern (Lágymányos) Campus featuring contemporary architecture and high-tech laboratories. Walking from one end to the other takes about 20 minutes, with Budapest's vibrant Inner City just a 10-minute walk across the river.
The original campus features grand 19th-century buildings, a cathedral-like library designed by Samu Pécz, and tree-filled courtyards.
The newer campus wing houses state-of-the-art research laboratories, modern lecture halls, and the university's Innovation Center.
One of Hungary's most important technical libraries, housing extensive scientific collections and modern reading rooms.
Housing and Daily Life
Student Accommodation
BME offers a limited number of on-campus dormitory spaces. Many students find accommodation in private dormitories or rentals nearby, with costs ranging from EUR 200 to EUR 635 per month.
- On-campus dormitory rooms available
- Private rental support from the university
- Orientation week housing assistance for new students
Dining and Living Costs
Budapest is one of the most affordable capital cities in Europe. Food and additional monthly expenses are estimated at approximately EUR 170 to EUR 270, and health insurance costs about EUR 120 per semester.
- Campus cafeterias and nearby restaurants
- Affordable grocery stores within walking distance
- Excellent public transport connections (tram, metro, bus)
Student Life at BME
Student Life at BME
BME offers a vibrant student life enriched by its central Budapest location and diverse international community. With approximately 3,000 international students from over 100 countries, the university actively fosters cross-cultural exchange through clubs, events, and mobility programmes to over 350 European and 20 non-EU partner universities.
Budapest: A World-Class City for Students
Budapest: A World-Class City for Students
Living and Studying in Budapest
Budapest, Hungary's capital, is a vibrant metropolis known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and affordable cost of living. BME's campus sits on the Buda side of the Danube, just minutes from the city center, thermal baths, museums, and a thriving nightlife scene.
Affordable Cost of Living
Budapest is significantly more affordable than most Western European capitals, with low food, transport, and entertainment costs ideal for student budgets.
Rich Cultural Heritage
From the Buda Castle to the Hungarian National Museum and the famous ruin bars, Budapest offers endless cultural experiences and historical landmarks.
Excellent Public Transport
The city has an extensive metro, tram, and bus network. BME is served by multiple tram lines running along the Danube embankment.
Central European Hub
Budapest's central location makes it easy to travel to Vienna, Prague, Bratislava, and other European cities for weekend trips.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Employers of BME Graduates
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
BME's International Office assists with admissions, visa applications, orientation, and ongoing support throughout your studies. They also coordinate the Stipendium Hungaricum programme.
Free or affordable Hungarian language courses are available for international students to help with daily life and cultural integration in Budapest.
Non-EU students need a student visa. After graduation, you can stay in Hungary for up to 9 months on a job seeker visa by applying before your student visa expires.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
BME is Hungary's leading technical university and the only Hungarian institution consistently ranked in major international engineering and technology rankings. Its global visibility continues to rise across multiple ranking systems.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering and Technology | QS Subject Rankings | #226 |
| Civil Engineering | QS Subject Rankings | #101-150 |
| Business and Management | QS Subject Rankings | #501 |
| EECA Emerging Europe & Central Asia | QS Regional Rankings | #29 |
Features
Founded in 1782, Budapest University of Technology and Economics serves as a leading scientific center in Hungary. The university currently enrolls 21,000 students across eight faculties. An academic staff of 1,200 members facilitates advanced technical research and professional training. Recognized for its historical prestige and high graduate success rates, the institution remains a key destination for engineering and economic studies in Central 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
January - May
2 week
Location
Budapest, Műegyetem rkp. 3, 1111 Hungary
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