Corvinus University
Budapest, Hungary
Corvinus University of Budapest
Budapest, Hungary
Founded
1920
Institution Type
Private Research University
Total Students
~11,500
International Students
1,800+
Discover Corvinus University of Budapest
Discover Corvinus University of Budapest
Corvinus University of Budapest is Hungary's leading institution in business administration, economics, and social sciences. Operating as a private research university since 2019 under the Maecenas Universitatis Corvini Foundation, it offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in Hungarian, English, French, and German.
The university traces its origins to 1920, when the Faculty of Economics was established at the Royal Hungarian University. It became an independent institution in 1948 as the Hungarian University of Economics and adopted its current name in 2004, inspired by the famed Bibliotheca Corviniana of King Matthias Corvinus.
Corvinus holds dual international institutional accreditations from AACSB and AMBA, making it the only university in Hungary with both distinctions in economics. It is also the sole Hungarian member of the prestigious CEMS global alliance of business schools, with nearly 200 partner institutions worldwide.
Key Milestones
- 1920: Faculty of Economics established at the Royal Hungarian University, launching university-level economics education in Budapest.
- 1948: Hungarian University of Economics founded as an independent institution, beginning modern economist training in Hungary.
- 2004: University renamed Corvinus University of Budapest after integrating horticulture faculties and the College of Public Administration.
- 2019: Transitioned to a private university governed by the Maecenas Universitatis Corvini Foundation, backed by major Hungarian corporate assets.
Academic Structure and Programs
Academic Structure and Programs
Corvinus University restructured its academic organization into institutes for the 2019/20 academic year, moving away from the traditional faculty model. The university offers a comprehensive range of programs across business, economics, social sciences, and data analytics, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary and practice-oriented education.
Institute of Business
The flagship academic unit focusing on business administration, management, and leadership, housing the AACSB- and AMBA-accredited business programs and the renowned Corvinus MBA Center.
- BSc in Business and Management
- MSc in Management and Leadership (CEMS)
- Executive MBA
Institute of Economics
Covers core economics disciplines including applied economics, finance, and economic policy, with strong research output in mathematical economics and development studies.
- BA in Applied Economics
- MSc in Economics
- MSc in Finance
Institute of Communication and Sociology
Offers programs in communication studies, sociology, and media, preparing students for careers in public relations, journalism, and social research.
- BA in Communication and Media Studies
- BA in Sociology
- MSc in Communication and Media Science
Institute of International, Political and Regional Studies
Focuses on international relations, political science, and regional development, providing a global perspective on governance and diplomacy.
- BA in International Relations
- BA in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE)
- MSc in International Economy and Business
Institute of Data Analytics and Information Systems
Combines computer science, data analytics, and information systems with a focus on artificial intelligence, business intelligence, and digital transformation.
- BSc in Applied Informatics
- MSc in Business Informatics
- MSc in Data Science and Business Analytics
Institute of Sustainable Development
Addresses sustainability, environmental management, and regional science, integrating ecological and economic perspectives for responsible development.
- BSc in Environmental Engineering
- MSc in Regional and Environmental Economics
- MSc in Intellectual Property Management
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary EducationCompleted secondary school diploma equivalent to Hungarian érettségi
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 72 minimum
- MathematicsGCSE/IGCSE grade 6 (B) or equivalent for select programs
- Entrance ExamOnline written exam in English and Mathematics (program-dependent)
- Application FeeContact university for current fee amount
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeRecognized bachelor's degree in a relevant field
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 72 minimum
- Entrance ExamOnline written professional test plus oral interview (10-15 minutes)
- Standardized TestsGMAT 500+ or GRE 300+ accepted in lieu of written exam
- Documents RequiredTranscripts, CV, motivation letter, English certificate, passport copy
Primary deadline for self-funded bachelor's and master's applicants for the September intake.
Application deadline for students applying through the Hungarian government scholarship program.
Pay first semester tuition by this date after passing entrance exams by end of February to receive a 10% tuition discount.
Late application window for remaining available places in select programs for the September intake.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Corvinus University offers competitive tuition fees for international students, with rates that remain fixed for the duration of your studies. Budapest is one of Europe's most affordable student cities, making Corvinus an excellent value proposition for quality business and economics education.
| Cost Category | EEA Students (HUF/year) | Non-EEA Students (EUR/year) |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Tuition | HUF 440,000 - 780,000 | EUR 4,800 - 6,000 |
| Master's Tuition | HUF 440,000 - 960,000 | EUR 4,800 - 6,800 |
| MBA Tuition | Contact university | EUR 7,200 - 13,000 |
| Estimated Living Costs | HUF ~250,000/month | EUR 500 - 1,100/month |
| Total | Contact university for program-specific totals | EUR 3,800 - 13,000/year (tuition only) |
Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
A fully funded scholarship offered by the Hungarian government to students from over 90 countries, covering tuition, accommodation support, and a monthly stipend.
- Coverage: Full tuition waiver plus monthly living allowance
- Accommodation: Free dormitory place or HUF 40,000/month housing contribution
- Eligibility: Citizens of 90+ partner countries on 5 continents
Corvinus Merit Scholarship
A performance-based scholarship offered by the university to self-funded students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement during their studies.
- Award Amount: Up to 100% tuition waiver based on academic merit
- Performance Grant: Up to approximately EUR 200/month for top-performing students
- Alumni Discount: 30% tuition discount on Master's programs for Corvinus graduates
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
Corvinus University's campus is situated in the heart of Budapest on the banks of the Danube River. The main building, the historic Fővám Palace designed by renowned architect Miklós Ybl, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that combines neo-renaissance grandeur with modern academic facilities.
The iconic main building houses the rector's offices, lecture halls, and most university services in a stunning UNESCO-listed neo-renaissance structure.
Completed in 2007, this high-tech building features modern classrooms, seminar rooms, and the university's 450-seat central library.
Originally built in the 1890s as a customs office, the Salt House now serves as the university's IT center and technological hub.
Housing and Student Services
Accommodation Options
The university does not provide on-campus dormitories but assists students in finding accommodation in Budapest's affordable rental market.
- University dormitory rooms: EUR 100-200/month
- Private flat rentals: EUR 250-750/month
- Shared apartment options available near campus
Campus Resources
Students have access to a comprehensive range of academic and recreational facilities across the three Budapest campus buildings and the Ménesi Street Sports Center.
- Central library with 100,000+ books and journals
- Modern computer labs and IT infrastructure
- Sports Center with gym and multiple sports clubs
Student Life at Corvinus
Student Life at Corvinus
Corvinus University boasts one of the most active student communities in Hungary, with over 40 student organizations and a diverse international student body from more than 80 countries. The university hosts annual events including the Corvinus Carnival and Culture Day, creating a vibrant multicultural campus atmosphere.
Budapest: A Premier Student City
Budapest: A Premier Student City
Living and Studying in Budapest
Budapest is consistently rated as one of Europe's top student cities, combining rich history, vibrant culture, and an exceptionally affordable cost of living. The city scored 92 out of 100 in the Economist Intelligence Unit's liveability ranking, placing it among the world's most liveable cities.
Affordable Living
Monthly living costs for students range from EUR 500 to EUR 1,100, making Budapest one of the most budget-friendly capitals in the European Union.
Cultural Heritage
Home to the Buda Castle, thermal baths, ruin bars, and a thriving arts scene, Budapest offers endless cultural experiences just steps from campus.
Central European Hub
Budapest's strategic location provides easy access to Vienna, Prague, and other major European cities by train or budget airlines.
Excellent Public Transport
The campus is well-connected by metro, tram, and bus lines, with discounted student travel passes available for the entire Budapest transit network.
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Where Corvinus Graduates Work
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The international admissions office guides students through the Hungarian student visa and residence permit process, issuing the Admission Decision document needed for visa applications.
Corvinus offers preparatory programs for students who need additional academic or English language preparation before starting their degree, with B1 English as the minimum entry level.
Dedicated career advisors provide one-on-one consultations, internship placement support, and employer networking events including the semester Career and Business Festival.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
Worldwide University Rankings
Worldwide University Rankings
Corvinus University of Budapest is recognized internationally for its strength in business, economics, and social sciences. It holds AACSB and AMBA accreditations and consistently ranks among the top institutions in Central and Eastern Europe for its core disciplines.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| International Trade (MBA) | QS International Trade Rankings | #20 |
| Economics | EduRank Global | #949 |
| Business | EduRank Global | #1,071 |
| Business Administration (Regional) | Eduniversal | #1 in Eastern Europe |
Features
Established in 1948, Corvinus University of Budapest operates as the leading business and social science institution in Hungary. The university currently supports a population of 10,000 students across various specialized programs. A professional academic staff of 600 members facilitates high-level research and corporate-integrated training. Renowned for its prestigious accreditations and central urban campus, the institution remains a top destination for future economic and social leaders 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
January - April
3 week
Location
Budapest, Fővám tér 8, 1093 Hungary
Map not found.
Uni4Edu AI Assistant