Corvinus University - Uni4edu

Corvinus University

Budapest, Hungary

Corvinus University of Budapest main building wide shot, neo-renaissance Fővám Palace on the Danube riverbank, Liberty Bridge visible in background, warm golden hour light reflecting on water, European cityscape

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

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

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

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
Cambridge FCE or higher, or completion of an internationally recognized preparatory program at B2 level, may serve as English proficiency proof. English as medium of instruction alone is not sufficient.

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
Graduates from a top 400 QS-ranked institution with a grade of A/excellent may receive automatic written exam exemption. An additional 10 bonus points are awarded for submitting GMAT/GRE results before April 1.
January 15
Self-Funded Application Deadline

Primary deadline for self-funded bachelor's and master's applicants for the September intake.

February 1
Stipendium Hungaricum Deadline

Application deadline for students applying through the Hungarian government scholarship program.

March 31
Early Payment Discount

Pay first semester tuition by this date after passing entrance exams by end of February to receive a 10% tuition discount.

May 15
Extended Application Period

Late application window for remaining available places in select programs for the September intake.

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 CategoryEEA Students (HUF/year)Non-EEA Students (EUR/year)
Bachelor's TuitionHUF 440,000 - 780,000EUR 4,800 - 6,000
Master's TuitionHUF 440,000 - 960,000EUR 4,800 - 6,800
MBA TuitionContact universityEUR 7,200 - 13,000
Estimated Living CostsHUF ~250,000/monthEUR 500 - 1,100/month
TotalContact university for program-specific totalsEUR 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

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.

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

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.

Student Organizations and Clubs

From professional development to cultural exchange, Corvinus offers a wide range of student-led organizations catering to diverse interests and career goals.

Professional and Academic Societies

Discipline-specific organizations including the Rajk László College for Advanced Studies, one of Hungary's most prestigious professional colleges founded in 1970.

International and Cultural Clubs

Student groups focused on cross-cultural exchange, language practice, and international networking, including the AIESEC chapter active since 1972.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Startup incubators, business plan competitions, and entrepreneurship workshops connecting students with Hungary's growing startup ecosystem.

Community and Social Impact

Volunteer organizations and social responsibility initiatives that engage students in community service and sustainability projects across Budapest.

Sports and Athletics

Hungarian University Sports Federation (MEFS)

  • Football
  • Basketball
  • Volleyball
  • Table Tennis
  • Judo
  • Running and Fitness
Sports Center at Ménesi Street with gym and club facilities

Budapest: A Premier Student City

Budapest panoramic cityscape at dusk, Danube River flowing between Buda hills and Pest flatlands, Chain Bridge illuminated, Parliament Building glowing, warm evening lights reflecting on water
Budapest's stunning Danube panorama, a UNESCO World Heritage cityscape

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

Contact university
Graduate Employment Rate
Most graduates secure positions within months of completing their degree
Contact university
Average Starting Salary
Competitive salaries in Hungary and across the EU for Corvinus graduates
100,000+
Alumni Network
Graduates in leadership positions across business, government, and finance worldwide

Where Corvinus Graduates Work

OTP Bank MOL Group Deloitte McKinsey & Company PwC National Bank of Hungary Gedeon Richter EY (Ernst & Young)

Practical Information for International Students

For International Students

Visa and Residence Permit Support

The international admissions office guides students through the Hungarian student visa and residence permit process, issuing the Admission Decision document needed for visa applications.

Language and Preparatory Programs

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.

Career Services Office

Dedicated career advisors provide one-on-one consultations, internship placement support, and employer networking events including the semester Career and Business Festival.

Key Contacts

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

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.

QS World University Rankings
#1001-1200
2025
Times Higher Education
#701+
2023
QS Business & Management
#351
2025
QS MBA Rankings (Global)
#151-200
2026
SubjectRanking BodyRank
International Trade (MBA)QS International Trade Rankings#20
EconomicsEduRank Global#949
BusinessEduRank Global#1,071
Business Administration (Regional)Eduniversal#1 in Eastern Europe
medal icon
#1200
Ranking
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3500
Graduate Students
badge icon
600
Academic Stuf
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10000
Students
apartment icon
Public
Instution Type

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

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

January - April

3 week

Location

Budapest, Fővám tér 8, 1093 Hungary

Location not found

Map not found.

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