University of Pécs
Pécs, Hungary
University of Pécs
Pécs, Hungary
Founded
1367
Institution Type
Public University
Total Students
22,000+
International Students
5,700+
Discover the University of Pécs: Hungary's Oldest University
Discover the University of Pécs: Hungary's Oldest University
Founded in 1367 by King Louis I the Great, the University of Pécs (Pécsi Tudományegyetem, PTE) holds the distinction of being the first university in Hungary and the fourth in Central Europe. With over 650 years of academic tradition, it has grown into one of the largest and most internationally recognized institutions of higher education in Hungary, offering more than 500 study programs across 10 faculties.
Today, the University of Pécs is a comprehensive research university employing over 2,400 teaching and research staff members. The university offers more than 100 programs taught in English and German, covering disciplines from medicine and natural sciences to engineering, law, business, and the arts. It proudly hosts over 5,700 international students from 146 countries, making it one of the most internationalized universities in Hungary.
Located in the culturally rich city of Pécs, a 2010 European Capital of Culture and home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the university operates as a multi-campus institution with buildings spread throughout the city. The Szentágothai Research Centre and the UP Clinical Centre, one of Hungary's largest healthcare providers, underscore the university's commitment to cutting-edge research and practical education.
Key Milestones
- 1367: King Louis I the Great founds the first university in Hungary in Pécs, with papal permission from Pope Urban V.
- 1921: The Royal Hungarian Elizabeth University relocates from Bratislava to Pécs, establishing the modern university's legal predecessor.
- 2000: Higher education integration creates the modern University of Pécs by merging several institutions under one umbrella.
- 2010: Pécs is designated European Capital of Culture, spurring major campus and city-wide renewal projects.
Academic Structure and Faculties
Academic Structure and Faculties
The University of Pécs comprises 10 faculties and over 20 doctoral schools, offering a comprehensive range of BA, BSc, MA, MSc, PhD, and DLA programs under the Bologna system. With more than 100 English-taught programs, the university provides international students with diverse academic pathways across virtually every major discipline.
Faculty of Medicine (Medical School)
One of the university's flagship faculties, offering WHO-accredited programs in medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy with over 40 years of English-language instruction and hands-on clinical training at the UP Clinical Centre.
- General Medicine (MD, 6 years)
- Dentistry (DMD, 5 years)
- Pharmacy (PharmD, 5 years)
Faculty of Business and Economics
Provides internationally competitive programs in business administration, economics, and finance, with Erasmus+ exchange opportunities and industry partnerships enhancing career readiness.
- Business Administration and Management (BA)
- Applied Economics (MSc)
- Marketing (MA)
Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
Offers a broad range of programs in languages, history, philosophy, psychology, and social sciences, with strong research output in liberal arts and interdisciplinary studies.
- International Relations (BA)
- Psychology (BA/MA)
- English Studies (BA)
Faculty of Sciences
Covers natural sciences including biology, chemistry, physics, geography, and mathematics, with active research programs and access to the Szentágothai Research Centre.
- Biology (BSc/MSc)
- Chemistry (BSc)
- Earth Sciences (BSc)
Pollack Mihály Faculty of Engineering and Informatics
Delivers programs in engineering, architecture, and computer science with industry partnerships including collaborations with companies like IBM and Bosch, emphasizing practical skills and innovation.
- Computer Science Engineering (BSc)
- Architecture (BSc/MSc)
- Electrical Engineering (BSc)
Faculty of Law
One of the oldest law faculties in Hungary, tracing its roots to the university's medieval founding, offering programs in Hungarian and European law with a strong international perspective.
- Law (LLB, 5 years)
- European and International Business Law (LLM)
- Political Science (BA)
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary EducationCompleted high school diploma or equivalent recognized qualification
- English ProficiencyIELTS 5.5+ overall or TOEFL iBT 72+
- Entrance ExaminationRequired for medical programs (Biology and Chemistry); can be taken online
- Application FeeNon-refundable application fee required (varies by program)
- Supporting DocumentsTranscripts, motivation letter, passport copy, and health certificate
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeCompleted bachelor's degree in a relevant field from a recognized institution
- English ProficiencyIELTS 5.5+ overall or TOEFL iBT 72+; some programs may require higher scores
- Academic TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all previous higher education institutions
- Research ProposalRequired for doctoral (PhD/DLA) applications along with supervisor approval
- Additional RequirementsProgram-specific prerequisites may apply; check the faculty website for details
Most undergraduate and master's programs for the autumn semester intake.
Some programs accept late applications until the end of July. Check specific program pages.
Application period opens for Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy programs.
Deadline for the Hungarian government scholarship program applications through the Tempus Public Foundation.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees and Scholarships
The University of Pécs offers some of the most affordable tuition fees in Europe for international students. Fees vary significantly by program and faculty, with medical programs at the higher end and humanities and social science programs being more affordable.
| Program Category | EU/EEA Students (per year) | Non-EU Students (per year) |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine / Dentistry | USD 15,000 – USD 17,500 | USD 15,000 – USD 17,500 |
| Engineering / Sciences | EUR 5,000 – EUR 7,000 | EUR 5,000 – EUR 8,000 |
| Business / Humanities / Law | EUR 5,000 – EUR 6,500 | EUR 5,000 – EUR 8,000 |
| Master's Programs (non-medical) | EUR 5,000 – EUR 7,000 | EUR 5,000 – EUR 8,000 |
| Total | EUR 2,700 – USD 17,500 | EUR 3,800 – USD 17,500 |
Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
A prestigious Hungarian government scholarship program designed to attract top international students to Hungarian universities. It covers tuition, provides a monthly stipend, and includes health insurance.
- Coverage: Full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and health insurance
- Eligibility: Students from partner countries at all levels (BA, MA, PhD)
- Application: Apply through the Tempus Public Foundation by February each year
Bilateral State Scholarships
Available to foreign nationals who have graduated from Hungary and wish to pursue further higher education at a Hungarian institution, offered through bilateral agreements between governments.
- Coverage: Tuition waiver and monthly stipend (varies by agreement)
- Eligibility: Graduates from partner countries with bilateral agreements
- Application: Apply through your home country's scholarship agency or embassy
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
The University of Pécs is a multi-campus institution with buildings spread throughout the historic city of Pécs. From beautifully restored historic buildings to modern purpose-built facilities, the university offers students a unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary academic infrastructure.
The recently expanded Medical School features a modern 12,000 square meter wing with cutting-edge teaching and clinical facilities.
Located on Ifjúság street, the campus includes a Botanical Garden and modern classrooms alongside historic architecture.
A state-of-the-art research hub housing medical and scientific research programs across multiple disciplines.
Housing and Student Services
Student Accommodation
The university operates ten residence halls located in quiet residential areas throughout Pécs. Students are generally placed in dormitories close to their faculty buildings.
- 10 residence halls across the city
- Affordable dormitory rates for all students
- Private apartment rentals also widely available
Campus Facilities
Students enjoy access to modern libraries, well-equipped laboratories, sports centers, and the UP Clinical Centre with its 28 clinics for medical training.
- Modern libraries including the historic Klimo Library
- Sports centers and recreational facilities
- UP Clinical Centre with 28 clinics
Student Life at the University of Pécs
Student Life at the University of Pécs
Student life at the University of Pécs is vibrant and diverse, enriched by a large international community from over 146 countries. The compact, walkable city of Pécs offers a perfect setting for balancing academics with cultural exploration, social activities, and outdoor adventures in the Mecsek mountains.
Pécs: A City of Culture, History, and Student Life
Pécs: A City of Culture, History, and Student Life
Living in Pécs
Pécs is the fifth largest city in Hungary, nestled on the slopes of the Mecsek mountains in the country's southwest. Known as 'The Borderless City' for its multicultural heritage spanning 2,000 years, Pécs blends Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, medieval architecture, and modern European charm. The city was designated a European Capital of Culture in 2010 and offers an exceptionally affordable and walkable student-friendly environment.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Early Christian Necropolis of Pécs (Sopianae), with 4th-century burial chambers and Christian frescoes, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.
Affordable Cost of Living
Monthly expenses including accommodation, food, and transport start at approximately EUR 400, making Pécs one of the most affordable university cities in Europe.
Rich Cultural Scene
The Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, National Theatre, Vasarely Museum, and numerous festivals offer year-round cultural experiences for students.
Mediterranean Climate and Nature
Pécs enjoys a mild, Mediterranean-influenced climate and offers easy access to the Mecsek mountains for hiking, as well as the Harkány thermal spa just 30 minutes away.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Pathways and Industry Connections
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
Each faculty operates its own International Students' Office providing dedicated support for admissions, visa guidance, orientation, and academic advising throughout your studies.
The university assists international students with the Hungarian student visa and residence permit application process. After acceptance and deposit payment, the university issues the necessary documentation.
Students who need additional preparation for medical programs can enroll in a 10- or 16-month foundation year covering Biology, Chemistry, and English language skills.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Pécs: Worldwide Rankings
University of Pécs: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Pécs consistently appears in major international university rankings, recognized for its research output, international diversity, and strong medical and science programs. It ranks among the top universities in Hungary and in the EECA (Emerging Europe and Central Asia) region.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine | EduRank | #685 World / #4 Hungary |
| Business & Management Studies | QS Subject Rankings | #401 |
| Psychology | EduRank | #760 World / #4 Hungary |
| Biology | EduRank | #901 World / #5 Hungary |
Features
The University of Pécs is Hungary’s oldest university, founded in 1367, and today stands as a modern public research institution with strong international recognition. With around 20,000 students, including more than 5,000 internationals, and 1,400 academic staff, it offers nearly 500 programs across 10 faculties and a Clinical Centre. The university provides Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral, and one-tier undivided Master’s degrees in fields like medicine, law, business, engineering, arts, and sciences. Renowned for its Medical School and wide range of English-taught programs, it emphasizes research, innovation, and global collaboration. Located in Pécs, a cultural hub and UNESCO World Heritage city, the university combines rich traditions with a vibrant, multicultural student life.
Accommodation
The University of Pécs offers dormitories and assists students in finding private housing.
Work While Studying
International students with a valid residence permit may work part-time (up to 24 hours/week during term, 90 days full-time in holidays).
Co-op/Internship Participation
The university provides internship opportunities, career services, and support through faculty programs and Erasmus+ placements.
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - June
Location
Pécs, 48-as tér 1, 7622 Hungary
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