Student Housing in Hungary: Dormitories, Private Rent and Deposits
Fee figures: catalogue of 6 October 2026.
In Hungary, student housing means one of two things: a place in a university dormitory (kollégium) or a flat or room on the private market. Dormitories are much cheaper but have limited places, so most international students end up renting at least part of the time. This guide covers both, with prices published for 2026/27. In October 2026 one euro was worth about 363 forints.
University dormitories
Dormitories are run by the universities themselves or by a company the university uses to operate them. You apply through your university, usually after admission. Places are limited, so ask the international office or your admissions coordinator for the deadline as soon as you accept your place.
Most dormitory rooms are shared by two to four students. Rooms with fewer beds and better facilities cost more. Prices published for 2026/27:
| Dormitory | Room | Monthly price |
|---|---|---|
| Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest (Bihari utca) | 3-bed, international students | HUF 40,000 (about €110) |
| Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest (Bihari utca) | 2-bed, international students | HUF 50,000 (about €140) |
| Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest (Múzeum utca) | 2-bed | HUF 75,000 (about €205) |
| Pázmány Péter Catholic University, Budapest (Múzeum utca) | single room | HUF 105,000 (about €290) |
| Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE) | self-financed international students | HUF 45,000 (about €125) |
Before you move in, you sign a dormitory contract and the university's terms. Read them: they set the payment dates, late fees, rules on guests and the move-out date. At MATE, for example, academic-year accommodation ends on 26 June.
Some universities in other cities, such as Debrecen, point international students to partner hotels and student hostels with their own price lists. Check what your university offers.
Stipendium Hungaricum students
If you hold a Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship, you get a free dormitory place where one is available. If not, you receive HUF 40,000 a month (about €110) towards your rent instead. See how much it costs to study in Hungary.
Renting privately
Many students rent a flat alone or share one with others. Expect to pay several times the dormitory price, especially in Budapest. The University of Debrecen tells its international students that a private flat there usually costs HUF 120,000 to 140,000 a month (about €330 to €385). Rents in Budapest are higher.
Things to agree before you pay anything:
- Deposit (kaució). According to Study in Hungary, the official portal for international students, landlords usually ask for at least two months' rent in advance, returned when you move out. Write down in the contract when and how it is returned.
- Overheads (rezsi). Many rents are quoted without utilities. Ask whether electricity, gas, water, heating and internet are included, and how they are billed.
- A written contract in a language you understand, with the address, rent, deposit, notice period and the landlord's details.
- Address reporting. You will need the landlord's signature on your address documents (see below). Make sure the landlord agrees to this before you sign.
Study in Hungary suggests asking the international coordinator or your mentor, student Facebook groups and agencies when you look for a room.
Reporting your address
- Non-EU students give a real Hungarian address in the residence permit application. If you move after that, you report the new address online through Enter Hungary, with a copy of your passport and an accommodation report signed by you and the landlord.
- EU, EEA and Swiss students staying more than 90 days apply for a registration certificate by the 93rd day after entry, with proof of their first address such as a lease. After that they receive an address card (lakcímkártya) by post.
See student visa for Hungary for the full procedure.
Avoiding scams
Never pay a deposit for a flat you or someone you trust has not seen, and be careful with offers well below the usual price or landlords who are "abroad" and want money by transfer. Our guide to finding student housing in Europe without being scammed explains the common tricks.
Practical tips
- Apply for a dormitory as soon as you are admitted, even if you plan to rent later. A dormitory makes the first semester easier.
- If you arrive without a room, book a short stay for the first weeks and look on the spot.
- Compare the total cost: a cheap rent without utilities can end up dearer than a dormitory.
Where to look next
- How to get into a university in Hungary
- How much it costs to study in Hungary
- Student visa for Hungary
- Recognition of foreign school certificates in Hungary
Official sources
- Study in Hungary: accommodation
- Pázmány Péter Catholic University: dormitory fees 2026/27
- University of Debrecen: accommodation
- Stipendium Hungaricum: scholarship benefits
- OIF: change of accommodation for students
Always check current information on the official website of the university before you apply.