Medical and veterinary education in Hungary has a decades-old history of excellence that has only grown with modern advancements in the field. But what truly makes the country an excellent choice for international students is that Hungary is home to 1 of Europe's top veterinary schools. Best of all, Hungary's location in central Europe gives students access to a diverse range of wildlife, farm animals, and urban animal health challenges to learn from - perfect for future veterinarians who want a comprehensive, globally-focused education.
About Studying Veterinary Medicine in Hungary in English
Studying veterinary medicine in Hungary means going through a well-balanced curriculum that incorporates scientific knowledge with practical, hands-on experience from early on. Vet programmes here cover a broad spectrum of species, including small animals, farm animals, exotics and wildlife, with a special focus on the diverse challenges of European and Central European veterinary practices. The curriculum also places emphasis on contemporary issues such as animal welfare, public health, advanced research and the veterinary care of urban and rural animal populations.
For practical training, Hungarian veterinary schools work closely with a network of hospitals, clinics, farms, and research facilities, ensuring that students gain real-world experience in all types of veterinary environments. This includes clinical rotations in small animal practices and large animal care, allowing students to directly apply their knowledge and practise their skills.
Why Study Veterinary Medicine in Hungary?
High-quality education with international recognition
Veterinary programmes with full accreditation by the European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE)
Diverse practical training opportunities covering a wide range of species and clinical veterinary environments.
Central location with EU and Schengen membership, allowing convenient professional mobility and travel opportunities.
Home to modern medical and veterinary research and innovation. Students here get to participate in research projects that tackle global challenges, such as zoonotic diseases and biodiversity conservation.
Veterinary schools that are well-connected with key European veterinary associations and networks that give students opportunities for international collaboration.
Hungarian vet graduates get access to a wide range of professional development and career pathways across Europe, thanks to Hungary's membership in the European Union and its well-established veterinary framework.
Strong focus on sustainability and animal welfare through eco-friendly farming practices and humane animal care.
Affordable living expenses with a high quality of life
Semmelweis University was founded all the way back in 1769, making it the oldest medical school in Hungary. Throughout its history, it has educated some of the most influential minds in medicine, and continues to prepare students to the absolute highest standard of modern medicine. Today it hosts over 11,000 students, a third of which international.
McDaniel College Budapest is an American private college with a campus in Budapest. Since 1990 it has been preparing students determined to apply for a full-time medical course. During the preparatory course at McDaniel College, you will acquire knowledge in the basic science subjects necessary to apply for medical school. It prepares you for the entrance exams and grants you a competitive score.
Duna International College (DIC) was established in 2010 in Budapest, Hungary with the goal of fully preparing students for entrance exams and higher education at leading universities across the globe. DIC offers extensive preparatory programmes to help students get accepted to renowned universities in Hungary, the UK, the US, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Italy, Canada, and beyond.
The University of Debrecen has been offering its esteemed medical programmes in English since 1987, allowing international students who wish to study medicine in Europe the chance to graduate with degrees in medicine, dentistry and pharmacy. Today, the curriculum is internationally respected, and degrees from Debrecen are recognised in the UK and beyond.
The University of Pecs was founded in 1912, making one of Hungary's oldest and most prestigious institutes of higher learning. It currently hosts over 20,000 students, a fifth of which from outside Hungary and enrolled in one of the university's English-language programs, including medicine, dentistry and pharmacy.
The University of Szeged is one of the oldest and most important research institutes in Hungary. It offers programmes in medicine, pharmacy and dentistry taught entirely in English, including an 8-month pre-med year. Graduates' diplomas are recognised by the GMC and allow them to practise medicine anywhere in the world.
The University of Veterinary Medicine is the oldest veterinary school in Hungary, founded all the way back in 1787. In addition, it has also been teaching international students the longest, for over 30 years now. The curriculum will prepare students for real-world situations with practice at 4 different clinics for domestic and exotic animals.
Quick Facts
Location
Hungary
Courses
Veterinary
Tuition
Graduate Entry
No
Entrance Exam
Yes
Living Costs
Tuition Fees In Hungary
Average cost per year per course in Hungary
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VETERINARY
About the English‑Taught Veterinary Medicine Programmes in Hungary
Veterinary education in English is carried out via a 6-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree worth 360 European Credit Transfer System(ECTS) credits.
The curriculum is structured into 3 main periods:
Pre-clinical period (2 years). At the start of their education, students establish a strong foundation in the essential veterinary sciences, including Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Histology, Animal Nutrition, Genetics, and Veterinary Ethics. This phase also includes a farm practicum in animal husbandry.
Clinical-paraclinical period (3.5 years). During this phase, students progress into clinical subjects such as Pathology, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Parasitology, and Diagnostic Imaging (including X-rays and ultrasound). They also gain hands-on experience through simulation labs and clinical rotations in small and large animal practices, as well as in exotic animal care.
Clinical Internship (0.5 years). In the final semester, students complete a supervised research project and may choose a veterinary speciality for their thesis, followed by an internship.
Upon graduation, students are awarded an internationally recognised DVM degree, accredited by EAEVE. Both of these ensure that Hungarian veterinary degrees are accepted throughout the European Union and in many other countries worldwide.
The Best Veterinary Universities in Hungary
Hungary is home to 1 of Europe's leading vet schools, offering a world-class education in veterinary medicine in English:
Location: Budapest, Hungary Courses in English: Veterinary Medicine, Pre-med Tuition Fees: per year Entrance Exam: Yes
The University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest (UVMB) is a specialised veterinary school, founded in 1787. It is renowned for its high standards of teaching and research, with a focus on including practical experience in the curriculum from early on. The curriculum includes over 1,800 hours of hands-on clinical experience.
The university's DVM programme is fully taught in English and covers a broad range of core veterinary subjects. Students start out by gaining hands-on experience in modern simulation labs, followed by rotations in veterinary clinics, research facilities, and real-world animal care settings. The programme offers extensive clinical training across small, large, and exotic animal practices, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for a career in veterinary medicine.
The University of Veterinary Medicine in Budapest also provides students with the opportunity to participate in advanced veterinary research, thanks to its strong ties to national and international research institutions. The vet programme in English is accredited by EAEVE, meaning UVMB awards a globally recognised Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree that enables graduates to practice across Europe and globally.
Budapest itself is an excellent choice for veterinary students thanks to its incredibly rich international community and its strong network of animal care facilities, research centres, and veterinary practices. UVMB's connections to local clinics and research projects provide students with valuable hands-on experience, while the city's affordable living costs make it an excellent option for international students.
Graduate Entry Veterinary Medicine in Hungary
At the moment, the University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest does not offer a graduate-entry pathway for veterinary medicine.
Admission Requirements for Veterinary Medicine in Hungary
The requirements to study veterinary medicine in Hungary in English are:
A high school diploma with good grades in Biology and Chemistry.
Sitting an entrance exam in Biology, Chemistry, and English. Exam results are typically released within 2 days, and a free re-sit is available if needed. Native English speakers are exempt from the language exam.
English language proficiency, typically proven through IELTS, TOEFL, or a high school diploma taught in English.
Hungarian Veterinary Medicine Tuition Fees and Living Costs for International Students
Tuition fees for English-taught DVM programmes in Hungary are per year. As for living expenses, on average, international students in Hungary can expect to spend between and per month, depending on lifestyle and accommodation.
Below is a breakdown of typical monthly expenses:
Rent
Utilities
Transport
Food
Leisure
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Student Life in Hungary
Here's what students can expect while studying veterinary medicine in Budapest, Hungary:
Dynamic international student communities, thanks to the abundance of universities in Budapest.
High quality of life with affordable day-to-day expenses.
The Hungarian people are renowned for their hospitality and always happy to become friends with international students.
No language barriers, since most of the population, especially the younger generations, speak English well.
A central European country, which is part of both the European Union and Schengen. Thanks to its great location, students can easily travel by bus, train, or budget-friendly flights to explore Europe.
Hungary has a fascinating history with many grand castles, churches and charming medieval towns.
Career Opportunities for Graduates from Hungarian Veterinary Universities
Thanks to the strong veterinary medicine degree with international recognition, graduates from Hungary have access to a wide range of career prospects boh locally and internationally, including in:
Private veterinary practice in small and large animal practices, with opportunities to specialise in areas like surgery, internal medicine, or exotic animals.
Public health & government positions, focusing on food safety, animal welfare, and zoonotic disease control.
The veterinary pharmaceutical industry by working in research and development, regulatory affairs, or the sales of veterinary medicines and vaccines.
Academia, pursuing teaching and research roles at veterinary schools.
Regulatory affairs, ensuring that local veterinary practices and animal health products comply with relevant laws and regulations.
Consultancy in animal welfare organisations, or government bodies.
Wildlife and exotic animal care, often in collaboration with zoos, conservation projects, or wildlife rehabilitation centres.
Complete Student Support for Veterinary Medicine in Hungary
At Medlink Students, we are dedicated to making your journey as a veterinary student in Hungary as smooth and successful as possible.
Our Student Support Programme offers complete, personalised assistance throughout your education in Hungary, starting from your application and entrance exams, all the way to graduation and beyond. We provide full support with visa applications and relocation, ensuring a stress-free start to a fresh start in veterinary medicine.Upon arrival, our on-ground team in Budapest will help you get settled in, assisting with both finding accommodation and adjusting to life in Hungary. We're committed to making sure you feel comfortable and supported throughout your studies, which is why we continue to offer guidance during your studies and beyond. After graduation, we provide professional advice on your career opportunities to help you establish and build a successful veterinary career.
How long does it take to study veterinary medicine in Hungary?
The Doctor of Veterinary Medicine programme in Hungary lasts for 6 years. It grants 360 ECTS credits and is carried out entirely in English.
Can I work in the EU with a veterinary medicine degree from Hungary?
Yes, the DVM degree from Hungary is accredited by the European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE), ensuring international recognition across EU member states for veterinary licensure under mutual recognition agreements.
Do I need to speak Hungarian to study veterinary medicine in Hungary?
No, proficiency in Hungarian is not required for the English-taught programme. However, learning basic Hungarian can help you with daily life and communication during clinical placements.
How much does it cost to study veterinary medicine in Hungary?
The annual tuition fee for the DVM programme at the University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest is per year.
What are the living costs for veterinary students in Hungary?
Average monthly living expenses for international students in Hungary range from to , covering rent, utilities, food, transport, and leisure activities.
Is Hungary a good place for international veterinary students?
Yes, Hungary is an excellent choice, thanks to the country's strong specialised veterinary school, the University of Veterinary Medicine in Budapest. Additionally, the country is home to a well-established animal sector with excellent internship and career opportunities.
Can I work while studying veterinary medicine in Hungary?
Yes, international students are permitted to work part-time during their studies, subject to Hungarian labour laws.
How do I become a veterinary doctor in Hungary after graduation?
After completing the DVM programme, graduates can register with the HHungarian Chamber of Veterinarians (Magyar Állatorvosi Kamara) to obtain a licence to practice. The EU-recognised qualification also facilitates licensure in other EU countries.
What level of English proficiency is required to study veterinary medicine in Hungary?
A minimum of B2 level English proficiency is required for admission to the English-taught veterinary programme.
What clinical training does the veterinary medicine programme include in Hungary?
The curriculum includes over 1,800 hours of hands-on clinical experience across various disciplines, such as internal medicine, surgery, exotic animal care, and farm animal medicine.
What are the best veterinary universities in Hungary?
The University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest is the top veterinary school in Hungary, offering an English-taught DVM programme. It is renowned for its comprehensive education, strong research, and extensive clinical training opportunities.
Struggling to get accepted into medical university? As doctors, we help you secure entry into top recognised overseas universities where you can study in English. We provide full support, from application to graduation, ensuring you're well-prepared to return home and work successfully as a doctor.