How long are the international students’ programmes at Semmelweis University in English?

General Medicine takes 6 years (12 semesters). Dentistry and Pharmacy take 5 years (10 semesters). Nursing BSc and Physiotherapy BSc take 4 years, while Nursing MSc is 2 years and Physiotherapy MSc is 1.5 years. Midwifery BSc and Dietetics BSc are 4 years.

What is Semmelweis University’s ranking?

Semmelweis University is ranked among the top 300 universities in the world for clinical and health sciences by Times Higher Education (THE). It is also recognised in QS World Rankings for Medicine and Life Sciences and is the highest-ranked medical university in Hungary.

What are the entry requirements for Medicine at Semmelweis University?

Applicants must have a high school diploma with strong results in Biology and Chemistry. Admission also requires an online multiple-choice entrance exam and an oral interview, both in English. A motivation letter and medical certificate are also part of the application.

What is Semmelweis University’s acceptance rate?

The acceptance rate varies by programme and year but is generally competitive. For Medicine, acceptance rates typically range between 20% and 30%, depending on applicant performance in the entrance exam and interview.

What are the fees for Medicine at Semmelweis University?

The tuition fee for the General Medicine programme is USD 9,950 per semester. Additional costs include books, materials, and student services. Fees are subject to annual updates by the university.

What courses are offered by Semmelweis University?

Semmelweis University offers the following English-taught programmes: General Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing (BSc & MSc), Physiotherapy (BSc & MSc), Dietetics (BSc), and Midwifery (BSc).

What are Semmelweis University’s tuition fees?

Tuition fees vary by programme. Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy are billed in USD per semester. Health Sciences programmes such as Nursing and Physiotherapy are billed in EUR per semester. Please check specific fees on each programme’s page.

Is it hard to get into Semmelweis University?

Admission is selective, especially for Medicine and Dentistry. Applicants are assessed based on academic background, entrance exam performance, interview results, and motivation. Preparation and guidance, like that provided by Desire2Study, significantly increase your chances.

Semmelweis University main building in Budapest

Study at Semmelweis University in Budapest

Semmelweis University is Hungary’s oldest and most prestigious medical university, with a 250-year tradition of excellence in health sciences. Located in the heart of Budapest, Semmelweis offers world-class education in English for students who wish to study medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, physiotherapy, dietetics, and midwifery.

The university is deeply committed to practical training and clinical exposure — with students spending significant time in laboratories, clinics, and simulation centres from early in their studies. Its degrees are internationally recognised, attracting students from over 70 countries.

Whether you’re aiming for a career as a doctor, dentist, pharmacist, or allied health professional, Semmelweis University combines rigorous academic preparation with immersive clinical practice in one of Europe’s most vibrant medical hubs.

About Semmelweis University

Founded in 1769, Semmelweis University is a leading institution in Europe for medicine and health sciences. It operates six faculties and is deeply integrated with Hungary’s healthcare system, with thousands of patient interactions daily through its university hospitals and clinics.

The university focuses on internationalisation, research, and practical teaching. Over 40% of its students are international, and all English-language programs meet European accreditation standards.

Semmelweis has a strong emphasis on clinical integration, meaning students work directly with real patients and cutting-edge simulation tools throughout their degree.

Accreditations and Recognitions

Semmelweis University’s degrees are:

Fully accredited by the Hungarian Ministry of Education and Culture
Part of the European Higher Education Area (Bologna Process)
Recognised across the EU/EEA
Listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS)
Eligible for ECFMG certification (for US/Canada medical licensing)
Recognised by the General Medical Council (GMC) in the UK
Compliant with WFME and WHO international standards

University Ranking

Semmelweis University consistently ranks among the leading medical and health science universities in Europe. It is recognised globally for its academic excellence, strong clinical integration, and contribution to biomedical research. Its top-tier rankings reflect the university’s commitment to quality education and international standards.

#1 best medical university in Hungary
Top 300 globally in Clinical and Health by Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings
Ranked in the QS World University Rankings by Subject – Medicine and Life Sciences
Member of the European University Association (EUA)

Degrees Offered at Semmelweis University

Semmelweis University offers the following fully accredited, English-taught medical programs:

General Medicine – 6 years (12 semesters)

Faculty: Medicine
Campus Location: Budapest
Tuition Fee: USD 9,950 / semester
Curriculum: Preclinical sciences (years 1–2), clinical rotations (years 3–6), patient contact from Year 3
Career Prospects: International medical practice, USMLE/PLAB eligibility, clinical research, public health, residency in the EU, UK, US, or Canada

Medical student using simulation equipment at Semmelweis University

Dentistry – 5 years (10 semesters)

Faculty: Dentistry
Campus Location: Budapest
Tuition Fee: USD 9,950 / semester
Additional Materials Fee:
- Year 2: USD 1,250 / semester
- Years 3–5: USD 2,500 / semester
Curriculum: Preclinical lab training, conservative dentistry, oral surgery, prosthodontics, clinical patient treatment
Career Prospects: Dental practice in the EU, private clinics, postgraduate specialisations

Students working in Semmelweis University dental simulation lab

Pharmacy – 5 years (10 semesters)

Faculty: Pharmaceutical Sciences
Campus Location: Budapest
Tuition Fee: USD 6,300 / semester
Additional Materials Fee:
- Year 2: USD 400 / semester
- Years 3–5: USD 800 / semester
Curriculum: Chemistry, biopharmacy, pharmacology, compounding, regulatory affairs
Career Prospects: Pharmacy practice, biotech industry, drug development, PhD programs

Physiotherapy BSc – 4 years (8 semesters)

Faculty: Health Sciences
Campus Location: Budapest
Tuition Fee: EUR 7,700 / year
Curriculum: Anatomy, manual therapy, rehabilitation techniques, internships
Career Prospects: Rehabilitation centres, hospitals, private practice, sports medicine

Physiotherapy MSc – 1.5 years (3 semesters)

Tuition Fee: EUR 7,900 / year

Nursing BSc – 4 years (8 semesters)

Faculty: Health Sciences
Campus Location: Budapest
Tuition Fee: EUR 7,700 / year
Curriculum: Nursing theory, pharmacology, clinical placements
Career Prospects: Hospitals, international nursing, public health, master's study

Nursing MSc – 2 years (4 semesters)

Tuition Fee: EUR 7,500 / year

Midwifery BSc – 4 years (8 semesters)

Tuition Fee: EUR 8,300 / year

Dietetics BSc – 4 years (8 semesters)

Tuition Fee: EUR 7,900 / year

Clinical Training and Facilities

At Semmelweis University, practical skills are not optional — they’re embedded from day one.

Medicine & Dentistry: Students practise in high-tech simulation centres, university clinics, and partner hospitals from Year 3.
Pharmacy: Practical lab work is integral, with access to compounding labs and pharmaceutical research facilities.
Physiotherapy & Nursing: Semesters include clinical rotations, hospital work, and partnerships with rehabilitation clinics.

Facilities include:

Clinical Skills Centre with simulation mannequins
On-campus university hospitals
Dissection labs and histology rooms
Research labs and pharmaceutical production units
Dedicated dental simulation labs

Entry Requirements

Admission to Semmelweis University is competitive, and applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic foundations, especially in science subjects. All programs have clear entry criteria, which may include online entrance exams, interviews, and proof of English proficiency. Requirements vary slightly depending on the program and degree level.

Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy (USD-based programs)

High school diploma (with Biology & Chemistry preferred)
Motivation letter
Online entrance exam (Biology + English MCQ)
Oral interview (via Zoom)
Medical certificate
Passport + photo
Admission fee: USD 400

Health Sciences (EUR-based programs)

High school diploma
Online entrance exam (Biology + English)
Interview
English proficiency (B2)
Medical certificate
Admission fee: EUR 340 (BSc) / EUR 475 (MSc)

Tuition Fees and Cost of Living in Budapest

Semmelweis University offers an affordable pathway to internationally recognised medical and health science degrees. Tuition fees vary by program and in addition to tuition, students should plan for monthly living expenses in Budapest — one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities.

Tuition Fees

Medicine: USD 9,950 / semester
Dentistry: USD 9,950 / semester (+ materials fee)
Pharmacy: USD 6,300 / semester (+ materials fee)
Health Sciences: EUR 3,850–4,150 per year

Student Cost of Living in Budapest

Budapest is not the cheapest place to live in Europe but it is still very affordable capital city.

Estimated monthly costs:

Student housing/shared apartment: €400–600
Food & groceries: €150–250
Public transport: €10–20
Miscellaneous (books, gym, social): €100–150

Total: €700–1,000/month

Diversity and Cultural Environment

Semmelweis is a global campus, home to students from 70+ countries. English is widely spoken on campus and in the city. Student life is rich with international societies, mentorship programs, and cultural events.

Why Study at Semmelweis University?

World-renowned clinical training and practical focus
Internationally recognised degrees (GMC, ECFMG, EU-compliant)
Affordable tuition vs UK/US medical schools
Location in central Budapest – safe, historic, and well connected
Teaching in English by top faculty
Desire2Study full support from application to enrollment

Apply Now to Semmelweis University – Full Application Support Available

As an official representative of Semmelweis University, Desire2Study supports international students from application preparation to arrival., including:

One-to-One Guidance on Program Choice & Eligibility
Help Preparing for Entrance Exams & Interviews
Document & Deadline Management
Visa Application Support
Accommodation Assistance
Mentoring Before Arrival and During your Studies
Student Life & Relocation Guidance

📌 Interested in studying in Hungary? Contact us today for a free consultation! Also explore your options in another medical university in Hungary - University of Pecs.