British schools in Hungary: a guide to Budapest
British and international schools in Budapest: where they are, how they fit Hungarian rules, admissions, fees and practical advice for families moving to Hungary.
Hungary’s international schools are concentrated in Budapest, home to regional headquarters, shared-service centres, embassies and a large international student population.
The British school scene
Budapest offers a choice of British-curriculum schools alongside IB, American, German and French schools. The COBISEC-era directory listed The British International School Budapest among its members. British schools in the city typically teach the English National Curriculum to IGCSE, followed by A-Levels or the IB Diploma.
Where the schools are
- Buda hills (districts II and XII): green, residential and popular with international families. Several schools are here.
- Pest side: fewer schools, but closer to some business districts.
- Suburbs: some schools are in the commuter belt to the west and north of the city.
Bridges and hills can make journeys slow at peak times, so plan housing around the school run.
How international schools fit the Hungarian system
International schools operate under Hungarian regulations and need appropriate registration. Ask each school about its legal status, especially if your children are Hungarian nationals or you plan a long stay, as this can affect later transfers into Hungarian schools or universities.
Practical points
- The Hungarian school year runs from September to mid-June.
- Fees are generally lower than in Western European capitals, but vary widely.
- Hungarian is a challenging language. Many international families rely on English day to day, but basic Hungarian helps.
See also: how to choose a British international school and Czech Republic.
Directory: British schools in Hungary
| School | City | Ages | Curricula |
|---|---|---|---|
| The British International School Budapest | Budapest | 3–18 | English National Curriculum, IGCSE, IB Diploma, Hungarian programme |
Frequently asked questions
Where are most international schools in Budapest?
Many are in the Buda hills (districts II and XII) and nearby areas to the west of the Danube, with others in Pest and the surrounding suburbs.
Do British schools in Budapest teach Hungarian?
Most offer Hungarian language, and Hungarian nationals may have additional requirements. Ask how the school handles Hungarian language and culture.