Beyond Traditional Study Destinations: International Students’ Cross-Cultural Experiences in Hungary

The increasing number of international students choosing a non-traditional study destination, such as Hungary, underscores the country’s growing appeal in the global higher education landscape. This trend is driven by Hungary’s competitive and quality educational programmes, supportive policies, and rich cultural and historical heritage. This exploratory study examines the cross-cultural experiences of international students studying in the country, drawing on data from a cross-sectional online survey conducted in 2024. Through descriptive and thematic analyses, three principal findings emerged. First, students are attracted to study in Hungary by a combination of instrumental and cultural factors, including the quality and affordability of education, the country’s cultural heritage, and its strategic location in Central Europe. Second, the most significant challenges involve adapting to a different academic culture and overcoming language barriers, both of which hinder everyday communication. Third, difficulties in establishing meaningful connections with Hungarian peers often exacerbate feelings of social distance, thereby limiting the integration of international students. By foregrounding student perspectives in an under-researched, non-traditional study destination context, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of international student mobility beyond the traditional study destinations of Anglophone and Western European settings. The findings offer valuable insights for higher education institutions and policymakers to improve the integration of international students, enhance support structures, and further strengthen Hungary’s position as an attractive and inclusive study destination for global talent.