In his annual New Year’s address, Professor Dr. Levente Kovács, Rector of Óbuda University, outlined a comprehensive overview of the institution’s significant progress and strategic direction. The message details a period of rapid development, highlighting key achievements in international rankings, scientific performance, and innovation. For prospective students, academic professionals, and industry partners, the rector’s greeting serves as a clear indicator of the university’s growing stature and commitment to future-focused education.
Significant Advancement in International University Rankings
A primary measure of an institution’s global standing is its performance in international rankings. Óbuda University has demonstrated remarkable progress in this area. Previously positioned outside the top 2000 in global rankings, the university has advanced over 1,500 positions in the last six and a half years. In the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, Óbuda University secured a position within the 601–800 range, improving by more than 70 places to reach 719th. This achievement solidifies its position as the second-highest-ranked Hungarian higher education institution in the ranking.
This rise in international prestige enhances the university’s visibility, attracting stronger student applications and fostering more robust scientific and industrial partnerships. For those considering where to study, this upward trend signals a dynamic and competitive academic environment.
Growth in Scientific Performance and Research Output
Óbuda University has significantly strengthened its research and development portfolio. Key metrics from the past year show substantial growth:
- Faculty Development: The number of full professors has tripled.
- Postgraduate Growth: The number of PhD students has quintupled.
- Research Recognition: The number of researchers included in Stanford University’s Top 2% list has increased from two to nine.
- Publication Quality: High-quality D1–Q1–Q2 publications have increased by more than 3.5 times.
The university has also become a regional leader among technical universities in the V4 group for both research quality (THE Research Quality) and research environment (THE Research Environment). These developments underscore the institution’s commitment to academic excellence and its capacity to contribute to the global body of scientific knowledge.
Strategic Global Partnerships and Collaborative Research
Óbuda University’s international collaborations have expanded, with a growing demand for dual degree programs. Through the Hungarian government’s Hu-Rizont Program, the university is conducting joint research with top-ten global institutions like Stanford University and the National University of Singapore in fields such as medical robotics and artificial intelligence. Further collaborations include space research with Rice University and partnerships with Sapientia Hungarian University of Transylvania.
The rapid development of the SpaceLab Research Center, launched in September 2024, and a unique partnership with the U.S.-based Voyager company, highlight the university’s commitment to cutting-edge fields. Óbuda University is also coordinating national R&D activities for the HUNOR program through the Hungarian Space Lab Network.
Commitment to Innovation and Artificial Intelligence
Innovation is a core pillar of the university’s strategy. Óbuda University is implementing an investor-university model, supported by its own innovation ecosystem, which includes the Innovation Management Doctoral School, Obuda Uni Venture Capital, and Initium Zrt. This system is designed to mentor ideas and facilitate their market realization.
Furthermore, the university is proactively addressing the technological transformation driven by artificial intelligence. Through its AI Campus program, Óbuda University is reforming its curriculum to embed AI awareness and applications. This includes the launch of a new Master’s program in Artificial Intelligence within engineering informatics. By joining the international Digital Education Council alongside institutions like the University of California, Berkeley, and Singapore Management University, Óbuda University demonstrates its commitment to advancing AI maturity in higher education.
Excellence in Talent Development and Student Admissions
The university’s focus on talent is reflected in its Excellence Obuda talent management system, which triples scholarships for outstanding PhD students and introduces postdoctoral fellowships for international researchers. This focus on nurturing talent has yielded impressive results in student admissions. In 2025, Óbuda University achieved record admissions, with entrance score thresholds increasing by over 100 points in many cases. This improved the university’s national ranking among high-quality student segments from 9th to 6th place.
Conclusion: A Future-Focused Academic Institution
The rector’s message concludes with a clear vision for the future: to establish Óbuda University among the world’s most respected higher education institutions. Through strategic planning, organizational restructuring, and a focus on innovation, the university has built a stable foundation for continued growth. The emphasis on talent, success, and community positions Óbuda University as a leading technical university in Hungary and the Central and Eastern European region.
For those interested in joining a forward-thinking academic community, the current trajectory of Óbuda University presents a compelling case. The university’s progress in rankings, research, and innovation offers a clear path for students and researchers aiming to be part of a dynamic and internationally recognized institution.
Explore Educational Opportunities at Óbuda University
If the developments outlined in the rector’s address align with your academic or professional goals, consider taking the next step. Investigate the range of programs offered, from undergraduate degrees to advanced research opportunities. Review the admission requirements and discover how you can become part of a university on an upward trajectory.
Connect with the International Education Office
For prospective international students and researchers, Óbuda University’s International Education Office is a key resource. They can provide detailed information on application procedures, scholarship opportunities, and life as a student in Budapest. Engaging with their team can help clarify any questions you may have about joining the university community.
Contact the International Education Office
Stay Informed on University News and Events
To keep up with the latest developments, including new research initiatives, partnerships, and events like the upcoming IEEE 24th World Symposium on Applied Machine Intelligence and Informatics (SAMI2026), regularly check the Óbuda University news and events pages. Staying informed is the best way to understand the university’s evolving landscape.
