A guide to being an international student in Budapest

Immigration and Visas

Visa Requirements

• EU/EEA Citizens: No visa is needed for stays up to 90 days. For longer stays, register for a certificate within 90 days of arrival at the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing.

• Non-EU/EEA Citizens: A long-term D-type student visa is required for stays exceeding 90 days. Apply at a Hungarian embassy or consulate before departure. After arrival, secure a residence permit within 30 days.

Application Process

• Documents Needed:

  • Unconditional acceptance letter from a Hungarian university.

  • Proof of tuition payment or scholarship award (e.g., Stipendium Hungaricum).

  • Valid passport (valid for at least three months beyond your stay).

  • Health insurance covering your stay.

  • Proof of financial means (bank statements or sponsorship letters).

  • Criminal record certificate (if required by your embassy).

• Visa Fee: Approximately €60, varying by nationality.

• Processing Time: Up to one month, so apply 2-3 months before departure.

• Residence Permit: Apply post-arrival with similar documents. Universities like Semmelweis offer administrative support (Student Visa – Semmelweis University).

Tips

• Check specific requirements with your local Hungarian embassy.

• Keep copies of all documents.

• Contact your university’s international office for guidance.

Housing

Housing Options

Budapest offers diverse accommodation to suit different budgets and preferences:

• University Dormitories: Affordable (€230-350/month), often with shared facilities. Popular at universities like Corvinus and ELTE.

• Private Student Residences: Modern options like Móricz Student Living and Dean’s Home Budapest offer all-inclusive amenities, including Wi-Fi and laundry (€250-400/month).

• Shared Apartments: Rent a room in a furnished flat via platforms like Erasmus Play or HousingAnywhere (€200-300/month).

• Private Rentals: Studios or apartments (€400-500/month) available through Flatio or local agencies, ideal for privacy but costlier.

• Hostels: Budget-friendly for short-term stays but less practical for long-term.

Costs

Tips for Finding Housing

• Start searching 3-6 months in advance, especially for dorms.

• Prioritize locations near your university or public transport hubs (e.g., Móricz Zsigmond körtér).

• Verify if utilities (electricity, internet) are included in the rent.

• Join Facebook groups like “Budapest Student Accommodation” for listings.

Resources:

• Erasmus Play

• HousingAnywhere

Language

Navigating with English

English is widely spoken in Budapest, especially in universities, tourist areas, and among younger people. Menus, public transport signs, and services often have English translations, making it easy to get by without Hungarian.

Learning Hungarian

While not mandatory for English-taught programs, learning basic Hungarian enhances daily interactions and cultural immersion. Hungarian is challenging due to its unique grammar, but resources abound:

• University Courses: ELTE (Learn Hungarian at ELTE) and the University of Pécs offer Hungarian language courses for foreigners, often with cultural components.

• Language Schools: Magyar Iskola (Magyar Iskola) specializes in immersive Hungarian courses for international students. NovoSchool focuses on practical communication.

• Online Resources: Apps like Duolingo or Babbel, and websites like HungarianPod101, support self-study.

• Cultural Programs: Summer courses at the University of Szeged combine language with cultural activities.

Tips

• Learn basic phrases (e.g., “Jó napot” for “Hello,” “Köszönöm” for “Thank you”).

• Practice with locals at markets or cafes to build confidence.

• Join language exchange groups to meet native speakers.

Daily Life

Cost of Living

Budapest is budget-friendly compared to Western European capitals, with monthly costs for students ranging from €500-700. Key expenses include:

• Accommodation: €200-500

• Food: €120-200 (cooking at home or university canteens)

• Transportation: €8.50-15 (monthly student pass)

• Utilities: €50-100 (if not included in rent)

• Health Insurance: €100-200/year

• Internet/Phone: €20-35

• Entertainment: €50-100 (varies by lifestyle)

Source: Cost of Living – ELTE

Public Transportation

Budapest’s public transport system is efficient, covering buses, trams, trolleys, and metro lines. Trams 4 and 6 operate 24/7, ideal for late-night travel.

• Student Pass: €8.50/month for EU citizens with a student ID; slightly higher for others.

• Single Ticket: €1.5

• Tip: Purchase a Budapest Card for discounts on transport and attractions.

Healthcare

• Health Insurance: Mandatory for all students. Non-EU/EEA students should arrange coverage before arrival (€100-200/year).

• Medical Services: Budapest has modern hospitals and clinics, some with English-speaking staff. Semmelweis University’s clinics are highly regarded.

• Emergency: Dial 112 for medical emergencies.

Banking and Finance

• Opening an Account: Requires a residence permit and ID. Banks like OTP and MBH offer student accounts.

• International Cards: Widely accepted, but a local account simplifies bill payments and stipends.

• Tip: Use apps like Revolut for low-fee currency exchange.

Communication

• SIM Cards: Providers like Vodafone, Telenor, and Yettel offer prepaid student plans (€10-15/month).

• Internet: High-speed Wi-Fi is available in accommodations, cafes, and university campuses (€10-20/month).

• Tip: Check for student discounts on mobile plans.

Resources:

• Public Transport – Study in Hungary

• Cost of Living – BUEB

University Life

Top Universities

Budapest hosts prestigious institutions with English-taught programs:

• Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE): Known for humanities and sciences.

• Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME): Strong in engineering.

• Corvinus University of Budapest: Renowned for business and economics.

• Central European University (CEU): Focuses on social sciences and humanities.

• Semmelweis University: Leading in medicine and health sciences.

Student Services

• Libraries: Extensive resources, often with English materials.

• Sports Facilities: Gyms, pools, and sports clubs available.

• Career Counseling: Support for internships and job placement.

• International Offices: Assist with visas, housing, and integration.

Campus Life

• Student Organizations: Join clubs for cultural, academic, or recreational activities.

• Events: Universities host festivals, lectures, and networking events.

• Tip: Attend orientation programs to connect with peers.

Resources:

• Universities – Study in Hungary

• Budapest Study Abroad – CEA

Culture and Social Life

Cultural Norms

• Hungarians are polite but reserved in public. Greetings are formal (e.g., shaking hands).

• Tipping (5-10%) is customary in restaurants and cafes.

• Public displays of affection are less common than in some Western countries.

Festivals and Events

• Budapest Spring Festival: Showcases music, theater, and dance.

• Sziget Festival: A world-famous music festival in August.

• Christmas Markets: Winter markets offer food, crafts, and festive vibes.

Social Opportunities

• Ruin Bars: Unique nightlife spots like Szimpla Kert.

• Thermal Baths: Relax at Gellért or Széchenyi baths.

• Student Meetups: Join university clubs or Erasmus events to meet locals and internationals.

• Tip: Explore District VII’s Jewish Quarter for street art and vibrant cafes.

Resources:

• Culture – Study in Hungary

• Winter Activities – Móricz Student Living

Safety and Security

• General Safety: Budapest is safe, but exercise caution at night, especially in areas like the 8th District.

• Emergency Numbers:

  • Police, Ambulance, Fire: 112

• Tips:

  • Avoid flashing valuables.

  • Use licensed taxis or apps like Bolt.

  • Stay aware in crowded tourist areas to avoid pickpocketing.

Resources:

• Emergency Numbers – Study in Hungary

• Cost of Living – Numbeo

Part-time Work

Regulations

• EU/EEA Citizens: No work permit needed; can work part-time freely.

• Non-EU/EEA Citizens: Require a work permit, typically allowing up to 30 hours/week during semesters and full-time during breaks.

• Process: Check with your university or the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing.

Opportunities

• Common Jobs: Tutoring, restaurant work, retail, or freelance gigs.

• Internships: Many universities offer internship programs.

• Tip: Use platforms like Profession.hu or join university career fairs.

Resources:

• Work While Studying – Obuda University

• Work in Hungary – Study in Hungary

Food and Dining

Hungarian Cuisine

• Popular Dishes: Goulash (meat stew), chicken paprikash, lángos (fried dough).

• Budget Options: University canteens offer meals for €3-5. Cooking at home is cost-effective.

• Dining Out: Average restaurant meal costs €8-10; street food and takeout are cheaper.

International Options

• Budapest has diverse cuisines, including Italian, Asian, and Middle Eastern, catering to various dietary needs.

• Tip: Visit Fővám tér Market for fresh produce and local snacks.

Resources:

• Hungarian Cuisine – Study in Hungary

• Student Guide – Ultimate Budapest

Transportation

Public Transport

• Network: Extensive, with buses, trams, trolleys, and four metro lines.

• Costs:

  • Single ticket: €1.5

  • Monthly student pass: €8.50 (EU citizens); slightly higher for others.

• 24/7 Options: Trams 4 and 6 run around the clock.

Other Options

• Biking: Budapest has bike-sharing systems like MOL Bubi.

• Taxis/Ride-Sharing: Use Bolt or licensed taxis; avoid unmarked cabs.

• Tip: Download the BKK app for real-time transport schedules.

Resources:

• Public Transport – Study in Hungary

• Student Guide – Ultimate Budapest

Legal and Administrative Procedures

Registration

• EU/EEA Citizens: Register within 90 days if staying over 90 days.

• Non-EU/EEA Citizens: Apply for a residence permit within 30 days of arrival.

Taxes

• Students are generally exempt from income tax unless working significant hours.

• Tip: Consult your university or a local tax advisor if employed.

Other Procedures

• Address Registration: Required for long-term stays; handled with residence permit.

• Student ID: Obtain from your university for discounts on transport and attractions.

Resources:

• Formalities – Study in Hungary

• Visa Process – Corvinus University

Conclusion

Budapest offers international students an affordable, culturally rich, and academically rewarding experience. By planning ahead for visas, housing, and language learning, you can seamlessly integrate into this dynamic city. Embrace its history, connect with its people, and enjoy a transformative student journey.