As a university student in Hungary, you will encounter numerous bureaucratic steps, especially if you are an international student. Proper administration can make your life easier, but without preparation, you may face several challenges. This guide will help you navigate the essential university and non-university bureaucratic processes.
University Administration and Online Systems
Hungarian universities use various digital platforms for administration and accessing educational materials. It is crucial to set up these systems during your first week:
- Neptun: this is the official academic system used by Hungarian universities. Here, you can register for courses, sign up for exams, and track financial transactions (e.g., tuition payments). Most students dislike it because it often freezes during course and exam registration. However, it’s an essential tool you’ll need to get used to.
- Microsoft Teams: the primary platform for online classes and group work. Make sure your university access is properly set up.
- University Applications: some universities have their own apps, where you can track your schedule and academic information.
- Moodle: used for managing course materials and assignments. In some universities, access is only possible via Cusman login.
- Microsoft 365 Access: some institutions provide Microsoft 365 subscriptions for students.
Enrollment at the University: registration can be done in person or online. Ensure you bring all necessary documents, including those required for your student ID.
Dormitory Application: dormitory spots are limited, so it is recommended to apply early. Students living in dorms receive their residency card (lakcímkártya) from the university.
Scholarships: scholarships are available in multiple categories, such as merit-based, social, or government-funded. In many cases, scholarship recipients also receive health insurance coverage from the university.
Contacting Professors
Communicating with professors can often be challenging. Some Hungarian university lecturers expect formal communication and may not always appreciate an informal tone. Here are a few tips:
- Email etiquette: always write politely and concisely, using the appropriate salutation (e.g., “Tisztelt Tanár Úr/Tanárnő!” – “Dear Professor”).
- Personal consultations: professors hold official office hours where students can ask questions.
- In case of issues, conflicts: if you encounter conflicts with a professor, you can turn to the student government or the university administration for assistance.
- Background checks: if someone has a criminal record or inappropriate behavior, the university may conduct a special investigation when evaluating admissions or scholarships.
University bureaucracy may seem complex at first, but with proper preparation and research, you can significantly simplify administrative tasks. Using digital systems, effective communication with professors, and proper handling of government procedures will help ensure a smooth start to your university years in Hungary.
Bureaucracy Outside the University
Even outside the university, you will need to go through several administrative tasks, especially if you are an international student staying in Hungary for a longer period.
- Insurance: self-funded international students should have private insurance. Basically, it’s the only viable option. Of course, it is possible to register for the Hungarian public healthcare system, but trust us: you don’t want to. We recommend choosing private insurance that covers the expected medical treatments and examinations in Hungary.
- Residence card application: those who do not live in a dormitory must apply for a residence card separately at the government office (kormányablak). If you need assistance, we can provide support for individual cases (for 1–3 people).
Visa: the visa must be obtained in your home country before arrival, but additional steps may be required in Hungary, such as extending your residence permit.
