Enrolled students

This section is for current students seeking information about academic matters, practical issues, student services, campus life, and financial matters.

If you are already a student and have questions about your individual study progress, please contact your Academic Registrar!

If you are interested in an international mobility, please visit the Erasmus+ Mobility FAQ page for further information!

To search for specific information, first open the subtopics. Then, use the search function by pressing 'Ctrl+F' on Windows or 'Command+F' on macOS to quickly find relevant keywords.

Student services and campus life

1. Where can I take care of official matters?

The Quaestura Office of Student Services handles essential administrative tasks related to your studies, such as issuing student ID cards, managing health insurance, and processing personal data corrections. You can also collect your study-purpose residence permit here and request a student status certificate once the study period begins.

The Academic Registrar’s Office supports students with study-related matters, including programme structure, course registration, graduation requirements, and transcripts. If you have questions about your academic progress, this is the place to go.

If you are a doctoral student, please refer to the Doctoral School’s contact page for specific guidance.

The International Office assists with practical matters during your studies, scholarship-related questions, and managing exchange programmes like Erasmus+ and bilateral mobility. They are here to support you throughout your international experience.

The Student’s Union, or HÖK, represents students at your faculty, bridges communication with the university administration, and organizes social events to enhance student life.

Our university’s International Student Advisory Committee aims to further promote the representation of international students attending ELTE.

The Student Mentor System provides incoming students with personal guidance before arrival and during their stay, helping them adjust to life in Budapest and at the University.

2. How can I apply for the mentor system?

The University offers a targeted student mentor system to all incoming students who would like to have personal mentoring before arrival and/or during their stay in Budapest.

If you would like to have a mentor, please visit this website to have more information, and register for a mentor. If you have additional questions, you can contact the faculty mentor coordinator at the appropriate email address:

Full-time Self-Funded Students: kulugymentor@tatkhok.elte.hu
Full-time Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Students: shmentor.tatk@elte.hu
Exchange Students: tatk@elte.esn.hu

3. Who represents me and how can I get involved?

The Student’s Union at ELTE represents both Hungarian and international students, addressing issues such as academics, allowances, and student rights. It fosters a sense of community and supports various aspects of student life. Additionally, it assists international students in adjusting to Hungarian culture, learning the language, and navigating university life.

The Union operates through a two-tier system: students elect their representatives at the faculty level, and these representatives form the University Students’ Union (EHÖK). EHÖK oversees the work of the Faculty Student Unions, represents students in university governance, and organizes university-wide events and initiatives.

To stay connected and get involved, follow the Faculty Student’s Union on their social media channels, including their Instagram and Facebook page, and their subpage dedicated to International Affairs.

Our university’s International Student Advisory Committee aims to further promote the representation of international students attending ELTE. Please if you feel overwhelmed because of your university life or just want to share your ideas do not hesitate and contact the committee via the email address: isac@rk.elte.hu.

You can also follow them on Instagram!

4. How to access the IT services?

Most of the IT services required for university life can be accessed with an IIG ID, which will guide the students’ undergraduate years, giving them access to several other interfaces, including correspondence, Teams, and ELTE Wi-Fi.

For a detailed guide, please visit this website.

If you encounter technical issues, contact the IT operators at operator@elte.hu or ask your mentor for assistance.

5. What e-mail address should I use?

Every student of the university is entitled to use a personalised ELTE e-mail address and is requested to do so.

After getting the IIG username, you will be automatically assigned an e-mail address called: yourusername@student.elte.hu with 100 GB storage.

You can access your messages with the help of the usual programmes (Microsoft Outlook, Teams, etc.).

Please enter your personalised e-mail address to the Neptun, under My data > Contact information > Email address as the default one. During your studies, you can deal with official issues faster and more easily if you use your ELTE email address and you will be required to use it for logging in to the Teams platform, too.

If you need more information regarding the University’s IT services, please visit this website.

6. How can I use the library?

As an ELTE student, you have free access to the University Library Services, which consist of a central University Library, faculty libraries, and additional specialized libraries. The library tasks at the university are realized by the member libraries of the University Library Service in cooperation with each other. In addition to the cooperation, each library operates and provides services in accordance with their unique collections and own target groups, about which detailed information can be found on the websites of each library.

Registration is free for ELTE students, and your Student Identity Card can be used as a library card. Alternatively, the ELTE Library WebApp, optimized for smartphones, replaces the paper-based library card and offers additional features for convenient access.

The library services include traditional resources and access to e-books, e-journals, and databases, many of which are available remotely for students, depending on licensing.

For more information about the library network and its services, visit this website.

To learn more about the Faculty of Social Sciences' Némedi Dénes Library, visit this page.

7. Can I learn languages at ELTE?

ELTE offers various language courses to support students during their studies, and new students are reminded of available options at the start of each semester.

Hungarian language courses are available at multiple levels, determined by demand each semester.

First-year bachelor’s and master’s Stipendium Hungaricum students must take Hungarian in their first two semesters, while Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship holders are required to study Hungarian throughout their program. For more details on these language requirements, please refer to the Stipendium Hungaricum and Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship language pages.

Other international students, who are not required to study Hungarian, can still apply for general Hungarian courses through the Neptun system during the "first-come-first-served" registration period.

The Faculty of Social Sciences also offers "Going Native," a free English course designed to help students practice and improve both their everyday and academic English skills. If you would like to be more confident, sound more native or just simply practice in a friendly and welcoming environment, then it is for you!

More information is sent out about these options at the beginning of the semester.

8. Is there a possibility to do sports at ELTE?

Yes, ELTE offers plenty of sports opportunities both within and outside our university.

The University Athletics Club (BEAC) offers sports opportunities to students and ELTE employees. The sports club organizes and keeps trainings in over 40 different sports - all that under the mission of making sports accessible throughout gender, age, physical, social, cultural or linguistic differences.

Sports courses offered by BEAC can be found at this website.

You can also do sports for credits. You can apply for these sports classes just like all the others available in your department via the Neptun electronic registry system. The fee for each course is 6,000 HUF per semester. Sports courses in the Neptun system can be found under the VTN code. You can find more information on this link.

You can freely try out different sports from the courses offered by the university or even participate as a sportsperson at the various sports events that ELTE organises during the semester. You can find more information about the events here.

9. I am living with a disability. Does the university offer support?

Yes, ELTE provides support services through its Disability Center to all students, staff, and faculty members, including international students. The center ensures equal opportunities, accessibility, and assistance for individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions that impact their ability to fully participate in university life.

Students must certify their special needs with an official document (bearing a stamp and signature) translated into English or Hungarian. International students should register with their faculty’s disability coordinator.

At the Faculty of Social Sciences, the disability coordinator is Ms. Tünde Bulyáki. You can contact her at the email address bulyaki.tunde@tatk.elte.hu.

For more information, visit ELTE Equal Opportunity Services.

10. Is there someone I can turn to if I face personal or emotional difficulties?

Yes, ELTE provides free and confidential counselling services to support students facing personal or emotional challenges that may affect their academic or university life.

Counsellors can help with a variety of issues, including family or relationship problems, work-related or academic difficulties, anxiety, stress, mood disorders, low self-esteem, lack of motivation, doubts about career choices, or the loss of a loved one.

To schedule an appointment, email counseling@ppk.elte.hu.

Additionally, the International Peer-Counselling Organisation (IPCO) offers free peer counselling services to ELTE international students. IPCO’s team consists of qualified Psychology MA students trained and supervised by the Counselling Centre.

To book an appointment with a peer-counsellor, email ipco@ppk.elte.hu.

For more details, visit the ELTE Counselling page or IPCO's webpage.

We are here to help you!

11. Is there any talent support at ELTE?

ELTE has a long-standing tradition of supporting talented students through various programs and initiatives. Talent support is provided at both the faculty level and through university-wide opportunities like the National Conference of Scientific Association of Students and the ELTE Colleges. These programs include travel grants, trainings, and other resources aimed at nurturing student potential.

The ELTE Talent Support Council coordinates these efforts across the university.

For detailed information about talent support and related opportunities, please visit the ELTE Talent Support page.

12. Are there any exchange opportunities abroad?

If you are an international student enrolled on a full degree programme at ELTE and want to be an exchange student abroad, please visit the Erasmus+ Mobility FAQ page for further information on Erasmus+ within Europe opportunities or the University’s website for information about other internetional mobility opportunities. There you will find detailed information on the different opportunities, scholarships, eligibility and the application process.

If you have any questions, you can also contact us at international@tatk.elte.hu!

13. How can I find an internship or part-time job during my studies? Are there career services at the university?

If you are looking for a part-time job or an internship during your studies, your student mentor or departmental coordinator can guide you on where to start.

ELTE also has a dedicated Career Centre that supports students in planning their careers and preparing for professional life after graduation.

For more information, visit the ELTE Career Centre website.

We also recommend following the university and the faculty on our social media accounts to keep track of any news and opportunities!

14. Where can I keep updated on academic, social, and cultural opportunities at the university and the faculty?

We recommend following ELTE’s Facebook page and Instagram profile where you can find updates on the latest news and events.

For faculty-specific opportunities, follow the faculty of Social Sciences on Instagram and Facebook, as well as the Faculty Students’ Union on their main Instagram and Facebook page, and their subpage dedicated to International Affairs.

You can also follow our university’s International Student Advisory Committee on Instagram!

For current calls and opportunities please visit the dedicated webpages of ELTE and of the Faculty.

If you are interested in a specific organization, please visit ELTE’s list of student organizations for further information. We would especially recommend exploring our faculty’s Culture Club and ELTE International Relations Society!

15. How can I get to the Campus?

Most of your classes will take place at the Lágymányos Campus, home to the Faculty of Social Sciences. The address is Pázmány Péter sétány 1/A, 1117 Budapest, Hungary.

To reach the Faculty of Social Sciences, here are some public transportation options:

Trams 4 and 6: These trams run along the Budai side of the Danube and stop at Petőfi híd - budai hídfő, which is within walking distance of the campus.
Buses 153 and 154: These buses stop at Petőfi híd - budai hídfő or Egyetemváros, both of which are close to the campus.
Bus 212: This bus also stops at Petőfi híd - budai hídfő which is a short walk from the campus.

We advise you to use Google Maps or the BudapestGO application for real-time directions and public transportation schedules. These tools will help you plan your trip efficiently and find the best option to reach the campus.

There are two main buildings at the Lágymányos Campus: the Northern Building (home of the Faculty of Social Sciences) and the Southern building. Some of your classes might be held at the Southern building.

To get more information on the various Campuses of ELTE, please visit this website.

16. Does the Faculty offer a bike storage or parking service?

Bike storage

Near the North building (Északi Tömb) you can leave your bikes outside near the Northern, the Eastern (Danube) or South entrances. You can also place your bike in locked outdoor storage, which must be requested at the Service Desk by the Northern entrance.

Parking

ELTE students and staff members need to use the Rollet app (download from Appstore or Google Play store). The entrance of the parking lot is located at the Southern side of the campus. You can leave the parking lot through the exit on the Northern side of the campus.

Practical matters

1. What should I know about Budapest?

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is the country's most popular tourist destination. If you're staying in Budapest, you can easily reach the rest of Europe by plane from the international airport. Intercontinental flights connect Budapest with countries to the west and east. Additionally, thanks to the city’s central location in Hungary, Budapest is well-connected to major cities in Hungary and neighbouring countries via direct train and bus services. No matter where you are coming from, you can reach Budapest directly.

With a population of approximately 1.7 million, Budapest offers an enjoyable and vibrant atmosphere for international students. The city is home to numerous attractions, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites, as well as a lively cultural scene, reasonable living costs, and an efficient public transportation network. This safe and student-friendly city blends tradition and culture while providing ample opportunities for entertainment and leisure activities, including hiking in the nearby hills. Various services also offer student discounts, such as on transportation, events, and cinema tickets.

You can find more information on this website.

For more information on Hungary, please visit this link.

2. Is Budapest safe?

Hungary is generally a safe country, and violent crime is rather uncommon in Budapest, however, pickpockets may be active on public transport services, crowded stores, food markets, and popular tourist locations.

A few tips:

Wallets should not be kept in the back pockets of your trousers or in the outside pockets of your bag.
Keep your money, documents, mobile phone safe and secure in an inside pocket.
Passports and travel documents should be kept in a safe place.
Do not show your cash, particularly large banknotes, unnecessarily in public places.
In general, do not do anything that you would not do in your own country.

3. How can I get around Budapest?

Budapest has an excellent public transportation system (BKK), making it easy to get around the city. You can use buses, trams, the metro (subway), trolleybuses, and even boats on the Danube River. The metro has four lines (M1, M2, M3, M4), covering most parts of the city. Trams, especially lines 4 and 6, are very frequent and run along the main boulevards.

You can buy single tickets, daily passes, or monthly student passes (with your valid student card) from ticket machines at metro stations or via the BudapestGO app, which is also great for real-time schedules. Don’t forget to validate your ticket before boarding!

If you prefer cycling, Budapest also has bike lanes and the MOL Bubi bike-sharing system.

Walking is another great way to explore the city centre, as many attractions are close to each other.

4. How and when can I apply for student ID card?

The student card or student ID (diákigazolvány) serves as official proof of your status as a student at ELTE, granting you access to discounts on public transport, museums, libraries, and more. Be sure to check eligibility for specific discounts, like the Budapest student pass, on the BKK website.

Please be aware that student cards and temporary student certificates can only be requested at the start of your first active semester’s study period, after you have completed your enrolment.

To obtain a permanent student card, visit a Hungarian Integrated Customer Service (Kormányablak) office to request a NEK document. Then, create a request in Neptun using this document. Please follow the detailed guide on the Quaestura Office website before proceeding.

As it takes a few months to receive your permanent student card, you can request a temporary student certificate after you applied for your permanent student card. Your student card will be sent to the Quaestura Office, which will notify you via Neptun as soon as it is available for collection.

Please remember that your student card must be validated at the beginning of each active semester!

5. How long is the student card valid for?

After receiving your plastic student card, you must visit the Questura office to request a validation sticker for the semester. Without this sticker, your student ID will not be valid and cannot be used for things like purchasing a monthly student pass. You'll need to request a new sticker at the start of each semester.

The stickers are free but are an essential administrative requirement.

If you start university in September and validate your student card, it will be valid until March 31. A student card validated at the start of the spring semester will remain valid until October 31.

6. Where and when can I get a student status certificate or proof of enrolment?

The student status certificate is the official document that confirms your student status certificate at the university. It can be issued only after you have completed your enrolment and after the start of the study period. You can request the certificate from your Academic Registrar or at the Quaestura Office.

From the beginning of the study period, you can download the "Certificate of University Studies" from your Neptun account under: Information > General Forms. This document contains the same information as the Certificate of Student Status. If you only need a digital version, it is recommended to use this one, as it is accepted at most offices. Its advantage is that you can download it anytime, avoiding waiting lines.

7. Can I apply to the ELTE dorms or housing services?

Yes, ELTE provides both Dormitory and Housing Services, with applications centrally organized by the ELTE Dormitory Centre. Any ELTE student, regardless of their level of studies or scholarship, can apply during specific application periods, such as for the academic year or the summer break. Announcements are available on the website.

ELTE has the largest dormitory capacity in Hungary, with seven dormitories in Budapest and three in Szombathely, alongside other specialized facilities. The dormitories are popular due to their affordability, comfort—over 80% of places have been fully renovated—and the supportive community they foster, which enhances both everyday life and academic success.

However, as dormitory capacity is limited, not all applicants can be accommodated. Those who do not wish to remain on the dormitory waiting list can seek assistance from the ELTE Housing Office for alternative options.

For more details about ELTE's accommodation services, visit this page and its subpages.

8. Do I need to apply for a residence permit? When and how will I receive it?

A residence permit is an official document that allows you to stay in Hungary for more than 90 days. In most cases, third-country nationals studying in Hungary are required to apply for a Residence Permit for Study Purposes, which is tied to an active student status. Other types of residence permits may apply, particularly after graduation, if you wish to stay in Hungary for work or other reasons.

EEA Students (EU/EEA citizens): You do not need a visa or residence permit. After arriving in Hungary, you only need to apply for a registration certificate. For more information, visit this link.
Non-EEA Students from Visa-Waiver Countries: You do not need to apply for a residence permit before arrival. You can travel with your biometric passport (up to 90 days), and after arriving in Hungary, you can apply for the residence permit online. For a step-by-step guide, visit: EH Manual for Case Uploading - Student.
Non-EEA Students from Visa-Obligated Countries: If you are from a visa-obligated country and do not already have a valid residence permit in Hungary, you must apply for both a visa and a residence permit simultaneously, usually at the Hungarian Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Once your visa is approved, the authorities will begin issuing your residence permit card, and you will receive it after arrival.

Once ready, study purpose residence permit cards are sent to the Quaestura Office, and you will receive a message on Neptun with pick-up details.

Keep in mind that your residence permit has an expiration date! If you wish to remain in Hungary, you must extend it before it expires. For detailed information on how to extend your residence permit, visit this ELTE webpage.

Please note that it may take some time to process and manufacture the residence permit cards, especially at the start of the academic year. Please put your travels on hold until you obtain your residence permit card unless you're certain you have visa-free days left, as the temporary permits are valid only in Hungary.

If your address has changed since your residence permit application, report it to the National Directorate General for Aliens Policing through EnterHungary.

For more details, visit the “Visa and immigration” section of this FAQ page or our university’s dedicated webpage.

9. Do I need to report my Hungarian address?

Yes, if you are a non-EEA student staying in Hungary for more than 30 days, you are required to register your accommodation (and any address changes) online through the Enter Hungary website within 3 days of taking up residence.

The QR code you receive upon accommodation registration functions as your address card. You must keep this QR code available at all times and present it to the authorities if requested.

If you applied for a D-visa and residence permit at a Hungarian Consulate/Embassy, you do not need to re-register your accommodation unless it has changed since your application. You will receive your QR code "address card" in PDF format via email or in your Enter Hungary inbox.

If you are applying for a residence permit for the first time in Hungary (e.g., because you come from a visa waiver country), you must register your address online through Enter Hungary website.

Important!

If you applied for a visa using a dormitory address but now live elsewhere (e.g., a rented flat), you must update your address online, via the Enter Hungary website.
If you received a QR code with an incorrect address (e.g., the university's address), you must register the new address to correct it.

For a step-by-step guide, visit: National Directorate General for Aliens Policing.

EEA students staying for more than 90 days must also report their address as part of the registration process. You will receive the registration certificate and your address card by post, at your Hungarian address.

Always ensure your address information is also correctly updated in Neptun.

10. My residence permit is about to expire. What should I do?

If your residence permit is nearing expiration, you must apply for an extension. Detailed information about the process is available on this ELTE webpage.

It is important to start the process on time! Check the Hungarian immigration office's website for specific requirements or reach out to them directly for further assistance.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at international@tatk.elte.hu or our visa coordinator colleagues at visa@elte.hu.

11. How and when can I apply for health insurance?

It is essential to arrange health insurance coverage for the duration of your studies. We also recommend that you arrange travel and health insurance for yourself for your travel and for the period until you enrol at ELTE.

If you are an EEA student, apply for a European Health Insurance Card from your health insurance institution in your homeland before you leave from home.

If you are a non-EEA student (coming from outside of the European Economic Area), you should consider which option suits your situation the best and what are you entitled to have.

Scholarship holders (Stipendium Hungaricum, Diaspora): You are eligible for both "TAJ card" (non-private health insurance) and supplementary (private) health insurance until you can receive your TAJ card. Begin arranging both after enrolment.
Self-funded students: You can purchase private health insurance. ELTE offers a health insurance package through its contracted partner, available at the Quaestura Office after enrolment.

General Emergency Number: 112

For detailed information regarding health insurance, please visit ELTE’s health insurance webpage.

12. Can I apply for Non-Private Health Insurance Provided by the Government (TAJ card) as a self-funded student?

Self-funded third-country students are generally not entitled to a TAJ card. While you can apply for it at a "kormányablak" (government customer service) through an agreement with the National Health Insurance Fund of Hungary, please note that the monthly fee is 80,040 HUF and covers only limited health care services.

As such, arranging a private insurance might be more suitable for your situation.

Please find further details at:

Private insurance: https://www.elte.hu/en/health-insurance/private
TAJ card: https://www.elte.hu/en/health-insurance/non-private
In case of emergencies: https://www.elte.hu/en/in-case-of-emergency

If you’re employed in Hungary, you may be eligible for the TAJ card through your employer. The university is not involved in this process.

If you are a scholarship holder, please find detailed information the TAJ card application process at this link.

13. Where can I go if I need medical assistance?

For minor health problems, pharmacists ('gyógyszertár' in Hungarian) can often provide advice and offer medications, including COVID rapid tests, without a prescription. Many pharmacies are open 24/7.

For medical treatment, having valid health insurance is essential, as treatments without insurance incur costs:

Hungarian state scholarship students (e.g., Stipendium Hungaricum, Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship) should have a TAJ number and card. This allows most treatments at no additional cost.
Self-paying and non-European mobility students (without a scholarship) must have private health insurance, either the Union insurance available through ELTE or another private plan.
EU students should carry the European Health Insurance Card, which covers emergency and basic treatments.

For more details, visit ELTE’s health insurance page and our faculty’s guide regarding your options.

14. I am a scholarship holder. Do I need to participate in the mandatory medical examination? When will I receive information about it?

Yes, as per Act CCIV of 2011 on National Higher Education, third-country national Stipendium Hungaricum and Hungarian Diaspora scholarship holders must undergo a mandatory medical examination prescribed by the minister responsible for foreign affairs after enrolment.

Tempus Public Foundation organizes the examination in coordination with universities. You will receive detailed instructions once the process is finalized, sometime during your first semester.

It is important to follow the provided instructions carefully, as failing to comply with this requirement will lead to the termination of your scholarship status. If you are obligated, but did not receive the instructions by the end of your first semester, contact us at international@tatk.elte.hu.

Note: If you are a Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship holder with Hungarian citizenship, you are exempt from this requirement.

15. What are my rights and obligations as a scholarship holder?

As a scholarship holder, you need to know the special regulations that apply to you. You can find these at:

Stipendium Hungaricum: https://stipendiumhungaricum.hu/scholarship-holders/
Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship: https://diasporascholarship.hu/en/scholarship-holders/

Please note that in some cases, the regulations for your scholarship may be stricter than those for general university policies. These scholarship regulations apply in addition to ELTE’s general academic and administrative regulations.

We strongly recommend dedicating time to understanding these guidelines to ensure a smooth and compliant academic journey.

Should you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us at international@tatk.elte.hu!

16. What are my rights and obligations as an ELTE citizen?

As a student enrolled at ELTE, you need to know your rights and obligations. Please read carefully the academic regulations of ELTE and get familiar with your rights and obligations and the main concepts of studying at ELTE.

Academic Regulations and Procedures

1. What is the academic year schedule?

You can find detailed information about the academic calendar, including important dates, on this website.

The academic year in Hungary begins in September and is divided into two semesters: the autumn semester and the spring semester. Both semesters are structured with a registration period at the beginning, followed by the study period, and concluding with the examination period.

General structure of the academic year:

Semester 1 (Autumn)

Registration period: Early September
Study period: Early September – Mid-December
Examination period: Mid-December – End of January/Early February

Semester 2 (Spring)

Registration period: Early February
Study period: Early February – Mid-May
Examination period: Mid-May – Early July

During the autumn semester, there is typically a one-week break in October or November. In the spring semester, a one-week break usually occurs around Easter, in March or April. Summer vacation extends from the end of the spring semester until the start of the autumn semester.

2. Where can I find the important dates, such as the course registration period, exam registration period, academic training period, exam period, and other key deadlines?

You can find all the necessary dates and deadlines, including course registration periods, exam registration periods, academic training periods, and exam periods, at this link.

This website provides up-to-date information to help you plan your academic year effectively. Please make sure to check it regularly so you don’t miss any important deadlines!

3. How to register in Neptun for a new semester?

Step 1: Log in to the Neptun system at http://hallgato.neptun.elte.hu/. Navigate to the “Administration” menu and select “Enrolment/Registration.”

Step 2: Locate the row for the upcoming term with the status labeled “New” in the table, then click the “+” (Options) button next to it.

Step 3: A popup window will appear where you need to choose whether to register for the current semester as “Active” or “Passive.” Please note that if you select “Passive,” you will not be able to enrol in courses and will not have student status, a student card, a scholarship, or a residence permit. Choosing “Active” means you are required to attend classes. After making your selection, click “Save.”

Step 4: Review your personal information carefully. If you notice any discrepancies (excluding text in Hungarian), please report them to your course coordinator. Finally, click “Submit request” to complete your registration for the semester!

4. What do "Active" and "Passive" statuses signify?

By selecting "Active" status, you confirm your intention to continue your studies and attend the courses for which you register. If you plan to postpone your studies, you can choose "Passive" status.

If you are considering taking a passive semester, it is recommended that you consult with your Academic Registrar regarding your study progress.

5. What are the consequences of having a passive semester?

"Passive" status refers to a temporary pause in your studies. During a passive semester, you are not actively enrolled in courses, and your student status is effectively on hold. This means you will not attend classes, take exams, or participate in academic activities for that semester.

For self-financing students, tuition fees are only required for "Active" semesters. If you are a scholarship student, the "Passive" semester does not count towards your scholarship-funded semesters, but you cannot receive any scholarship benefits during the semester. After you resume your studies, your scholarship status will also resume, assuming that everything else is in order.

If you are a non-EEA student, kindly note that the residence permit for study purposes requires active student status. Therefore, if you change your status to passive, your study purpose residence permit will automatically be invalidated by the authorities. Please find further information at this website

If you are considering taking a passive semester, it is recommended that you consult with your Academic Registrar regarding your study progress.

6. How many passive semesters can I have?

Students are permitted to take up to two passive semesters in a row, allowing them to temporarily suspend their studies while maintaining their enrolment. If a student wishes to extend their passive status beyond these two semesters, they must seek special permission.

If that is your situation, please contact your Academic Registrar!

If you fail to register as active by the end of the registration period in the third semester after the two passive semesters (and you were not specially authorized for a third passive semester) your student status will be terminated!

7. Where and when can I get a student status certificate or proof of enrolment?

8. Do I need to register in person at the beginning of each semester?

Self-funded students only need to register for the semester electronically through Neptun.

Scholarship holders, however, must complete an in-person check-in at the start of each active semester, in addition to online registration. This is a requirement because scholarship holders must reside in Hungary to remain eligible for financial support.

As these scholarships are intended to support students living and studying in the country, you cannot and will not receive your monthly scholarship payments until the personal check-in process is completed.

The personal check-in process generally must be completed within the first month of the semester. In your first semester, the check-in will be completed during your enrolment. For subsequent semesters, detailed instructions will be sent out before the semester begins.

Always make sure your travel plans do not interfere with your academic progress. Be mindful of our absence policies and consult with your lecturers or your Academic Registrar if necessary.

9. What is the credit system at ELTE? What is the difference between lectures and seminars, and how are courses evaluated?

Hungarian higher education has two primary teaching formats: lectures and seminars.

Lectures: Delivered by lecturers or professors, these sessions typically last 45 minutes (or 90 minutes for double lectures). Professors present topics, and students take notes and may ask questions. Attendance is generally not mandatory but is highly recommended. Lectures conclude with oral or written exams, and midterm exams may also be required. Students may attempt the end-of-term exam a maximum of three times for a given subject (in other words, they may retake a failed exam twice, for a total of three exam opportunities).
Seminars: Attendance is compulsory, and active participation is expected. Students often contribute through presentations or essays. Grades are based on overall performance throughout the semester. Some programmes may also require fieldwork or internships.

The Hungarian academic credit system aligns with the ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System). Credits are calculated based on student workload, with one credit equating to approximately 30 hours of work.

At the semester's end, academic performance is graded on a scale from 1 to 5:

5: Excellent – ECTS grade A/B
4: Good – ECTS grade C
3: Satisfactory – ECTS grade D
2: Pass – ECTS grade E
1: Fail – ECTS grade F/FX

Your Transcript of Records contains the code and title of the completed courses, credits, grade, and its ECTS-compatible grade.

Please find further information at this website

10. Where can I get my Transcript of Records?

If you are a full-degree student at our Faculty, your official Transcript of records can be issued by your Academic Registrar upon request. At the end of your studies, your Diploma Supplement will provide a detailed list of the courses you completed, including their codes, titles, credit values, grades, and ECTS-compatible grades.

For incoming exchange students, the International Office issues a Transcript of Records at the end of the semester.

11. How to register for my subjects?

You will need to register for your courses in Neptun during the designated course registration period. Please note that you can only start registering for your subjects after you have registered as ‘Active’ in Neptun and after the course registration period has officially started for the semester!

Your programme structure outlines the required courses you need to complete for your programme. It serves as a roadmap to guide your academic progress and ensure you meet the graduation requirements. Familiarise yourself with it to track your courses effectively!

The specific course list and details for each semester are announced in Neptun shortly before the start of the course registration period. Once the information is available, you can view and register for courses under Subjects > Register for a subject in Neptun. If you cannot find a subject, double check your search settings!

Course registration and deregistration are only possible during the official course registration period. You can find these deadlines here. For deadlines specific to the Faculty of Social Sciences, please search for “TÁTK”.

At the Faculty of Social Sciences, course registration generally happens in two phases:

During the ranking registration period, the available slots are distributed based on a ranking system and class capacity. Please make sure that you are still registered for your courses after the ranking period has ended.
The remaining slots are filled up by the order of registration during "first-come, first-served" period. Some courses may only be available during this period.

For PhD students, there is no ranking period; registration happens exclusively during the first-come, first-served period.

After the course registration period has ended, you can no longer modify your course selection. Make sure to keep track of the deadlines to finalize your registration in time!

12. How does the ranking work? What to do if I am dropped from a course?

You can see your ranking sequence in Available courses. At the end of the ranking registration period, the so-called ’cut’ will drop students who registered for the course, but whose rank is too low (your ranking point is too high) and will not fit in the course’s maximum headcount limit. If you see in Neptun that your ranking sequence is higher than the maximum headcount number, the system will drop you from the course during the cut.

If several students have the same rank and the number of students on the course exceeds the maximum headcount limit, the lucky point – a ’random’ number set up by Neptun – will decide who gets accepted based on the following criteria:

This number depends only on the code generated by the Electronic Educational System (Neptun code), the training period, and the unique identification number of the course.
If a student deregisters from a course and then registers again, they will receive the same lucky point.
The expected value of the place of every student in the sequence generated by the random numbers will be the same.

If you are dropped from a course, and you cannot register to another course of the subject, please check your programme structure. If the course in question is not a pre-requirement for any other course in your programme structure, you should be able to complete it in a later semester without any issues.

Please mind that some courses are offered in the autumn or the spring semester only.

If the course is mandatory and you cannot complete it in a later semester, please contact your Academic Registrar for guidance!

13. What subjects to take and which courses can I register to? Can I take courses from other faculties?

It typically also includes a number of elective courses, allowing you to explore subjects that interest you. These are courses not necessarily tied to your core programme requirements but can enrich your academic experience. This includes language courses, sports courses, and other subjects that may interest you.

Additional Course Options:

Hungarian Language Courses: ELTE provides Hungarian language courses for international students throughout the semester. When registering for your mandatory courses, you may also choose to enrol in these as optional courses during the “first-come, first-served" period.
If you are a scholarship student, participation in the Hungarian Language and Culture course may be mandatory. Please see the next section for further details.
Sport Courses for Credit: ELTE also offers elective sport courses for credit. To find out more about this option, please visit the following link.

If you have further questions about which elective courses to take, please consult your Academic Registrar.

14. I am a scholarship holder. Do I have to participate in the Hungarian Language Course?

For detailed information on these language requirements, please refer to the Stipendium Hungaricum and Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship language pages.

Students who fall under the obligation receive further details at the beginning of their first semester.

These credits will count toward your programme’s elective requirements.

15. How many elective courses can I take?

Your programme structure specifies the minimum number of credits you must complete from elective courses to meet the graduation requirements. Beyond this, you are allowed to take an additional 10% over-major allowance, meaning you can take up to 10% more credits than the mandatory total without incurring any extra fees.

The fee is calculated based on the credits you register for, not just the credits you complete. However, credits for which you have already paid (such as those taken during a second or third registration for a course) are excluded from this calculation, so you won’t be charged twice.

Here’s how it works:

For bachelor’s programmes: The mandatory credit total is 180 credits. With the 10% allowance, you can register up to 198 credits in total.
For master’s programmes: The mandatory credit total is 120 credits. With the 10% allowance, you can register up to 132 credits in total.

If you exceed this limit, an excess fee may apply. Be sure to check the university’s policies if you plan to take additional courses beyond the over-major allowance. Your Academic Registrar can provide further guidance in this regard.

16. How many credits do I need to complete in a semester?

To complete your programme on time, it is recommended that you earn an average of 30 credits each semester as outlined in your programme structure. However, depending on your individual academic progress, some deviation is possible.

Self-Funded Students: There is no minimum credit requirement for self-funded students. Please note that tuition fees must be paid for every active semester, regardless of the number of credits you complete.

Stipendium Hungaricum and Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship Holders: Scholarship holders must earn a minimum of 36 study credits in a given academic year if active in both semesters. This averages out to 18 credits per semester, but the distribution of credits between the two semesters is flexible. For example, you could complete all 36 credits in one semester and none in the other, or split them equally at 18 credits per semester, or in any other proportion.

Important Notes for Scholarship Holders:

This credit requirement also applies to transfer students, but only credits earned during your studies at ELTE will be considered; credits from your previous institution are excluded.
ELTE verifies your credit count at the end of the academic year. Failure to meet the 36-credit minimum may result in the termination of your scholarship status. In such cases, you may continue your studies as a self-financed student.
The credit minimum does not apply to doctoral students or students with a passive semester during the academic year.
The credit minimum does not apply in your final semester, as your scholarship status cannot be terminated when it is naturally concluding.

Please find further information here.

17. Do I need to take an exam?

The course completion requirements are determined by your lecturer, so it is essential to review your syllabus and follow their instructions carefully.

Lectures typically conclude with an oral or written exam during the exam period at the end of the semester. However, in some cases, you may receive an “offered grade” based on your academic performance during midterms and classes, allowing you to complete the course before the exam period. If you are eligible for an offered grade, you must either accept or reject it in Neptun by the specified deadline.

If you accept the offered grade, you do not need to register for the exam.
If you do not accept the offered grade or are not eligible for one, you must register for the exam during the exam registration period.

Keep in mind that offered grades are never automatically accepted. You must accept them manually. Any offered grades that were not accepted by the deadline will count as having been rejected, and an exam must be taken from the subject if the student wishes to receive a grade.

Please note:

You cannot register for an exam without first rejecting the offered grade. Once you accept the offered grade, you cannot take an exam for that course.
Exam dates and times are set by your lecturer and announced shortly before the exam period begins.

If you register for an exam, you can deregister up to 24 hours before the scheduled date. Failure to attend a registered exam without deregistering (or authorizing the justified absence with the professor) incurs a fee.

Students may attempt the end-of-term exam a maximum of three times for a given subject (in other words, they may retake a failed exam twice, for a total of three exam opportunities).

If you fail a course, retaking it in a subsequent semester will incur an administrative fee. Please find further information in the Finances, funding, and scholarships section of this FAQ page.

Students may register for a curriculum course a maximum of three times. If the course is not completed by the third registration, the student status is terminated. Similarly, a total of six attempts (exams) may be taken to receive a passing grade. If the student fails to receive a passing grade after the sixth attempt, their student status is terminated.

18. Am I allowed to travel outside the country during my stay?

Yes, you may travel outside Hungary as long as your visa or residence permit is valid and you comply with immigration regulations. Schengen visa holders can travel within the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Residence permits generally allow multiple entries to Hungary, but ensure you carry proper documentation when crossing borders.

Important: You cannot travel abroad with a temporary residence permit. Leaving Hungary with this document will require you to surrender it at the border, and you will not be allowed to re-enter without a valid residence permit, unless you are from a visa-free country and have visa-free days remaining. In that case, make sure you have enough visa-free days left before traveling.

Scholarship Holders are required to habitually reside in Hungary during the training period. Please note that you can only receive your monthly living and housing allowance for the months you are physically in Hungary, as these allowances are intended to contribute to your costs of living in Hungary.

Short Trips (Up to 10 Days): Allowed without special permission.
Longer Trips (10–30 Days): You must submit a travel request via Neptun (Administration > Requests > “Travel permission request form for scholarship holders”) before departure. Provide details such as travel dates, destination, and justification. Approval is required to maintain your scholarship status.
Extended Absences (Over 30 Days): Allowed once per semester with an approved request, but you will not receive monthly allowances or housing contributions during this period.

If you stay abroad for more than 10 days without permission, your scholarship status may be terminated. For abroad stays longer than 10 working days during the study period, you are required to submit a travel request in Neptun.

Please also keep in mind that scholarship holders must complete an in-person check-in at the start of each active semester to remain eligible for financial support. Monthly scholarship payments are only issued after completing this process. Detailed instructions are sent out before the semester begins.

Exemptions: These rules do not apply during the summer months (July and August), or if you have completed all exams by the end of the semester. However, sharing your travel plans is recommended to allow for better assistance in case any issues arise.

Always make sure your travel plans do not interfere with your academic progress. Be mindful of our absence policies and consult with your lecturers or your Academic Registrar if necessary.

19. What are the overall requirements to graduate from my programme?

Hungary’s higher education system is part of the Bologna Process, aligning it with European standards to promote mobility and ensure degree recognition. It follows a three-cycle structure: bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.

To graduate with a bachelor’s degree, students typically must complete at least 180 credits over six semesters. However, certain programmes may require more credits and extend to seven or eight semesters. For a master’s degree, an additional 120 credits are required, typically over four semesters, building on a completed bachelor’s degree. Doctoral programmes require at least 240 credits and are divided into two phases: the study and research phase (four semesters) and the research and thesis-writing phase (four semesters). Advancement to the second phase requires passing a complex exam.

Graduation at all levels requires fulfilling the credit requirements, completing a thesis or diploma work, and successfully defending it as part of a final examination. Doctoral graduates earn the title of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Doctor of Liberal Arts (DLA) through a separate degree-awarding process.

Each programme may have specific requirements for graduation, such as mandatory courses, practical components, or internships. Students should consult their programme structure and requirements for precise details. If you have questions or need clarification on your individual academic progress, your Academic Registrar can provide further guidance.

20. Can I extend my studies?

If you cannot complete all of the necessary credits within the standard duration of your programme, you will need additional semesters to fulfil these requirements. However, if you complete all required credits, your student status will change to 'absolved'. This means you will no longer need any further active semesters to finish your studies, and you will no longer have student status at ELTE. You do not necessarily need an active student status to submit your thesis and participate in the final exam if these are the only things remaining for your graduation. If you have further questions about this, please contact the Academic Registrar's Office.

If you do need additional active semesters to graduate, the following rules apply:

Self-funded Students: You can extend your studies by continuing to pay the tuition fee for additional semesters as needed. If you have questions about your individual study progress, please consult with your Academic Registrar.
Scholarship Holders: Scholarship funding is provided for a fixed number of semesters based on the standard duration of your programme as outlined in your scholarship agreement. If you are unable to complete your studies within the allocated time, you may request an extension.

For full details of the scholarship extension process, please refer to this link.

The deadline for submitting the extension request is typically mid-April during the spring semester and mid-November for the autumn semester. The International Office sends reminders to eligible scholarship students in their last financed semester once the exact dates are set.

Please note that doctoral students (both self-funded and scholarship) cannot extend their study period.

21. What are the guidelines for writing my thesis, and what support is available?

Students are required to write a thesis or dissertation to complete their studies. Each programme has specific requirements for thesis topics, submission, and defense. Generally, students may choose a topic offered by their department or propose their own, with approval from their programme coordinator. Once a topic is confirmed, a supervisor will guide the student through the writing process, including regular consultations.

Theses must be submitted electronically via Neptun by the deadlines set by the faculty. Following submission, theses are evaluated by one or more appointed reviewers and defended publicly in front of a committee during the final exam period. Participation in the final exam is only possible after completing all credit requirements and obtaining the pre-degree certificate (absolutorium).

Key deadlines for bachelor’s and master's students:

Choosing a topic and supervisor:

Autumn semester: October 15–November 15
Spring semester: April 15–May 15

Modifying the topic or supervisor:

Autumn semester: September 15
Spring semester: February 15

Thesis submission deadlines:

Autumn semester: November 15
Spring semester: April 15

Students will receive details about specific deadlines and requirements via Neptun. Note that final exam participation may be subject to additional conditions depending on when you began your studies and how much time has passed since earning the pre-degree certificate.

Doctoral dissertations must be submitted according to the requirements of the Doctoral School overseeing the programme.

The Faculty’s Némedi Dénes Library provides consultation services to support thesis writing, available both in person and online via Teams. For further details, visit: Faculty Library.

For a comprehensive guide to bachelor’s and master’s thesis requirements, visit: Thesis Requirements.

22. What is the process of graduating?

Students in bachelor’s and master’s programmes complete their studies by taking a final examination. This includes defending their thesis and may involve additional oral, written, or practical assessments, depending on the programme. Specific graduation requirements can be found in the structure section of your programme.

Participation in the final exam is only allowed after fulfilling all credit requirements and obtaining the pre-degree certificate (absolutorium). Additional conditions may apply based on when you began your studies and the time elapsed since earning the pre-degree certificate.

Students will receive detailed information about deadlines and requirements through Neptun in the relevant semesters.

Doctoral dissertations and the public defence procedure are conducted according to the requirements of the Doctoral School overseeing the program.

23. How will I receive my diploma once I have graduated?

It is crucial for students to verify that their personal data is accurate in Neptun, as outlined in Academic Regulation Section 36/2. This includes checking your full name, the order of your names, birth name, place of birth, date of birth, and the specializations associated with your study programme.

Please note that your personal data will be printed on your diploma and diploma supplement exactly as it appears in Neptun, and no comparisons will be made before printing. Be sure to update your information as needed.

At the Faculty of Social Sciences, the graduation ceremony is held in the spring semester, typically in mid-July.

Participation in the ceremony requires prior registration. If you do not submit your request by the deadline or indicate that you will not be attending, you will not have another chance to register for the Graduation Ceremony. In this case, you can only collect your degree certificate in person after the ceremony. If you are unable to attend the Graduation Ceremony, you may pick up your degree certificate in person or have it collected by an authorized representative after the event.

Students will receive detailed information about the dates and deadlines through Neptun in the relevant semesters.

24. Do I need to legalise my diploma for use abroad?

If you plan to use your diploma abroad for further studies or employment, you may need to have it legalised. Legalisation is a process that ensures your diploma is officially recognized in another country.

For detailed guidelines, visit the relevant pages of the Consular Service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. If you have any questions about the process, please reach out to the Consular Service directly, as the university does not handle legalisation procedures.

25. Who should I contact if I have problems regarding my studies?

If you encounter problems related to your studies, the Academic Registrar’s Office is your primary point of contact. They assist with study-related matters such as programme structure, course registration, graduation requirements, and transcripts. You can find their contact details, office hours, and location here: Acadmic Registrar's Office. Once enrolled, they oversee your academic journey.

If you are a doctoral student, please refer to the Doctoral School’s contact page for specific guidance.

Other Useful Contacts:

Quaestura Office of Student Services: Handles administrative tasks like issuing student ID cards, managing data corrections, health insurance, study-purpose residence permits, and student status certificates.
International Office: Assists international students with applications, scholarships, exchange programmes (e.g., Erasmus+), and practical matters.
Student’s Union (HÖK): Represents students, facilitates communication with the university, and organizes social events.
Student Mentor System: Offers personal guidance to incoming students, helping them settle into university life and Budapest.

We are here to ensure your academic and personal experience is smooth and supportive!

Finances, funding, and scholarships

1. How much is the tuition fee, and when do I need to pay it?

Your tuition fee depends on your programme and intake period, as specified in your Letter of Acceptance and the Study Agreement you received at the beginning of your studies. The fees listed there apply for the duration of your studies.

The tuition fee is paid per semester, typically at the start of each active semester.

Visa-required students: If you need a visa to study in Hungary, the tuition fee for the semester must be paid before your visa appointment takes place.
Non-visa-required students (EEA citizens, visa-waiver countries, or those with a valid Hungarian residence permit): The tuition fee deadlines are October 15 for the Autumn semester and March 15 for the Spring semester. These are the deadlines until the payment must be fulfilled in Neptun! Take into consideration that your money has to arrive at your Neptun before the given deadlines.

If you are a Stipendium Hungaricum or Diaspora Scholarship holder, your tuition fees are covered by your scholarship provider, and no payment is required. However, if you lose your scholarship status and wish to continue your studies as a self-funded student, the tuition fees specified in your letter of acceptance will apply.

For detailed information on the payment process, please visit: Q-Ter Financial Guide.

2. Can I pay my tuition fees in HUF or in instalments? Can my tuition fees be reduced?

In general, tuition fees are fixed as advertised. The exact fee and currency are specified in your letter of acceptance and the Study Agreement you received at the beginning of your studies. For international students, the tuition fees are normally set and transcribed in EUR.

Instalment payments are not possible for the first semester's tuition fee. For already enrolled students, any potential adjustments —including payment plans, reductions, or changes to the currency—are managed by the Academic Registrar's Office based on individual circumstances at the beginning of the relevant semester. However, such cases are very rare and considered on a case-by-case basis.

If you believe your situation warrants special consideration, we recommend consulting the Academic Registrar's Office for further guidance.

3. What is the process for paying the tuition fee?

Starting from the 2022/23/2 academic year, all tuition fee payments are managed exclusively through the Neptun system—no other payment methods are accepted.

The payment process involves two steps, both of which must be completed for your payment to be finalized:

Transfer the tuition fee to ELTE's relevant account. The funds will then be deposited into your personal Neptun account.
Once the funds reach your Neptun account, you can manually confirm the payment, or it will be automatically processed close to the payment deadline.

The payment obligation will appear in your Neptun account at the beginning of each semester. Although you can transfer the funds at any time, the payment can only be completed once the fee is issued in Neptun. The money remains secure in your account until then.

The day after the payment obligation is fulfilled in Neptun, you can download an invoice as proof of payment from Neptun, under Finances -> Invoices.

For detailed information on the payment process, please visit: Q-Ter Financial Guide.

Please note that while your tuition fees will be transcribed in EUR, administrative and service fees will be transcribed in HUF during your studies. Always pay attention to follow the payment instructions carefully.

3. Do I need to register a bank account number in Neptun to pay my fees?

No, you do not need to register a bank account number in Neptun to make your payments. However, if you have overpayments on your Neptun account, a bank account number must be registered in Neptun for the refund process.

Additionally, if you are a Stipendium Hungaricum or a Hungarian Diaspora scholarship holder, a Hungarian bank account number has to be registered in Neptun to receive your scholarship payments. Please note that scholarship payments cannot be transferred to foreign bank accounts.

You can add the bank account number to the Neptun system, under Finances > Settings > Bank accounts > Add bank account number.

Please find more information at the following link.

For detailed information on the payment and refund process, please visit: Q-Ter Financial Guide.

4. I accidentally transferred the money to the wrong account. What should I do?

If you are paying your tuition in EUR but transferred the fee to the HUF-based ELTE account, it cannot be credited to the EUR-based account.

In such case you will need to transfer the funds again to the correct ELTE account and then submit a request for a refund from the HUF account.

To prevent this inconvenient situation, please make sure to read the instructions carefully and follow the necessary steps for payment.

For detailed information on the payment and refund process, please visit: Q-Ter Financial Guide.

5. I’ve made the payment, but it hasn’t appeared in my Neptun account. What should I do?

First, please note that money transfers can take some time. If your bank has confirmed the transfer and at least six business days have passed since the transfer date, you should file a complaint.

To do this, visit the Quaestura website

To submit a complaint, log in to the Q-ter website using your Neptun code and password. When starting the case, you will need to attach the bank slip that proves the transfer and includes the following details:

Date of transfer
Name of the sender
Amount transferred
Sender's bank account number
Recipient's bank account number
Message/note field with your Neptun code (required)

Providing complete and accurate information will help expedite the resolution of your case.

6. What administrative and other fees might occur, and why do I have to pay them? Do they apply if I am a scholarship holder?

In addition to tuition fees, you may encounter administrative fees, late fees, or charges for specific services during your studies.

Late and Administrative Fees are charged for missing deadlines, failing to complete required administrative tasks on time, or other procedural issues. Examples include late registration fees, taking the same course for a second or third time, or charges for processing certain requests. You can find a complete list of these fees here: Q-Ter Financial Guide.

Specific Service Fees apply only to services or activities you choose to use, such as enrolling in sport courses, incurring library late fees, or fees related to dormitory and housing services.

These fees generally apply to all students, including scholarship holders, under the same conditions. However, you can avoid most of these fees by meeting deadlines, fulfilling administrative requirements promptly, and only using services you truly need.

7. What happens if I do not submit my payment by the deadline?

If you do not pay your fees by the deadline and are in debt to the University, the following actions may be taken until the debt is cleared:

A late payment administration fee of 3,500 HUF will be charged.
You will be unable to register for exams or the next semester, or to receive your official diploma.

Additionally, failure to pay your tuition fee by the deadline can have serious consequences, including the termination of your student status.

To avoid these issues, always ensure you meet your deadlines and transfer the fees to your Neptun account at least a week before the payment deadline.

8. When and how should I make my payment if I'm registering for a course for the second or third time?

If you need to complete a course but fail it, taking the course for a second or third time will incur an administrative fee. However, you don’t need to pay this fee upfront to complete the registration. Please note that generally, you can register for the same course for a total of three times.

You can register for the course during the usual course registration period. After the registration period ends, the administrative fee will be issued in your Neptun account. Once the fee has been issued, you’ll have 30 days to settle the payment.

It’s important to check your Neptun account regularly to ensure you don’t miss the payment notification or the deadline, as late payment will incur additional fees. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Academic Registrar’s Office for assistance.

9. Why do I need to pay for an exam I didn’t attend?

At the end of a semester, you may notice a payment item in your Neptun account if you were registered for an exam but did not attend, and it was not a justified absence authorized by the professor.

According to the Academic Regulations, if you cannot or do not wish to attend an exam, you must drop it before the exam date. However, dropping an exam is not allowed within 24 hours of the scheduled date. If you fail to drop the exam and do not attend, you will be required to pay a fine.

It’s important to check your Neptun account regularly to ensure you don’t miss any payment notifications or deadlines, as late payment will incur additional fees. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Academic Registrar’s Office for assistance.

10. What is the credit excess fee?

Here’s how it works:

For bachelor’s programmes: The mandatory credit total is 180 credits. With the 10% allowance, you can register up to 198 credits in total.
For master’s programmes: The mandatory credit total is 120 credits. With the 10% allowance, you can register up to 132 credits in total.

11. When and how should I make my payment for sports courses?

If you do not register for the sports course in Neptun, you must pay on-site. You can attend the class just like you would at a gym and make your payment there. Monthly and semester passes are also available. You can always find the class schedules on the ELTE BEAC website.

If you wish to earn credit for the sports course, you must register for it in Neptun. Once registered, the course fee will be processed in the middle of the semester. The standard course fee is 6,000 HUF per course per semester, plus any additional fees for sports courses held at external venues outside the university.

Be sure to check the course details in Neptun for updated fees and participation requirements before registering.

For more information, visit: ELTE Sports for Credit.

12. When and how should I make my payment for the dormitory?

The dormitory fee is charged for each calendar month in which the student is registered as a resident in the dormitory. Partial-month discounts (e.g., half-month fees) or daily rates are not available. Payments must be made through the Neptun study system.

After moving in, the dormitory coordinator will issue the payment in Neptun. You can find the payment details under the Finances > Payments menu.

For more information about the payment process, please visit the Q-Ter Financial Guide.

Stipendium Hungaricum and Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship holders are exempt from paying dormitory fees for the months they are entitled to the accommodation allowance. This exemption also covers the difference between the accommodation allowance and the dormitory fee. However, scholarship holders will not receive their accommodation allowance from the month they sign into the dormitory until the last full calendar month of the semester (January or June), regardless of their move-out date. This rule resets on February 1.

For any questions or issues related to dormitory fees, please contact the dormitory coordinator at info@dormitory.elte.hu.

13. I am a scholarship holder. When will the monthly scholarship arrive?

If otherwise eligible, Stipendium Hungaricum and Hungarian Diaspora scholarships will be transferred to your Hungarian bank accounts via the Neptun study system each month.

The first payment can only be processed after you have signed your scholarship contract and your Hungarian bank account number, permanent address in Hungary, and Hungarian tax identification number are registered in the system.

Scholarships are only issued to students with an active status after completing the in-person check-in process at the start of each active semester.

In your first semester, the check-in will be completed during your enrolment. For subsequent semesters, detailed instructions will be sent out before the semester begins.

Always ensure your details are correctly updated in Neptun:

The Hungarian bank account number can be entered under Finances > Settings > Bank accounts > Add bank account number
The address can be checked under My data > Contact information > Addresses
The tax ID can be checked under My data > Personal Information > Personal Information

You can update your bank account directly in Neptun, but your address and tax ID can only be added or modified at the Quaestura Office or by your Academic Registrar.

For further information about the collation of personal data, visit: Q-Ter Data Verification.

For more information on the scholarship payment schedule, please visit: Scholarship Payment Schedule – The schedule is updated before the start of each semester.

14. I am a self-funded student. Can I apply for scholarships?

Yes, if eligible, it is possible to apply for the Stipendium Hungaricum or the Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship for your remaining semesters even after you have enrolled as a self-funded student.

First, check your eligibility at the following sites:

Please read the call for applications carefully, especially the parts for self-financed applicants who wish to continue their studies with the scholarship.

For bachelor’s and master’s students:

Self-funded students can request a recommendation letter if their cumulative, corrected sum average (“összesített korrigált kreditindex”) is higher than the students’ average performance in the particular study programme (“szakátlag”) after the first semester exam period.

Since this information is only available at the end of the semester, proceed with your scholarship application via the SH application system and upload all other required documents by the deadline. Once the exam period concludes, we will verify your cumulative average. If it exceeds the programme’s average performance, we (the Hungarian Host Institution) will issue the recommendation letter. This letter must be uploaded to your application, usually by March 15.

For PhD students:

The GPA requirement does not apply, but a recommendation letter is still needed for your application. To obtain the letter, please contact us at international@tatk.elte.hu.

Important Notes:

A recommendation letter is not the same as a nomination. Scholarships are awarded based on nominations by your sending country, and the university is not involved in this process. For questions about the nomination process, contact your sending partner directly.
If your application is successful, the scholarship will cover your remaining semesters but will not compensate for semesters already completed as a self-funded student.

If you are not awarded the scholarship, consider exploring external funding opportunities offered by NGOs, governments, or other organizations, as they may provide additional support.

15. Can I work during my studies?

If you would want to pursue a part-time job during your studies, according to the effective legal regulations, third-country citizens with residence permits for study purposes can pursue income earning activities full-time for no more than 30 hours a week during a term, and for no more than ninety days or sixty-six working days per year outside the terms.

Please note that this limitation is due to the type of residence permit. Working full-time would be possible with a residence permit for employment purposes.

This limitation does not apply to students from EEA countries.

Please find further information about your work options here.

16. Do I need to register for a tax ID? What is the process?

If you receive a scholarship from ELTE or plan to work in Hungary during your studies, you must apply for a Tax ID and Tax Card.

You can request these at the National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV). The first application is free, and you will receive your Tax Number on the spot. Use this number to update Neptun, and your Tax Card will be mailed later.

If you already have a Hungarian Tax ID, you don’t need to reapply, as it is valid indefinitely.

Please find further information here.

For assistance with the application, please contact your mentor.

17. Can I apply for a student loan during my studies?

Many students finance their studies through student loans. We recommend that you explore the options for obtaining student loans in your home country. Additionally, you may make use of the student loan program of the Hungarian government, too.

However, please note that due to their special legal status, Stipendium Hungaricum and Diaspora Scholarship holders are not eligible for the Hungarian State Student Loan and other services provided through the Hungarian State Treasury.