1. Why choose the Faculty of Social Sciences at ELTE?

The Faculty of Social Sciences at ELTE, located in Budapest, is the largest social science education centre in Hungary. It boasts internationally renowned faculty members who are widely published, ensuring the highest level of instruction for our  students. 

Here’s why you should choose our faculty: 

• Expert Faculty: Our faculty members are experts in their fields, with extensive international experience and academic publications. 
• Comprehensive Programmes: Whether you aim to deepen your knowledge in social sciences or specialise in a specific field, our programmes offer a wide range of options. 
• Diverse Student Community: We welcome students from diverse scientific backgrounds, which enriches the academic environment with various perspectives. 
• Core Values of Tolerance and Openness: Our faculty promotes tolerance and openness, and you’ll have the chance to engage in activities such as festivals, film clubs, discussions, and debates that bring students of different cultural backgrounds together. 
• International Recognition: By studying with us, you’ll earn an internationally recognised degree. 
• ELTE Community Benefits: As a member of the ELTE community, you’ll have access to a range of facilities and services, including sports opportunities, Hungary’s largest university library, and various student events. 

Choosing the Faculty of Social Sciences at ELTE means joining a vibrant, intellectually stimulating community in one of Europe’s most exciting capital cities.

2. Which programme should I choose, and where can I find the currently offered programmes?

Choosing the right programme depends on your previous education, career goals, and personal interests. We encourage you to explore the available programmes to find the best fit for you. 

You can find the currently offered English-language programmes at ELTE on this page. For programmes offered at our Faculty of Social Sciences, simply select our faculty from the list. 

On the programme page, you’ll find detailed information, including: 

• Admission requirements and eligibility 
• Application fees and tuition fees 
• Programme structure 
• Career opportunities 
• General application timeline 

To find this information: 

1. Click on your selected programme. 
2. Check the ‘Admissions’ tab for detailed admission requirements, fees, and application deadlines. 
3. For specific inquiries, contact the faculty directly using the email provided under the ‘Contact’ tab on the programme's page. 

When considering a programme, reflect on your previous education and career aspirations. Be sure to review the programme’s structure and career prospects to help guide your decision. 

If you have additional questions, don't hesitate to reach out to the relevant faculty!

3. When can I apply? 

International self-funded applications to the programmes offered at the Faculty of Social Sciences typically open in October each year. There are two main intakes for our programmes: February and September. 

February intake: Applications open from October 1 to November 15 of the preceding year. 

September intake: There are three application periods:

• Early Bird Period: October 1 – November 15 (23:59 CET) 
• Regular Period: November 20 – April 30 (23:59 CET) 
• Last Call Period: May 5 – May 31 (23:59 CET)

These application windows give applicants the flexibility to apply at a time that suits them, with equal admission chances within each period. 

Note: 

Deadlines for scholarship applications may differ; they are usually open between November and January. Please refer to the sections on Finances, Funding, and Scholarships for further information on the scholarship opportunities. 

Special Instructions for Students with Hungarian Citizenship: 

If you (also) hold Hungarian citizenship, you must apply through felvi.hu. Applications on felvi.hu are typically open between December and February 15. However, if you hold dual citizenship, you may be eligible for the Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship. In that case you must apply through the scholarship’s application portal. 

4. Is there a difference between the application periods? When should I apply?

Yes, there is a difference between the application periods, mainly in terms of the application fee: 

• Early Bird Period and February intake: €50 per programme 

• Regular Period: €100 per programme 
• Last Call Period: €180 per programme 

While each period offers equal chances for admission, the earlier deadlines provide more flexibility, especially for visa-required students. Applying early also gives you more time to complete the necessary steps before enrolment. 

If you are applying for a scholarship or as a Hungarian citizen through felvi.hu, you must follow their specific deadlines, which may differ from the standard application windows. 

For applicants from visa-required countries, we strongly recommend applying by the regular deadline to avoid potential delays with visa processing. The Last Call period, with a deadline of May 31, is intended for those who missed earlier periods but are confident they can manage the shorter timeframe for both application and visa procedures.

5. I missed the application deadline. What can I do? 

It is important to adhere to the respective deadlines. Once the application deadline for a particular admission period—whether for scholarship or self-funded applicants—has passed, we cannot accept any applications beyond that date. 

Please check which deadline applies to you and ensure you follow it. If you missed the deadline, you may apply for the next intake period. 

6. Is there a February intake for my selected programme? 

Currently, the Faculty of Social Sciences offers a February intake for two programmes: 

• Cultural Anthropology MA 
• Ethnic and Minority Policy MA 

All other programmes are available only for the September intake. 

For more details on application deadlines, please refer to the relevant programme page or the FAQ section on application periods. 

Note that Stipendium Hungaricum and Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship applications are only open for the September intake! The admission period for these scholarships is usually open between November and January. Please refer to the sections on Finances, Funding, and Scholarships for further information on the scholarship opportunities.

7. How many seats are available for the programme? 

The number of seats for each programme is not fixed and varies based on several factors, including the mix of international and Hungarian applicants, as well as scholarship and self-funded students.

While the university has no quotas based on citizenship or region, certain scholarships may have specific regional or field quotas that we cannot control or disclose. If you have further questions specific to your scholarship, we recommend contacting the provider. 

Ultimately, admission results depend on your scores and the programme's capacity. 

8. I am still under 18. Can I apply as a minor? 

Yes, it is generally possible to apply and start your studies as a minor, provided that you are otherwise eligible. For the exact admission requirements, please consult the ‘Admissions’ tab of the particular programme, where you can also find useful information about the programme structure and the admission process. 

However, certain scholarships may have a minimum or maximum age for applying. Please find these exact requirements in the scholarship’s call for applications.

Important Note: 

If an underage applicant is accepted and their legal guardian cannot accompany them for enrolment and other administrative tasks, the legal guardian must sign a declaration authorising the student to handle their own affairs. Please find a template here. 

Please note that other administrative bodies may require additional documentation regarding this arrangement. If relevant, it is also advisable to consult the Hungarian embassy in your home country regarding the visa process and traveling to Hungary as a minor. 

9. Can I apply after a gap year? Is there an age limit for the application?

Yes, you can apply after a gap year (or several gap years), as there are no age limits for applicants, provided that you meet the other eligibility requirements. We welcome students from diverse backgrounds and life experiences, and taking time off can be a valuable period for personal growth and exploration. 

However, certain scholarships may have a minimum or maximum age for applying. Please find these exact requirements in the scholarship’s call for applications. 

If you have any specific questions about eligibility or the application process, feel free to reach out for assistance!

10. Can I apply with a certain citizenship? 

Yes, all applicants are eligible to apply, as outlined on our website. However, if you are a Hungarian citizen, you must apply through felvi.hu.  

If you hold another citizenship in addition to Hungarian, you may also be eligible for the Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship. In that case you must apply through the scholarship’s application portal. 

If you have further questions regarding citizenship or the application process, please feel free to reach out!

11. Can I apply for a master's programme with a different background?

Yes, you can apply for a master's programme even if your background is different, provided you meet the other eligibility criteria. We welcome students from all academic backgrounds. 

If your bachelor's degree is not directly admissible, this does not exclude you from consideration. Your degree will be assessed individually based on your transcript of records and completed credits. The final decision regarding acceptance will be made by our Admission Committee. 

Please note that all applications, along with the required documents, must be submitted through the official and relevant application platform. We cannot review application materials sent via email. Once submitted, your documents will be evaluated as part of the official application process. 

If your degree does not meet all the necessary requirements, you may be required to complete additional credits in relevant fields during your first year of study to fulfil these requirements upon acceptance.

12. Can I transfer from another university? 

If you are a self-funded student, transfers are generally only possible if you are transferring to the same degree programme from another university, with a maximum of two completed semesters. Check the specific transfer rules here: Transfer Request Guidelines. If eligible, contact the Academic Registrar's Office for further steps. 

If you're not eligible for a transfer, you may apply for the desired programme during the regular intake periods. 

If you are a scholarship (Stipendium Hungaricum or Hungarian Diaspora)  holder, the host institution, the majors within the institution and the language of studies can be changed only once per each study level after submitting a special student request, within one year after beginning the studies. If you wish to change your study programme, institution, or programme language as a scholarship holder, please contact the International Office at international@tatk.elte.hu and refer to the specific rules of your scholarship. 

13. Can I change my programme or university later? 

In general, an admission decision applies to a specific programme. If you wish to change your study programme or university, you must contact the new institution for guidance on their procedures and requirements. For rules on transferring to our faculty, please refer to the previous section. 

14. Can I finish my studies earlier? 

Generally, our programmes are scheduled for a specific duration (6 semesters for bachelor’s, 4 for master’s, and 8 for doctoral programmes). Your completion timeframe depends on your academic progress and course availability. Completing a programme more quickly may be possible through careful planning, depending on course prerequisites, transfer credits, and semester schedules. 

If you have prior credits that closely align with our programme's curriculum, you may apply for a credit transfer after your enrolment. To do so, you will need to submit signed and stamped syllabi for each course, along with a transcript of records, to verify your completed courses. You will also need to specify which courses in our programme the transferred credits might replace. 

Please note: 

• The total credits recognized through transfer cannot exceed 50% of the credits required for your degree. 
• Generally, only credits from the same study level can be transferred. 
• This process can only begin after enrolment, with final decisions made by the Credit Transfer Committee, and we cannot guarantee the outcome in advance. 

For more details, reviewing the programme structure and course descriptions of your chosen programme is recommended. 

15. Can I apply as a part-time student?

If you are interested in international mobility (a temporary exchange, short-term or long-term study abroad opportunity at ELTE), please visit the Erasmus+ Mobility FAQ FAQ page for further information. 

If you are asking whether you can pursue your studies part-time, it is important to note that while many students manage to balance work and study, the programme requirements remain the same. The courses are designed to be completed within a specific number of semesters. While you can adjust your pace somewhat and take longer to finish, extending your studies means taking additional semesters, which will incur extra costs. 

---

1. What are the costs of living in Hungary? 

The cost of living in Hungary, especially in Budapest, is generally affordable compared to other European countries. Here’s a general breakdown of typical monthly expenses for international students. Please note that these are estimates, and actual costs may vary depending on your lifestyle and spending habits: 

• Accommodation: €200–€500 per month (depending on location and type of housing: dormitory, shared apartment, or private rental) 
• Utilities (electricity, water, heating, internet): €50–€100 per month, if not included in the rent. Dormitory fees usually include utilities. 
• Food and Groceries: €150–€250 per month 
• Public Transportation: €10–€30 per month (discounts for students are available) 
• Health Insurance: €20–€50 per month 
• Other (entertainment, personal expenses): €50–€150 per month 

While the estimates are provided in euros (€) for easier calculation, please note that the official currency in Hungary is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). 

For more information and to estimate your individual costs, visit the Study in Hungary webpage. Keep in mind that exact prices are subject to change, and this information serves as a general guide to help you prepare for the financial aspects of studying abroad. 

2. Can I apply for a scholarship? 

If you're an international applicant, three types of scholarships may be available to you, depending on your chosen programme and home country. Please check your eligibility for each option below: 

• The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme was launched in 2013 by the Hungarian Government. The core mission of the programme is to increase the number of foreign students in Hungary and to encourage Hungarian higher education institutions to attract top foreign students; currently more than 50 sending partners are engaged in the programme. 

• The Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship was established by the Hungarian Government for those who live in a Hungarian diaspora outside of Europe and wish to study at a Hungarian higher education institution to develop their personal, professional and cultural relations to Hungary.
  The programme aims to support the professional advancement of the scholarship holders with high-quality Hungarian higher education while improving their Hungarian language skills and strengthening their Hungarian identity. After graduation, scholarship holders return to their home country with competitive skills and knowledge that enable them to support their community, preserve Hungarian values and reinforce the relations between the diaspora and Hungary. 

• Citizens of the following countries may apply at Visegrad Fund for a scholarship to provide support for their Master or Doctoral studies in Hungary: Albania (AL), Armenia (AM), Azerbaijan (AZ), Belarus (BY), Bosnia and Herzegovina (BA), Czech Republic (CZ), Georgia (GE), Kosovo (XK), Macedonia (MK), Moldova (MD), Montenegro (ME), Poland (PL), Russia (RU), Serbia (RS), Slovakia (SK) and Ukraine (UA). 

You can find additional information about your funding options at: 

• https://www.elte.hu/en/funding 
• https://www.elte.hu/en/student-finances/student-loans 
• https://www.elte.hu/en/about-hungary/work-permit 

We would also recommend searching for scholarship opportunities on your own, as these might not be your only options. Scholarships are sometimes offered by your home country's government, local organisations, or international foundations that sponsor students for education abroad, covering tuition or living expenses. 

Please note that if you are eligible for any of these scholarships and wish to pursue them, you will have to check the deadlines/requirements connected to the scholarship as well, and you would have to submit your application through the relevant application surface. 

3. I applied through a scholarship programme. Do I need to submit my application through ELTE’s application portal as well? If I am not accepted for the scholarship, can I apply as a self-funded student?

If you are applying through the Stipendium Hungaricum or Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship, you only need to submit your application on the scholarship’s designated platform. There, you can also indicate your willingness to be considered as a self-funded applicant. 

Please note that the sending partner may have its own application method or platform for the nomination process. Always check and follow their instructions, as the university does not manage or have information about the nomination process. 

If you are not nominated for the scholarship, you can still submit a self-funded application through the university’s portal at apply.elte.hu until May 31. If you are from a visa-required country, we recommend applying by April 30 to allow sufficient time for visa processing. Please refer to the intake periods section for more details. If you were not nominated but wish to be considered as a self-funded student, you must submit your application through apply.elte.hu during the application period! 

If you were nominated and successfully completed the institutional admission process but did not receive the scholarship, please contact us at international@tatk.elte.hu to be considered as a self-funded student. No new application is required, but the decision will depend on your results and our available capacity. 

4. 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 at this link. 

5. How much is the tuition fee? When and how do I pay it? 

The tuition fee amount depends on your programme, so always check the specific details on the website. The fee is paid per semester, and if you are accepted, your letter of acceptance will include the payment information and an indicative 15-day deadline to pay the first semester’s tuition fee. 

For third-country nationals, the first semester’s tuition fee must be paid before attending your visa appointment. Make sure to schedule your visa appointment at least one month before your expected arrival date and transfer the tuition fee at least one week before the appointment. 

If you are from an EEA or visa-waiver country, the tuition fee deadline is October 15 for the Autumn semester and March 15 for the Spring semester. This will appear as the deadline in the university’s electronic system, but for visa-required students, an earlier payment is necessary. 

If you are a scholarship holder, your tuition fees are covered by your scholarship provider and your letter of acceptance will reflect this fact. As you do not need to pay the tuition fee, the letter of acceptance will not include payment details. 

6. I have a residence permit in Hungary or in another EEA country. Am I eligible for the EEA fees? 

In general, tuition fees are determined by your citizenship and legal status in Hungary. A residence permit for study purposes or other non-permanent residence permits, whether in Hungary or in another EEA country, unfortunately do not qualify you for the reduced EEA fees. This is because such permits are necessary for third-country nationals to legally reside but do not confer rights equivalent to those of EEA nationals. 

However, according to Article 39, paragraphs (1) and (2) of Act CCIV of 2011 on National Higher Education, applicants are eligible for the EEA fees in the following cases: 

1. Individuals who have the right of free movement and residence under a specific law, 
2. Persons with stateless, refugee, subsidiary protection, asylum, tolerated, immigrant, or permanent resident status residing in Hungary who do not fall under point (a), 
3. Foreigners who are to be treated equally with Hungarian nationals based on an international agreement, 
4. Nationals of countries where Hungarian citizens, on the basis of reciprocity, are entitled to use higher education services, 
5. Individuals falling under the scope of the Act on Hungarians Living in Neighboring Countries (Act on Preferential Treatment), who are not Hungarian nationals and do not have the right of free movement and residence, 
6. Third-country nationals who claim Hungarian origin as defined in the Act on the Entry and Residence of Third-Country Nationals, unless covered by the Act on Preferential Treatment or they are Hungarian nationals, 
7. Third-country nationals holding an EU Blue Card issued for highly qualified employment and residence, 
8. Third-country nationals holding a single permit for both work and residence. 

If you believe you might qualify for the reduced EEA fees based on any of the above conditions, please ensure you upload all relevant supporting documentation to your application. 

7. Can my tuition fees be reduced? Can I pay my tuition in instalments? 

As a general rule, tuition fees are fixed as advertised, and reductions are not available during the application process. Additionally, instalment payments are not possible for the first semester's tuition fee. For already enrolled students, any potential adjustments, including payment plans or reductions, would be managed by the Academic Registrar's Office based on individual circumstances. 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. 

8. Can the tuition fee be refunded? What is the process and how long does it take? 

Tuition fees are paid for each active semester, provided that your student status is established during the enrolment process. 

If you do not enrol, you are entitled to a full refund of your already paid in tuition fees. 

If you are entitled to a refund, we will contact you in the second half of October for the autumn semester and in the second half of March for the spring semester regarding the refund. The refund process can take several weeks, but rest assured we are proceeding as quickly as possible. For specific details on our refund policy, please refer to the faculty's guidelines. 

9. What other costs should I expect before enrolment? 

As a self-funded applicant, you need to pay the application fee by the application deadline, and the first semester's tuition fee after receiving a positive admission decision. 

In addition to these costs, starting your studies in another country can involve various other expenses, including: 

• Travel Expenses: This includes airfare to your new location and any other transportation costs incurred during your journey. 
• Health Insurance: Necessary for your visa application and essential for your overall well-being while studying abroad. Make sure to research providers and coverage options. 
• Accommodation: You will need to arrange housing, whether it be on-campus or off-campus. This may involve security deposits, rent, and utility setup fees. 
• Living Expenses: Monthly costs for food, transportation, study materials, and personal expenses should be budgeted for. Costs can vary widely depending on the city and lifestyle. 
• Visa Costs: Besides health insurance, you may need to pay additional fees for visa applications and related services. 

For more details on these practical matters, we recommend visiting our FAQ page for accepted students. 

If you are a scholarship holder, your tuition fees are covered, and you do not have to pay the application fee, along with other benefits. However, please note that while the monthly scholarship provides some financial support, it may not cover all living expenses. 

10. How much is the application fee? Can the application fee be waived? 

The application fee varies depending on the application period: 

• Early Bird or February intake: €50 per programme 
• Regular Application Period: €100 per programme 
• Last Call Period: €180 per programme 

Please note: 

• If you apply to multiple programmes, the application fee must be paid for each one. 
• For self-funded applicants, we can only consider your application after the fee has been received for the selected programme. 
• If you’re applying to programmes in other faculties, be sure to check their specific fee requirements. 

Fee Waiver: 

• The application fee cannot be waived for self-funded applicants. 
• However, if you apply through the Stipendium Hungaricum or Hungarian Diaspora scholarship, the application fee does not apply.

11. How do I transfer the application fee? Are there alternative payment methods? 

The transfer details can be found under the relevant task in the online application system. It is essential to include your name and the specific programme code in the transfer. Please follow the format provided under the task. 

The application fee can only be paid via bank transfer. Unfortunately, no alternative payment methods are currently available. 

12. Can the application fee be refunded? 

No, the application fee is non-refundable, even if your interview is unsuccessful, you withdraw your application, or do not attend the interview. The application fee covers the administrative costs of processing your application, including reviewing documents, conducting interviews, and handling correspondence. 

---

1. I am in my final year of studies and do not yet have my degree certificate. Can I apply? How can I apply? 

To apply for a programme, you need to submit the following basic entry qualification documents for each level: 

• For bachelor's programmes: High school graduation certificate 
• For master's programmes: Bachelor's degree certificate 
• For PhD programmes: Master's degree certificate 

However, even if you are in the final year of your studies and have not yet obtained your degree certificate, you can still apply. Here's what you need to do: 

• For the September intake: Submit your student status certificate and up-to-date transcript of records with your application. Additionally, include a signed declaration stating that you will upload your graduation or degree certificate by August 1 at the latest. Please note that August 1 is the final deadline for submitting missing documents, provided all other application materials are complete. 
• For the February intake: All required documents, including your degree certificate, must be submitted by the November 15 application deadline. 

Make sure to keep track of the deadlines and submit the required documents on time to complete your application! 

Important: Applicants for the Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship must also upload their high school graduation certificate regardless of the study level they apply for, to prove they completed their high school studies outside of Hungary. If you apply for a scholarship, always check the call for applications for the details.

2. What is a student status certificate, and how can I obtain one?

A student status certificate is an official document issued by your school or university that confirms your enrolment and ongoing studies. It often includes information about your expected graduation date. 

The format and terminology of this document may vary depending on the institution. Please contact your school or university's registrar or administrative office to request it. 

3. What is the transcript of records? Do I have to submit it? 

A transcript of records is an official document that lists the courses you have completed, along with the grades you received. 

Yes, all applicants must upload their up-to-date transcript of records. Here are the specific requirements based on your study level: 

• BA/Bsc programme applicants: Include transcripts at least for the final two years of high school. If your school issues transcripts that include the records of more than the last years of high school, feel free to upload them. 
• MA/MSc programme applicants: Submit transcripts from your BA studies. 
• PhD programme applicants: Upload transcripts from your MA studies. 

If you have completed additional degrees, we recommend including those records as well. 

4. I am applying for a bachelor programme, but I do not have my records for my final two years regarding high school studies. What can I do? 

The academic records for the final two years of secondary school are mandatory for the application process regarding all BA/BSc programmes offered at our faculty. If you do not have these detailed records, you have the following options: 

1. Submit any available records: Contact your school to request transcripts. Upload any documents from your high school education, such as report cards or certificates, along with your graduation certificate. A brief explanation letter regarding the missing transcripts is also helpful. 
2. Submit BA degree records: If you have completed or will complete a BA degree before starting the programme, you may upload your degree certificate and university transcripts instead of your high school records. 

If you are unsure about your documents, please contact us via email at international@tatk.elte.hu with your documents attached. 

5. What are the language requirements, and what kind of certificates are accepted? 

Language requirements can vary by programme, so it is essential to check the admission requirements for your specific programme. Only the listed certificates are accepted as proof of English proficiency. However, if the medium of instruction during your previous studies was entirely in English, this can suffice as proof. 

Key Deadlines: 

• For the September intake, if your programme requires a language certificate, the final deadline to submit it is August 1. You can submit your application even if you do not have the certificate at the time of application, but please include a declaration that you will provide the missing document by the deadline. 
• For the February intake, all necessary application materials, including language certificates, must be submitted by the application deadline of November 15.

If your programme does not require a language certificate, not attaching one does not exclude you from consideration. In this case, your English proficiency will be assessed during the admission interview, assuming that all other application materials are in order. However, we recommend uploading any language certificate you do possess, as it can enhance your application. 

6. What is a motivational letter? Do I have to upload one? Are there any requirements or templates? 

A motivational letter, also known as a personal statement or a statement of purpose, is a written document where you introduce yourself and explain your reasons for applying to a specific programme. It highlights your motivations, interests, and goals related to the course. 

You are required to complete the motivational letter section in the online application form. The letter must be in English, typically between 1,500 and 4,000 characters, though PhD applicants may write up to 8,000 characters, spaces included. There is no strict template; beyond formal guidelines, you have freedom to express yourself! 

7. Should I submit a recommendation letter? How can I get one, and who should write it? What are the requirements for it? Is there a template? 

A recommendation letter, also known as a reference letter, may be required for your application depending on the specific programme. Always check the programme requirements; if reference letters are requested, you must upload them. If they are not required, submitting one or more is optional. 

There are no strict requirements or templates for recommendation letters. They can be written by any relevant person who knows you professionally or academically. The letter should be signed by hand by the referee and uploaded to your application. Alternatively, you can provide the email address of your referee in the application system; they will receive a notification and can fill in the recommendation directly on the application platform. 

8. I am applying for a PhD programme. Do I need a statement from my future supervisor? How can I get one? 

A statement from your future supervisor is optional. However, you must submit the mandatory application documents, including your CV, a research work plan, and a writing sample. 

If you would like to submit the optional statement of supervisor document in addition to the mandatory documents, start by checking the list of supervisors and proposed topics for the following PhD programmes: 

• Sociology PhD programme: Sociology Topics 
• Interdisciplinary Social Research PhD programme: Interdisciplinary Social Research Topics 
• International Studies PhD programme: International Studies Topics 

If you find a supervisor whose research aligns with your proposal, please reach out to them with your research proposal and inquire if they would agree to supervise your thesis. Their contact information can be found under "lecturers" on the specific programme pages, or you can search for them on the university’s website or through a search engine by typing their name along with "ELTE." 

Please find further details on our PhD programmes at this link. 

9. I do not have a valid international passport at the time of applying. Can I apply? How? 

Yes, you can still apply even if you do not have a valid international passport at the time of applying. Instead, upload a copy of your valid national ID card.  

If you are coming from a non-EEA country, the final deadline to submit your international passport is August 1 for the September intake. Until you provide it, your acceptance will remain conditional, even if all other documents are in order. In this case, please include a signed declaration stating that you will upload your valid international passport by August 1 at the latest. 

However, for the February intake, all necessary documents must be presented by the November 15 application deadline. 

If you are an EEA citizen, you do not need a passport to apply. You can use your national ID card instead. Please ensure that your ID is valid throughout the application process. 

10. Do I need an apostille or other form of notarisation on my documents to apply? 

No, we do not require an apostille or any form of notarisation on your original documents to apply. During enrolment, you will need to present hard copies of your original and official entry qualification documents. These official documents do not need to be notarised or apostilled, as long as they are original and verified hard copies. 

However, if applicable, we recommend contacting the Hungarian embassy to confirm whether they require such processes during the visa application. 

11. How should I fill in the application form? 

All applications must be submitted through the relevant application platform. When filling out the form, please provide your personal and educational data accurately and truthfully. 

• Use your full name exactly as it appears in your passport. Pay attention to proper capitalization (capitalize only as required). 
• Enter your date of birth, passport number, its expiration date, and your permanent address in your country of citizenship accurately. 
• Hungarian administrative systems require the birth (maiden) name of your mother. Please provide this information correctly. 

The details you provide in the application will serve as the basis for all future administration at our university, so ensure accuracy. 

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at international@tatk.elte.hu. 

12. In what format should I upload my documents? 

All applications and required documents must be submitted through the relevant application platform. We cannot review materials sent via email. Once submitted, your documents will be evaluated as part of the official application process. 

• Documents not originally written in English, Hungarian, or the language of the selected study program must be accompanied by an official, notarized translation. 
• Files must not exceed 4 MB in size. Please upload your documents in PDF or JPG format. 
• Ensure your documents are legible and properly oriented. 

Scholarship applicants: Upload the required documents under the relevant “Tasks” and any additional materials in the “Documents” section. 

Self-funded applicants: If a document cannot be uploaded under the “Tasks” section, please upload it to the “Documents” section instead. 

Please note that upon acceptance, you must take the original entry qualification documents with you to the university. 

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at international@tatk.elte.hu. We wish you the best of luck with your application! 

---

1. Did I submit all documents? Do I have any missing documents?

Always check your programme's specific requirements! Generally, self-funded international applicants need to submit: the relevant degree certificate, transcript of records, passport, proof of application fee transfer, and a motivation letter. Some programmes may also require a specific language certificate or reference letters. PhD programmes require additional documents, such as your CV, research work plan, and a writing sample. 

If you apply with a scholarship, always check the scholarship call as well, along with the programme’s requirements. For Stipendium Hungaricum or Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship applicants, the application fee does not apply, so there is no need to upload proof of payment. 

You must submit all available and obtainable documents by the application deadline! 

For the September intake, documents like your degree certificate and final transcript (if you're in your final year of studies), passport, and the language certificate can be submitted later, provided that they are not yet available at the time of application. You must upload a signed declaration stating that you will provide them by August 1. Until you upload all required documents, any acceptance can only be conditional. 

For the February intake, all required documents must be submitted by the November 15 deadline. 

Important: Scholarship application deadlines and requirements may differ, so always check the specific call for applications. 

2. I already submitted my application. What are the next steps, and when will I be notified of the results? 

After each application deadline, applicants with complete application packages will be notified of the next steps following a technical check. Please note that you will only be informed after the application period has closed, even if you submitted your application earlier.

If your application package is complete, the Admission Committee will review your application and invite you to an admission interview. For the Sociology BA programme, you will receive instructions to upload an introductory video. After the interview/video submission, you will typically be informed of the selection outcome within one month via the online application system. Admission letters will be sent out if everything else is in order: 

• For September intake: Admission letters are expected by the end of June. 
• For February intake: Admission letters are expected by the end of December the latest. 

For certain documents (e.g., degree certificate, final transcript, language certificate, or passport) that can only be obtained after the interview, the final submission deadline is August 1 for the September intake. You must upload a signed declaration stating that you will provide them by August 1. Your acceptance will be conditional until all required documents are received. 

Some applicants may also be placed on a waiting list. Final decisions for those on the waiting list will be announced during the first week of August, but we will inform applicants of any changes as capacities free up. 

However, if you are applying through a scholarship, please check the application timeline of the scholarship! 

 3. I have been conditionally accepted. What does it mean, and how can I manage the timeframe? 

Being conditionally accepted means your admission to the programme depends on submitting specific outstanding documents, such as your degree certificate, final transcript, or language certificate. You must provide these by the final deadline of August 1 to secure your place. 

To manage your timeframe, ensure you are actively working on obtaining the necessary documents and submit them as soon as they are available. If you encounter any issues in meeting the deadline, please reach out to us for guidance. 

Your acceptance is conditional until all required documents are submitted. If you fail to provide them by August 1, you cannot be admitted. We will keep you informed of any updates regarding your application status. If you have further questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us at international@tatk.elte.hu. 

4. I have been placed on a waiting list. What does it mean, and how can I manage the timeframe? 

Being on the waiting list means you may still be accepted if capacities become available. Final results are expected by the first week of August, but you might receive a decision earlier. 

Please note that your outcome could go either way. We will notify you as soon as possible about your result, though we cannot guarantee a specific date earlier than the first week of August. If you come from a visa-obligated country and can secure a visa appointment without the final decision, we recommend doing so. 

While we understand the challenges this poses, there is little we can do to expedite the waiting list process. We are committed to keeping you updated and appreciate your understanding. If you have further questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact us at international@tatk.elte.hu 

5. I have applied but would like to withdraw my application. What should I do? 

To withdraw your application, please do so through the online application portal. It’s also helpful to inform us via email at international@tatk.elte.hu. 

Please note that if you have already paid the application fee and submitted your application, the fee is non-refundable, even if you decide to withdraw. 

6. My interview was unsuccessful. What can I do? Can I retake the exam? 

If your interview was unsuccessful, unfortunately, admission decisions are final, and retaking the exam is not an option for the current intake. However, you are welcome to apply again in the next admission period! We encourage you to use this time to strengthen your application—whether it's by reviewing the recommended readings (if applicable), refining your research proposal, or improving your language skills. Each step is a chance to improve, and we look forward to seeing your progress in the next round! 

7. I applied through a scholarship, have passed the institutional admission procedure, but did not receive the scholarship. Can I still apply as a self-funded student? 

Yes, if you did not receive the scholarship but wish to be considered as a self-funded applicant, please contact us at international@tatk.elte.hu. 

Please note that this process is not automatic, and the final decision will depend on your results and our capacity. However, you do not need to submit a new application for the same intake—we can proceed with the information you provided for the Stipendium Hungaricum application. 

This option is only available if you have already participated in the institutional admission procedure, and a place in the programme is not guaranteed. 

If you were not nominated for the scholarship, you can apply as a self-funded student during the regular intake periods through apply.elte.hu. 

8. I have received an accepted offer. What are the next steps? 

Congratulations on your successful application! Please make sure to confirm your decision by accepting the offer through the online application system. Once you have accepted the offer, your letter of acceptance will be issued in approximately two weeks. Please note we can only send your letter of acceptance if you accept the offer. 

For guidance on how to prepare for the start of your studies, you can visit the FAQ page for accepted students on our website. 

Best of luck with the next steps — we look forward to welcoming you to our community! 

---