26.01.2026.
Frequently asked questions - incoming Erasmus
Épület homlokzata, háttérben torony és fa.

This section is designed to guide you through the essential administrative steps you need to complete before you start your mobility at ELTE Faculty of Humanities. 

From understanding your official acceptance to preparing your initial study plan, the information below will help ensure you have a smooth and organised start to your mobility. Browse the questions below to find details on your nomination, registration, creating your Learning Agreement, and the first steps for using Neptun.

Important note: For all questions regarding visas, residence permits, health insurance, and accommodation, please head over to our Practical Matters section.

How to use this section: To find a specific keyword, first open the subtopics, then use the search function by pressing 'Ctrl+F' on Windows or 'Command+F' on macOS. 

GENERAL INFORMATION

  1. How is the academic year structured at ELTE? 
    The academic year at ELTE is divided into two semesters: the autumn semester and the spring semester. Each semester consists of three main phases: a registration period, a study period (when classes are held), and an examination period. You can find the current dates in the academic calendar

 

  1. What are the key dates for the current academic year? 
    You can find the current dates in the academic calendarThe general timeline for the semesters is as follows:
    • Autumn semester: Early September to late January (Exam period: mid-December to late January).
    • Spring semester: Early February to early July (Exam period: mid-May to early July).

 

  1. Is there a specific language level required for my studies? 
    While ELTE does not require an official language certificate, the university recommends that you have at least a B2 level of proficiency in English and the target language of your studies to successfully complete your courses.

 

  1. How can I check available courses before I arrive? 
    You can browse the course catalogue at any time on this website. Make sure to set the "Faculty" filter to "Faculty of Humanities" to see the relevant course list.

     

  2. .What is the difference between an administrative and an academic Coordinator?
  • Administrative (or faculty) coordinator: Your primary contact for the administrative and technical aspects of your stay. They manage your official registration at the Faculty, oversee Neptun system access, handle the documentation of your mobility.
  • Academic (or institutional/departmental) coordinator: A professor or staff member at your institute/department responsible for the educational components of your mobility. They provide guidance on your study program, approve course selections, and are the sole signatories for your Learning Agreement (LA/OLA).

 

  1. Who should I contact if I have questions or encounter issues during my stay?
    Your point of contact depends on the nature of your inquiry. For administrative and technical matters (e.g., registration, Neptun access, official certificates) you should contact your administrative coordinator. If you have academic questions regarding your specific study program, course content, or Learning Agreement signatures, you must contact your academic coordinator at your host department. 


For specialized issues, please reach out to the following offices directly:

  • Visa and entry matters: Contact the visa coordinator at visa@elte.hu.
    • Dormitory applications: Contact the Dormitory Centre at info@dormitory.elte.hu.
    • Private housing: Contact the Housing Office at housing@elte.hu.
    • Disability support: Contact the Faculty disability coordinators at specialis@btk.elte.hu

NOMINATION PROCESS

  1. My home university nominated me to ELTE Faculty of Humanities. When will I receive information regarding the application process? 
    You will be contacted by the International Office after your nomination has been processed. Note that a nomination confirmation only means ELTE has received your data, and it is not yet an official acceptance.

 

  1. Does the nomination confirmation mean I am officially accepted? 
    No, it only means that our faculty has received and forwarded your nomination to the relevant institute/department for an academic decision. A final decision is usually made by mid-May for the full academic year and the autumn semester, or mid-November for the spring semester.

 

  1. When will I receive official information on my acceptance? 
    Once the academic coordinator approves your application, the International Office will send you an official acceptance email. This email is crucial as it contains instructions you need to start your registration process.

 

  1. How do I get a Letter of Acceptance? 
    Starting from the academic year of 2026/27, the university sends the Letter of Acceptance automatically to the email address given during the nomination process.

 

  1. Can I change my nomination to another institute/department? 
    If you wish to change your nomination to another institute/department, please contact your administrative coordinator at the International Office. They will consult with the departments to see if a transfer is possible.

 

  1. Can I change my nomination to another ELTE faculty? 
    If you would like to be an exchange student in one of the other ELTE faculties, please contact your home coordinator first. Should you be able to transfer to another faculty, please make sure to inform your administrative coordinator as well.

 

  1. I would like to postpone my mobility. How can I do that? 
    If you wish to postpone your stay to a later semester, you must first contact the international coordinator at your home university to request their approval. Once your home institution agrees, they must officially notify the ELTE Faculty of Humanities International Office. After we receive this official notification and your ELTE administrative coordinator approves the change, we will update your records and send you an email with the next steps regarding your new arrival period. Please note that postponing may require you to re-submit certain documents (e.g., a new Learning Agreement) closer to your new start date.

     

  2. I would like to cancel my mobility. How can I do that? 
    To cancel the mobility, students need to notify their home university and also send an email about the decision to the International Office. Please include your full name and Neptun code (if you have already received one) in the email to ensure a smooth administrative process.

REGISTRATION AT OUR FACULTY

  1. What is the first step of my registration process? 
    In order to officially register to our faculty, you must complete the online Registration Form until the deadline sent out in the official notification about your acceptance.

 

  1. Is there an in-person registration as well? 
    Yes. You must register with the International Office upon your arrival. The first and main registration session will happen after the orientation session during the Orientation Week (usually the week before the start of the semester). 

 

  1. I will not be able to arrive for the in-person registration. What can I do? 
    Please inform your administrative coordinator via email about your delay. You will be able to register at the International Office once you arrive.

 

  1. When and how can I have my Certificate of Attendance signed? 
    If your home university requires you to have a signed Certificate of Arrival (CoA) document, please bring the printed copy to the in-person registration, where your administrative coordinator will sign it for you. To ensure a quick process, please fill in your personal information (name, home university, etc.) on the form in advance.

 

  1. What should I do if my home university does not provide a Certificate of Arrival form?
    If your home university does not have its own template, you can download a standard ELTE Certificate of Arrival template from the Faculty website. Please print this and bring it to the in-person registration.

 

LEARNING AGREEMENT

  1. What is an (Online) Learning Agreement and what should it contain? 
    The Learning Agreement (LA or OLA) is your official study plan that ensures the credits you earn at ELTE will be accepted by your home university. Your study plan must list every course you intend to take during your mobility, specifically including the correct course name, course code, and ECTS credit value.

     
  2. When should I send my Learning Agreement? 
    Do not send your Learning Agreement before receiving your official acceptance email, as your departmental acceptance must be finalised first. Please also note that while the Faculty of Humanities does not have a strict deadline for the LA, your home university likely does. Therefore, we recommend checking their deadlines and sending your document accordingly to ensure you meet their requirements.

 

  1. Where can I find the offered courses for international exchange students?
    You can browse all available courses on the official ELTE course catalogue. To find the correct list, set the "Faculty" filter to "Faculty of Humanities." To see only current offerings, ensure you click the "Published" filter and select your specific mobility semester.

 

  1. How many ECTS credits am I required to complete? 
    The minimum number of ECTS credits required to be completed during your mobility are determined by your home university. However, ELTE Faculty of Humanities requires that at least half of your total credits must be chosen from the specific institute or department you were originally nominated to. 

 

  1. Am I allowed to take courses from other ELTE Faculties? 
    Yes, you may attend courses at other faculties. However, strict limits apply: at least 50% of your total registered credits must be from the Faculty of Humanities, and the total number of credits taken from other ELTE faculties cannot exceed 10 ECTS.

 

  1. What should I do if the course credits in Neptun do not match my Learning Agreement?
    Your LA/OLA must exactly match the information in Neptun. Since your final Transcript of Records is generated from Neptun, any mismatch may cause issues with credit recognition at home.

     
  2. Can I change my study plan after the semester starts? 
    Yes, study plans can be modified. If a change to your study plan occurs, you must update the "During the Mobility" section of your LA/OLA. Because your schedule is typically finalised by the end of the first month (beginning of October or March), it is highly recommended that you wait until after this deadline to submit your official modifications. 

 

  1. Who is responsible for signing my Learning Agreement at ELTE? 
    At our faculty, only your academic coordinator is authorised to sign your LA/OLA. Administrative staff, such as the administrative coordinators in Room 44, cannot sign academic agreements. Therefore, please ensure you list your academic coordinator as the "Responsible Person" on the faculty’s side of the document.

NEPTUN EDUCATION SYSTEM

  1. What is Neptun and why do I need it? 
    Neptun is the official electronic education system at ELTE used for all administrative tasks. You will use it to register for courses and exams, view your grades, and manage university payments. You can access it using a unique 6-digit Neptun code sent to you via email.

 

  1. How do I create my Neptun password? 
    Visit the Quaestura Office website to generate your password. You will need your mother’s birth name (family name first), your permanent zip code, and your passport or ID number exactly as they appear in your "Neptun code email." 

 

  1. Why is my data being rejected by the password generator?
    If your data is rejected, ensure you are not using special characters and that you have reversed the order of your mother's name (family name first). Check your "Neptun code email" and enter the data exactly as it is written there, even if the data in the email is incorrect (you will have the opportunity to request a correction once you have successfully created your Neptun password). Copy-pasting the data is recommended to avoid errors.

 

  1. What should I do if I cannot generate a password? 
    You are allowed three attempts per 24-hour period. If you fail three times, the system will lock you out for a full day. In case the problem persists after the 24-hour period has ended, please write an email to your academic coordinator for further help.

 

  1. How does the two-step login process work? 
    Neptun uses a two-step authentication. First, log in with your Neptun code and password. Second, you must enter a one-time code from the Microsoft Authenticator app on your phone. A video guide is available here

 

  1. Is there training available for using Neptun? 
    Yes, the International Office holds a Neptun training session during the Orientation Week. Please bring a laptop or tablet to the session so you can follow the steps in person.
Templom tornyok és épületek napsütésben, részben fákkal takarva.

This section is designed to guide you through your arrival and daily academic life at the ELTE Faculty of Humanities. 

Browse the questions below for details on your first steps during Orientation Week, the in-person registration process, the specifics of course registration, and the essential documents you will need during your mobility. 

Important note: For questions about obtaining a temporary student ID, please head over to our Practical Matters section.

How to use this section: To find a specific keyword, first open the subtopics, then use the search function by pressing 'Ctrl+F' on Windows or 'Command+F' on macOS.

ORIENTATION WEEK AND IN-PERSON REGISTRATION

  1. When is the Orientation Week held? 
    The Orientation Week is typically held the week before the start of the study period (early September for the autumn semester, and early February for the spring semester). The main Faculty orientation usually takes place on the Tuesday of the Orientation Week. This day generally includes a welcome ceremony, information sessions regarding the semester and your studies, and a campus tour to help you navigate your new environment. For further information, check out this page

 

  1. Will I be able to do the in-person registration during the Orientation Week? Yes. The main registration session occurs immediately after the orientation session on the Tuesday of the Orientation Week. If you arrive later, you can complete your registration at the Department of International Affairs (DIA) office in Building A, Room 44.

 

  1. Is in-person registration mandatory? 
    Yes. All Erasmus+ and other exchange students must complete the in-person registration to officially start their student life at ELTE. During this process, you will sign an official document as formal proof of your arrival.

 

  1. How do I get my Certificate of Arrival signed?
    If your home university requires a signed Certificate of Arrival (CoA), bring a printed copy with you to your registration session. To ensure a smooth process, please download the form in advance, fill in your personal details, and have it ready for the coordinator's signature.

 

  1. Who should I contact if I cannot attend the Orientation Week? 
    While attending the Orientation Week is extremely important to receive essential semester information, if personal reasons prevent you from joining, please notify your administrative coordinator via email as soon as possible.

 

  1. How can I register if I arrive after the semester has already started? 
    Late registration is possible but requires more planning. You must inform your administrative coordinator of your late arrival in advance via email. Once you arrive, you must book an appointment through the Kronosz system to visit the DIA office during designated office hours.

COURSE REGISTRATION

  1. Where can I find the offered courses to international exchange students? 
    You can browse the institution-wide list of courses on the official ELTE course catalogue. To see accurate results for your stay:
    • set the "Faculty" filter to "Faculty of Humanities;"
    • choose your educational level (e.g., BA or MA) in the "Programme" menu;
    • click the "Published" filter and select the correct semester (Autumn/Spring) of your mobility.

 

  1. Can I take courses from any faculty at ELTE? 
    While you are allowed to take up to 10 ECTS credits from other faculties, please note that ELTE's faculties are located in different parts of the city, so traveling between them can be difficult. Additionally, the majority of your courses must come from the specific institute or department that nominated you.

 

  1. Is there a minimum credit requirement? 
    Your home university usually determines your required workload (often 20–30 ECTS). At ELTE BTK, there is no university-wide minimum for incoming students.

 

  1. When can I register for courses? 
    Registration happens in three distinct periods at our Faculty:
    • Preliminary registration period: You can browse and select courses; everyone is placed on a "waiting list."
    • Ranking registration period: The system uses a point-based ranking to determine who stays in a course.
    • First-come, first-served registration period: You can register for any remaining open spots.

Exact dates are sent via email before the semester and can be found on the Academic Calendar.

  1. How do I register for courses in Neptun? 
    You will need to register for your courses in Neptun during the designated course registration period: log into Neptun and navigate to Menu > Subjects > Register for subject. Please note that you can only start registering for your subjects after the course registration period has officially started for the semester!

 

  1. What if I cannot find a specific subject in Neptun?
    First, double check your search settings (try filtering both ‘Subjects from curriculum’ and ‘All other subjects in the institution’ in ‘Subject type’; and search by the name or code of the subject)! If the course still doesn't appear, contact the relevant academic coordinator to see if it will be published for the semester.

 

  1. I have registered for a course, but I am on a waiting list. Is that normal? 
    Yes. During the preliminary course registration period, all students are placed on a waiting list. Your actual status and rank will only be visible once the ranking registration period begins.

 

  1. What should I do if Neptun dropped me from a course? 
    During the ranking registration period, if a course exceeds its headcount limit, the system drops students with fewer points. If this happens, you should:
    • search for alternatives during the first-come, first-served period;
    • or if the course is essential, use the Guest student course registration form to request permission from the professor and your academic coordinator to join the course.

 

  1. A course has a pre-requirement preventing me from registering. What can I do?
    Neptun will not let you register directly for courses with unmet prerequisites. To take such a course, you must obtain written permission (signatures) from both the lecturer and your academic coordinator on the Guest student course registration form and submit it to your administrative coordinator by the end of the first month (30 September for the autumn semester; and 28 February for the spring semester).

 

  1. How can I drop a course I no longer want to take? 
    During the official course registration period, you can drop any subject directly in Neptun: go to Menu > Subjects > Registered subjects, select Drop next to the course name, and confirm your choice in the popup window. 

 

  1. Can I drop a course if the registration deadline has already passed? 
    If you missed the deadline to drop a course on your own, you may still request a "late drop" through your administrative coordinator. The deadline for the submission for such requests is specified via email by the International Office for each semester. Requests sent after this date are generally not accepted unless you have a documented medical reason or a technical issue.

 

  1. How do I handle overlapping courses?
    Each student is responsible for organising their timetable. You should generally choose courses that do not clash. However, for large lectures where attendance is not strictly mandatory, you may follow one course in person and use online materials (Canvas or Teams) for the other. This is not possible for seminars, which require active participation.

 

  1. What is the attendance policy? 
    Attendance is taken seriously. For seminars, you are generally allowed a maximum of 3 absences per semester. If you miss more than 30% of classes, the professor may refuse to give you a grade, resulting in 0 credits.

 

  1. Can I learn Hungarian at the Faculty? 
    Yes! Our faculty offers a General Hungarian language course for international students. Registration is free for Erasmus and guest students and takes place in Neptun during the first-come, first-served period (for the exact date please check this website). Please note that there is a limited number of places, thus the registration happens on a "first-come-first-served" basis.

 

  1. Can I take sport courses for credit? 
    Yes, sport courses offered by the University Athletics Club (BEAC) are available for 1 ECTS credit each. You can apply for these sports classes just like all the others available in your department via the Neptun electronic registry system (look for the VTN code). Each course costs 6,000 HUF per semester, which must be paid via the Neptun Finances menu. If you decide not to attend, you must drop the course before the deadline; otherwise, you will still be required to pay the fee.

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

  1. What is the Certificate of Arrival and how can I get it signed? 
    The Certificate of Arrival (CoA) is the first official document you need. it proves to your home university that you have physically arrived in Budapest and started your mobility. Please always use the form provided by your home university. To get your CoA signed, please bring a printed copy to the in-person registration.

 

  1. How can I get my Certificate of Arrival signed if I arrive late? 
    If you arrive after the study period has started, you can get your CoA signed at the Department of International Affairs (DIA) office in Room 44 during designated office hours (appointment required via Kronosz).

 

  1. What is the Guest student course registration form and when is it needed? 
    This form acts as a manual override for course registration in specific situations where the Neptun system cannot process your request. You must use this form if the course group is already full; you lack a prerequisite listed in the system; or the official Neptun course registration period has ended.

 

  1. How to get theGuest student course registration form signed?
    First, download the form from the Documents section of the faculty website (if you have not received a copy during the orientation session). Once you fill out the document with all necessary information, you must obtain the signature of the course teacher (lecturer), and your academic coordinator.  Once you have these two signatures, submit the completed form to the International Office (Room 44) until the end of the first month of the semester (30 September for the autumn semester; and 28 February for the spring semester).
Sík templomtorony, homályos háttérben fák.

This section is designed to help you navigate the end of the semester, from exam registration to understanding your final steps before leaving Hungary. 

Browse the topics below for details on how to register for exams, how the Hungarian grading system translates to ECTS, and the essential final steps before your departure. You will also find specific information for students staying for the full academic year or those extending their mobility.

How to use this section: To find a specific keyword, first open the subtopics, then use the search function by pressing 'Ctrl+F' on Windows or 'Command+F' on macOS.

GRADING

  1. What is an offered grade and how do I accept it? 
    In some lectures, a professor may give you an offered grade based on midterm results, allowing you to finish the course without taking an exam. These grades are never automatically accepted, so you must manually accept or reject the offer in Neptun by the specified deadline. If you reject the grade or miss the deadline, you will need to register for and take the regular exam to receive a grade.

 

  1. I missed the opportunity to accept my offered grade on Neptun on time. What can I do? 
    Following the missed offered grade, you still have the chance to register for exam dates held in the exam period. You may reach out to the lecturer regarding the situation and request their assistance. In case this happens after the end of the exam period, please contact both the lecturer and your administrative coordinator concerning the missed offered grade. 

 

  1. What should I do if my grade is missing from Neptun?
    It is your responsibility to monitor Neptun and ensure all your grades are officially recorded before the exam period ends. If a grade is missing, contact your lecturer immediately via email, and if the issue persists, notify your administrative coordinator.

 

  1. How does the Hungarian grading system work?
    The Hungarian system uses a 5-point scale where 5 is Excellent, 4 is Good, 3 is Satisfactory, 2 is Pass, and 1 is Fail. This system is ECTS-compatible, where one credit represents approximately 30 student working hours. At the end of your stay, ELTE will issue a Transcript of Records that lists your courses, credits, and the equivalent ECTS grades to ensure your home university can easily transfer your results.

EXAM PERIOD

  1. What is the most common exam format at the Faculty? 
    Lectures typically conclude with an oral or written exam during the exam period at the end of the semester, while seminars are normally graded with a term grade (based on your performance throughout the semester). Because completion requirements are determined by each professor, it is essential to review your syllabus and follow the specific instructions provided in class.

 

  1. How do I know which courses require an exam registration?
    You must manually register for an exam in Neptun for every lecture-type subject (labeled as Előadás in Neptun). For seminar-type subjects (Gyakorlat), you do not need to register for an exam, as your grade is based on your semester-long work, presentations, or in-class assignments. 

 

  1. How do I register for an exam on Neptun? 
    To sign up, go to Exams > Exam registration in Neptun and select a date provided by your lecturer. You can register or deregister up until 24 hours before the exam starts, but please remember that you must do this manually for every subject.

 

  1. What happens if I miss an exam? 
    If you cannot attend an exam, you must deregister at least 24 hours in advance to avoid a penalty. If you miss the deadline due to an emergency, you must provide a formal medical or official certificate to your examiner (copying the Department of International Affairs); otherwise, the missed exam counts as a failed attempt and a 6,000 HUF fine will be charged to your Neptun account.

 

  1. How many attempts do I have to pass an exam? 
    Within a single exam period, you are allowed a maximum of two attempts per course. The very last exam dates of the period are usually reserved for retakes, which are intended for students who have already received a fail grade or wish to improve a previously earned grade. 

 

  1. Why can't I see any exam dates in Neptun?
    If you don't see any dates, first check if you have any outstanding secondary fees (like library fines or late fees) under Finances > Payment. Neptun often blocks exam registration if there is an unpaid balance. If your finances are clear and dates are still missing, your lecturer may not have uploaded them yet, so it is best to ask them directly.

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

  1. What documents will I need to finish my mobility? 
    To successfully close your period abroad, you will generally need two main documents. The first is the Certificate of Departure (CoD), also known as a Certificate of Attendance or Stay, which confirms the exact dates you studied at ELTE. The second is the Transcript of Records (ToR), which is the official list of all the grades and ECTS credits you earned during the semester.

 

  1. How and when can I receive the Transcript of Records? 
    The International Office can only issue your Transcript of Records once every single one of your grades has been officially entered into Neptun by your professors. Once you have confirmed that all your grades are visible in Neptun, please email your administrative coordinator to request the official, signed PDF version of your transcript.

 

  1. Where can I find the form for my Certificate of Attendance? 
    Most Erasmus+ students receive a blank Certificate of Attendance form from their home university before they arrive. If your home university did not provide one, or if you have misplaced it, you can ask for an ELTE form from your administrative coordinator.

 

  1. How do I get my Certificate of Attendance signed? 
    This document must be signed and stamped in person at the International Office (Room 44). To ensure the dates are accurate, we cannot sign this document earlier than five days before your actual departure. Please plan accordingly and ensure you visit us before you leave, as the final deadline for signing these documents is the last day of the exam period in late January (for the autumn semester) or early July (for the spring semester).

STUDENTS STAYING FOR A FULL ACADEMIC YEAR

  1. Do I need to get my documents signed at the end of the first semester?
    Since you are nominated for the full year, you generally do not need a Certificate of Attendance or a Transcript of Records until the very end of your stay in the summer. However, some universities require a separate Certificate of Arrival or an updated Letter of Acceptance for the second semester. We recommend checking with your home coordinator; if they need these documents, just visit the International Office and we will be happy to assist you.

     

  2. Should I attend the Spring Orientation Week?
    While you have already seen the campus, we still highly recommend attending! It is a great chance to meet the new group of exchange students arriving in February.

 

  1. Do I have to register in person for the spring semester as well?
    Yes, all students staying for the full academic year must complete the in-person registration for the spring semester. Even if you registered in September, you are required to visit the International Office again to sign your official registration sheet for the new term.

EXTENDING YOUR MOBILITY

  1. How can I extend my mobility for another semester? 
    If you would like to stay at ELTE for an additional term, the first and most important step is to contact the international coordinator at your home (sending) university. They must first confirm that you are eligible for an extension and that they have the necessary funding or exchange slots available. Once your home university approves your request, their coordinator must send an official nomination email to the ELTE Faculty of Humanities International Office to notify us of the change.
  2. What is the deadline for requesting an extension?
    While our faculty is generally flexible, you must complete the extension process well before your current mobility ends. For students staying in the autumn semester who wish to extend to the spring semester, we recommend finalising the approval from your home university by late November or early December. This ensures you have enough time to manage your course registration and residence permit extension for the upcoming semester.
Épület homlokzata toronnyal és fákkal, napsütésben.

This section is designed to help you navigate the essential logistical and personal aspects of your stay in Budapest. 

Browse the categories below for detailed information on securing your accommodation, managing visa and residence permit requirements, accessing healthcare, setting up your university IT services and getting your temporary student ID. You will also find tips on exploring campus life, from using the library to finding the best spots to eat.

How to use this section: To find a specific keyword, first open the subtopics, then use the search function by pressing 'Ctrl+F' on Windows or 'Command+F' on macOS.

ACCOMMODATION

  1. Does the university offer accommodation for exchange students? 
    Yes. To apply for dormitory or receive housing assistance, please check the available options here. Pleasekeep in mind that we cannot guarantee that you will get dormitory placement, as ourcapacities are unfortunately limited.

 

  1. When and how do I apply for dormitory/housing assistance?
    If you wish to apply for dormitory or housing assistance, you must submit your dormitory application through the online form available on the ELTE Dormitory website. Dormitory applications are typically open from May to the beginning of July, with the results expected in mid-July. After the initial application deadline, waiting list applications remain open. For students applying for the February intake, applications are usually open between November and January, with results expected in January.  

 

  1. When will I get feedback on my dormitory application? 
    All applicants are notified of the decision simultaneously. Dormitory application results are typically released around 10 July for the autumn semester, 5 January for the spring semester, and 10 June for summer dormitory placements.

 

  1. What should I do if I am not accepted into a dormitory?
    If you do not receive a placement, you should immediately look into private housing: ELTE Housing Office provides guidance and a list of reliable partners for private rentals. If you need a place to stay while searching, you can book rooms at ELTE’s partner hotels.

 

  1. Who should I contact with dormitory/housing questions? 
    The Department of International Affairs does not manage housing. Please contact the following offices directly:
    • Dormitory inquiries: info@dormitory.elte.hu 
    • Private housing/rentals: housing@elte.hu

VISA AND RESIDENCE PERMIT

  1. Do I need a residence permit to study in Hungary? 
    Whether you need a permit depends on your citizenship:
    • EEA students (EU/EEA & Switzerland): You do not need a visa or residence permit to enter or stay. However, if you stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for a Registration Certificate at the National Directorate-General for Aliens Policing (NDGAP). 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 this link
    • 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.  

 

  1. Where can I pick up my physical residence permit card? 
    All study-purpose residence permit cards are sent directly to the university by post. You can pick up your card at the ELTE Quaestura Office. Please wait for a notification from the Quaestura Office (via Neptun or email) with details on the time and place for pick-up.

 

  1. What should I do if my address in Budapest changes? 
    You are legally required to report any change in your accommodation to the NDGAP within 3 days. This must be done online through the Enter Hungary portal. You will need a new Accommodation Reporting Form signed by your landlord or dormitory manager.

 

  1. Does the residence permit expire?
    Yes. Your permit is usually valid for at least 1 year (or the duration of your studies). If you stay longer, you must apply for an extension via Enter Hungary at least 30–45 days before your current permit expires.

 

  1. Who should I contact with visa questions?
    For visa or legal questions, you can contact the central university visa experts at visa@elte.hu.

HEALTH INSURANCE

  1. Do I need to have a Hungarian health insurance, or is the insurance from my home country acceptable? 
    It depends on where you are from:
    • EEA students: Bring your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from home. This covers emergency and basic care at no extra cost.
    • Non-EEA students: You must have your own health insurance. You can buy Generali (can be purchased at ELTE) or choose another private provider.

Please check the health insurance page of ELTE for the full breakdown of costs and coverage.

 

  1. What should I do if I get sick? 
    For minor things like a cold or a headache, your best bet is to head to a pharmacy (gyógyszertár). If you actually need to see a doctor for a non-emergency, you should visit a General Practitioner (GP), known here as a háziorvos. Please note that for medical treatments, it is very important to have a valid health insurance. Without an insurance, all treatments have a cost.

 

  1. How do I find my doctor (GP)?
    In Hungary, your doctor is assigned based on your home address.
    • If you live in Budapest: Use this link to find the specific GP for the area of your residency.
    • If you do not live in Budapest: If you live in a smaller town, there is usually just one central doctor's office. If you're having any trouble figuring out which office handles your area, just reach out to your administrative coordinator and they can help you look it up.

       
  2. How do I find my dentist? 
    You can choose between state-funded or private dentists (fogorvos). Private clinics are easy to find on Google and are very common, but they can be pricey. State-funded care is an option too, and you can find those details here. Please note that most private insurance plans only cover emergency dental work, so always check if your insurance includes them.

 

  1. What should I do in an emergency situation?
    If it’s a life-threatening situation, call the ambulance (mentő) at 112 or go straight to the nearest hospital's emergency room (sürgősségi or baleseti or traumatológia). You can find a list of 24/7 hospitals on this page. Please note that although emergency treatment is available for everyone, if you do not have a valid health insurance, you will receive the bill of the treatment afterwards.

STUDENT ID

  1. How and where can I get a temporary student ID? 
    If you are a student staying at ELTE shorter than 12 months (like most Erasmus students), you don't need a plastic card. Instead, you’ll get a temporary student certificate, which is an A4 paper document. You can pick this up at the Quaestura Office starting from the first Monday of the semester. Their office is at Egyetem tér 5, 1053 Budapest, which is just a short walk from the Faculty of Humanities. Don't forget to bring your ID or passport with you!

 

  1. Do I need to book an appointment to get my temporary student ID?
    Although it is not necessary, it is highly recommended! During the start of the semester, the Quaestura Office can get very busy during the first week. You can book your slot online through the Quaestura website. You will need to log in with your Neptun ID and password to see the available times. If you show up without an appointment during a busy period, you might have to wait a long time or be asked to come back later.

 

  1. How long is the temporary student ID valid? 
    This paper is only valid for 60 days from the day it has been issued. After 60 days the document expires and has to be requested once again from the Quaestura Office. To avoid any fines on public transport, always keep an eye on the expiry date in the top right corner (érvényességi ideje). 

 

  1. What to do if I lose my temporary student ID?
    If you lose your student ID, you just need to go back to the Quaestura Office and ask for a replacement. There might be a very small administration fee for a new one, so try to keep it in a safe place or a folder so it doesn't get lost in your bag.

 

  1. What can I use my student ID for? 
    The main benefit is the massive discount on transportation. You can use it for the monthly Budapest (BKK) pass and for cheaper tickets on national buses and trains. It’s also worth showing your ID at museums, cinemas, and sports facilities, as most places in Hungary offer a student price.

IT SERVICES

  1. What is a "Caesar Account" (IIG ID) and how to get it? 
    This is your universal university login (different from your Neptun code). It gives you access to the ELTE Wi-Fi (Eduroam), your official student email, and Microsoft Office 365 (Teams, OneDrive). You can register for it at ugykezelo.niif.hu using your Neptun credentials.

 

  1. How do I use the university Wi-Fi? 
    ELTE uses the Eduroam network, which is great because it works at most other universities across Europe too. To log in, you must have an active Caesar account. If you’re having trouble connecting your laptop or phone, you can find a step-by-step guide on the IT support page.

 

  1. How can I request an ELTE email address? 
    Every student at ELTE is entitled to an official university email account. While you might already have a personal email, using an official address makes university life much smoother. Professors often prioritise emails from "elte.hu" addresses, and it ensures that important academic notifications don't end up in your spam folder. You can request your address by following the steps on the IT support page.

 

  1. What if I have technical problems?
    If you can’t log in or your password isn’t working, the best place to go is the ELTE IIG (IT Directorate) helpdesk. They handle everything related to Caesar accounts and Wi-Fi. You can reach them via the following email address: operator@elte.hu.

UNIVERSITY LIFE

  1. How do I find my way around the buildings? 
    ELTE has a web-based map system called BIS. It provides floor plans for all university buildings and shows you exactly where your classrooms are on the map of Budapest. You can access the interactive map at http://bis.elte.hu/.

 

  1. Where can I find the Department of International Affairs (DIA)? 
    Your administrative coordinators are located at Múzeum krt. 4/A, 1088 Budapest (Ground floor, Room 44). Before you visit, make sure to check our office hours and see which coordinator is responsible for your specific program.

 

  1. Where can I eat on campus? 
    There is a university canteen (Műhely Café), a café (Könyvtár Klub) and a buffet located in Gólyavár Building. Since the campus is right in the city centre, there are also dozens of affordable bakeries and restaurants just a few steps away on Múzeum körút.

 

  1. How do I use the libraries? 
    To borrow books, you just need your Temporary Student ID. You can register at the main University Library (at Ferenciek tere) or at any of the smaller departmental libraries. Keep in mind that each library might have slightly different rules for how long you can keep a book.

 

  1. Can I get a student mentor? 
    Yes! We have a great mentor network to help you settle in. If you’d like someone to show you the ropes, you can choose a mentor network and register at this link. It’s a great way to make your first local friend! 

 

  1. Is there support for students with disabilities? 
    Yes. The ELTE Disability Center provides support for students with visual or hearing impairments, mobility issues, or learning difficulties (like dyslexia). Contact them at disabilitycenter@elte.hu.

 

  1. Do you offer free trainings or mental health support for international students? 
    We want you to feel your best while studying here, so we offer several free resources: 
    • Intercultural training: These sessions are designed to help you adapt to life in Hungary and connect with both international and Hungarian students. Click here for more information.
    • Psychology group workshops (HELP): This program offers three group workshops per semester to help you stay effective and balanced in your studies. Click here more information
    • Individual counselling: If you need more personal support, the HELP program also provides one-on-one coaching and counselling sessions. HELP also provides individual counselling. Click here for more information.