Education Hungary

Enrolling a child in kindergarten 

 

Children aged 3 to 6 can attend kindergarten. Attendance is mandatory from age 3. 

 

Choosing a kindergarten: Each residential address is assigned to a specific kindergarten. It is recommended to contact the local municipality or use online resources to identify the nearest kindergarten.

 

Required documents

  - Child's birth certificate.

  - Document confirming the place of residence (such as a rental agreement or residence registration).

  - Medical card or health certificate for the child.

  - Identity documents of parents or legal guardians.

 

Application procedure

  - Contact the chosen kindergarten for details on the application deadlines and procedure.

  - Provide the necessary documents and fill in the appropriate forms.

  - Wait for confirmation of the child's enrollment.

 

Enrolling a child in school 

 

Age requirements: Children who turn 6 by August 31 of the current year must be enrolled in the first grade of primary school. 

 

Choosing a school: Each residential address is assigned to a specific primary school. Information about the assigned school can be obtained from the local municipality or official educational portals.

 

-Required documents:

  - Child's birth certificate.

  - Document confirming the place of residence.

  - Medical card or health certificate for the child.

  - Identity documents of parents or legal guardians.

  - Certificate from the kindergarten on the child's readiness for school (if applicable).

 

Application procedure:

  - Contact the chosen school for details on the application deadlines and procedure.

  - Provide the necessary documents and fill in the appropriate forms.

  - Wait for confirmation of the child's enrollment.

 

Additional recommendations

Application deadlines: The deadlines for submitting applications may vary depending on the region and institution. It is recommended to clarify information in advance with the chosen kindergarten or school.

Kindergartens with foreign language instruction

 

Many kindergartens in Hungary offer programs in foreign languages such as English, German, French, and others. These institutions often cater to international communities, providing bilingual or fully foreign instruction. For example, kindergartens in Budapest have programs in English and German.

 

Schools with foreign language instruction

 

Hungary offers a wide variety of international schools where instruction is conducted in foreign languages. Some of them include:

 

The British International School Budapest: Offers education in English following the British curriculum.

 

American International School of Budapest: Education in English with a focus on the American educational system.

 

Lycée Français Gustave Eiffel: Education in French following the French national curriculum.

 

Deutsche Schule Budapest: Education in German with a focus on the German educational system.

 

Features and advantages

 

Adaptation for foreign students: These institutions offer programs that consider the cultural and linguistic characteristics of students from different countries.

 

Preparation for international exams: Many schools prepare students for internationally recognized exams such as IB (International Baccalaureate) or A-levels.

 

Bilingual education: Some schools and kindergartens provide programs that combine instruction in Hungarian and a foreign language, fostering bilingualism.

 

Recommendations for parents

 

Directly contact the chosen institutions for detailed information on the admission process and required documents.

State Educational Institutions

 

Accessibility and Cost: Education in state kindergartens and schools is free. Parents only pay for meals and additional services, such as electives or excursions. 

 

Curriculum: State institutions follow the national curriculum approved by the Ministry of Education of Hungary.

 

Linguistic Environment: Education is conducted in Hungarian. For children from immigrant families, additional Hungarian language classes may be organized to facilitate adaptation.

 

Private Educational Institutions

 

Tuition Fees: Education in private kindergartens and schools is paid. The cost varies depending on the institution and services provided. Some private kindergartens offer additional classes, such as swimming or horseback riding lessons, which affect the cost. 

 

Curriculum: Private institutions may offer alternative teaching methods, such as Montessori or Waldorf systems, as well as international programs, for example, IB (International Baccalaureate).

 

Linguistic Environment: Many private schools and kindergartens offer education in foreign languages such as English, German, or French, which attracts immigrant and expat families.

 

When choosing between state and private educational institutions in Hungary, it is recommended to consider financial possibilities, language preferences, and family educational goals. Each type of institution has its advantages and features that can meet different needs and expectations.

 

Hungary has many state and private schools known for their high level of education. Below are some of them by main cities.

 

Budapest

 

State Schools

  Berzsenyi Dániel Gimnázium: One of the leading state grammar schools, known for its academic achievements and outstanding graduates. 

  Fazekas Mihály Gimnázium: Specializes in in-depth study of mathematics and science, regularly ranking high in national ratings.

 

Private Schools

  The British International School Budapest: Offers education in the British curriculum in English, aimed at the international community.

  American International School of Budapest: Provides education based on the American system with an emphasis on the holistic development of students.

 

Debrecen

 

State Schools

  Debreceni Fazekas Mihály Gimnázium: Known for high-level teaching and preparing students for universities.

  Debreceni Egyetem Kossuth Lajos Gyakorló Gimnáziuma: A school at the University of Debrecen offering in-depth study of various subjects.

 

Private Schools

  International School of Debrecen: An international school offering education in English under the IB (International Baccalaureate) program.

 

Szeged

 

State Schools

  Szegedi Radnóti Miklós Kísérleti Gimnázium: Known for its academic success and innovative teaching methods.

  Szegedi Deák Ferenc Gimnázium: Offers a wide range of educational programs and electives.

 

Private Schools

  Karolina Gimnázium és Általános Iskola: A private Catholic school focused on humanities and languages.

 

Pécs

 

State Schools

  Ciszterci Rend Nagy Lajos Gimnáziuma: One of the oldest schools in the city, known for its high teaching standards.

  Leőwey Klára Gimnázium: Offers in-depth study of foreign languages and natural sciences.

 

Private Schools

  Pécsi Református Kollégium Gimnáziuma: A Reformed grammar school with a focus on Christian values and quality education.

The Hungarian education system pays special attention to supporting children with special educational needs, providing them with access to quality education and development.

 

Special Educational Services

The following services are provided for children with special educational needs:

 

Early Diagnosis and Intervention: Educational services assist in early identification and development of children with developmental delays or disabilities, which is crucial for their future success. 

 

Special Educational Institutions: In Hungary, specialized schools and kindergartens exist for children with various disabilities, where they receive individualized education and support. 

 

Inclusive Education: Many public schools integrate children with special educational needs into regular classes, providing them with additional resources and support for successful learning. 

 

Support from Specialists

Qualified specialists, such as special educators, speech therapists, psychologists, and therapists, work in educational institutions to help children with special needs adapt and succeed in their studies. 

 

Individual Educational Plans

An individual educational plan is developed for each child with special educational needs, taking into account their unique requirements and abilities. This ensures targeted support and progress monitoring. 

 

Education and Support for Parents

Parents of children with special needs receive consultations and support from educational services, which helps them effectively participate in the educational process and support the child's development at home. 

 

Financial Support

Families of children with special needs are entitled to increased family allowances and other state benefits, which help cover additional expenses related to education and care for the child. 

 

Hungary has a developed system of educational institutions designed for children with special needs. These institutions provide specialized education and support tailored to the individual needs of each child.

 

Types of Special Schools

 

Schools for Children with Hearing Impairments: Offer programs aimed at developing communication skills and social adaptation.

 

Schools for Children with Visual Impairments: Provide education using special methods and technologies that facilitate the development of visual and tactile skills.

 

Schools for Children with Intellectual Disabilities: Offer individualized education programs aimed at developing cognitive and social skills.

 

Schools for Children with Motor Disabilities: Provide physical rehabilitation and education adapted to the child's physical capabilities.

 

Examples of Special Schools in Hungary

 

Budapesti Eötvös József Gimnázium (Budapest): Offers programs for children with special educational needs, including specialized classes and individual support.

 

Vakok Általános Iskolája (Budapest): A school for children with visual impairments, providing specialized education and rehabilitation.

 

Hallássérültek Tanintézete (Szeged): An institution for children with hearing impairments, offering programs focused on developing communication skills and social integration.

 

Recommendations for Parents:

Consultation with Local Educational Authorities: Contact local education departments for information about available special schools and programs in your area.

Integration Programs

 

Bilingual Schools: In September 2024, a Ukrainian-Hungarian bilingual school was opened in Budapest, providing education in two languages and issuing both Hungarian and Ukrainian diplomas. It is the only such school in Europe, designed to support Ukrainian refugee children. 

 

Inclusive Education: Many state schools in Hungary accept immigrant children, providing them with additional resources and support for successful integration into the educational process. This includes individual educational plans and specialist support.

 

Language Courses

 

Hungarian Language Courses: For children who do not speak Hungarian, special courses are organized to develop the language skills necessary for studying in Hungarian schools. These courses can be held in schools or specialized language centers.

 

Summer Language Camps: Some educational institutions offer summer programs that combine learning Hungarian with cultural activities, facilitating faster and more effective language acquisition.

 

Support from Non-Governmental Organizations

 

Community Initiatives: Non-governmental organizations and volunteer groups organize additional classes and activities for immigrant children aimed at their social adaptation and language development.

 

Recommendations for Parents

Contact local educational institutions: Many schools provide information about available integration programs and language courses.

After-school Programs 

After-school programs offer children the opportunity to stay at school after the main classes under the supervision of teachers. Within these groups, the following activities are organized:

- Homework assistance: Completing homework with the possibility of receiving help from teachers.

- Creative activities: Drawing, sculpting, music, and other types of art.

- Sports activities: Active games, physical education.

- Outdoor walks: Organized depending on weather conditions.

 

Clubs and Groups

Many schools and extracurricular institutions offer a variety of clubs and groups based on interests, such as:

- Science clubs: Physics, chemistry, biology.

- Language clubs: Learning foreign languages.

- Technical clubs: Robotics, programming.

- Sports sections: Soccer, basketball, swimming and other sports.

 

Summer and Winter Camps

During the school holidays, camps are organized where children can:

- Participate in sports and creative activities.

- Study foreign languages.

- Engage in environmental projects.

 

Music and Art Schools

For children interested in music, dance, or visual arts, there are specialized schools where they can receive professional education in these areas.

 

Sports Clubs

In addition to school sections, there are numerous sports clubs in Hungary offering training in various sports under the guidance of qualified coaches.

 

Programs for Children with Special Needs

There are specialized programs and clubs adapted for children with special educational needs, providing them equal opportunities for development and socialization.

 

Thus, extracurricular activities in Hungary provide children with ample opportunities for developing skills, interests, and talents, facilitating their comprehensive development and successful socialization.

In Hungary, the grading system in schools and universities is based on a five-point scale, where:

 

- 5 — excellent

- 4 — good

- 3 — satisfactory

- 2 — pass

- 1 — fail

 

School Education:

 

In primary grades (1 to 3), a textual description of students’ achievements is used to assess their knowledge, avoiding comparisons and not harming children’s psyche. From grade 4, a traditional five-point grading system is introduced. 

 

Higher Education

 

In universities and colleges in Hungary, a five-point grading system is also applied. To pass an exam, a student must receive a grade of at least 2 (elégséges). Some universities may use additional grading systems, such as percentage scales or letter grades, but they usually correlate with the traditional five-point system.

 

Thus, the grading system in Hungary is standardized and comprehensible for both students and teachers, ensuring an objective assessment of students’ knowledge and skills.

Admission to Hungarian universities for foreign students requires meeting certain conditions.

 

Academic Requirements

   - High school diploma or equivalent: You must provide a certificate or diploma confirming the completion of secondary education recognized in Hungary.

   - Translation of documents: All academic documents must be translated into English or Hungarian and notarized.

 

Language Requirements

   - English language: If the study program is conducted in English, proof of language proficiency is required. Certificates such as IELTS (usually minimum 5.5–6.0), TOEFL, or equivalent are accepted.

 - Hungarian language: For programs in Hungarian, it is necessary to pass a Hungarian language exam or complete a preparatory course.

 

Entrance Exams

 - Some universities require entrance exams in specialized subjects or an interview.

 

Visa and Residence Permit

 - Student Visa: Citizens of non-EU/EEA countries need to obtain a long-term student visa.

 - Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient funds for living and studying in Hungary is required.

 

Health Insurance

 - Health insurance valid in Hungary for the entire study period is mandatory.

 

Application Deadlines

 - Fall Semester: Applications are usually accepted until February 15th.

 - Spring Semester: Deadlines may vary, it is recommended to check the website of the chosen university.

 

Tuition Fees

 - Tuition Cost: Depends on the university and program (on average from 1,500 to 9,000 euros per year).

 

Additional Requirements

 Motivation Letter and Recommendations: Some programs require a motivation letter and recommendations.

 Portfolio: For creative specialties, a portfolio of works may be required.

 

Application Submission: Applications are submitted online through university systems or national platforms.

 

Recommended Actions:

- Contact the admissions office: For detailed information and clarification of requirements.

- Check official sources: Always refer to official university websites and government bodies for up-to-date information.

 

Top Universities in Hungary

Hungary is known for its high level of education and rich academic tradition. Below are some of the best universities in the country:

 

Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), Budapest: Founded in 1635; one of the oldest and largest universities in Hungary; offers a wide range of programs in humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and law.

 

University of Szeged, Szeged: Regularly ranks among the best universities in Central Europe; known for its high level of research and quality teaching, especially in medicine and natural sciences.

 

University of Debrecen, Debrecen: One of the largest universities in the country with a wide selection of English-language programs; offers studies in medicine, engineering, economics, and more.

 

Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME), Budapest: A leading technical university in Hungary, specializing in engineering and technical sciences.

 

Corvinus University of Budapest, Budapest: Prestigious university; specializes in economics, business, and social sciences; offers programs in English.

 

Semmelweis University, Budapest: Leading medical university in Hungary, known for its programs in medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy.

 

University of Pécs, Pécs: Founded in 1367; one of the oldest universities in Europe; offers a wide range of programs, including medicine, engineering, and humanities.

For admission to Hungarian universities, foreign students must undergo a recognition (nostrification) procedure of their academic documents. This process includes several key stages:

 

Translation and Certification of Documents

 - Translation: All academic documents, including diplomas and certificates, must be translated into Hungarian or English.

 - Notarized Certification: Translations must be notarized to confirm their authenticity.

 

Recognition of Documents

 - Equivalence Assessment: Hungarian universities assess whether your foreign qualifications meet the requirements for admission to the chosen program.

 - Contact the university: It is recommended to contact the admissions office of the chosen university for information on specific requirements and the recognition procedure.

 

Additional Requirements

   - Entrance Exams: Some programs may require taking entrance exams or attending an interview.

   - Language Certificates: If the program is taught in English, a certificate confirming language proficiency may be required (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL).

 

Recommendations

Contact the University: Each educational institution may have its own requirements for the recognition of foreign documents.

 

Useful Resources:

- Study in Hungary: The official portal for foreign students where you can find information about programs and requirements.

- ENIC-NARIC: The European Network of Information Centers for Academic Recognition, where you can get information on qualification recognition.

In Hungary, the adult education system offers a wide range of additional courses and programs aimed at developing language skills and professional competencies. Below are the main types of available programs:

Language Courses

- Hungarian for Foreigners: Many educational institutions offer Hungarian language courses for immigrants and foreign students. For example, the Balassi Institute provides intensive Hungarian language training programs.

- English: The British Council in Hungary offers English language courses for adults, including general and specialized programs.

- Other Foreign Languages: Some universities and language schools offer courses in German, French, Spanish, and other languages.

Professional Courses and Programs

- Business and Management: Many universities offer professional development programs in business, management, and economics. Corvinus University of Budapest is known for its programs in these areas.

- Information Technology: Courses in programming, web design, and other IT fields are available in various training centers and universities.

- Medicine and Healthcare: Semmelweis University offers programs for medical professionals, including refresher courses.

- Technical Specialties: Budapest University of Technology and Economics provides courses in engineering and technology fields.

Preparatory Programs

- University Preparatory Courses: Many universities offer preparatory programs for foreign students to help adapt to the academic environment and improve language skills.

Online Courses

- Many educational institutions and platforms offer online courses in various fields, allowing for remote and flexible learning.