Károli Gáspár University

Hungary is one of the 15 most popular tourist destinations in the world. Its capital city, Budapest, is divided by the Danube River and boasts beautiful landmarks such as the Hungarian Parliament Building and Buda Castle. Hungary's cuisine is famous for dishes like goulash and chimney cake, while its wines, including Tokaji and Bull's Blood, have gained international recognition. The country is also home to the breathtaking Lake Balaton, the largest freshwater lake in Central Europe, and the charming town of Eger, known for its Baroque architecture and thermal baths.

Hungary is in the temperate zone, and has a relatively dry, continental climate. Average temperatures range from -1 °C in January to 28 °C in July. Hungary is protected from extreme weather conditions by the surrounding mountain ranges, the Alps and the Carpathians.

Budapest is cited as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, ranked as "the world's second best city" by Condé Nast Traveler, and "Europe's 7th most idyllic place to live" by Forbes. The city is a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Many iconic landmarks can be found along the Danube River that runs throughout the city, such as the Hungarian Parliament, Buda Castle, Fisherman's Bastion, Gresham Palace, Chain Bridge, Matthias Church, and the Liberty Statue. The city boasts numerous thermal baths, including the famous Széchenyi Thermal Bath, providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Budapest's vibrant culinary scene offers a mix of traditional Hungarian dishes, trendy cafes, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Among Budapest's important museums and cultural institutions is the Museum of Fine Arts. Further famous cultural institutions are the Hungarian National Museum, House of Terror, Franz Liszt Academy of Music, Hungarian State Opera House and National Széchényi Library. With its grand boulevards, lively nightlife, and rich cultural heritage, Budapest is a dynamic and enchanting travel destination.

Károli Gáspár University was founded by the Reformed Church in Hungary. The university was named after Károli Gáspár, the Calvinist pastor, who prepared the first complete Hungarian translation of the Bible in 1590. The university was established in its present form in 1993, but its history roots back to 1839. Its education and research activities are carried out by 15 institutes and 52 departments belonging to the five faculties. There are approximately 9 000 students enrolled at the university.

Course registration occurs during KRE's Orientation Week.

Courses in English

KRE offers a number of courses in English, listed in their course catalogue for exchange students.

Language Courses

KRE also offers foreign language courses in twelve languages, including French and Spanish. 

KRE has five faculties: 

• Humanities and Social Sciences
• Law
• Economics, Health Sciences, and Social Studies
• Pedagogy
• Theology

The European academic structure varies from the North American system. Courses completed at a European exchange partner will not be transferred back to the U of L on a course-for-course basis. Rather, students will be required to successfully complete a certain number of ECTS (European Transfer Credit System) credits to earn U of L credit equivalency. Typically, a full course load is 30 ECTS, and 6 ECTS = 3 U of L credits.

You are eligible for this exchange if you are:

• A full-time U of L student
• In at least the 2nd year of your program
• In good academic standing, with a GPA of 2.5 or higher

Canadian citizens may enter Hungary visa-free and apply for a residence permit upon arrival in Budapest.

More information about applying for a residence permit can be found on the Embassy of Hungary in Ottawa website or KRE's website.

For detailed information about vaccination recommendations when visiting Hungary, please visit the Government of Canada's website.

Student Residences

• KRE has partnerships with two student residences located close to campus
• Cost: approx. €100/month (2023)
• Application Deadline: Fall - June 15, Spring - December 15

Private Housing

• Exchange students will receive an email from KRE's international office with a promo code for 30% off accommodations booked through Spotahome
• KRE provides a list of other platforms to assist in searching for private housing on their accommodations page
• If you rent an apartment, costs are approximately: 90,000 - 120,000 HUF (€280 - €400)
• If you rent a room, costs are approximately: 60,000-90,000 HUF (€180 - €280)

For more information about accommodation options, visit KRE's accommodations page.

In Budapest

KRE recommends students purchase a monthly public transit pass after receiving their student ID. The student pass is only valid with a student ID, so it is important to carry the ID with you at all times. A student pass can be purchased from BKK. The cost is 3 450 HUF, or approx. €10 (2023).

For more information about transportation in Budapest click here.

In Europe

For those planning a lot of travel throughout Europe, it is recommended to buy a Eurail pass. The pass must be purchased before going to Hungary.

Students going on an exchange pay regular U of L tuition and fees. For up-to-date tuition information, visit the U of L's Financial Services website.

Students are strongly advised to take out a health insurance policy for the entire period of their stay before their departure. If no health insurance is acquired, students are responsible for the entirety of any healthcare costs incurred.

Cost of Living in Hungary

Applicants who can demonstrate that they have Hungarian roots and maintain a Hungarian identity may be eligible for the Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship through the Hungarian government. The scholarship includes medical insurance, and upon request a monthly stipend, accommodation contribution and travel allowance. Applications are due in January of each year.

To learn more about the scholarship and eligibility requirements, click here.