Neptun is the electronic administrative system used by every university in Hungary. It is where you register for classes, view your grades, and pay your fees.

Pro-Tips for Success:

• The "Midnight Madness": Course registration usually opens at a specific time (often 6:00 PM or Midnight). The servers get extremely slow. Log in 15 minutes early and keep your session active.

• Exam Slots: In Hungary, you choose your own exam dates. Popular dates fill up in seconds. Have your "Exam" tab ready as soon as the registration window opens.

• Default Password: Your first login is usually your "Ne" prefix followed by your birthdate (e.g., Ne19980520). Change this immediately for security.

• For a detailed description of the Neptun student management system click here. 

Your Hungarian student card is your most valuable possession. It gives you a 90% discount on public transport (reducing a monthly pass from ~9500 HUF to ~€1890 HUF).

The 4-Step Process:

1. Visit a "Kormányablak" (Government Office): You don't need an appointment, but it's faster with one. Bring your passport and a "Certificate of Student Status" from your university.

Contact:

From Hungary call:1818

From abroad call: +36 1 550 1858

Fax: +36 1 550 1819

Sms: +36 30 246 6250

More information: https://1818.hu/home

2. Get your NEK Sheet: They will take your photo and signature. They will give you a paper called a NEK datasheet. Do not lose this. 

3. Upload to Neptun: Register your NEK identifier number in your university’s Neptun system under the "Administration" tab.

4. The Temporary Card: Since the plastic card takes 1-2 months to arrive, ask your university's International Office for a Temporary Paper (valid for 60 days). This paper entitles you to all the same discounts.

Many international students work part-time to cover their living costs. Here are the rules for 2026:

• Non-EU Students: Your residence permit for study purposes allows you to work up to 30 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks.

• EU Students: You have no hour restrictions, but you must still maintain your "Active Student" status.

• The "Diákmunka" Advantage: Look for "Student Work Agencies" (e.g., Műisz, Schonherz). They handle the taxes for you and often have higher hourly rates than standard part-time jobs because the tax burden is lower for student workers.

• The Best Libraries: Aside from your university library, the FSZEK (Wenckheim Palace) in District VIII is one of the most beautiful libraries in Europe. It is a stunning neo-baroque palace where you can study for a very small annual fee.

• Cultural Discounts: Your student ID isn't just for the tram. Most cinemas (like Corvin or Cinema City) and major museums (National Gallery, House of Terror) offer 50% off for students.

• The ISIC Card: While the Hungarian card is best for local use, getting an ISIC (International Student Identity Card) is worth it if you plan to travel to Vienna, Prague, or Krakow during your breaks.