Know about Medical Residency and Higher Speciality Training in Hungary....
Oct 04, 2025 02:14:05
Hungary has a well-established medical education system with internationally recognized universities, such as Semmelweis University, University of Szeged, and University of Pécs, which have a strong reputation for producing skilled doctors and specialists.
The country adheres to European Union (EU) medical education standards, making its qualifications highly regarded across the EU and internationally.
Many Hungarian medical schools offer residency and specialty training programs in English, which is especially appealing to international students who want to pursue higher medical education but don't speak Hungarian.
These programs are fully accredited and meet the requirements for recognition in the EU and other countries.
Tuition fees for medical residency programs in Hungary are generally lower than in many Western countries, making it an affordable option for medical professionals who wish to advance their careers.
The cost of living in Hungary is also relatively low compared to other EU countries, which makes it a cost-effective destination for international students.
Hungary is part of the EU, so completing medical residency in Hungary grants access to the EU's free movement of professionals. Doctors trained in Hungary can practice in other EU countries, which opens up a wider range of job opportunities across Europe.
Hungarian medical institutions offer excellent clinical exposure, with state-of-the-art hospitals and modern healthcare facilities. This allows residents to gain hands-on experience and improve their skills.
The training is often based on practical experience, allowing residents to interact with patients and apply their learning in real-world settings.
Living and training in Hungary allows you to experience its rich cultural heritage, history, and beautiful landscapes. While most medical training is in English, learning a few words of Hungarian can be helpful in interacting with patients and local staff, providing an added cultural benefit.
Hungary attracts many international students, creating a diverse and multicultural environment. Networking with peers from different countries can be beneficial both professionally and personally, and may open up international career opportunities.
Although many medical programs are taught in English, learning Hungarian can give you an edge in the future, as Hungarian is the primary language used in the medical field within the country. Some residency programs even offer Hungarian language courses to help residents integrate better into the local medical environment.
After completing residency training in Hungary, doctors can pursue work within the country or across Europe. Hungary’s healthcare system is always in need of skilled specialists, and there are growing opportunities for foreign-trained professionals in Hungary’s medical sector.
Hungary benefits from various EU-funded projects that enhance its healthcare infrastructure and offer opportunities for further medical education and research. The government is supportive of medical professionals seeking to further their education and career within the country.
Medical Degree: To apply for a medical residency program in Hungary, candidates must have completed a medical degree (MD or equivalent) from a recognized medical school. This degree should be equivalent to the qualifications required to practice medicine in the European Union or other internationally recognized systems.
Minimum Qualification: For certain specialties, additional postgraduate qualifications or experience may be required. For example, if you’re applying for a specialty that requires additional studies or research, you may need to provide evidence of such qualifications.
English Language: Most medical residency programs in Hungary are available in English, especially for international students. You will need to provide proof of English proficiency, typically through certifications such as TOEFL, IELTS, or similar tests. The exact language proficiency required will depend on the specific program and university.
Hungarian Language (Optional but Recommended): While many residency programs are taught in English, some interaction with patients and local medical staff may require knowledge of Hungarian. Some universities may offer Hungarian language courses to help international students who plan to stay in Hungary long term.
You will generally need to submit the following documents:
Medical Degree: A copy of your medical diploma (and transcript if applicable).
Translation of Documents: If your original documents are not in English or Hungarian, they should be officially translated.
CV/Resume: An up-to-date curriculum vitae detailing your education, qualifications, and relevant work experience.
Proof of English Proficiency: A certificate from a recognized institution (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.) confirming your command of the English language.
Recommendation Letters: Some universities may require recommendation letters from professors or professionals in the medical field.
Personal Statement: A statement outlining why you are interested in pursuing a medical residency in Hungary and your professional goals.
Passport/ID Copy: A valid passport or national ID for identification purposes.
Some medical residency programs may require an entrance exam as part of the selection process, though not all programs require this.
The exam typically tests knowledge in areas such as medical sciences, clinical reasoning, and general medical knowledge relevant to the specialty you are applying for.
The exact format and content of the entrance exam vary depending on the university and specialty.
For non-EU/EEA nationals, obtaining a student visa or residency permit is necessary to study and live in Hungary. You will need to provide proof of admission to a Hungarian university, proof of financial means to support yourself, and proof of health insurance.
EU/EEA nationals do not require a visa to enter Hungary but must still register with the local authorities upon arrival.
Each residency program may have its own specific eligibility criteria. For example, some specialized fields (such as surgery, cardiology, etc.) may require prior work experience or completion of certain internships before applying.
You should check the specific requirements of the residency program or specialty you are interested in to ensure that you meet all the necessary qualifications.
International students must have valid health insurance while living and studying in Hungary. Some universities may provide health insurance packages, or you may be required to have private or state health insurance.
In some cases, there may be age restrictions for applicants. For example, certain residency programs may prefer or require applicants to be below a certain age.
Some specialties might require relevant clinical experience prior to application, while others may allow recent medical graduates to apply directly.
Each university in Hungary may have its own application deadlines, which typically vary by program. Make sure to research the specific deadlines and ensure that you submit all your documents on time.
After the initial selection, some medical schools may invite candidates for an interview. This interview assesses your suitability for the program, your motivation, and your understanding of the specialty you're applying for.
Specialization |
Duration |
|---|---|
|
Anesthesiology |
5 years |
|
Cardiology |
5 years |
|
Clinical Genetics |
5 years |
|
Dermatology |
5 years |
|
Emergency Medicine |
5 years |
|
Endocrinology |
5 years |
|
Family Medicine |
3 years |
|
Gastroenterology |
5 years |
|
General Surgery |
6 years |
|
Geriatrics |
5 years |
|
Gynecology and Obstetrics |
5 years |
|
Hematology |
5 years |
|
Infectious Diseases |
5 years |
|
Internal Medicine |
5 years |
|
Maxillofacial Surgery |
5 years |
|
Nephrology |
5 years |
|
Neurology |
5 years |
|
Neurosurgery |
6 years |
|
Nuclear Medicine |
5 years |
|
Ophthalmology |
5 years |
|
Orthopedics |
5 years |
|
Otorhinolaryngology (ENT) |
5 years |
|
Pediatric Surgery |
6 years |
|
Pediatrics |
5 years |
|
Plastic Surgery |
5 years |
|
Psychiatry |
5 years |
|
Public Health |
4 years |
|
Radiology |
5 years |
|
Rheumatology |
5 years |
|
Thoracic Surgery |
6 years |
|
Urology |
5 years |
University/Institution |
Affiliated Hospitals |
Specialties Offered |
|---|---|---|
|
Semmelweis University |
Semmelweis University Clinics, Budapest |
Anesthesiology, Cardiology, Dermatology, General Surgery, Internal Medicine, Neurology, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, etc. |
|
University of Szeged |
University of Szeged Clinics, Szeged |
Cardiology, Dermatology, Emergency Medicine, Gastroenterology, General Surgery, Neurology, Radiology, Pediatrics, etc. |
|
University of Pécs |
University of Pécs Clinics, Pécs |
Anesthesiology, Cardiology, Family Medicine, General Surgery, Internal Medicine, Orthopedics, Radiology, etc. |
|
University of Debrecen |
Debrecen University Clinical Centre, Debrecen |
Anesthesiology, Cardiology, Dermatology, Endocrinology, General Surgery, Neurology, Obstetrics, Psychiatry, etc. |
|
University of Szeged - Faculty of Medicine |
University of Szeged Clinics, Szeged |
Pediatrics, Neurology, General Surgery, Internal Medicine, Psychiatry, Urology, Orthopedics, Ophthalmology, etc. |
|
Budapest Medical Centre |
Budapest Medical Centre, Budapest |
Anesthesiology, General Surgery, Orthopedics, Radiology, Urology, Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, etc. |
|
St. István and St. László Hospitals |
St. István and St. László Hospitals, Budapest |
Cardiovascular Medicine, Neurology, General Surgery, Psychiatry, Internal Medicine, Pediatric Surgery, etc. |
|
MÁV Hospital |
MÁV Hospital, Budapest |
Anesthesiology, Orthopedics, General Surgery, Urology, Pediatrics, Neurology, etc. |
|
Szent János Hospital |
Szent János Hospital, Budapest |
Anesthesiology, Cardiology, Dermatology, General Surgery, Neurology, Orthopedics, Psychiatry, etc. |
|
Pécs University - Medical School |
Pécs University Clinics, Pécs |
Obstetrics and Gynecology, Surgery, Pediatrics, Neurology, Family Medicine, Dermatology, Radiology, etc. |
|
Buda Hospital |
Buda Hospital, Budapest |
Cardiovascular Medicine, General Surgery, Pediatrics, Anesthesiology, Neurology, Orthopedics, Psychiatry, etc. |
|
National Institute of Oncology |
National Institute of Oncology, Budapest |
Oncology, Surgery, Radiology, Hematology, Pathology, Anesthesiology, etc. |
A completed application form provided by the university or institution where you are applying. This form can often be downloaded from the university's admissions website.
A copy of your medical diploma (MD or equivalent degree) or a certificate showing that you have completed the required medical studies. If the document is not in English or Hungarian, it should be officially translated into one of these languages.
Official transcripts from your medical school, detailing the courses completed and grades received. This helps the university assess your academic background.
Transcripts should also be translated into English or Hungarian if they are in another language.
Some programs may require proof of internship or relevant clinical experience, especially if you're applying for a specialty that demands previous practical training.
If your clinical internship is not included in your medical degree, you may need to submit proof of internships or clinical training.
For international students, proof of English language proficiency is usually required. Commonly accepted tests include:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Cambridge English Certificate
Some universities may have their own language proficiency requirements or tests, so check with the specific program.
A detailed CV outlining your educational background, relevant work experience (e.g., internships, clinical rotations), skills, and any research or volunteer work related to medicine.
It may also include personal details like your contact information and a summary of your professional goals.
A personal statement or motivation letter explaining why you want to pursue medical residency in Hungary, your professional goals, why you chose that specific specialty, and how your previous experience prepares you for the program.
This is an important part of the application to demonstrate your commitment and passion for your chosen specialty.
Two to three letters of recommendation from professors, clinical supervisors, or other medical professionals who can vouch for your academic and professional abilities.
These letters should be official, signed, and include contact details for verification.
A valid passport or national ID as proof of identity. This is necessary for processing visas and residency permits.
Make sure the passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Hungary.
2-3 recent passport-sized photos (usually 35mm x 45mm), as required for your application or visa documentation.
A health certificate confirming that you are medically fit to pursue a medical residency. This may include a general health check-up and tests for contagious diseases (such as tuberculosis, hepatitis, etc.).
This certificate may need to be authenticated or signed by a licensed physician.
A police clearance certificate or criminal background check from your home country to show that you have no criminal record. This is important for both residency permit processing and employment eligibility in Hungary.
Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your studies in Hungary (bank statements, scholarship letters, sponsor letters, etc.). This is required for obtaining a student visa and residency permit.
Some universities may require proof of funds to demonstrate that you can cover living expenses, tuition fees, and other costs.
If you are from outside the EU/EEA, you will need to apply for a student visa or residence permit to study in Hungary. Documents for this process might include:
A letter of acceptance from the Hungarian university.
Proof of financial means (for visa purposes).
Health insurance (proof of coverage during your stay in Hungary).
Additional visa-specific forms, which can be found on the Hungarian consulate website.
Some universities require an application fee to be paid at the time of application submission. Ensure that you have the proof of payment if required.
Research Available Programs: First, research the different universities and hospitals in Hungary offering medical residency programs in your chosen specialty. Some of the top universities include Semmelweis University, University of Szeged, University of Pécs, and University of Debrecen.
Specialty Selection: Check if your desired specialty is offered and if you meet the academic requirements for that specific program.
Medical Degree: Ensure you have a recognized medical degree (MD or equivalent) that qualifies you to apply for residency. Your medical degree should be recognized by the medical regulatory authorities in Hungary or meet the European Union (EU) standards.
Language Requirements: Many Hungarian medical residency programs are available in English for international students. However, you will likely need to demonstrate your English proficiency through tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or university-specific language exams.
Clinical Experience: Some specialties may require clinical experience or internship completion before applying. Check if your program requires prior work experience or internship completion.
Application Form: Complete the application form provided by the university or medical school offering the residency.
Required Documents: Gather and submit the required documents (details in previous answers), including:
Medical Degree (MD or equivalent)
Academic Transcripts
CV/Resume
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS, etc.)
Letters of Recommendation
Motivation Letter
Passport Copy
Proof of Clinical Experience (if applicable)
Health Certificate and Police Clearance (if required)
Application Fee: Some universities may charge an application fee. Ensure that you pay this and provide proof of payment.
Online Submission: Most universities allow online submission of application materials through their admission portal.
Deadline Awareness: Be aware of application deadlines, which can vary depending on the program and university. Typically, deadlines are set in the spring or early summer for programs starting in the fall.
Entrance Exam: Some residency programs in Hungary may require you to take an entrance exam, especially for highly competitive specialties. The exam typically tests your basic medical knowledge, clinical reasoning, and general medical concepts.
Interview: You may also be required to participate in an interview to assess your motivation for pursuing the residency program, your background, and your understanding of the chosen specialty.
Preparation: Prepare for the entrance exam and interview by reviewing medical subjects and practicing common interview questions related to your career aspirations and specialty.
After submitting your application and completing any exams/interviews, you will need to wait for the admission decision from the university or hospital. This may take several weeks, depending on the program.
Once admitted, you will receive an official offer letter or acceptance letter, which is required for visa and residence permit applications.
Visa/Residence Permit: If you are from a non-EU country, you will need to apply for a student visa or residence permit to study and live in Hungary. This process typically involves:
Submitting the acceptance letter from the university.
Providing proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your residency.
Having health insurance coverage during your stay.
Submitting a valid passport and passport-sized photos.
EU/EEA Nationals: If you are from an EU/EEA country, you generally don’t need a visa but may need to register with the Hungarian authorities upon arrival.
Once your visa and residence permit are approved (if applicable), you can arrive in Hungary and enroll in the residency program.
During enrollment, you will be provided with orientation sessions, access to university facilities, and guidance on your residency training schedule and clinical rotations.
Clinical Training: Your medical residency program will include a combination of clinical rotations, theoretical education, and hands-on experience in your chosen specialty. You will work in affiliated teaching hospitals and gain exposure to a wide range of medical conditions.
Evaluation: You will undergo regular evaluations, including exams and assessments of your clinical skills.
While many residency programs are in English, learning Hungarian can be beneficial, particularly for interacting with patients and local medical staff. Some universities may offer Hungarian language courses to help international students integrate into the medical environment.
Year 1 (Intern): Around €700 - €1,000 per month.
Year 2-3: Typically between €1,000 - €1,400 per month.
Year 4-5: Generally ranges from €1,400 - €1,700 per month.
Year 6+ (for longer residency programs): Salaries can range from €1,600 - €2,000 per month.
Specialty: Some specialties, like surgery, orthopedics, or anesthesiology, may offer slightly higher salaries due to their demands and the complexity of the procedures involved.
Location: Residents in larger cities like Budapest may earn a bit more than those in smaller towns or rural areas due to the higher cost of living in urban centers.
Public vs. Private Hospitals: Residents working in private hospitals may receive higher compensation compared to those working in public hospitals. However, public hospitals typically offer more comprehensive training and clinical exposure.
Experience and Seniority: As residents progress through their training years, their salary typically increases.
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Expense Category |
Cost Range (EUR) |
Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Tuition Fees |
€6,000 - €10,000 per year |
Tuition fees for international students in Hungary range from €6,000 to €10,000annually, depending on the university and specialty. Public universities tend to be more affordable than private ones. |
|
Application Fees |
€100 - €200 |
Non-refundable application fee required by most universities. |
|
Living Expenses (per month) |
€500 - €1,200 |
Includes rent, food, utilities, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses. Living costs in Budapest are higher compared to smaller towns. |
|
Accommodation (rent per month) |
€300 - €600 |
Rent for a shared apartment in Budapest can be €300-€500, while rent in smaller cities can be cheaper. |
|
Utilities (per month) |
€100 - €150 |
Basic utilities (electricity, water, heating, internet) typically cost €100 to €150 per month. |
|
Health Insurance |
€50 - €100 per month |
Health insurance is mandatory. If not provided by the university, international students will need private health insurance. |
|
Study Materials and Books |
€100 - €200 per year |
Costs for medical textbooks, online resources, and other study materials can vary depending on the specialty. |
|
Public Transport |
€10 - €20 per month |
A public transport pass in Budapest or other cities typically costs between €10 and €20per month. |
|
Miscellaneous Expenses |
€100 - €200 per month |
Includes entertainment, leisure, personal items, and other incidental costs. |
|
Visa and Residence Permit (for non-EU) |
€100 - €300 |
Non-EU students must pay for a visa and residence permit. The cost may vary depending on the type of visa and processing fees. |
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Medical Degree (MD or Equivalent):
Applicants must have completed a medical degree (MD or equivalent) from a recognized institution. The medical degree must be equivalent to the standards required to practice medicine in Hungary or the European Union (EU).
If your degree is not in English or Hungarian, an official translation into one of these languages will be required.
Your medical degree should be recognized by the Hungarian Medical Chamber or European Union (for recognition in other EU countries).
English Language Proficiency:
Many medical residency programs in Hungary are offered in English for international students, so you will need to demonstrate proficiency in English. This can be done through one of the following:
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
Some universities may also accept Cambridge English certificates or their own in-house language proficiency tests.
The minimum required score usually ranges from IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 80 (depending on the program and university).
Hungarian Language:
While many programs are in English, knowledge of Hungarian can be useful, particularly when interacting with patients during clinical rotations. Some universities offer Hungarian language courses to help residents integrate better into the local medical environment.
Clinical Experience:
Applicants typically need to have completed a clinical internship or postgraduate training before applying for residency. This might be a compulsory internship (a period of supervised practical training) that is required in your home country or part of the degree program.
Some programs may require a minimum number of years of clinical practice or training before entry.
For example, clinical rotations in general medicine, surgery, or other medical fields are often required for entry into specialized residencies like surgery, internal medicine, or pediatrics.
Some residency programs may have an age limit for applicants, especially in competitive specialties. For example, applicants may need to be under the age of 35 (varies by university and specialty). Always verify the age requirements for the specific program you're applying for.
Entrance Exam:
Some Hungarian medical schools require applicants to take an entrance exam as part of the admission process, particularly for specialized fields like surgery, radiology, or dermatology.
The exam generally covers basic medical knowledge and may also include clinical reasoning or problem-solving tasks.
Interview:
Some universities may conduct an interview to evaluate your motivation, goals, and suitability for the residency program. The interview may also assess your communication skills and understanding of the specialty you are applying for.
The following documents are typically required for applying to residency programs in Hungary:
Application Form: Completed form from the university.
Medical Degree: Copy of your medical diploma (and transcript, if applicable).
English Proficiency Test: Results of TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): Up-to-date resume listing your educational background, clinical experience, and skills.
Personal Statement: Motivation letter outlining why you wish to pursue medical residency in Hungary and your career goals.
Letters of Recommendation: Usually 2-3 letters from professors or supervisors.
Passport Copy: For identification purposes.
Health Certificate: A recent health check-up to ensure fitness for medical training.
Police Clearance: A criminal background check from your home country (sometimes required for visa purposes).
Photographs: Passport-sized photos (usually 2-3).
Visa Requirement:
International students who are non-EU nationals will need to apply for a student visa to study in Hungary. This process requires:
Acceptance Letter from the university.
Proof of financial means to support your stay in Hungary (e.g., bank statements).
Proof of health insurance covering the entire duration of your stay.
Residence Permit:
Non-EU residents also need to apply for a residence permit. You will need to show proof of accommodation, financial stability, and enrollment in a medical residency program.
Medical residency students in Hungary are required to have health insurance that covers their stay in Hungary. This could be either a Hungarian public health insurance plan or private international health insurance.
Many universities offer student health insurance as part of their enrollment packages.
Application Fee: Some universities may require an application fee (typically €100 - €200).
Tuition Fees: Tuition for international students can range from €6,000 to €10,000 per year, depending on the university and program.
Recognition of Degree: Upon completion of your residency, you will be able to work as a certified doctor in Hungary or other EU countries, as Hungarian medical qualifications are widely recognized across the European Union and other countries.
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For EU/EEA Nationals:
If you are from a European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA) country, you do not need a visa to study in Hungary. However, you may need to register with the Hungarian authorities (local immigration office) within a few weeks of arriving in Hungary.
For Non-EU/EEA Nationals:
If you are from outside the EU/EEA, you will need to apply for a student visa or residence permit for the duration of your medical residency. The application process involves submitting documents to the Hungarian consulate or embassy in your home country or country of residence.
A student visa (short-term Schengen visa or long-term D visa) allows you to stay in Hungary for the purpose of studying. Typically, medical residency is a long-term program, so you’ll apply for a long-term student residence permit.
This is the most common residence permit for non-EU nationals pursuing medical residency programs in Hungary.
Acceptance Letter from the University:
You must provide an official acceptance letter from the Hungarian university or medical institution where you have been admitted to a medical residency program.
Valid Passport:
Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond the duration of your intended stay in Hungary.
Application Form:
You must complete the residence permit application form, which is available from the Hungarian embassy or consulate in your country.
Proof of Financial Means:
You need to prove that you have enough funds to support yourself during your residency in Hungary. This may include:
Bank statements showing that you can cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
A sponsor letter if a family member or organization is financially supporting you.
Scholarship award letter (if applicable).
The required financial amount varies by embassy but is generally around €500 - €700 per month to cover living expenses.
Health Insurance:
You must provide proof of health insurance that covers your entire stay in Hungary. This could be:
Hungarian public health insurance (which can be arranged upon arrival).
Private international health insurance with coverage in Hungary.
Proof of Accommodation:
You must show proof of where you will be living during your residency (university dorms, private rental agreement, etc.).
Passport-Sized Photographs:
Usually, 2-3 passport-sized photographs are required for your application.
Visa Fee:
You will need to pay a visa processing fee, which can range from €60 to €100, depending on your nationality and the specific embassy.
Criminal Background Check:
Some applicants may need to provide a police clearance certificate or criminal background check from their home country. This may vary by consulate and should be checked beforehand.
Medical Certificate:
You may need to provide a medical certificate confirming that you are in good health and free from any contagious diseases, especially when applying for a long-term residence permit.
Prepare your documents: Gather all required documents mentioned above.
Submit the application: Submit your residence permit application to the Hungarian consulate or embassy in your country.
Attend an interview (if required): Some consulates may require an interview as part of the visa process. You may be asked about your studies, plans, and how you will support yourself in Hungary.
Wait for the decision: The processing time can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks. It is recommended to apply well in advance (3–6 months before the start of your residency program).
Residence permit approval: Once your residence permit is approved, you will be issued a student residence permit that allows you to stay and study in Hungary.
Once you arrive in Hungary, you will need to:
Register with the Hungarian authorities (local immigration office or regional office). This is mandatory and should be done within 30 days of arrival.
Residence permit card: You will receive a residence permit card which allows you to live, study, and work part-time in Hungary for the duration of your medical residency.
As a medical resident, you are permitted to work part-time in Hungary. This can include clinical rotations, on-call shifts, or part-time medical work, which is common in medical residency training.
Your residency permit will specify whether you are allowed to engage in employment outside of your studies.
If you are bringing a spouse or dependents (children) with you, they can apply for a family reunification visa or residence permit, which allows them to live with you in Hungary during your studies. You will need to provide proof of sufficient funds and accommodation for them.
Your residence permit will usually be valid for 1 year, but it can be extended each year while you continue your residency program. You will need to provide updated documentation such as:
Proof of continued enrollment in the medical residency program.
Evidence of financial means.
Health insurance coverage.
After completing your medical residency, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency in Hungary if you meet the necessary criteria, such as:
Completing at least 5 years of continuous legal stay in Hungary.
Proving financial independence and integration into Hungarian society (such as knowledge of the Hungarian language and culture).
