Students are housed in BSM-approved apartments in Budapest city center and suburbs. City center locations have the advantage of being close to the main cultural attractions of Budapest and the commute time to BSM is short. Housing and roommate assignments are arranged by our Hungarian BSM staff based on the information you provide in your Housing Form (once accepted into the program).
Housing assignments are given upon arrival in Budapest. The BSM representative who picks you up at the airport or train station will accompany you to your apartment. They will give you a mini orientation in your new neighborhood including the location of the nearest ATM or currency exchange booth and how it works, where to catch public transportation and how to purchase tickets, and directions to the nearest food store and pharmacy. They will also explain how to get from your location to both BSM and the Babilon Language School.
Typically, two or three students are housed together, and each student will have their own bedroom with a door. Apartments come completely furnished including pillows, sheets, towels, kitchenware, washing machine, etc. Clothes dryers are extremely rare. Keep in mind that thick items, such as sweatshirts, take several days to air dry; please pack accordingly. Apartment might be small by North American standards, with modest kitchen facilities. All apartments are located within easy reach of the university, either on foot or using convenient and inexpensive public transportation.
Rent prices per person, regardless of location, should be in the range of about $450-$475 per month plus one time security deposit. The security deposit is usually equal to one month’s rent. The first month’s rent will usually be payable within a week of your arrival. Please be aware that Hungarian laws governing rental properties vary greatly from laws in North America. Lease details may vary from apartment to apartment. Do not pay any rent until a lease has been signed. Do not sign any lease agreements until you fully understand and are comfortable with the terms. Your landlord should be willing to give you a few days grace period in which to do so.