Discover Hungary: ELTE International Freshman Camp 2026!

Welcome to your new beginning! Starting university in a new country is a huge milestone, and we want to help you kick off this journey in the best way possible.
In Hungary, we have a beloved tradition called Gólyatábor (Freshman Camp). "Gólya" means "stork" in Hungarian which is our affectionate term for new first-year students. This overnight camp in the scenic countryside of Szolnok is designed to welcome you into our community, introduce you to local culture, and help you build friendships. 

The Adventure: A Quest Through Hungarian Folklore

The camp is built entirely around Hungarian Folk Tales & Legends.

Upon arrival, you will join a mixed-nationality Legend Team representing a mythical figure or creature from Hungarian folklore. Together with your teammates, you will earn points by completing outdoor obstacle courses, creative engineering challenges, and interactive cultural tasks. Your team's accumulated treasures will determine the ultimate legends crowned during our Closing Ceremony!

What To Expect

• Build Your Community: Connect with fellow students from all over the world through icebreakers, team games, and nightly social events (campfires, board games, and karaoke).

• Master Student Life: Fast-track your transition with interactive "survival" stations covering Hungarian language basics, local currency, and transit.

• Experience the Culture: Jump into hands-on cultural stations featuring traditional folk dancing, local customs, and Hungarian games.

Our Commitment To You

We want everyone to feel safe, comfortable, and respected. The camp features diverse dining options, zero pressure regarding alcohol, and is conducted entirely in English.

Please read the Rules and Regulations and the Privacy Notice linked at the bottom of this page before completing your registration.

General Information

• When: 25-27 September 2026 (Friday to Sunday)
• Where: Szolnok, Hungary (Transport details provided upon registration)
• Who: All incoming students of ELTE (Internationals and Hungarians)
• Language of the event is English
• Participation fee is 39.000 HUF per person (includes accommodation, meals for the entire camp, programmes, and more)
  • Transportation between Budapest and Szolnok is not included in the participation fee. We will contact all registered participants with recommendations and further information about purchasing train tickets before the camp.

Registration & Payment

• Please note that your registration becomes valid by paying the participation fee. Places will be allocated to participants whose payments have been received, so completing the registration form alone does not guarantee a place in the camp.
• To make the payment process easier, we have prepared a step-by-step payment guide. You can find it attached below.