Why is there a demand for English teachers? English is compulsory for all Hungarian students wishing to apply for college or university, and the demand for qualified native English speakers is quite high, especially in the business market. The opportunities that exist now are mostly in the provinces. As with other countries in the region, there is a strong demand for qualified TEFL teachers in Hungary, particularly in the capital city. It is estimated that there are over 100 private language schools in Budapest and over 300 in the whole country. Anybody with a TEFL certificate should be able to find employment quite easily. Business English is also definitely on the rise in the private sector, so EFL teachers with additional business skills are sure to be at an advantage..

How do I go about getting a job? A desire to teach and your UK-TEFL certificate can be all you need to arrange work informally in the country. If you have a degree then your job prospects are significantly enhanced. Very few jobs in Hungary are advertised in the UK and only 1 or 2 UK sending organisations include Hungary in their list of destinations. More opportunities exist for gap year students since the main organisations make placements in Hungarian schools. Consult the ‘Book of Lists’ from the Budapest Business Journal which contains about 40 addresses of private language institutes. In the capital city of Budapest, there are more than 100 private language schools.The regional resource centres in Gyor, Miskolc, Pelcs and Szorm-bathely may be more helpful. They should have a list of primary and secondary schools which teach English in the region. 

Do I need to learn/speak the language?   It is not essential to speak the languauge.

Where do EFL teachers live? Your biggest concern will be finding somewhere to live. Good, inexpensive accommodation is scarce and you can expect up to a third of your salary to go on rent. Some schools help by subsidising accommodation, or it may be possible to arrange accommodation in return for English lessons.  

What is the food like? Mouth-watering, spicy dishes, rich stews and sauces, hearty soups and yummy desserts make up the classic Hungarian diet. Try specialities such as toltott kaposzta, cabbage leaves rolled and stuffed with meat and rice or madartejis, a delicious, custard like dessert. Drink palinka, a kick-like-a-mule brandy made from stone fruits such as pear, apricot or plum.

What will I do in the evenings, on days off or on my holidays? Soothe away your aches and pains in one of Budapest's thermal baths or stroll along the Castle District in Buda. The Budapest Spring Festival is the largest annual cultural event in Hungary, boasting orchestral and chamber concerts, jazz, contemporary dance, film screenings and much more. Performers from around the world gather throughout the city to be part of this event. The Castle Hill with the Royal Palace and the Matthias Church in Buda are featured in all guidebooks as some of the most popular attractions in Budapest. Another well-known attraction is the Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Lánchíd) spanning the Danube at the foot of Castle Hill.

Safe? Generally, Hungary is rather quiet during the night compared to other European countries. Tourists are often targets for pickpocketing and eventual cheating on prices and bills and taxi fares. You should always try to ensure your safety when traveling overseas.  Take some time before travel to improve your personal security.

How much does it cost to travel from the UK?  Flights start at around £50 one way with budget airlines.

When is the best time to travel for English teaching jobs? Peak hiring months are September and January.