Program Overview

The Doctoral School of Biology at Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) offers a research-oriented Ph.D. program in Biology, providing students with a comprehensive education in various fields of modern biology. The program is designed to prepare students for a successful career in the life sciences, either in basic research or in the industry.

Program Structure

The program consists of 8 semesters (4 years) and requires the completion of 240 ECTS credits. The minimum number of students is 3, and the maximum number is 60. The program is taught in English, and the language of instruction is English.

Research Areas

The Doctoral School of Biology offers research opportunities in the following areas:

• Ecology and Evolution
• Ethology
• Immunology
• Experimental Plant Biology
• Genetics
• Molecular Cell and Neurobiology
• Neuroscience and Human Biology
• Structural Biochemistry
• Zootaxonomy, Animal Ecology, Hydrobiology

Program Description

The program provides students with a wide range of research topics and methodologies, allowing them to gain a deep understanding of complex biological processes. The program is strongly research-oriented, and students are expected to start their research work well before the end of the first year. At the end of each year, students report on their research progress, and it is expected that they will publish at least two papers in peer-reviewed internationally renowned journals of their field.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program will have the necessary skills to apply for jobs around the globe. Many former students obtain postdoctoral positions throughout the world, while others get tenure or tenure track positions at universities or research institutes. Some graduates pursue their research career in the non-academic environment of large international research institutions, tied to high-tech development or to the economic or financial world.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a Master's degree in Biology or a related field. An internationally accredited language examination is required with at least a B2 CEFR level or equivalent result. Examples of minimum level accepted include TOEFL iBT 72 pts and IELTS 5.5.

Application Procedure

The application starts at the online application system, where students need to register, fill in the online application form, upload the required documents, and follow the instructions during the application process. Before applying, students should select a suitable research topic and draw an outline for their research work with the guidance of their to-be supervisor.

Tuition Fees

The tuition fee for EU/EEA students is HUF 1,000,000 per semester if the research is performed at the Faculty, and HUF 300,000 if the research is performed outside of the Faculty. For non-EU/EEA students, the tuition fee is 4,000 EUR per semester if the research is performed at the Faculty, and 1,500 EUR if the research is performed outside of the Faculty. The application fee is 9,000 HUF (non-refundable) for both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA students.

Application Deadline

The deadline for applications for the September intake is May 31, 2026. There is no February intake.

Program Leader and Coordinator

The program leader and coordinator is Prof. Dr. Árpád Dobolyi, Head of the Doctoral School of Biology.

Eötvös Loránd University Budapest

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Overview:

Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) is the oldest and largest university in Hungary, renowned as the leading research institution in the country. It is highly sought after by applicants each year, symbolizing knowledge, opportunities, competition, openness, and a strong sense of community.

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Services Offered:

Academic System:

ELTE offers a comprehensive academic system, including degree programs, summer university programs, language courses, and funding opportunities.

Mobility:

The university facilitates both outgoing and incoming mobility programs, including Erasmus+ traineeships.

Student Support:

ELTE provides various support services for students, including accommodation, libraries, life management support, equal opportunities, career services, IT support, sports facilities, and student organizations.

Research:

ELTE is a leading research university with a strong focus on innovation, including university spin-offs, projects, institutional partnerships, and national laboratories.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

Campuses:

ELTE has multiple campuses located in Budapest, offering a vibrant and diverse campus experience.

Culture:

The university fosters a rich cultural environment with various events, videos, podcasts, and student organizations.

Community:

ELTE emphasizes a strong sense of community, encouraging students to participate in various activities and connect with fellow students.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Prestige:

ELTE is the oldest and largest university in Hungary, recognized for its academic excellence and research contributions.

Internationalization:

The university actively promotes internationalization, offering various programs and opportunities for international students.

Location:

Located in Budapest, ELTE provides students with access to a vibrant city with rich history, culture, and attractions.

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Academic Programs:

ELTE offers a wide range of academic programs across various faculties, including:

Faculty of Law (ÁJK)

Bárczi Gusztáv Faculty of Special Needs Education (BGGyK)

Faculty of Humanities (BTK)

Faculty of Economics (GTK)

Faculty of Informatics (IK)

Faculty of Education and Psychology (PPK)

Faculty of Primary and Pre-School Education (TÓK)

Faculty of Social Sciences (TÁTK)

Faculty of Science (TTK)