The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted international students studying in Hungary, bringing unexpected challenges and changes to their experiences. Once filled with excitement about studying abroad, international students in Hungary faced unprecedented difficulties due to the pandemic.

The thrill of exploring a new country, immersing themselves in a different culture, and making lifelong friendships came to a sudden halt. Leaving them isolated, uncertain, and struggling to adapt. Navigating through travel restrictions and online classes added to their sense of displacement, making it a challenging time.

In this blog, we will look closely at student’s experiences, uncovering the challenges they faced, the strength they showed, and the importance of support. We'll also explore how the impact of COVID-19 on international students has changed studying abroad in Hungary.

The Impact of COVID-19 on International Students:

COVID-19 transformed the educational landscape for millions of university students worldwide, and international students had their own set of unique challenges. The impact of Covid-19 on international students caused a massive drop in the number of students studying in Hungary. A 15% decrease from the previous year was observed leaving only 35,000 enrolled in 2020. The shift to online learning made it challenging for students to engage in extracurricular activities and foster connections. This has limited their opportunities for cross-cultural exchange.

The pandemic's toll on mental health was evident. About 70% of international students in Hungary reported feelings of loneliness and isolation, according to a study by the University of Szeged. Additionally, finding employment became more tough for international students. Numerous businesses closed or downsized due to the pandemic's impact on the job market.

Challenges Faced by Students During the Pandemic:

The impact of Covid-19 on international students was significant. In addition to the challenges faced by all students during the pandemic, international students have faced several unique challenges, including:

Push and Pull Factors:

During the pandemic, international student choices were influenced by a combination of push and pull factors.

Online Mode of Teaching:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the shift to an 'Online Mode of Teaching' presented abundant challenges worldwide. With no face-to-face interactions, students were adapting to a new learning environment. They faced technological difficulties, limited personal engagement with teachers and peers, and experienced potential distractions at home. The absence of immediate feedback made grasping complex concepts harder. Additionally, remote exams raised concerns about academic integrity and heightened anxiety for many students.

Eligibility for Admission:

The impact of COVID-19 on international students resulted in the delay of award of high school diplomas or degrees impacted international students' eligibility for admission to study programs

Graduation Status Amidst COVID-19:

The impact of COVID-19 on international students resulted as a disruption in higher education in Hungary. One of the major concerns was students' graduation status. The switch to online learning has disrupted the academic calendar, causing many students to worry about completing their studies on time.

Travel Restrictions:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, travel restrictions posed significant challenges for international students in Hungary. Border closures, limited international flights, and mandatory quarantine requirements hindered their ability to travel for studies. Sudden travel bans also left some students stranded in their home countries. The ever-changing regulations added complexity and stress to their lives, requiring them to adapt while pursuing their academic goals.

Immigration Restrictions:

Many countries, including Hungary, imposed government policies on entry at their borders, allowing only nationals or permanent residents. This left international students uncertain about their ability to return to their host country for their studies.

Hostel Evacuations amid COVID-19:

Students were required to move out of hostels, leaving low-income and international students to find alternative lodging in just a few days. This challenge unfolded when countries closed borders and airlines cancelled flights, making the situation even more difficult. Some fortunate students received warm hospitality from Hungarians who opened their homes. While other students found themselves stranded in hotels, hostels, or on friends' couches until they could secure a flight home.

Prejudice, Xenophobia and Racism During COVID-19:

A distressing trend emerged during the pandemic, with a reported increase in prejudice, xenophobia, and racism, posing a concerning threat to students' mental health. As the virus spread globally, some individuals unfairly blamed and targeted certain nationalities, stigmatising them as disease carriers. This discrimination left international students vulnerable to experiences of marginalisation and isolation, negatively impacting their overall well-being.

Changes in the Education System and Study Abroad Programs:

A significant change was observed in the education system, with a rapid shift to remote learning and increased use of online platforms. Study abroad programs faced disruptions that lead to the adoption of virtual experiences and hybrid learning models. These changes have a lasting impact on the future of education and international learning.

Online Learning and Its Effectiveness:

With universities having transitioned to online learning, international students faced new challenges. It included non-native speakers who might have struggled with understanding social cues on virtual platforms. Some students adapted well to online learning, finding it efficient and convenient. Others reported difficulties adjusting to the new mode of education.

Student Satisfaction:

In student satisfaction, around half of the students expressed being satisfied or very satisfied with their academic experience. First-year undergraduates showed slightly higher satisfaction (55%) than other undergraduates (44%). Of the 29% who reported dissatisfaction, two-thirds attributed it to the quality of learning and delivery. However, over half of the students were dissatisfied or very dissatisfied with their social experience. Their reasons included limited opportunities for social or recreational activities (86%). Also restricted chances to meet other students (84%), and limited access to sports and fitness facilities (52%).

Mental Health Issues Among International Students:

The impact of COVID-19 on international students and its uncertainties took a toll on the mental health of students. Issues like visa status, financial struggles, isolation, and discrimination increase anxiety and stress among students. Universities in Hungary prioritise providing evidence-based online counselling services to support the mental well-being of their international students.

Distressed in a Foreign Country:

The impact of COVID-19 on international students had a significant toll on the mental health of international students. Many students felt isolated, lonely, and homesick. These stressors led to several mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Personal Well-Being:

The personal well-being of undergraduate students has declined in recent years. In all four domains of well-being (life satisfaction, life worthwhile, happiness, and low anxiety), undergraduate students reported substantially lower levels of well-being compared to the general population aged 16 to 24 years.

Social Isolation and Loneliness:

Loneliness was a significant issue for international students during COVID-19. Travel restrictions and social distancing led to isolation from support networks and host communities. Limited in-person interactions and social events exacerbated feelings of loneliness, impacting mental well-being and academic experience. Universities provided virtual support to address this challenge.

Financial Implications for International Students:

Many international students relied upon part-time jobs to support their living expenses while studying abroad. With lockdowns and border closures affecting employment opportunities, financial struggles became a primary concern for these students.

Unemployment:

Many international students lost their jobs or had their hours reduced. This made it difficult for them to afford tuition, housing, and living expenses.

Financial Aid Barriers:

The pandemic also made it more difficult for international students to access financial aid. Many organisations reduced or eliminated their funding, making it harder for students to pay for their education. As a result of these challenges, many international students faced financial hardship. They struggled to pay their bills, put food on the table, or afford tuition. The financial implications of COVID-19 were particularly challenging for international students from low-income backgrounds. These students had less access to financial resources and were more likely to experience financial hardship.

Support Systems for Students:

Universities in Hungary offered specific international support groups or workshops in virtual spaces to help international students through difficult times. Additionally, free online counselling services eliminated the stigma surrounding mental health support.

University Counselling Centers:

University counselling centres played a vital role in supporting students during the COVID-19 pandemic. They provided students with individual counselling, group counselling, workshops, and other resources to help cope with the challenges of the pandemic. University counselling centres were able to provide students with support in several ways, including:

Coping Strategies and Resilience Among International Students:

Despite the uncertainties and disruptions caused by the pandemic, many international students showed flexibility towards change. Some students found comfort in staying connected with their social support systems. Other students appreciated the efficiency of online learning and utilised their time for personal development.

Positive Reframe:

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the lives of students around the world. However, some students were able to find opportunities for growth and development during this time.

For example, some students found that they enjoyed the flexibility and efficiency of online learning. They were able to save time by not commuting to school, and they could work on their own schedule.

Other students found that they had more time for self-improvement activities. They used this time to practise yoga, meditate, write, or learn public speaking skills.

These students were able to use the pandemic as an opportunity to learn and grow. They developed new skills and habits that will benefit them in the future.

Initiatives to Support International Students:

Personal Experiences and Stories:

International students in Hungary shared diverse experiences during the pandemic. Some chose to stay and adapt to the new normal. Some faced difficulties in finding accommodation or deciding whether to return to their home countries. These personal stories shed light on the challenges and triumphs faced by international students during the pandemic.

Blai, an Economics student, found that the pandemic gave him more time to focus on his studies and personal development. He was able to read more, watch more movies, and dedicate himself to his hobbies without any distractions. He also found that the online learning environment was more efficient, as he could work on his own schedule.

Amina, a Computer Science student, found that the pandemic gave her the opportunity to learn new skills and improve her English. She took advantage of the online resources available to her, such as online courses and language learning apps.

Whereas there were some students who faced difficulties during this period,

ChiChi, a Thai communications design undergraduate student studying in Belgium, has reported multiple incidents of being subjected to slurs on campus, such as 'corona' and 'no mask' (even though she was wearing a mask). She says that these experiences often made her feel sad, angry, and less motivated to study.

Similar comments were made to Davi, a Cambodian undergraduate studying aerospace engineering, who was advised to 'go back to China' on her Israeli campus. This incident had a negative impact on her emotional and academic well-being.

Future of Study Abroad in Hungary Post-COVID-19

As the impact of COVID-19 on international students gradually came under control, the future of studying abroad in Hungary looked promising. Universities were likely to resume face-to-face teaching, though online learning might continue to be integrated. Hungary also implemented supportive measures to attract and retain international student’s post-pandemic.

The future of study abroad in Hungary post-COVID-19 looked promising, with an expected increase in the number of international students. Factors such as Hungary's strong economy, high-quality education system, and relatively low cost of living contributed to its attractiveness as a study destination.

Financial support from the Hungarian government further enhanced the affordability of studying in Hungary, making it a more accessible option for students from diverse backgrounds. With its economic growth, high-quality education, low cost of living, commitment to online learning, and government support, Hungary is well-positioned to attract a diverse and growing number of international students in the years to come.

Conclusion

The impact of COVID-19 on international students in Hungary posed challenges in their academic, social, and emotional lives. As universities strive to adapt to the new normal, it is crucial to prioritise the well-being and support of international students. By providing efficient online learning, mental health support, financial assistance, and a welcoming environment, Hungary continued to be a preferred destination for study abroad. Through resilience and adaptability, international students continued to thrive and contribute to the global academic community even in the face of unprecedented challenges.

FAQ’s:

What were the challenges faced by international students in Hungary during the pandemic?

During COVID-19 the shift to online learning made it challenging for students to engage in extracurricular activities. Immigration restrictions, eligibility for admission, admission procedures and deadlines, travel restrictions, hostel evacuations, and graduation status were all impacted by the pandemic.

What were the mental health issues faced by international students during the pandemic?

The impact of COVID-19 on international students in Hungary had a negative toll on their mental health. Issues such as visa status, financial struggles, isolation, and discrimination have led to increased anxiety and stress among students.

How did the pandemic impact the education system and study abroad programs?

The impact of COVID-19 on international students accelerated the adoption of online learning and virtual experiences in education and international learning. These changes were likely to have a lasting impact on the future of education and international learning.