(Most recent update: May 16, 2023)

BSME Directors closely monitor situations in Budapest, Hungary, Europe, and in the United States. BSME will run in-person only if there is confidence that we can do so safely and anticipate successful completion of the program. Once students arrive in Budapest, they are bound by their commitment to the Community Contract for COVID-19 Safety.

Note: Proof of vaccination is required for program participation.

Pre-Arrival Planning

International travel and visa requirements can change with little warning. Please pay attention to any changes in restrictions or requirements that may affect your entry into Hungary. Obtaining appropriate visas in advance and arranging travel are the responsibility of the student. Any associated expenses are the responsibility of the student.

The academic calendar will be finalized at least 90 days before the first day of the program. All tuition and fees will be refunded if the program is cancelled before the first day of the program.

After acceptance to the program, students will be notified by the BSME North American Office with updates, requirements, and travel recommendations. Participation in an online pre-departure orientation is required for each student. 

All students are required to carry health insurance. Proof of insurance is required for participation in BSME. Supplemental travel insurance can be obtained at the discretion of the student. The BSME Budapest Office will coordinate health care with English speaking providers. Students seeking care should contact the BSME Student Coordinator.

Housing

Students are housed in BSME approved apartments. Although students share apartments, each student has their own bedroom. If a student is experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19, they are to report their symptoms to the Director of Student Services and wear a N95/KN95 or equivalent mask until a COVID-19 test can be administered or is deemed unnecessary. In the case where a student tests positive for COVID-19, BSME staff in Hungary will inform students about current isolation/quarantine/masking policies and procedures for return to in-class meetings. While in the shared spaces of their apartment, we expect the students to act responsibly to limit possible transmission of COVID-19.

All BSME apartments have reliable Wi-Fi that will allow for remote participation in programming if required.

Personal Travel

Students embark in personal travel at their own risk and expense. Considerations before travel should include the potential for increased risk of exposure to COVID-19 because of travel, the risk of being denied entry/return into a country, and the financial and academic consequences of being stuck in another country during COVID-19. Prior to any travel, students are required to inform the Student Coordinator and provide contact information (cell phone, email, etc.) where they will be accessible for the duration of travel.

Illness and Symptom Monitoring

It is the responsibility of students to closely monitor COVID related symptoms and report any symptoms to the Student Coordinator. Students who are experiencing symptoms are required to self-isolate and participate in classes remotely until they receive a COVID test. Students who test positive will be moved to hotel isolation where they will be monitored, provided food, and can participate in coursework until no longer a transmission risk.

Training of Faculty, Staff, and Students

The Hungarian Director will provide faculty and staff training on BSME policies and procedures before the start of the program. Students will receive training as part of both the required pre-departure orientation and arrival orientation.