Hungary

Organisational autonomy: medium low

The selection and dismissal of the executive head is confirmed by the President of the Republic. The law also prescribes selection criteria and the maximum term of office. External members forming the board-type of governing body are appointed externally. Hungarian universities are constrained in their capacity to organise themselves by the newly established position of chancellor, appointed by the Prime Minister, with extensive decision-making powers.

Financial autonomy: low

Universities cannot freely allocate public funding internally. They may not borrow funds and require the approval of external authorities to sell buildings. Universities may set the level of fees under a fixed ceiling, for those students who are not allocated a state-funded study place. Financial matters at the university are now fully overseen by the chancellor and the consistory.

Academic autonomy: medium low

In academic terms, Hungarian universities have more autonomy than in 2010 thanks to the opening-up of programme accreditation to EQAR-registered foreign bodies. Admissions remain controlled externally at Bachelor level and programme accreditation is mandatory. Universities can design the content of their academic programmes and choose the language of instruction.

Staffing autonomy: medium low

There has been little change since 2010 and the constraints associated with the civil servant status of the university staff remain. Salary levels are regulated via set minimum and maximum salaries. Final decision-making powers with regard to recruitment, salaries and promotions now rest with the chancellor appointed by the Prime Minister.