Understanding the New Student AI Code
Eotvos Lorand University (ELTE) in Hungary has recently introduced a comprehensive Student AI Code, formalised in the rector’s instruction 4/2025. The policy recognises that artificial intelligence (AI) can be a powerful ally throughout a student’s academic journey – from preparing for first lectures to finalising a thesis. At the same time it emphasises that AI tools must never replace human creativity, critical thinking or independent research. The code is a balanced framework that allows students to harness AI while preserving the integrity of university work.
Core Principles for Responsible AI Use
Three pillars form the ethical backbone of ELTE’s AI policy: transparency, human oversight, and data protection. 1
· Students must disclose when a piece of work is assisted by AI tools, highlighting that the tool provided support rather than authorship. 2
· Students have a duty to maintain control throughout the creation process, applying critical judgement to all AI‑generated content and identifying potential errors or hallucinations. 3
· Unpublished research, confidential data, personal information and data covered by non‑disclosure agreements must not be used as input for AI tools, unless explicit authorisation is granted.
The code further clarifies that AI‑generated output cannot be presented as original intellectual labour – attempt to do so is treated as plagiarism and can attract the same sanctions as other research ethics violations.
Integration Across the Academic Pathway
From orientation to graduation, AI integration is considered throughout curriculum planning. Faculty‑level rules – to be finalised by mid‑December and published by January 31, 2026 – will tailor the policy to the specific needs of disciplines ranging from humanities to natural sciences. The university is already encouraging the use of AI in literature reviews, data analysis and even visualisation design. Parallel to these practical applications, a mandatory training programme will launch in the 2026/2027 academic year for all incoming students, covering AI capabilities, limitations and the legal requirements of the Student AI Code.
Practical Examples of AI‑Assisted Learning
Consider a biology student researching gene editing. By using AI‑based summarisation tools, the student can distil dozens of primary studies into a concise report, identifying key methodologies and gaps in the literature. In a history class, AI‑driven language translation can surface medieval Latin texts quickly. Likewise, a design major can employ generative‑adversarial networks to prototype visual layouts before refining them manually. In each instance, the AI’s role is support – the decisive analysis, synthesis and presentation remain the student’s responsibility.
Consequences for Non‑Compliance
Violations of the Student AI Code carry serious repercussions. Students who submit AI‑generated content without proper attribution are subject to academic penalties equivalent to plagiarism. Using AI during exams and in‑class tests is expressly prohibited and can lead to disqualification of the assessment. The study also monitors violations that breach data‑protection clauses, such as feeding unpublished research into AI platforms, which could expose confidential material or violate intellectual‑property rights.
Faculty‑Led Governance and Annual Review
All governing provisions of the code are overseen by ELTE’s rector’s commissioner for artificial intelligence. The commissioner reviews the code yearly, aiming to keep the policy aligned with the rapid evolution of AI technology. Faculty committees will also adjust discipline‑specific regulations as needed, ensuring that the governing framework remains both relevant and enforceable.
How Students Can Prepare for the AI‑Enabled Academic Environment
To thrive, students should actively engage with the university’s AI resources and training sessions. Regularly practising the identification of hallucinated or biased outputs, verifying facts with primary sources, and maintaining a clear audit trail of AI assistance are essential skills. Courses will also provide concrete guidelines on how to cite AI tools in assignments, encouraging compliance from the outset.
Impact on Employability and Academic Integrity
For prospective and current students alike, the code positions ELTE as a pioneer in responsible AI adoption. Employers increasingly value graduates who can harness AI responsibly – combining speed of insight with rigorous evaluation. At the same time, the university safeguards academic integrity, ensuring that the focus remains on learning outcomes rather than shortcuts. This dual approach enhances both the student experience and institutional reputation.
Next Steps: Joining the AI‑Forward Community at ELTE
If you are interested in applying to ELTE or learning more about the Student AI Code, Submit your application today and become part of a community that values ethical technology use. For personalised guidance on AI integration in your chosen field, schedule a free consultation with the university’s AI advisory team. Should you have questions about the policy or how it applies to your studies, write to us – we are ready to support you.
As ELTE continues to shape AI literacy among its students, staying informed and compliant ensures that you can take full advantage of these tools while preserving the quality and integrity that define Hungarian higher‑education excellence.
