Hungarian education sees rise in SEN students and unqualified teachers

Recent data from the Hungarian Central Statistical Office (KSH) reveals significant shifts in the national education landscape, specifically regarding students with special educational needs (SEN) and teacher qualifications.

The number of SEN students in secondary education has risen by approximately 12 percent over the last three academic years. In the 2025/2026 school year, 4,959 such students were recorded, compared to 4,420 in 2023/2024. Notably, the growth is most pronounced in vocational training, where the number of SEN students increased by 26 percent over three years, reaching 12,584 in the 2025/2026 term. This suggests the system is increasingly directing students with special needs toward vocational paths rather than academic gymnasiums.

Simultaneously, the number of pedagogical staff working without formal teaching qualifications has increased. In the 2025/2026 academic year, over 5,300 individuals were employed in pedagogical roles without the required credentials. This includes 3,184 kindergarten teachers, primary teachers, and instructors, as well as 2,021 in other pedagogical roles. This figure represents an increase of 285 compared to the previous academic year.