The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme 2026-2027 is now open for international students wishing to pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, One-Tier Master’s, Doctoral, and Non-Degree programmes in Hungary. Established by the Government of Hungary and coordinated by the Tempus Public Foundation (TPF), this prestigious scholarship aims to strengthen global cooperation, cultural exchange, and academic excellence by offering fully funded study opportunities at top Hungarian universities.
This programme is one of Europe’s most popular fully funded scholarships, attracting thousands of talented students from partner countries each year.
Why Study in Hungary Under the Stipendium Hungaricum Programme?
Hungary offers high-quality European education, affordable living costs, a rich cultural heritage, and globally recognised degree programmes. The Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship programme ensures students can focus entirely on their studies while gaining international exposure.
How to Apply for the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme
All applications must be submitted online through the official application system of the Tempus Public Foundation.
Steps to Apply:
- Register on the online application system.
- Choose your preferred programme and university via the Study Finder platform.
- Upload all required documents before the deadline.
- Submit your application and track progress through your online dashboard.
Applicants are strongly advised to:
- Review the official call for applications for their study level (Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral).
- Prepare all documents early to avoid disqualification due to incomplete submissions.
- Confirm eligibility requirements with their home country’s sending partner.
The application platform can be accessed via the Apply Here button on the official Stipendium Hungaricum website.
Application Timeline
Here is the detailed application journey:
- November – December 2025: Identify eligible study programmes and check your country-specific requirements.
- January – February 2026: Submit your complete online application and upload all required documents.
- Spring 2026: Sending partners and Hungarian universities review and nominate applicants.
- Summer 2026: Final results released; admitted students prepare for visa and travel.
- September 2026: Start your academic journey in Hungary.
Eligibility and Required Documents
Eligibility varies by country, level of study, and programme availability.
Common Required Documents:
- Completed online application form
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of language proficiency (English or Hungarian)
- Copy of passport
- Medical certificate (official form provided on the website)
Additional guides are available under the Useful Documents section, including:
- Submission checklist
- Dos and Don’ts
- Application preparation tips
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Scholarship Benefits
The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme provides full financial support, including:
Tuition-Free Education
Complete exemption from all tuition fees.
Monthly Stipend
Financial support to cover basic living expenses.
Accommodation Support
Either free dormitory placement or a monthly housing allowance.
Medical Insurance
Comprehensive health insurance is required by Hungarian law.
Additional Support for Doctoral Students
Doctoral candidates receive extra research funding and are expected to contribute to academic life.
Rights and Obligations of Scholarship Holders
Scholarship recipients must comply with the Operational Regulations of the programme.
Key obligations include:
- Maintaining satisfactory academic progress.
- Completing at least 18 credits over two consecutive semesters (Bachelor’s, Master’s, One-Tier Master’s).
- Participating in the mandatory Hungarian language and culture course.
Applicants should regularly review the Rights and Obligations documents for updates.
Special Opportunity: Dissertation Scholarship
The Stipendium Hungaricum Dissertation Scholarship supports doctoral students completing their final dissertations.
Recent updates (introduced in 2025) include new required documents:
- Letter of justification
- Motivation letter
- Work plan
- Class plan
The full scholarship agreement and annexes are available in English and Hungarian.
Important Notes for Applicants
- Applications are reviewed jointly by your country’s sending partner and your chosen Hungarian university.
- Only complete and timely submissions through the official system will be considered.
- Applicants must regularly check the website for updates or amendments.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme is 15 January 2026, 2 p.m. (Central European Time).
FAQs
1. Is the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend, accommodation support, and health insurance.
2. Who can apply for the scholarship?
Applicants from partner countries with an active bilateral agreement with Hungary.
3. How do I apply?
All applications must be submitted through the Tempus Public Foundation’s official online portal.
4. When do studies begin?
Successful applicants begin their studies in September 2026.
Additional Detailed Information
Partner Countries and Frameworks
Stipendium Hungaricum is available only to applicants from recognised Sending Partners with which Hungary has signed bilateral educational agreements. These include countries across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas. Each Sending Partner determines its own priority fields, nomination quotas, and application requirements.
Applicants must:
- Apply through the Sending Partner of their country of citizenship.
- Satisfy both the Sending Partner and the Hungarian host institution requirements.
- Await nomination from their country before moving to the institutional admission round.
Common Reasons for Rejection
To improve your chances, be aware of the most common causes of rejection:
- Incomplete documentation (missing transcripts, untranslated documents, and missing signatures).
- Uploading poor-quality scans or documents exceeding the 4MB size limit.
- Applying for a study level that does not match your educational background.
- Applying through a Sending Partner different from your nationality.
- Missing the language requirements set by the host institution.
Understanding Full-Degree vs. Partial Studies
Full-degree studies lead to a Hungarian degree, while partial (exchange) studies allow one or two semesters at a Hungarian university.
Full-degree applicants:
- Complete all semesters in Hungary.
- Must meet admission exam/interview requirements.
Partial (exchange) applicants:
- Must be actively enrolled at a home university.
- Must provide proof of student status valid during their exchange period.
Living in Hungary as a Scholarship Holder
While Hungary offers a lower cost of living compared to Western Europe, students should plan carefully.
Approximate monthly costs:
- Rent (Budapest): €300–€500
- Rent (smaller cities): €150–€250
- Food and groceries: €120–€200
- Public transport: €10–€20
The monthly stipend is a helpful contribution, but not sufficient for full living costs. Budgeting is essential.
Academic Expectations in Hungary
Hungarian universities maintain a high academic standard. Scholarship holders must:
- Attend mandatory classes.
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
- Pass the “Hungarian as a Foreign Language” exam if required.
Failing to meet academic expectations may lead to:
- Suspension or reduction of the monthly stipend.
- Loss of scholarship status.
After Graduation: Career and Mobility Opportunities
Graduates receive a European-recognised degree, opening opportunities in:
- EU labour markets
- International graduate schools
- Research institutions
- Global NGOs, corporations, and development agencies
Many graduates continue to stay involved through alumni networks and international collaboration.
APPLY FOR THE STIPENDIUM HUNGARICUM SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME
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