CEU Scholarships 2026: Study in Hungary

Looking for a life-changing scholarship to study in Europe? CEU Scholarships 2026 offers a golden opportunity for international students. CEU, a private research university founded in 1991, is now based in Vienna, Austria (with historic roots in Budapest, Hungary). It attracts students and faculty from over 100 countries, building an international community focused on open-society values.

For the 2026–27 academic year, Central European University is offering scholarships at all levels – Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD. Graduate awards are fully funded (covering tuition, health insurance and providing a living stipend), while undergraduate scholarships cover tuition fees. Monthly stipends are generous – roughly €300–€1,000/month for Master’s and about €1,880/month for PhD students. CEU even highlights that scholars receive “full scholarships, 12,000€ annual stipends, and health insurance”.

CEU offers over 50 degree programs across 17 departments, in fields like political science, economics, history, environmental studies and more. All programs are taught in English, and you don’t need IELTS or TOEFL if you can prove proficiency (e.g. via prior English-taught degrees). If this sounds exciting, read on for eligibility, application steps, and tips to apply!

Overview of the CEU Scholarships

CEU Scholarships 2026 provides funding for Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral studies. It’s a highly competitive award at one of Europe’s leading universities in the social sciences and humanities. CEU’s campus (in Vienna) is a multicultural hub, and CEU holds strong global rankings (QS: #30 in Politics, #37 in Philosophy). The scholarship is officially listed for study in Europe/Hungary, but note that CEU’s main campus is now in Austria.

For graduate students, the scholarships are fully funded – meaning tuition waived, health insurance provided, and monthly stipends to cover living costs. Undergrads can compete for partial support: CEU offers two Presidential Undergraduate Scholarships (worth €5,000 each) that go toward tuition over four years. These awards start at €500 in Year 1 and increase each year (up to €2,000 in Year 4). In short, postgraduates get up to 100% tuition coverage plus a stipend, while undergrads may earn significant tuition aid.

Also Check: Clara Collet PhD Scholarship 2026

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants of any nationality may apply. You must meet CEU’s admission requirements for your chosen degree:

• Bachelor’s programs: A completed secondary school certificate (high school diploma).
• Master’s programs: An undergraduate degree in any discipline (final-year students may apply if graduating before CEU term starts).
• Doctoral programs: A relevant Master’s degree.
• English proficiency: CEU requires proof of English ability. (If you have a degree taught in English, you may be exempt.) Importantly, CEU accepts alternative proof and no IELTS is strictly required.

Eligible Students Summary

• Countries: Open to all nationalities.
• Host Country: Austria (Vienna campus) – with CEU’s historic connections to Hungary.
• University: Central European University (CEU).
• Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD.
• Typical Duration: Varies by program (approx. 3–4 years for BA, 1–2 for MA, ~4 years for PhD).

Scholarship Benefits

CEU’s scholarships are very generous. For Master’s students, CEU offers awards that cover 100% of tuition and health insurance, plus a monthly stipend (~€300–1,000). Doctoral students receive even larger stipends (about €1,880/month) along with full tuition coverage. Both Master’s and PhD awards include health insurance, so you will be covered on campus.

Undergraduate funding is more limited but still valuable: each year CEU awards two incoming freshmen Presidential Scholarships (€5,000 total over four years) to reduce tuition costs. These presidential awards start at €500 in Year 1 and increase each year (up to €2,000 in Year 4). In summary, Master’s/PhD scholars often get full rides, and high-achieving undergrads can secure strong tuition aid.

Read More: Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2026

Application Process

1. Select a program: Browse CEU’s degree programs and pick up to five options. Check specific requirements (some departments ask for GRE/GMAT or a writing sample).
2. Prepare documents: Gather transcripts, a CV, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose. Graduate applicants also need a research proposal. Be sure to have proof of English proficiency ready.
3. Apply online: Submit all materials through CEU’s online portal. You can apply to multiple programs at once (up to 5). There is a small application fee (around €30) – only pay it after you’re sure your application is complete.

Ready to apply? Apply for the Central European University Scholarship now! Visit CEU’s official admissions page and start your application before the deadline.

Important Deadlines

• Application Deadline: February 4, 2026 (for Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD programs).
• Tip: CEU often has an earlier admission round (around Oct 15) for priority scholarship applicants. Check the CEU site for program-specific deadlines.

Tips for Applicants

• Start early: Give yourself plenty of time to write a standout personal statement and secure strong recommendation letters.
• Show your fit: Explain why CEU’s mission (open societies, democracy, civic engagement) resonates with your goals.
• Highlight achievements: Emphasize leadership, research, internships, or community work. CEU values well-rounded students.
• Be clear: Ensure your application is complete and well-organized. Use concise language and proofread carefully.

Also Available: University of Bern Scholarships 2025-2026

Conclusion

CEU Scholarships 2026 are fantastic chance to study in Europe with generous support. If you qualify, gather your documents and apply by Feb 4, 2026. Don’t forget to share this opportunity with friends who might benefit.

Go seize this opportunity – your future starts here!