Dreaming of studying in Europe without tuition fees? Hungary’s Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarships makes it possible. For 2026-27 the Hungarian government invites talented students worldwide to earn Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD degrees fully funded by covering tuition and living expenses. Over 4,500 scholarships were awarded in the last cycle, offering a tuition waiver, a monthly stipend (~€110) and free accommodation. This life-changing opportunity lets you study at top Hungarian universities (e.g. University of Debrecen, ELTE Budapest, University of Szeged) while immersing yourself in Hungary’s rich history and vibrant culture. Read on to learn how to qualify, what’s covered, and how to apply step-by-step.
Overview of Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarships
Stipendium Hungaricum is a flagship scholarship launched in 2013 by the Hungarian government to internationalize its higher education. Each year it awards roughly 5,000 full scholarships to students from 100+ partner countries. All degree levels are covered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, one-tier (Integrated Master’s), Postgraduate Specialist Training and PhD programs. Eligible study fields span sciences, engineering, medicine, business, agriculture, humanities, law, music, and more. Programs are mainly taught in English (and some in Hungarian, French, German, etc.). As a scholar, all your tuition fees are waived and you receive generous living support.
University Examples (Host & Programs):
- University of Debrecen (Debrecen, Hungary) – Public research university (est. 1538) with ~29,000 students. Offers BSc (3–4 years), MSc (1.5–2 years) and PhD programs in Engineering, Sciences, Medicine and more. Funding: full scholarship (tuition waiver, stipend, insurance). Deadline: Jan 15, 2026.
- Eötvös Loránd University (Budapest, Hungary) – Hungary’s largest and oldest university (founded 1635) with ~27,000 students. Offers 38 BSc and 96 MSc programs (e.g. Data Science, Economics, Law). Degree levels: BSc/MSc/PhD. Funding: fully funded (tuition waiver + monthly grant). Deadline: Jan 15, 2026.
- University of Szeged (Szeged, Hungary) – Major research university offering Medicine (6-year MD), Veterinary Medicine and Science programs. Degree levels: Bachelor’s to PhD. Eligibility: required prior degree (e.g. MD requires high school + entrance exam). Funding: full scholarship (tuition, stipend). Deadline: Jan 15, 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Stipendium Hungaricum, applicants must meet:
- Nationality: Any non-Hungarian citizen of a partner country is eligible. (Hungarian citizens or permanent residents cannot apply.)
- Age: At least 18 years old by 31 August 2026.
- Academic: For Bachelor’s programs – secondary school leaving certificate; for Master’s – a Bachelor’s degree (or in final year); for PhD – a Master’s or equivalent plus research proposal. (Documents in English are required.)
- Status: Applicants must not already be enrolled in a Hungarian university on a self-funded basis.
- Previous Scholarship: If you have received this scholarship before, you are ineligible to reapply.
- Others: Specific programs (e.g. Medicine for U.S. citizens) may require additional tests (MCAT). Note: Language tests (IELTS/TOEFL) are not compulsory for most programs.
Coverage / Benefits
The Stipendium Hungaricum is fully funded. As a scholar you receive:
- Tuition waiver: Full exemption from university tuition for the entire program.
- Monthly stipend: Living allowance of HUF 43,700 (~€110) per month.
- Accommodation support: Free dormitory placement or monthly housing allowance (~HUF 40,000).
- Health insurance: Comprehensive medical insurance for the full study period.
- Other benefits: The Hungarian language preparatory course is free and mandatory. Some students may receive a round-trip airfare or travel support (depending on the sending partner).
These benefits form complete financial aid, enabling you to focus on academics in a comfortable environment.
Host Country & University Info
Hungary (Central Europe): Known for its rich history, thermal baths and UNESCO heritage, Hungary is an affordable and welcoming study destination. It hosts ~38,000 international students from 150+ countries. The cost of living is relatively low (about €500–€800/month). Hungary consistently ranks high in education quality (44th globally in higher education competitiveness) and has a secure, student-friendly environment. English is widely used on campuses, and student communities are diverse and vibrant. EU/Schengen access also makes travel around Europe easy.
Example Universities: Stipendium Hungaricum scholars study at many of Hungary’s top universities. For instance, University of Debrecen is a government-supported research university (est. 1538) with over 29,000 students, 7,000+ international, and 500+ labs. It offers 80+ English-taught programs across science, engineering, agriculture and more. Its degrees are internationally recognized. Another is Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) in Budapest, founded 1635, one of Hungary’s most prestigious institutions. ELTE has ~30,000 students and offers 38 BSc/96 MSc programs in fields from humanities to natural sciences. These universities, among others, provide high-quality education that is acknowledged worldwide.
Application Process (Step by Step)
- Choose a Program (Nov–Dec 2025): Visit the official DreamApply portal or the Stipendium Hungaricum “Study Finder” to explore eligible programs by country and field. Select up to two study programs (in order of preference) at Hungarian partner universities.
- Contact Sending Partner (Dec 2025): Each country has a sending partner (e.g. ministry or embassy) responsible for nominations. Find your country’s partner on the Stipendium site. Inform them of your application plan and submit any required documents by their internal deadline. Note: some partners may have additional requirements.
- Register & Upload Documents (Dec 2025): Create an account at apply.stipendiumhungaricum.hu (Tempus Public Foundation portal) and fill in your personal data. Upload digital copies of documents: ID/passport, transcripts or diploma, motivation letter, CV, recommendation letters, etc. (Medical programs require a health certificate and US applicants a MCAT.) Carefully follow the guidelines and template instructions.
- Submit Your Online Application (by 15 Jan 2026): Complete the online form and ensure all fields and attachments are correct. Hit “Submit” before 15 January 2026, 2:00pm CET. Late submissions will not be accepted.
- Partner Nomination (Feb 2026): By late February, your sending partner reviews applications and nominates top candidates. Nominated applications are forwarded to the selected Hungarian universities.
- Entrance Exams (Mar–May 2026): Nominated students will be contacted by the host universities to schedule entrance exams or interviews. These usually take place between mid-March and end-May. You generally need to score at least 56/100 to remain eligible. Prepare early (past exams or sample questions are often available on university websites).
- Results & Acceptance (June 2026): By June, Tempus Public Foundation (coordinator) announces the final scholarship awards. If you’re selected, you will receive an official offer. You must accept the scholarship by 1 Aug 2026 and complete any visa formalities. Plan to arrive in Hungary by 30 Sept 2026 for the start of the fall semester.
Important Deadlines
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026, 2:00pm CET (strict). This is the global deadline – sending partners often have earlier internal cutoffs in late 2025.
- Entrance Exams: March–May 2026 (scheduled by each university).
- Results Announcement: June 2026.
- Acceptance & Visa: Accept offer by 1 Aug 2026; Hungarian student visa/residence permit by early fall. Program begins Sept 2026.
Tips for Applicants
- Start Early: Begin gathering documents and translating them into English well before deadlines. Ensure your passport is valid through late 2026.
- Write a Strong Motivation Letter: Highlight your academic goals, achievements and why you chose Hungary. Be genuine and specific about your interests and how this scholarship will help your career.
- Meet Requirements: Follow all checklist items (diplomas, transcripts, passport copy, photos, recommendation letters). Small errors can cost your application.
- Research Programs: Tailor your application to the programs’ focus. If applying to art/music, prepare your portfolio/performance tapes.
- Engage Sending Partner: Check your country’s official portal or embassy for any extra forms and deadlines. Don’t rely on agents – apply directly through the official channels.
- Learn a Bit of Hungarian: Even a few polite phrases can impress interviewers and help you settle in.
- Reach Out: Connect with alumni or join online forums (Facebook/Telegram groups) to get advice from past scholars.
- Stay Organized: Use a calendar or app to track deadlines for both the scholarship and university admissions.
Apply now for the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarships and take the first step toward a fully funded education in Hungary!
Conclusion
The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarships 2026-27 offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to study abroad on full funding. By covering tuition and living costs, it lets you focus on learning at Hungary’s top universities. Don’t miss the Jan 15, 2026 deadline – start your application early, aim high, and share this opportunity with fellow students. Good luck, and remember: this could be the first step toward your dreams! 🌟
FAQ
What is the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship?
A Hungarian government scholarship for international students. It fully funds Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD studies in Hungary (tuition waiver + stipend + health insurance).
Who is eligible to apply?
Students from eligible partner countries worldwide (except Hungarian citizens/residents) aged 18+ by Aug 31, 2026. You must have the required prior degree (e.g. high school diploma for BSc, Bachelor’s for MSc).
What does the scholarship cover?
Full tuition waiver, a monthly living stipend (~HUF 43,700), free dorm or housing support, and comprehensive medical insurance. Additional perks may include a language course and possible travel support.
When is the application deadline?
The final deadline for the 2026/27 intake is 15 January 2026 at 2:00pm CET. (Check your country’s sending partner for earlier internal deadlines.)
How do I apply?
Apply online via the official portal (apply.stipendiumhungaricum.hu). Register, select your preferred programs, and upload the required documents before the deadline. You must also submit your application to your country’s sending partner.
Is language proficiency required?
Most programs do not require official IELTS/TOEFL scores, but all documents must be in English (or officially translated). Programs taught in Hungarian may require language tests.
Keep this guide handy as you prepare your application, and good luck in your quest to study in Hungary!
