The Hungarian Government Scholarship, also known as the Stipendium Hungaricum, offers fully funded study opportunities for international students across Hungary’s top universities. It supports undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees in English and Hungarian.
Key benefits include:
Full tuition coverage for the entire study period
Monthly stipend for living expenses
Free accommodation or housing allowance
Health insurance during the program
Access to Hungary’s top universities
Over 600 study programs available
No application or processing fee
Open to over 90 countries worldwide
Recognized by Hungarian higher education institutions
Encourages cultural exchange and global diversity
Who Can Apply for the Stipendium Hungaricum?
The program is open to international students who meet certain academic and nationality criteria. Applicants must be nominated by their sending partner, usually a government agency or educational organization.
Eligibility requirements include:
Citizenship of eligible countries listed by the program
High school diploma for undergraduate applicants
Bachelor’s degree for master’s applicants
Master’s degree for Ph.D. applicants
English proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL)
Nominated by an official sending partner
Medical certificate of good health
Motivation letter required
Comply with Hungarian visa and entry laws
No simultaneous participation in other scholarships
Applicants cannot be Hungarian citizens
What Programs Are Available Under This Scholarship?
Students can choose from hundreds of programs offered by Hungarian universities in a wide range of fields. Programs are taught primarily in English, although some are in Hungarian.
How to Apply for the Hungarian Government Scholarship?
The application process is fully online through the official Tempus Public Foundation portal. Candidates must register, complete their application, and upload all required documents.
Steps to apply:
Visit the Stipendium Hungaricum application portal
Register with your email address
Select up to two study programs
Submit academic certificates and transcripts
Upload motivation letter
Provide proof of English proficiency
Attach medical certificate
Submit passport copy
Confirm nomination by sending partner
Apply before the annual deadline (usually January)
What Documents Are Required?
Applicants must prepare a complete set of documents in advance. All documents must be translated into English or Hungarian.
Required application documents:
Completed online application form
Motivation letter (min. 1 page)
Academic transcripts and certificates
Valid passport copy
Medical certificate (issued within last 6 months)
Proof of language proficiency
Two letters of recommendation (master’s and Ph.D.)
Research plan (Ph.D. only)
Portfolio (for arts and design programs)
Statement of the supervisor (Ph.D. only)
What Are the Financial Benefits?
The Stipendium Hungaricum provides generous financial support that covers all basic student expenses, reducing financial stress and enhancing focus on academics.
Covered costs include:
100% tuition-free education
Monthly stipend:
HUF 43,700 (approx. €110) for bachelor’s and master’s students
HUF 140,000 (approx. €350) for doctoral students
Dormitory place or housing allowance (HUF 40,000/month)
Full health insurance coverage (up to HUF 100,000/year)
No application or processing fees
Travel allowance (in some cases)
Subsidized meals at university canteens
Access to university facilities and libraries
Optional Hungarian language courses
Which Universities Participate in the Program?
Over 30 Hungarian higher education institutions are part of the scholarship network. Each offers high-quality, accredited programs aligned with international standards.
Notable universities include:
Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE)
University of Szeged
Budapest University of Technology and Economics
Semmelweis University (Medical Sciences)
University of Pécs
Corvinus University of Budapest
University of Debrecen
Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design
University of Miskolc
When Are the Deadlines and Timelines?
The application period opens annually in late November or early December, with a submission deadline in mid-January. The process continues through selection, university acceptance, and visa processing.
Typical timeline:
November/December: Application opens
January 15: Deadline for applications
March: First round results released
May: University admission decision
June: Final results and scholarship award letters
July-August: Visa process and travel preparations
September: Academic year begins in Hungary
What Is Life Like as a Scholar in Hungary?
Scholarship recipients enjoy a balanced lifestyle, affordable living costs, and exposure to Hungary’s vibrant culture. Budapest, the capital, is a top student city in Europe.
Living in Hungary offers:
Low living expenses compared to Western Europe
Efficient public transport networks
Diverse student communities and events
Safe and peaceful environment
Access to historic and cultural landmarks
English widely spoken in urban areas
Modern dormitories and student hostels
Free Wi-Fi in universities and libraries
Numerous travel options within the EU
Hungarian cuisine and markets to explore
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Hungarian Government Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend, and health insurance.
Do I need to know Hungarian to apply?
No. Most programs are taught in English, and proficiency is required only in English.
How competitive is the scholarship?
It is highly competitive due to limited slots and global participation, so strong applications are essential.
Can I bring my family to Hungary?
Yes, but dependents are not financially supported by the scholarship.
What are the chances of getting a job after graduation?
Many international students find employment in Europe, especially with STEM degrees.
Is it possible to work while studying?
Yes, students can work part-time up to 24 hours/week during the semester.
Do I need to pay taxes on the stipend?
No, scholarship stipends are generally tax-exempt.
Can I extend my scholarship?
Extensions are allowed for Ph.D. students or program-related reasons, based on approval.
What happens if I fail a course?
You must retake the course. Academic progress is monitored.
Can I apply to more than one university?
Yes, you may select up to two programs at different universities.
Conclusion
The Hungarian Government Scholarship offers a life-changing chance to study tuition-free in Europe while enjoying a vibrant cultural experience and high-quality education.
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