The Hungarian Government Scholarship has been established (the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship program) to promote the internationalisation of Hungarian higher education and to attract top foreign students from all over the world who can establish personal and professional attachments to Hungary while receiving a high-quality education in the heart of Europe.
| Host Country | Hungary |
| Host Institute | A Hungarian University |
| Study Level | Non-degree, Undergraduates, Postgraduates, Doctoral |
| Eligible Fields | All |
| Application Opening Date | November each year |
| Application Closing Date | 15 January 2026, 2 p.m. (CET) |
| Coverage | Monthly stipend + Accommodation contribution + Medical insurance |
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Hungarian Government Scholarship is based on bilateral education agreements between Hungary and the governments of the sending countries, and it is already available in nearly 90 countries and territories across five continents, attracting over 5000 international students each year.
The Hungarian Government Scholarship, widely known as the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship, is one of the most prestigious and competitive fully funded scholarships in Europe. For students dreaming of earning a bachelor’s, master’s, one-tier master’s, or PhD degree in Europe, this program is a golden gateway. Every year, thousands of students apply for this scholarship because it provides free education, monthly stipends, accommodation support, and medical insurance, making it a truly zero-cost study abroad opportunity.
This scholarship attracts applicants from more than 90 countries, and its global reputation continues to grow because of Hungary’s high-quality education, cultural richness, affordable lifestyle, and internationally recognized universities.
In this in-depth blog, you will find everything you need to know about the Hungarian Government Scholarship—eligibility, benefits, required documents, application process, fields of study, selection stages, tips to get selected, and FAQs.
What Is the Hungarian Government Scholarship?
The Hungarian Government Scholarship (Stipendium Hungaricum) was launched in 2013 by the Government of Hungary to promote the internationalization of education. Its goal is to bring highly talented students to Hungarian universities and build long-term cultural and academic relationships.
This is a fully funded scholarship, which means students do not pay:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Examination fees
Along with free education, students receive a monthly stipend, subsidized or free accommodation, and full medical insurance.
This scholarship covers all degree levels:
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
- One-Tier Master’s Degree (e.g., Medicine, Dentistry, Law)
- PhD / Doctoral Programs
- Non-degree preparatory courses
The scholarship also includes short exchange studies, making it perfect for students who want a semester abroad.
Why Study in Hungary? (High-CPC Keywords Added Naturally)
Hungary is a fast-growing European destination for affordable international education, and the Hungarian Government Scholarship makes it even more attractive. The country offers world-class research facilities, internationally accredited programs, and a safe, culturally rich environment.
Here are some reasons why students prefer Hungary:
1. High-Quality Universities
Hungary hosts world-ranked universities like:
- Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE)
- University of Debrecen
- Budapest University of Technology and Economics
- University of Szeged
- Corvinus University of Budapest
2. Affordable Living Costs
Hungary is more affordable compared to Western European countries. Students can live comfortably with low monthly expenses, making it perfect for those seeking budget-friendly European education.
3. Fully Supported by the Government
The Hungarian Government Scholarship covers everything—from tuition to accommodation.
4. Safe and Student-Friendly Environment
Cities like Budapest, Szeged, Debrecen, and Pécs offer an extraordinary student experience, with safe neighborhoods and vibrant campuses.
5. High Visa Acceptance Rate
Students awarded this scholarship have a very high chance of securing a Hungarian study visa.
Benefits of the Hungarian Government Scholarship (Fully Funded)
The scholarship is 100% free, and the funding package is one of the best in Europe.
1. Full Tuition Fee Waiver
Students do not pay any tuition fees during their studies.
2. Monthly Stipend
Depending on the degree level:
- Bachelor’s/Master’s students: about 43,000 HUF/month
- PhD students: about 140,000–180,000 HUF/month
This stipend helps cover personal expenses, food, transportation, and basic needs.
3. Accommodation Support
Students receive either:
- Free dormitory placement
OR - A monthly housing allowance
4. Free Medical Insurance
Students receive full health coverage for the entire duration of their studies.
5. A Chance to Study in Europe for Free
The scholarship gives students access to world-ranked European education without the financial burden.
6. Enhanced Career Value
A degree from a European university increases employability worldwide.
Available Academic Fields
The Hungarian Government Scholarship includes programs in almost every major field:
STEM (Science, Technology & Engineering)
- Computer Science
- Software Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Architecture
- Biotechnology
- Physics
- Chemistry
Health & Medical Sciences
- Medicine
- Dentistry
- Pharmacy
- Nursing
- Public Health
Business & Economics
- Business Administration
- Finance
- Marketing
- Economics
- International Relations
Social Sciences & Humanities
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Law
- Political Science
- Education
- Philosophy
Arts
- Fine Arts
- Music
- Theater
- Design
Agriculture & Environmental Studies
- Agriculture
- Environmental Engineering
- Forestry
- Food Technology
Whether you are planning a career in research, engineering, medical sciences, or arts, you will find a suitable program under this scholarship.
Eligibility Criteria for the Hungarian Government Scholarship
The scholarship is open to students from all participating countries. Eligibility is simple and student-friendly.
1. Educational Requirements
- Bachelor’s applicants: Must have completed high school.
- Master’s applicants: Must have a bachelor’s degree.
- PhD applicants: Must have a master’s degree.
- Certain programs (e.g., Medicine) may require entrance exams.
2. Academic Excellence
Although there is no minimum GPA requirement, competitive grades help.
3. Age Restrictions
Generally:
- Bachelor’s & Master’s: No strict age limit
- PhD: Often below ~40 years (varies by sending partner)
4. English or Hungarian Language Requirements
Students must demonstrate proficiency through:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- Duolingo
OR - University’s internal exam
Some programs are taught in Hungarian, requiring language preparation courses.
5. Nationality
Applicants must belong to a country that has a partnership agreement with Hungary.
6. Medical Fitness
A medical certificate is required to confirm the applicant is free from certain diseases.
Required Documents for the Hungarian Government Scholarship
Here are the documents commonly required:
1. Online Application Form
Complete through the official online portal.
2. Educational Documents
- Transcripts
- Degrees
- Language certificates
3. Letters of Recommendation
BA/MA: Usually 1–2
PhD: 2–3 strong academic references
4. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
This is one of the most important documents.
5. Research Plan (PhD Only)
Must be original and aligned with the university’s research areas.
6. Passport or National ID
7. Medical Certificate
8. Portfolio (For Arts Programs)
Required only for design, architecture, fine arts, etc.
Make sure all documents are scanned clearly and translated into English or Hungarian (if required).
Application Process for the Hungarian Government Scholarship
The application process consists of two main stages:
Stage 1 – Online Application (Via the Scholarship Portal)
Students must:
- Register an account
- Fill out the online form
- Choose up to two preferred programs
- Upload documents
- Submit before the deadline
Stage 2 – Sending Partner Selection
Your country’s “sending partner” reviews applications.
This stage may include:
- Interviews
- Document checks
- Additional requirements
Students who pass this stage are nominated to Hungary.
Stage 3 – University Evaluation
Hungarian universities evaluate applications based on:
- Academic record
- Research plan
- Interview performance
- Motivation letter
Some universities also conduct entrance tests.
Final Decision & Scholarship Award
After evaluation, the final results are announced.
Selected students receive:
- Admission letter
- Scholarship award confirmation
- Visa documents
Selection Tips to Increase Your Chances
Here are some powerful tips:
1. Write a Strong SOP
Explain:
- Why Hungary?
- Why this university?
- How will the program help your future career?
- What value will you add?
2. Maintain Academic Excellence
Strong grades increase your chances of selection.
3. Try to Build a Strong CV
Add:
- Internships
- Certifications
- Research projects
- Extracurricular activities
4. Prepare a Realistic Research Plan (PhD Applicants)
Universities prefer specific, practical ideas.
5. Upload Clean, Clearly Scanned Documents
Avoid blurry or incomplete documents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Hungarian Government Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers full tuition fees, stipend, housing support, and medical insurance.
2. Do I need IELTS for the scholarship?
Not always. Some universities accept alternative tests or internal exams.
3. Can I apply without a passport?
Most universities require a valid passport, but some allow late submission.
4. Can I work while studying in Hungary?
Yes, students can work part-time according to Hungarian regulations.
5. Are PhD students fully funded?
Yes, PhD students receive the highest monthly stipend.
6. Can I choose more than one program?
Yes, you can select up to two programs.
7. Is the scholarship competitive?
Yes, but thousands of students still get selected every year.
Official Website Link
Official Website: Stipendium Hungaricum / Hungarian Government Scholarship Program
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