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If you’ve always dreamed of studying abroad but worried about the cost, the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship 2026 might be exactly what you need. This scholarship, launched by the Hungarian Government and managed by the Tempus Public Foundation, gives international students a chance to study in Hungary completely free of charge. Since 2013, over 50,000 students from around the world have benefited from this program — earning degrees at some of Hungary’s best universities while experiencing life in the heart of Europe.
The Stipendium Hungaricum is one of the most popular fully funded scholarships in Europe, designed to support students pursuing Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD, and even non-degree programs. It doesn’t just cover your tuition — it helps with your living expenses, accommodation, and even health insurance, so you can focus on your studies and personal growth.
Applications for the 2026 academic year open in November 2025, and the deadline is January 15, 2026. If you want to study abroad without financial stress, now is the time to start preparing your documents and choosing your course.
Why Study in Hungary with the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship?
Hungary is often called the “Heart of Europe”, and for good reason. It combines a rich cultural history with modern facilities and top-tier education. Cities like Budapest, Debrecen, and Pécs are home to globally recognized universities that offer hundreds of programs in English.
The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship is more than just financial aid — it’s an opportunity to become part of a global academic community. The scholarship operates through international partnerships with over 90 countries, meaning it’s open to thousands of students every year who wish to study in English-taught programs across 800+ disciplines. Whether you’re interested in engineering, business, IT, medicine, or art, there’s a place for you.
Another reason students love this scholarship is its focus on cultural exchange. Recipients aren’t just students — they become ambassadors of their home countries, building long-lasting relationships and professional networks that extend beyond borders.
For 2026, the scholarship is expected to include small updates such as faster visa processing, hybrid learning options, and an increase in monthly stipends (from around HUF 43,700 for undergraduates up to HUF 180,000 for PhD students). These adjustments make studying in Hungary even more comfortable and flexible.
Benefits of the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship 2026
One of the best parts about this scholarship is how comprehensive it is. Hungary already has one of the lowest costs of living in Europe — around €600–€800 per month in most cities — and with Stipendium Hungaricum, most of your expenses are already covered. Here’s what you’ll receive:
- Full Tuition Coverage: 100% tuition-free education for your entire program at a public university.
- Monthly Stipend: Undergraduate and Master’s students receive around HUF 43,700 (~€110) per month. PhD students get between HUF 140,000–180,000 monthly (~€365–€470).
- Accommodation Support: Either free dormitory housing or a monthly allowance of HUF 40,000 (~€105) if you rent privately.
- Health Insurance: Complete national medical coverage and a supplementary plan.
- Travel Support: One-time travel reimbursement (up to €500) depending on your country.
- Cultural and Language Benefits: Free Hungarian language classes and access to events, sports activities, and exchange programs.
With all these benefits, the total value of this scholarship can reach between €15,000–€30,000 per year, making it one of the most generous government scholarships in Europe.
Who Can Apply for the Stipendium Hungaricum 2026?
The scholarship is open to students from over 90 partner countries across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. While it’s competitive, the eligibility criteria are simple and fair. You must:
- Be a non-Hungarian citizen and not currently residing in Hungary.
- Be at least 18 years old by August 31, 2026.
- Have a strong academic record (usually a GPA of 3.0/4.0 or higher).
- Possess the right educational qualifications for your chosen program (high school diploma for Bachelor’s, Bachelor’s degree for Master’s, etc.).
- Have English proficiency — IELTS (5.5–6.5), TOEFL (72+), or Duolingo. If your previous studies were in English, a certificate from your school can often replace this.
- Be in good health (a medical certificate will be required).
It’s open to a wide variety of programs — from STEM fields and business studies to arts and social sciences — and universities often encourage applications from women and underrepresented communities.
How to Apply for the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship 2026
The entire process is online and simple to follow through the official DreamApply portal. Here’s how it works:
- Research Your Options (November–December 2025):
Visit the official Stipendium Hungaricum website and explore programs through the Study in Hungary portal. You can apply to up to three universities or programs of your choice. - Contact Your Local Partner (November–December 2025):
Each country has a “sending partner” (like your education ministry or scholarship board). They help nominate candidates. Examples include HEC Pakistan, ICCR India, etc. - Submit Your Application (By January 15, 2026):
Create your profile on the apply.stipendiumhungaricum.hu portal. Upload the required documents:- Passport copy
- Academic certificates and transcripts (translated to English or Hungarian)
- Motivation letter (1–2 pages)
- Two recommendation letters
- Medical certificate
- Proof of language proficiency
- Research proposal (for PhD only)
- CV
- Nomination and University Selection (January–May 2026):
Your country’s partner organization reviews and nominates applicants. Then, universities evaluate your documents and might invite you for an interview (usually via Zoom). - Final Decision and Visa Process (June–August 2026):
Once accepted, you’ll receive a scholarship letter. Use it to apply for a D-type student visa. The visa process takes about 4–6 weeks. Studies start in September 2026.
Real Student Experiences
Many international students who studied in Hungary under this program describe it as life-changing.
For example, Maria from Mexico, who earned a Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering at the University of Pécs, said:
“The scholarship covered everything — my dorm, meals, and even field research trips. I could focus on my studies without financial stress. Today, I work with a UN environmental agency, thanks to the experience I gained in Hungary.”
Similarly, Ahmed from Egypt, a PhD student in Artificial Intelligence at Budapest University of Technology, shared:
“The research grant helped me attend a conference in Vienna, where I met professionals who later connected me with Google’s fellowship program.”
These stories reflect the scholarship’s high satisfaction rate (over 90%) and the success of its graduates worldwide.
Challenges and Tips for Success
Like any international experience, studying in Hungary has its challenges. Winters can get cold (down to -5°C), and navigating the bureaucracy might take patience. However, the support from universities and Hungarian language lessons make adaptation easier.
To improve your chances:
- Start your application early — avoid the last-minute rush.
- Double-check all your documents before submission.
- Join online communities such as Reddit’s r/studyinhungary or Tempus webinars to learn from past scholars.
Career Benefits After Graduation
A Hungarian degree is respected across Europe and beyond. Graduates enjoy strong employability, with most landing jobs within six months. The average starting salary in Hungary is around €1,200–€2,000 per month, and globally, Stipendium alumni often earn over €50,000 annually in roles related to engineering, IT, or international development.
The program also connects you with a global alumni network across more than 100 countries — providing mentorship, job leads, and research opportunities.
Apply now : https:https://apply.studyinhungary.hu/
Final Thoughts
The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship 2026 is more than a study program — it’s a life-changing experience that builds your academic, professional, and cultural foundation. With full financial support, world-class education, and the chance to live in one of Europe’s most beautiful countries, this opportunity stands out among international scholarships.
If you want to study in Europe for free, gain global exposure, and open doors to international careers, the time to act is now.
Visit the official Stipendium Hungaricum website or the Tempus Public Foundation portal to start your application today.
Your future in Europe starts in Hungary — don’t miss your chance.
