The Government of Hungary has officially opened the application window for its prestigious Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme for the 2026/2027 academic year. This fully funded initiative provides a gateway for thousands of international students to pursue higher education in the heart of Europe, covering tuition, living expenses, accommodation, and health insurance.
Managed by the Tempus Public Foundation, the program is designed to foster international cooperation and cultural exchange. It offers opportunities across a wide spectrum of academic levels, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, one-tier Master’s, doctoral, and non-degree programmes at leading Hungarian universities.
Key Takeaways
- Applications for the 2026/2027 Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship are now open to international students from partner countries.
- The scholarship is fully funded, covering tuition fees, a monthly stipend, accommodation, and medical insurance.
- The program is available for Bachelor's, Master's, Doctoral, and non-degree studies.
- The application deadline is in early 2026, with studies commencing in September 2026.
A Comprehensive Financial Support Package
One of the most significant attractions of the Stipendium Hungaricum program is its comprehensive financial coverage, which aims to remove the economic barriers to studying abroad. Successful applicants receive a benefits package that allows them to focus entirely on their academic and cultural immersion.
The scholarship provides a full tuition exemption, meaning students do not have to pay any fees to their host university. This applies to the entire duration of their chosen study programme, whether it is a three-year Bachelor's degree or a five-year doctoral course.
In addition to covering educational costs, the program includes a monthly stipend intended to support living expenses such as food, transportation, and personal necessities. This financial support is crucial for allowing students to live comfortably while studying in Hungary.
Scholarship Coverage Details
- Tuition Fees: Fully waived for the entire study period.
- Monthly Stipend: A regular allowance to cover living costs.
- Accommodation: A place in a student dormitory or a financial contribution towards private rental costs.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage as per Hungarian regulations.
Accommodation is also addressed, with scholarship holders either receiving a free place in a university dormitory or a monthly allowance to contribute to the cost of renting private housing. Finally, the scholarship ensures all students have health insurance, providing peace of mind and access to medical care throughout their stay.
Navigating the Application Process
The application process is managed entirely online through the official portal of the Tempus Public Foundation. The system is designed to be straightforward, but applicants are advised to prepare their documents well in advance to avoid last-minute complications.
Key Steps for Applicants
Prospective students must first register an account on the application website. From there, they can select their desired study programmes and upload the required documentation. It is crucial for applicants to verify that their chosen programme is available to students from their home country, as eligibility varies based on bilateral agreements.
The required documents typically include:
- A completed online application form.
- A motivation letter detailing academic goals and reasons for choosing Hungary.
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates from previous studies.
- Proof of language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS), depending on the language of the chosen programme.
- A copy of a valid passport.
- A medical certificate confirming the applicant is in good health.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to use the "Study Finder" tool on the official website to explore eligible courses and institutions before starting their application. The Tempus Public Foundation also provides detailed guides and checklists to help candidates prepare a complete and successful submission.
Dual Evaluation System
Applications undergo a two-stage review. First, they are reviewed and nominated by the designated "Sending Partner" in the applicant's home country. Nominated applications are then forwarded to the chosen Hungarian higher education institutions for a final academic evaluation and selection.
Important Dates and Timeline
Understanding the timeline is critical for a successful application. The process spans several months, from initial preparation to the final arrival in Hungary.
- November – December 2025: Research phase. Applicants should identify eligible study programmes and confirm the specific requirements set by their home country's Sending Partner.
- January – February 2026: Submission period. All online applications and supporting documents must be submitted through the Tempus Public Foundation portal before the official deadline.
- Spring 2026: Evaluation and nomination. Sending Partners and Hungarian universities review the applications.
- Summer 2026: Results notification. Successful candidates are informed and can begin preparing for their visa application and travel.
- September 2026: Academic year begins. Scholarship holders arrive in Hungary and commence their studies.
Candidates are advised to monitor the official Stipendium Hungaricum website frequently for any updates or amendments to the timeline or application requirements.
Academic and Cultural Obligations
Accepting the scholarship comes with specific responsibilities. All recipients are expected to adhere to the programme's Operational Regulations and maintain satisfactory academic progress. For Bachelor's and Master's students, this includes earning an average of at least 18 credits over two consecutive semesters to retain their funding.
"The Stipendium Hungaricum Programme is more than just a scholarship; it is a commitment to academic excellence and cultural exchange. We expect our students to engage fully with their studies and the vibrant Hungarian culture," a representative from the Tempus Public Foundation noted.
A unique requirement of the programme is that all new scholarship holders must complete a course on Hungarian language and culture. This course, offered free of charge by the host university, is designed to help students integrate into society and gain a deeper appreciation for their new environment. This cultural component is a cornerstone of the programme's mission to build lasting international relationships.
For doctoral candidates, there are additional expectations, including active participation in the research community of their host institution. A special "Dissertation Scholarship" is also available to support PhD candidates in the final stages of writing their thesis, with specific application requirements outlined in the latest call for proposals.
