Want a fully funded route to study in Europe with recognized degrees and lower living costs? The Bilateral State Scholarships in Hungary are open for the 2026/2027 cycle. If you are from a country that has a cooperation agreement with Hungary, you can compete for a package that typically covers tuition, a monthly stipend, accommodation support, and medical insurance.
This program is designed for international students and researchers at every stage. Undergraduate, master’s, PhD, postdoc, short study visits, and summer courses are all possible, depending on what your country’s agreement includes. The scholarship is administered in Hungary by the Tempus Public Foundation, with candidates usually nominated by their own country’s ministry or scholarship agency. If you want a high-value European education without the heavy price tag, this is one of the most practical ways to get there.
Below you will find exactly what the scholarship offers, who can apply, the documents you need, and how to submit a competitive application for the 2026/2027 academic year.
Why this scholarship stands out
- Fully Funded: Tuition exemption plus a monthly stipend, accommodation support, and medical insurance. Foreigners welcome.
- All levels: Study and research options from bachelor to postdoc, including short-term stays and summer schools.
- Wide subject choice: Opportunities across science, engineering, IT, business, arts, social sciences, medicine, and more, at Hungarian public universities.
- EU-recognized education: Earn a degree in an EU member state, boosting your global employability.
- Practical pathway: Many awards are coordinated through your home country’s sending partner, giving a clear route to nomination and selection.
Quick facts for 2026/2027
| Item | Summary |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Hungary |
| Administered by | Tempus Public Foundation in Hungary |
| Funding Type | Fully Funded package for selected awardees |
| Levels | Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD, Postdoctoral, Short-term study or research, Summer courses |
| Fields | Most academic disciplines at participating Hungarian universities |
| Who Can Apply | Citizens of countries with a valid bilateral education or cultural agreement with Hungary, typically via national nomination |
| Study Start | 2026/2027 academic year (varies by award type) |
| Application Route | Usually through your national sending partner plus the Tempus Public Foundation’s online system |
What the scholarship covers
Benefits may vary slightly based on the agreement between Hungary and your country, but the Bilateral State Scholarships typically include:
- Tuition exemption at the host Hungarian institution for the approved study or research period.
- Monthly stipend paid in Hungary for living expenses during the scholarship period.
- Accommodation support such as a dormitory place or a monthly housing contribution.
- Medical insurance in line with current Hungarian regulations for scholarship holders.
- Additional support for short programs or summer courses when applicable.
Travel costs are handled differently across agreements. In some cases your home country covers international travel, in others it may be your responsibility. Always check your national call for the exact rules before you apply.
Types of awards available
Available options depend on your country’s bilateral agreement with Hungary. Common pathways include:
- Full Degree Studies: Bachelor, Master’s, or Doctoral programs in Hungarian or English where offered by the host university.
- Partial Studies or Exchange: Short-term study visits at bachelor or master level, typically for one or two semesters.
- Doctoral Research: Research stays for enrolled PhD candidates, often in cooperation with a Hungarian supervisor.
- Postdoctoral Visits: Short-term research placements for early career researchers.
- Short Courses and Summer Schools: Intensive academic or language programs run by Hungarian institutions.
- Hungarian Language or Preparatory Courses: Where available under the specific bilateral agreement.
Not all types are open to every country. Review your sending partner’s call to see which tracks you can select for 2026/2027.
Who can apply
Eligibility is determined jointly by your home country’s sending partner and the Tempus Public Foundation. Use this summary to check if you are a fit, then confirm details with your national call.
| Criteria | What it means for you in 2026/2027 |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | You must be a citizen of a country that has a bilateral education or cultural agreement with Hungary and is participating in this scholarship cycle. |
| Nomination | In most cases, you need to be officially nominated by your country’s ministry, scholarship council, or designated sending partner. |
| Academic background | You must meet the entry requirements for the level you apply to. Bachelor applicants need completed secondary education, Master’s applicants need a bachelor degree, PhD applicants need a relevant master’s, and postdocs need a completed PhD. |
| Language | You must prove proficiency in the language of instruction set by the host institution, typically Hungarian or English. Accepted proofs vary by university. |
| Program availability | Your intended field and award type must be offered by participating Hungarian institutions under the bilateral scheme. |
| Health and conduct | You should be medically fit to study and meet any host or national background requirements. Some countries may request a medical certificate. |
| Other national rules | Some sending partners set extra criteria, such as study field priorities or work-back obligations. Read your national call carefully. |
Documents required
Prepare clear, legible copies. If documents are not in English or Hungarian, provide certified translations when requested.
- Completed application form for the Bilateral State Scholarships
- Valid passport or national ID as required
- Curriculum Vitae
- Motivation letter and study plan or research proposal
- Official transcripts and diplomas for all completed studies
- Language proficiency proof in the language of instruction
- Two recommendation letters for graduate and research tracks
- Supervisor acceptance or host invitation for research or doctoral stays, if applicable
- Portfolio or audition materials for arts programs, if required
- Medical certificate if requested by your national partner or the host
- Any additional items listed in your national call
How to apply for 2026/2027
- Confirm your country’s eligibility: Check if your country participates in Hungary’s Bilateral State Scholarships and which award types are open this cycle.
- Read your national call: Each sending partner publishes rules, priorities, and internal timelines. This governs your nomination.
- Choose your study path: Identify programs or research hosts in Hungary that fit your goals. Review entry requirements and language needs.
- Contact potential supervisors if you are applying for PhD or research stays, and secure a preliminary acceptance where required.
- Gather documents: Prepare transcripts, diplomas, language certificates, CV, motivation letter, recommendations, and other required items.
- Submit your application online via the Tempus Public Foundation’s system when it opens for the bilateral scheme. Follow all format and file-size rules.
- Apply through your national partner if they require a parallel submission. Many countries run their own portal or accept applications by email.
- Watch for nomination: Your sending partner evaluates and nominates candidates to the Hungarian side.
- Hungarian evaluation: The Tempus Public Foundation and host institutions review nominated applications for final selection.
- Results and acceptance: If selected, follow the instructions to accept the award and complete any admission steps at the host university.
- Visa and arrival: Apply for the appropriate visa or residence permit for study in Hungary and arrange accommodation as instructed.
Timeline and deadline
This scholarship runs on an annual cycle aligned with the 2026/2027 academic year. National calls and the Hungarian portal may open at different times depending on your country. Visit the official website for the current deadline.
Important timing tips:
- Start preparing documents in 2026 so you can meet both national and Hungarian submission windows.
- Some sending partners close nominations earlier than the Hungarian portal. Do not wait for the last week.
- Universities may request supervisor confirmations or extra paperwork. Allow time to secure these.
Selection criteria and how to stand out
- Academic fit: Show that your background matches the program’s requirements and expectations.
- Clear goals: Use your motivation letter to connect your study plan to your future career or research impact.
- Evidence of readiness: Strong language skills and relevant experience strengthen your case.
- Supervisor alignment: For research tracks, secure interest from a Hungarian host. A well-matched supervisor can be decisive.
- Complete and compliant: Follow file naming, translation, and document rules exactly. Incomplete files are often rejected.
Visa and arrival support
After you accept the award, your host institution and the Tempus Public Foundation will guide you on the residence permit or visa process. Typical next steps include receiving your admission or invitation document, arranging accommodation, obtaining health insurance confirmation, and booking travel. Apply for your visa or residence permit as early as allowed in the year to avoid delays.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Bilateral State Scholarship in Hungary fully funded?
Yes, this is a fully funded opportunity for selected candidates. It typically includes tuition exemption, a monthly stipend, accommodation support, and medical insurance. Exact entitlements can vary by country agreement and award type.
Who is eligible to apply in 2026/2027?
Candidates must be citizens of partner countries that have bilateral agreements with Hungary and must meet both their national sending partner’s criteria and the Hungarian host’s academic requirements. Most applicants also need an official nomination.
Can I apply without a nomination from my country?
In many cases, no. The nomination from your national partner is a core part of the process. Check your country’s specific rules to confirm.
What fields are available?
Most academic fields are represented at Hungarian public universities, including STEM, health sciences, business, arts, and social sciences. Availability depends on participating institutions under the bilateral scheme.
When are the deadlines for 2026/2027?
Deadlines differ by country and award type. Visit the official website for the current deadline and consult your national sending partner’s announcement.
Ready to apply?
This is your chance to study in the heart of Europe with a Fully Funded package. Shortlist your programs, contact your national partner, and start assembling your documents now. Apply early for the 2026/2027 cycle to beat the rush and give yourself the best shot. Your next move is simple: get informed, get nominated, and apply now.








