Hungary is a popular study destination for international students, offering high-quality education at affordable fee rates. As a Central European country, Hungary is a dream destination for thousands of international students. Every year, over 32,000 students come to Hungary for higher education. However, the cost of studying abroad can still be a concern for many students. For a detailed breakdown of the cost of studying in Hungary, read our article here.

Fortunately, there are several scholarships available for international students in Hungary that can help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs. Additionally, we at CareerO’Clock have partnered with a number of top Hungarian universities to offer scholarships to our referred students. Want to avail a scholarship opportunity in Hungary? Contact us now to seek expert guidance.

In this article, we’ll explore the different scholarship opportunities available for international students in Hungary. We will start with the most obvious options for Pakistani students and then delve into a number of other, less common opportunities.

Top Scholarships in Hungary for International Students

Here’s an updated list of scholarships available for international students interested in studying in Hungary:

Scholarship Name	Description	Eligibility	How to Apply	Application Deadline
Stipendium Hungaricum	Fully funded scholarships for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs.	Open to students with strong academic records. Specific criteria vary by program.	Apply online through the Stipendium Hungaricum portal and your home country’s education commission (e.g., HEC for Pakistani students).	Typically mid-January annually.
Erasmus+ Program	EU-funded scholarships for short-term and degree programs.	Open to students from partner countries, including Pakistan.	Apply through your home institution’s international office or directly via the Erasmus+ website.	Varies by program.
Bilateral State Scholarships	Scholarships based on agreements between Hungary and other countries.	Criteria vary depending on the specific agreement.	Details and application procedures are available on the Study in Hungary website.	Varies; check official sources.
University-Specific Scholarships	Financial aid and scholarships offered directly by Hungarian universities.	Varies by university and program; often based on academic merit or financial need.	Check the official websites of Hungarian universities for available scholarships.	Deadlines vary by institution.

1. Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship

The Stipendium Hungaricum is the most sought-after scholarship program in Hungary, offering fully funded scholarships for international students at all levels of study (Bachelor’s, Master’s, One-Tier Master’s, and PhD). Here’s what it covers:

• Tuition Fees: Fully covered.
• Monthly Stipend: Approximately €130-€390, depending on the level of study.
• Accommodation: Free dormitory placement or a housing allowance.
• Health Insurance: Provided for the duration of the scholarship.

The scholarship is offered to Pakistani students in collaboration with Higher Education Commission. Pakistani students are required to apply online at stipendium Hungaricum scholarship portal as well as HEC portal. The announcement is made through HEC.

Eligibility: Open to students from over 70 countries, including Pakistan. Applicants must have a strong academic background and meet the specific requirements of their chosen program.

How to Apply: Applications are submitted online through the Stipendium Hungaricum portal. Pakistani students must also apply through the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan’s scholarship portal.

Deadline: The application deadline is typically in mid-January each year. For the 2025-26 academic year, the deadline was January 15, 2025.

Interested to apply in Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarships, read our detailed article here.

Erasmus+ Program: A Gateway to Europe

The Erasmus+ Program is another excellent opportunity for international students to study in Hungary. Funded by the European Union, this program promotes international student mobility and offers scholarships for short-term exchanges, degree programs, and internships.

Key Features:

• Funding: Covers tuition fees, travel costs, and provides a monthly stipend.
• Duration: Short-term (3-12 months) or full degree programs.
• Eligibility: Open to students from partner countries, including Pakistan.

How to Apply: Applications are submitted through your home institution’s international office or directly via the Erasmus+ website.

Read our detailed article on Eramus Scholarships here.

University-Specific Scholarships

Many Hungarian universities offer their own scholarships to attract talented international students. These scholarships are often based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria set by the university. Some of the top universities offering scholarships include:

• University of Debrecen: Offers merit-based scholarships for international students.
• Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE): Provides financial aid for outstanding students.
• University of Szeged: Offers scholarships for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

How to Apply: Visit the official websites of these universities to check the availability of scholarships and application procedures.

Scholarships by CareerO’Clock: Exclusive Opportunities for Our Students

At CareerO’Clock, we understand that finding the right scholarship can be challenging. That’s why we’ve partnered with a number of top universities in Hungary to offer exclusive scholarship opportunities to our referred students. Our partnerships ensure that you get access to the best financial aid options available, making your dream of studying in Hungary more achievable.

Why Choose CareerO’Clock for Scholarships?

• Personalized Guidance: Our team of experts will help you identify the best scholarship opportunities based on your academic profile and financial needs.
• Exclusive Access: Through our partnerships, we offer scholarships that are not widely advertised, giving you a competitive edge.
• End-to-End Support: From application to visa processing, we provide comprehensive support to ensure a smooth journey.

How to Avail This Opportunity:

1. Book Your Seat: Contact us today to book your seat and find out the best scholarship opportunities for you.
2. Get Personalized Assistance: Our team will guide you through the entire process, from selecting the right program to submitting your scholarship application.
3. Secure Your Future: With our help, you can secure a scholarship and start your academic journey in Hungary.

Living Costs in Hungary: What to Expect

While scholarships can significantly reduce your financial burden, it’s important to plan for living expenses. Here’s an estimated breakdown of monthly costs for international students in Hungary:

Category	Cost Range (EUR/month)
Accommodation (University Halls)	€200 – €400
Accommodation (Private Rentals)	€300 – €600
Food	€150 – €250
Transport	€25 – €50
Other Expenses	€60 – €120
Total Estimated Monthly Cost	€735 – €1,420

Contact Us for Further Details

If you need personalized guidance on scholarship opportunities, university selection, or the Hungarian visa process, we at CareerO’Clock are here to help. Our team of experts offers specialized and professional guidance to ensure your journey to studying in Hungary is smooth and successful.

How to Maximize Your Chances of Selection for Hungary Scholarships

1. Choose the Right Course and University

• Align Your Course with National Development Needs: When applying for scholarships, it’s important to select courses that align with your country’s development needs and your career goals. For instance, if you’re from Pakistan, choosing fields like medicine, engineering, or agriculture—areas that contribute to social and economic development—can strengthen your application. Scholarship programs often prioritize candidates whose studies will have a positive impact on their home country. Avoid selecting courses randomly based on personal aspirations; instead, align your goals with your country’s requirements and present this decision confidently.
• Target Universities with Strong Scholarship Partnerships: Research universities in Hungary that have a strong track record of accepting international students through scholarship programs. For example, universities like the University of Debrecen, Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE), and the University of Szeged are known for their participation in the Stipendium Hungaricum program. Focus on universities with higher acceptance rates for scholarship applicants and ensure you meet their specific requirements.

2. Write Impactful Essays

• Demonstrate Leadership Experience: Leadership is a key criterion for most scholarships. Highlight your leadership roles in academic, professional, or community settings. Provide specific examples of how you led teams, solved problems, and achieved results. If you lack leadership experience, consider taking on roles in student organizations, community projects, or NGOs to build your profile.
• Show Your Impact on Society: Scholarship committees look for candidates who have made a positive impact in their communities. Highlight any initiatives you’ve led or participated in that have brought about change. For example, if you’ve worked on social welfare projects, educational campaigns, or environmental initiatives, include these in your application. Demonstrate how you plan to continue making a difference in your home country after completing your studies.
• Align Your Goals with the Scholarship’s Mission: Carefully read the objectives and mission of the scholarship program you’re applying for. For instance, the Stipendium Hungaricum aims to strengthen cultural and educational ties between Hungary and other countries. Tailor your application to show how your goals align with these objectives. Explain how your studies in Hungary will help you contribute to your home country’s development.

3. Build a Strong Network

• Connect with Scholarship Alumni: Reach out to alumni of the scholarship program you’re applying for. Ask them about their experiences, challenges, and tips for success. Alumni can provide valuable insights into the application process and help you understand what scholarship committees are looking for. Networking with alumni can also open doors to mentorship opportunities and professional connections.
• Attend Education Fairs and Events: Participate in education fairs and events organized by Hungarian universities or cultural organizations like the Balassi Institute. These events provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about Hungarian education, scholarship opportunities, and application requirements. Engaging with university representatives can also help you make a positive impression and demonstrate your enthusiasm for studying in Hungary.

4. Gain Leadership Experience

• Participate in Community Projects and NGOs: Active involvement in community service, NGOs, or professional organizations can strengthen your scholarship application. Highlight your contributions to these projects, especially if they demonstrate problem-solving, innovation, and teamwork. Scholarship committees value candidates who show a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.
• Develop Problem-Solving and Innovative Thinking Skills: Showcase your ability to think critically and solve problems. Whether it’s through academic projects, work experience, or extracurricular activities, provide examples of how you’ve tackled challenges and implemented innovative solutions.

5. Prepare for the Interview

• Practice Common Interview Questions: If your scholarship application includes an interview, prepare thoroughly. Practice answering questions related to your leadership experience, career goals, and motivation for studying in Hungary. Be ready to discuss how your studies will benefit your home country and how you plan to use your education to make a difference.
• Be Confident and Professional: During the interview, present yourself confidently and professionally. Dress appropriately, maintain good eye contact, and articulate your thoughts clearly. Show enthusiasm for the scholarship opportunity and demonstrate how you align with the program’s values and objectives.

Maximizing your chances of selection for a Hungary scholarship requires careful planning, strong preparation, and a clear demonstration of your leadership and impact. Contact our expert counselors for more personalized and detailed guidance on study in Hungary and availing scholarships.