Applications are invited from eligible Sri Lankans for the award of four postgraduate (PhD) scholarships offered by the Government of Hungary under the bilateral cooperation between the Government of Sri Lanka and the Government of Hungary on the programme of the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme for the academic year 2026/27.

Deadline for application is 15 January 2026 at 14:00 Central European Time.

1. General eligibility requirements

• All applicants should be citizens of Sri Lanka.
• Should possess a four-year Bachelor’s degree (SLQF 6) with a Second Class Upper or above and a Master’s degree (SLQF 9/10/11) in the relevant field of study from a recognised university, as per the University Grants Commission of Sri Lanka.
• Should possess high proficiency in English.
• Applicants are required to fulfil all the eligibility criteria on or before 15 January 2026.
• Should be in good health and be ready to live in Hungary during the period of study.
• Government-sector employees should submit their applications through the Head of their institute.

2. Fields of study

• Any field of study listed under the programme’s partner institutions.
• Available study programmes and host institutions are accessible in the online application system.
• Doctoral programmes are divided into two different phases: the first phase (4 semesters) is for professional training and research, while the second phase (4 semesters) is for research and the dissertation.

3. Medium of instruction

Study programmes are generally available in English and Hungarian. Students must meet the language proficiency level required by the host institution. If required by the doctoral school, applicants must attach a statement of acceptance issued by a supervisor at the host institution.

4. Terms of award

• Selected candidates shall be responsible for the international round-trip cost.
• Exemption from payment of tuition fees.
• Monthly stipend: during the first four semesters HUF 140,000 (approx. EUR 355) and during the second four semesters HUF 180,000 (approx. EUR 460) per month, for the full twelve months each year.
• Accommodation contribution: either a free dormitory place or a contribution of HUF 40,000/month towards rental costs for the duration of the scholarship. Note that in larger cities, especially the capital, this contribution may not fully cover rental costs.
• Medical insurance: health-care services under Hungarian legislation and supplementary medical insurance up to HUF 65,000 (approx. EUR 165) a year per person. These provisions are contributions toward living expenses and do not fully cover all costs of living in Hungary; students will need additional financial resources. Applicants are advised to check the cost-of-living calculator via the programme’s link.

5. Special notes

• The conditions for award may vary as per criteria set by Hungarian authorities without prior notice.
• Candidates who receive scholarships must select higher-education institutions recognised by the University Grants Commission of Sri Lanka.
• If a student declines an offer after selection, they shall not be considered for future scholarships under this programme.
• Extension of the scholarship period will not be recommended by the Sri Lankan Ministry.

6. Applications

• Applicants should apply through the online application system of the Tempus Public Foundation in Hungary using the web link provided.
• Deadline for application is 15 January 2026 at 14:00 Central European Time.
• The application guide is available on the Hungarian website.

7. Interview & selections

• The Hungarian scholarship-awarding authority will forward the eligible list to the Sri Lankan Ministry after technical review.
• Eligible candidates will be shortlisted based on academic merit (GPA) and will be called for an interview at short notice.
• The nomination will be forwarded to the Hungarian awarding authority. No candidate should treat nomination as confirmation of award; the final decision lies with the Hungarian authority.
• Any written or verbal canvassing will result in disqualification.

This annual scholarship notice serves as an opportunity for Sri Lankan graduates who dream of advancing their research careers in a European academic environment. With its blend of financial support, academic depth and international exposure, the Stipendium Hungaricum Programme offers a doorway to both personal and scholarly transformation. For those prepared to meet the expectations and embrace the challenge, Hungary promises a scholarly experience that is both demanding and deeply rewarding.