Interest in Hungarian higher education has reached new heights as the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship programme records a staggering 80,000 applications for the 2025–2026 academic year — a remarkable 20 percent increase from the previous year.

Launched in 2013 by the Hungarian government, the Stipendium Hungaricum has grown into one of the most successful international scholarship programs in Europe. Its mission is simple but powerful: to attract top international talent by offering fully-funded study opportunities at Hungarian universities. Today, it stands as a gateway for students from around the world to access high-quality education in a dynamic European setting.

Currently, more than 11,000 international students are studying in Hungary under the program. Since its inception, over 17,000 graduates have completed their studies through Stipendium Hungaricum, contributing to global academic and professional communities with a Hungarian education at their foundation.

The program’s reach spans over 100 countries across five continents, with the majority of applicants coming from Asia (51.5 percent) and Africa (45 percent). Smaller but growing interest has also been observed from Europe, North America, and South America.

Roland Y. Fajardo, a Stipendium Hungaricum Excellence Award recipient from the Philippines, pursued a degree in Animal Husbandry Engineering at the University of Debrecen to contribute to agricultural development and international collaboration between Hungary and his home country. Through his studies, he excelled academically, participated in scientific research, and placed third in a faculty-level research competition. Guided by dedicated professors and enriched by Hungary’s academic environment, Roland plans to return to public service in the Philippines, using his knowledge to drive local development. He encourages aspiring students to dream big and take advantage of the life-changing opportunities offered by the Stipendium Hungaricum programme.

Based on his endeavors since 2023, Roland Fajardo has continued to build a strong career in veterinary medicine, animal science, and academia. He began the year as a part-time Instructor at the University of Southern Mindanao, where he taught at the College of Veterinary Medicine for nearly a year. Concurrently, he concluded his role as a student scholar at the University of Debrecen in Hungary, where he completed his Master of Science in Animal Husbandry Engineering in July 2023.

By August 2024, he transitioned to a full-time faculty member position at the University of Southern Mindanao Main, contributing to academic instruction and research. Around the same time, he concluded his six-year tenure as a Veterinarian III at the Department of Agriculture in the National Capital Region, a role he had held since 2018.

In March 2025, he expanded his professional scope further by taking on the role of farm manager and veterinarian at the Mindanao Small Ruminants Nucleus Farm, where he applied both his clinical expertise and leadership skills in livestock management and animal health.

Fajardo shared his perspectives on the program and his experiences in Hungary in an interview:

Studying in Hungary—especially through the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship program—offers a compelling combination of academic excellence, cultural richness, and global opportunity. Hungary is home to high-quality universities, many of which offer programs in English and other foreign languages across a wide range of fields, including engineering, health sciences, IT, and social sciences. The Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship covers tuition fees, a monthly stipend, accommodation contribution, and health insurance, making it a fully funded opportunity for students from over 100 countries. With more than 800 programs available and participation from 30 Hungarian institutions, students receive a world-class education in the heart of Europe. Additionally, 91 percent of scholarship holders say they would choose Hungary again, reflecting strong student satisfaction. Beyond academics, Hungary offers a safe, culturally vibrant, and centrally located environment, perfect for travel and personal growth. The program also fosters a global alumni network and long-term professional connections.

Hungary is an ideal study destination for international students, offering high-quality, globally recognized education at an affordable cost in the heart of Europe. With a rich academic tradition, a wide range of English-taught programs, and low living expenses compared to Western Europe, Hungary combines academic excellence with a vibrant cultural experience. Its central location makes it perfect for travel, and its universities provide a safe, student-friendly environment where learners from all over the world can thrive.