Stipendium Hungaricum: My tips and tricks as a Committee Member & Scholarship Holder / 2025-2026

Summary

This video provides essential tips for successfully applying to the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year. Key advice includes preparing early, reaching out to scholarship coordinators, and choosing the right universities. Applicants are encouraged to highlight all relevant experiences in their application forms and provide supporting documents. Crafting a strong motivation letter and aligning research proposals with university interests are crucial. Additionally, finding a supervisor (if required) can significantly enhance an application. Consistent preparation, organization, and proactive engagement are key to maximizing your chances of success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Start preparing for your Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship application well in advance, even if the application period lasts more than two months.
• 😀 Research the university, the major you want to study, and the contact person in your country to show initiative and seriousness about the scholarship.
• 😀 It's a good idea to contact the responsible person in your country early to clarify any additional document requirements not mentioned in the official guidelines.
• 😀 When selecting universities, choose a top-choice university and a second-choice university that’s less competitive, as this increases your chances of acceptance.
• 😀 Include not just academic qualifications but also any extracurricular activities, volunteering, and leadership experiences in your application form.
• 😀 Attach as many supporting documents as possible, including certificates and proof of achievements, to strengthen your application.
• 😀 A well-written motivation letter is crucial. Take your time to draft it carefully and ensure it conveys your genuine interest and commitment.
• 😀 Ensure your research proposal aligns with the university’s research areas to avoid being rejected due to mismatched interests.
• 😀 Try to find a supervisor before applying. Reach out to professors whose research areas match yours, and ask them to support your application with a letter.
• 😀 The application period for the scholarship runs from November 15th to January 15th, giving you over two months to prepare your documents and submit your application.
• 😀 Be prepared for unexpected document requests or changes in the process, so it’s important to have all your materials ready before the application opens.

Q & A

What is the first tip for successfully applying for the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship?

The first tip is to start preparing in advance. Even though the application period lasts for more than two months, it’s important to begin gathering information about the universities, your desired course, and the scholarship process well ahead of time.

Why is it important to contact the responsible person in your country early?

Contacting the responsible person in your country shows your seriousness and commitment to the scholarship. It also helps you clarify any additional documents that may not be listed on the official scholarship website, which could strengthen your application.

How should you choose the universities when applying for the scholarship?

It is recommended to choose two universities: one as your first choice (preferably the best one for your course) and another less demanding one as a backup. This increases your chances of acceptance, especially if you’re not selected by the first-choice university.

Why is it a good idea to choose a less demanding university as a backup?

Choosing a less demanding university as your second option can increase your chances of acceptance. These universities may have lower entry requirements, giving you a better opportunity to be accepted if your first choice is highly competitive.

What should you include in the application form to stand out?

You should include not just your education and work experience, but also any relevant extracurricular activities, such as volunteering, exchange programs, or community involvement. These demonstrate that you are an active and engaged person, which can strengthen your application.

Why is it important to attach supporting documents to your application?

Supporting documents, such as certificates or proof of your activities, help validate your claims in the application form. The more evidence you can provide, the stronger and more credible your application will be.

How important is the motivation letter in the scholarship application?

The motivation letter is very important, as it can account for up to 50% of your success. It’s essential to take your time and write a thoughtful and well-crafted letter that clearly explains your motivations, goals, and why you’re a good fit for the scholarship and the university.

What is the significance of the research proposal in the application process?

The research proposal is crucial if you’re applying for a research-oriented program. It should align with the university’s research focus areas. If your proposal is not compatible with the university's offerings, your chances of acceptance may be significantly lower.

What steps should you take to secure a supervisor for your research program?

It’s important to contact potential supervisors early and share your research proposal with them. Some universities require you to find a supervisor before applying, while others assign one after acceptance. Securing a supervisor’s support strengthens your application and demonstrates your commitment.

How does finding a supervisor early impact your scholarship application?

Finding a supervisor early can positively impact your scholarship application by demonstrating your initiative and preparedness. A letter of support from a supervisor can significantly enhance your chances of being accepted, especially if the university requires you to secure a supervisor beforehand.