Central European University (CEU) Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Study in Hungary

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Central European University (CEU) Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Study in Hungary

Are you dreaming of pursuing your studies in Europe at a globally renowned institution? The Central European University (CEU) Scholarship 2026 in Hungary is one of the most prestigious and fully funded opportunities available for international students. Whether you are completing high school, looking to start your master’s degree, or ready to dive into doctoral research, CEU offers a pathway to world-class education — with financial aid that makes it accessible to talented students from every corner of the globe.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the CEU Scholarship, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, programs offered, application process, deadlines, and insider tips to make your application stand out.

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🌍 About Central European University (CEU)

Central European University (CEU) is a private research university located in Budapest, Hungary. Established with a mission to promote open societies, democracy, and academic excellence, CEU consistently ranks among the top universities worldwide in the fields of political science, international relations, philosophy, and social sciences. It attracts a diverse community of students and faculty from over 100 countries, making it one of the most international universities in Europe.

CEU is particularly well-known for its small class sizes, close faculty mentorship, and emphasis on critical thinking and research.

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📌 Quick Facts – CEU Scholarship 2026

Host Country: Hungary 🇭🇺
University: Central European University (CEU)
Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Enrollment: Fall 2026
Application Deadline: February 4, 2026
Application Fee: €30 (non-refundable; submit only when your application is complete)

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🎓 CEU Scholarship Benefits

One of the best things about CEU is its generous funding packages that make studying in Europe affordable:

🎯 CEU Bachelor’s Scholarships

Partial or fully reduced tuition fees based on merit.
Competitive awards for high-achieving students.

🎯 CEU Master’s Scholarships

Full or partial tuition coverage.
Health insurance provided.
Monthly stipend: €300 – €1,000 to cover living expenses.

🎯 CEU Doctoral Scholarships

Full tuition coverage for all admitted PhD students.
Generous stipend: €1,880 per month to cover housing and living costs.
Access to research funding and professional development opportunities.

💡 Tip: You are automatically considered for scholarships when you apply — there’s no separate application!

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📚 Programs Offered at CEU

CEU offers a wide range of programs across multiple disciplines. Some of the most popular fields include:

Political Science & International Relations
Public Policy & Legal Studies (Human Rights, Constitutional Law)
History, Philosophy, and Cultural Heritage
Environmental Sciences & Policy
Economics, Business, and Data Science
Cognitive Science & Mathematics

🔗 Explore Programs Here: CEU Academics

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📝 Required Documents for CEU Application

To submit a strong application, prepare the following documents:

Completed CEU Online Application Form
Academic Writing Sample(s) (as required by your program)
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2)
Academic Transcripts and Diplomas
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
Proof of English Proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
Standardized Test Scores (GRE/GMAT – only required for certain programs like Economics & Business)

Proof of English Proficiency – Exemption Criteria

You may request an exemption if:

Your first language is English, OR
You earned a degree taught entirely in English, OR
You are a current or former CEU student applying for a CEU doctoral program.

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🧑‍🎓 Eligibility Criteria

Open to all nationalities 🌎
Must hold the appropriate degree level:
Bachelor’s applicants: high school diploma or equivalent.
Master’s applicants: bachelor’s degree (final-year students may apply).
PhD applicants: master’s degree (or equivalent).
No need to contact a supervisor in advance — CEU will assign one upon admission.

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📅 CEU Scholarship 2026 Deadlines

Bachelor’s Programs: February 4, 2026
Master’s Programs: February 4, 2026
Doctoral Programs: February 4, 2026

💡 Tip: Late applications are not accepted, so submit early to avoid last-minute issues.

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🖋️ How to Apply for CEU Scholarship 2026

Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth application:

1.Create an account on the CEU Online Application Portal.
2.Choose up to 5 programs you want to apply for.
3.Upload required documents (transcripts, letters, CV, etc.).
4.Pay the €30 application fee once your application is complete.
5.Submit before the deadline — February 4, 2026.

🔗 Apply Here: CEU Official Application Portal

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💡 Tips to Win the CEU Scholarship

Start Early: Gathering transcripts, references, and writing samples takes time.
Craft a Strong Motivation Letter: Explain why you want to study at CEU, your career goals, and how this program fits your ambitions.
Highlight Leadership & Impact: CEU values applicants who contribute to their communities.
Apply to Multiple Programs: You can apply to up to 5 programs to maximize your chances.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I apply for more than one program?
Yes! You can apply for up to five programs in a single application cycle.

2. Is there a separate application for scholarships?
No — you are automatically considered for CEU scholarships when you submit your program application.

3. Do I need GRE/GMAT scores?
Only for specific programs (Economics and Business). Most programs do not require them.

4. Can I apply without English language test scores yet?
Yes, but you must submit scores before the final deadline if required by your program.

5. What are the living costs in Budapest?
Budapest is one of the most affordable student cities in Europe, with average monthly living costs ranging from €600–€900 (including housing).

6. Are there pathways to stay in Hungary after graduation?
Yes — Hungary offers post-study work permits that allow you to seek employment after your degree.

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🌟 Why Choose CEU?

Top-Ranked University: Consistently among the top 100 worldwide in social sciences and humanities.
Diverse International Community: Students from 100+ countries.
Generous Funding: Covers tuition, health insurance, and living costs.
Career Support: Access to internships, research opportunities, and alumni networks.
Prime Location: Study in the heart of Europe with easy access to other European countries.

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✨ Final Thoughts

The Central European University Scholarship 2026 is a golden opportunity for ambitious students worldwide to earn a world-class degree in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. With full tuition coverage, living stipends, and exceptional academic resources, CEU is more than just a place to study — it’s a gateway to global opportunities.

If you are serious about advancing your education and building an impactful career, don’t miss this chance. Start preparing your documents now and submit your application before February 4, 2026.

📌 Apply Now: Central European University Official Application Page

📝 Sample Motivation Letter for CEU Scholarship 2026

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, Country, Postal Code]
[Email Address]
[Date]

Admissions Committee
Central European University
Budapest, Hungary

Subject: Motivation Letter for [Master’s/PhD] Program in [Program Name]

Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,

I am writing to express my sincere interest in applying for the [Master’s/PhD] Program in [Program Name] at Central European University (CEU) for the Fall 2026 intake. With a strong academic background in [Your Field of Study], combined with my passion for [specific research interest or career goal], I believe CEU’s renowned interdisciplinary approach and commitment to academic excellence make it the ideal place for me to further my education.

During my undergraduate studies in [Your Major] at [Your University Name], I developed a deep interest in [specific topic, e.g., sustainability, policy analysis, data science]. My final-year thesis on “[Title of Your Research/Project]” allowed me to gain hands-on experience in research methodology and critical thinking, which strengthened my determination to pursue graduate-level education.

What attracts me most to CEU is its emphasis on [mention a unique CEU feature — e.g., social impact, diversity, research opportunities, or international community]. I am particularly drawn to [specific professor’s work, research group, or department focus] and hope to contribute to ongoing projects while expanding my own research skills.

Receiving the CEU Scholarship would not only provide financial support but also empower me to fully dedicate my time and effort to my studies and research. My long-term goal is to [describe your career goal, e.g., become a researcher, policy advisor, educator, or industry expert] and use the knowledge I gain at CEU to make a meaningful impact in [your home country or global community].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to join CEU’s vibrant academic community and contribute to its mission of advancing knowledge and promoting open societies.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

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