HIIA Future Leaders Program 2025 in Hungary (Fully Funded)

Q: What is the duration of the program?

The program runs for 3 months, from September 15 to December 15, 2025, and takes place in Budapest, Hungary.

Q: When is the application deadline?

The last date to submit your application is August 8, 2025.

Applications are now open for the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA) Future Leaders Program 2025 in Budapest, Hungary. This is a fully funded 3-month leadership and policy research program designed for early-career professionals and researchers in the field of international relations, diplomacy, and global policy.

Host Country

Hungary

Program Location

Budapest

Duration

September 15 to December 15, 2025

About the Program

The HIIA Future Leaders Program is a highly competitive international fellowship that brings together promising individuals who are passionate about global affairs. Participants will engage in real-world policy research, gain mentorship from senior experts, attend seminars, and work directly with decision-makers in Hungary.

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Benefits

Fully funded round-trip airfare for international participants
Monthly stipend of 200,000 HUF (approx. €480)
Accommodation assistance
Visa support (HIIA will issue supporting documents, but the applicant is responsible for the process)
Research mentoring and academic guidance
Media, leadership, and public speaking training
Participation in policy workshops and seminars
Networking opportunities with diplomats, researchers, and government officials
Certificate upon successful completion

Eligibility Criteria

Must be under 30 years of age
Must hold at least a Bachelor's degree in International Relations, Political Science, History, Law, International Economics, or related fields
Must have good command of English (no IELTS/TOEFL required)
Must demonstrate a clear interest in international policy and research
Must be available in Budapest for the entire duration of the program

HIIA Future Leaders Program 2025 in Hungary (Fully Funded)

Research Themes

Regional Focus:

Western Balkans
Eastern Europe
Visegrád Cooperation
Middle East
Asia-Pacific
Turkic States
Transatlantic Relations

Thematic Focus:

Security and Defense Policy
Energy and Climate Policy
Geopolitical Strategy and Connectivity
Cultural Diplomacy
Family Policy in Global Context
Challenges of Multipolarity

Required Documents

Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)
Cover Letter (maximum 1 page) explaining your motivation
Writing Sample in English (between 3,000 to 5,000 characters with spaces)

Important Dates

Application Deadline: August 8, 2025
Online Interviews: August 11 – August 15, 2025
Final Selection Results: September 1, 2025
Program Start: September 15, 2025
Program End: December 15, 2025

How to Apply

Visit the official HIIA website and complete the online application form.
Link: https://hiia.hu/en/call-for-applications-future-leaders-program-2025-fall-edition/

Steps to apply:

Prepare all required documents in English
Fill out the application form
Upload all required files
Submit your application before the deadline

Why You Should Apply

Gain direct exposure to policy research, diplomacy, and international strategy
Build a professional network with experts, institutions, and fellow scholars
Receive full financial support to live and study in Europe
Develop skills through lectures, mentoring, and hands-on training
Enhance your career prospects in international affairs

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Summary Table

Feature	Details
Country	Hungary
City	Budapest
Duration	3 months (Sept 15 – Dec 15, 2025)
Funding	Fully Funded
Stipend	200,000 HUF per month
Eligibility	Under 30, Bachelor’s degree, English
Deadline	August 8, 2025
Official Website	hiia.hu

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply for the HIIA Future Leaders Program?

Anyone under the age of 30 with at least a Bachelor's degree in International Relations, Political Science, History, Law, Economics, or related fields can apply. Strong English skills and a demonstrated interest in international policy are required.

2. Is the program fully funded?

Yes, the program is fully funded. It covers round-trip airfare, a monthly stipend (200,000 HUF), accommodation assistance, and provides visa support documents.

3. Do I need IELTS or TOEFL to apply?

No. There is no requirement to submit IELTS or TOEFL scores. However, applicants must have a strong command of English, as the program and all documentation are in English.