Fellowship•Hungary · Budapest

HIIA Future Leaders Program

Funding

Partial / Stipend

Program dates

Sep 1, 2026 – Nov 30, 2026

The Future Leaders Program is a three-month fellowship run twice a year (Spring and Fall editions) by the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA), the country’s state foreign-policy research institute in Budapest. It gives young talents and recent graduates in international relations a chance to conduct research under professional mentorship, join HIIA’s research and project-management groups, and deepen their knowledge of Hungarian foreign-policy priorities. Alongside their own research project, fellows attend educational and professional-development seminars, including media training and public-speaking instruction. The program is conducted in English and requires intensive in-person presence at HIIA headquarters.

Benefits & funding

  • Three-month fixed-term contract with a gross stipend disbursed on the achievement of set milestones (the exact amount is not published).
  • For international fellows without a Hungarian residence permit: round-trip travel provided by HIIA and a fixed monthly allowance toward accommodation costs.
  • Educational seminars and professional development, including media training and public-speaking instruction.
  • Mentorship from HIIA researchers and participation in its research groups.
  • Note: HIIA does not provide work equipment.

Eligibility

  • Open to applicants from Hungary and abroad (no nationality restriction).
  • Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree, preferably in International Relations, Political Science, History, Diplomacy, Philosophy, or a related field.
  • Under 30 years of age.
  • English proficiency at minimum C1 level, with proof of an English language examination.
  • Able to be present in person in Budapest (approx. 30 hours/week).

Application process

  1. 1
    Complete the online application form on the official call page.
  2. 2
    Upload a CV (max 2 pages), a cover letter (max 1 page), a writing sample (3,000–5,000 characters), and proof of English language examination.
  3. 3
    Shortlisted candidates are interviewed by HIIA staff; results are then announced by email.

Program timeline

  1. Application deadline (Fall 2026 edition)

    Jun 30, 2026

  2. Interviews

    Jul 6, 2026 to Jul 17, 2026

  3. Results announced

    Jul 31, 2026

  4. Program starts

    Sep 1, 2026

  5. Program ends

    Nov 30, 2026