Applications invited from graduates worldwide for three-month foreign policy and diplomacy programme in Budapest
Students and young professionals interested in international relations, diplomacy and global policy can now apply for the HIIA Future Leaders Program 2026, a fully funded international fellowship that will take place in Budapest, Hungary, from September 1 to November 30, 2026.
Organised by the Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA), the three-month programme aims to equip emerging leaders with deeper knowledge of foreign policy, international affairs and Hungary’s diplomatic priorities. Applications are open to candidates from all countries, and no application fee or English proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL is required.
Programme Details
The fellowship will be hosted at the HIIA headquarters in Budapest and offers participants an opportunity to conduct research, engage with foreign policy experts and develop leadership skills through specialised training and mentorship.
Key Highlights:
- Host Country: Hungary
- Location: Budapest
- Duration: 3 Months
- Programme Dates: September 1 – November 30, 2026
- Funding: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: June 30, 2026
Fully Funded Benefits
Selected participants will receive:
- Return international airfare
- Accommodation support
- Visa assistance
- Access to training sessions and research opportunities
- No application fee
Research and Learning Opportunities
Participants will work on research projects related to major global and regional issues, including:
- Western Balkans and Eastern Europe
- Transatlantic relations
- Middle East and Asia-Pacific affairs
- Security and energy policy
- Global geopolitics and multipolarity
- Cultural diplomacy
- International connectivity and cooperation
The programme also includes training in leadership, public speaking, media engagement and policy analysis, helping participants build skills relevant to careers in diplomacy, governance and international organisations.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be under 30 years of age
- Hold at least a bachelor's degree
- Demonstrate an interest in foreign policy and international affairs
Preferred academic backgrounds include:
- International Relations
- Political Science
- History
- International Economics
- Philosophy
- Related disciplines
Application Requirements
Candidates must submit:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover Letter
- Writing sample (3,000–5,000 characters)
Education experts say the programme offers a valuable opportunity for students and recent graduates seeking international exposure, policy research experience and professional networking in the field of global affairs.
HIIA Future Leaders Program 2026 in Hungary: Fully Funded International Leadership Opportunity Opens
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