The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), in partnership with the Hungarian Government, is now accepting applications for the FAO-Hungarian Government Scholarship Program 2025-26. This prestigious program offers a Master of Science degree in English at the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences. The scholarship is designed to prepare food safety and quality engineers at a master’s level, equipping them with advanced skills in microbiology, toxicology, molecular biology, and analytical chemistry. Graduates will be trained to ensure high-quality food production and distribution that meets nutritional standards.

Available Master’s Programs (2025-2026 Academic Year)

1. Master in Aquaculture
   • Institution: Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences
   • Campus: Szent István Campus, Gödöllő
2. Master in Animal Husbandry Engineering
   • Institution: University of Debrecen
   • Faculty: Agricultural and Food Sciences and Environmental Management
   • Location: Debrecen

Key Details

• Organizers: FAO and the Hungarian Government
• Funding Entity: Hungarian Government
• Host University: Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences
• Campus: Buda Campus, Budapest
• Program Start Date: September 2025
• Program Duration: 22 months (4 semesters)
• Total Credits: 120
• Application Deadline: February 28, 2025
• Eligible Countries: Applicants must be citizens of the following nations: Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Angola, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Bangladesh, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, North Macedonia, Madagascar, Mali, Myanmar, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Namibia, Nigeria, North Korea, Palestine, Philippines, Cabo Verde, Serbia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, and Yemen.

Scholarship Benefits

The scholarship covers:

• Application and tuition fees for the entire program.
• Access to basic books and study materials.
• Dormitory accommodations.
• Living expenses.
• Comprehensive health insurance.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Be a citizen of one of the eligible countries.
2. Demonstrate English proficiency (minimum C1 level).
3. Hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, along with academic transcripts (minimum of 60 credits in subjects related to the host institution’s Food Engineering BSc program).
4. Be under the age of 30 (preferred).
5. Be motivated and in good health.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents in English:

• Completed Application Form .
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Copy of high school or college diploma and transcripts.
• English proficiency certificate.
• Copy of a valid passport (showing expiration date and number).
• Recommendation letter.
• Motivation statement.
• Health certificate verified by a medical professional.
• Good conduct certificate issued by a local police authority.

Note: All documents must be in English. Translations must be certified by a competent officer. Files should be named to reflect their contents clearly.

Selection Process

The selection process involves two stages:

1. Phase 1:
   • The FAO screens applications and forwards eligible candidates to the Hungarian Ministry of Agriculture.
   • The Ministry submits applications to the host universities for review.
   • Incomplete applications will be rejected.
2. Phase 2:
   • Shortlisted candidates may undergo a written or oral English exam.
   • Final selections will be made by the host university, with no involvement from the FAO.
   • The Hungarian Ministry of Agriculture will notify selected candidates.

Selection Criteria

• Citizenship and residency in an eligible country.
• Academic excellence.
• English proficiency.
• Motivation and health status.
• Preference for candidates under 30 years of age.

Important Notes

• Adhere strictly to any pandemic-related regulations.
• Previous applicants may reapply but must submit a new application package.
• Scholarships are non-transferable and non-deferrable.
• Programs will commence only if sufficient applications are received.
• Selected students must sign a Scholarship Study Contract with the Hungarian Ministry of Agriculture upon enrollment.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates should submit their application documents via email to [email protected].

For additional details, visit the official announcement or email inquiries directly.