The Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA) invites applications for its Future Leaders Program 2026, Fall Edition. This fully funded fellowship is open to international students and recent graduates passionate about foreign policy and international relations. The program will take place in Budapest, Hungary, from September 1 to November 30, 2026, offering participants a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and professional training in a dynamic environment.
Fellows will engage in research, participate in seminars, and collaborate with experts in the field, all while developing leadership and public speaking skills. If you are looking to advance your career in international affairs, this is an excellent opportunity to apply online and join a vibrant community of future leaders.
About the Future Leaders Program 2026
- Host Country: Hungary
- Host Organization: Hungarian Institute of International Affairs (HIIA)
- Duration: 3 months
- Dates: September 1, 2026 – November 30, 2026
- Benefits: Professional mentorship, research opportunities, seminars, leadership and media training, travel and accommodation support for international fellows
- Deadline: 30 June 2026
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Financial Benefits
- Three-month, fixed-term contract with gross financial compensation based on milestone achievements
- Participation in educational and professional development seminars
- Additional funding for international fellows without a Hungarian residence permit, including:
- Round-trip travel to Hungary
- Monthly financial support for accommodation costs
- Assistance with visa arrangements for international participants
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Program Theme
The Future Leaders Program focuses on key regional and thematic research areas in international relations and foreign policy. Fellows will contribute to research in topics such as:
- Regional Studies: Western Balkans, Eastern Europe, Visegrád cooperation, Transatlantic relations, Middle East, Turkic States, Asia-Pacific
- Thematic Studies: Security policy, European Union, Energy policy, Multipolarity, Global geopolitical issues, Connectivity, Cultural diplomacy
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Open to applicants from Hungary and abroad (international students welcome)
- Age: Applicants must be under 30 years old
- Background: Recent graduates with at least a bachelor’s degree in International Relations, Philosophy, Political Science, History, Diplomacy, or related fields (other relevant disciplines considered individually)
- Requirements:
- Strong interest in foreign policy and international affairs
- Fluency in English (minimum C1 level, proof required)
- Ability to commit to approximately 30 hours per week in-person at HIIA HQ in Budapest
- Submission of application documents in English: CV (max 2 pages), cover letter (max 1 page), writing sample (3000-5000 characters), and proof of English proficiency
- International fellows must arrange their own accommodation and obtain the necessary visa (HIIA provides assistance)
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How to Apply for the Future Leaders Program 2026?
To apply, visit the official HIIA website and complete the online application form. Be sure to upload all required documents in English. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews conducted by HIIA staff. For more details and to apply online, please refer to the official program page.
Yasir is currently a master’s student at Bilkent University on a fully funded scholarship. He has a strong passion for technology, innovation, and creating meaningful impact through digital platforms. Yasir’s goal is to make education more accessible by helping students discover global opportunities and take confident steps toward their future.