Corvinus University is continuing its Illyés Gyula Programme, a one-year education and support scheme for motivated young people who have completed secondary school but, due to financial or family reasons, haven’t yet entered higher education or weren’t admitted to the university of their choice. The application deadline is 19 August, and applicants are not required to plan further studies specifically at Corvinus. 

There’s a way forward even if university admission didn’t work out this time: applicants can reapply for Corvinus University’s intensive talent support initiative, the Illyés Gyula Programme. The main goal of the programme is to give students the chance to focus entirely on learning and personal development for a full academic year. 

Participants receive tailored education over ten months, with 30 hours of weekly classes in English and mathematics as part of an international curriculum. In addition, the programme provides a monthly net grant of HUF 150,000, accommodation in a university dormitory, hot meals, a laptop, mobile and internet subscription, mentoring, a public transport pass, and travel expenses to return home. If participants later apply to Corvinus, they are eligible for the maximum 100 extra institutional admission points. 

To apply, candidates must be under 26 years old, have completed their secondary education (A-level equivalent), speak English at an intermediate (B1) level, hold Hungarian citizenship, and have parents or guardians without a university degree. It is an advantage—but not a requirement—if the applicant intends to apply to Corvinus later on. The programme welcomes applicants who haven’t yet entered higher education, as well as those who were admitted to a course or institution that doesn’t align with their goals and are open to changing direction. 

Applicants only need to submit a motivation letter and one reference letter from a teacher or representative of a civil organisation. 

“We encourage everyone who fits the criteria to apply and believe in themselves. And we also ask those around them to help spread the word—this opportunity still isn’t widely known. At Corvinus, we train some of the country’s most successful professionals in economics and social sciences, so we understand that facing setbacks doesn’t mean someone lacks talent. We want to offer a real chance to committed young people who haven’t been able to enter university. If they’re ready to make the most of this opportunity, they can gain a fresh start with us,” said Judit Nagy, Vice-Rector for Student Affairs at Corvinus. 

Applications can be submitted through a simple online form on the Corvinus website by 19 August. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for a personal interview, with travel costs covered by the university. Applicants will be informed of the results by email. The programme starts in early September 2025. 

For more information, visit the Corvinus website or contact illyesgyulaprogram@uni-corvinus.hu.