The Faculty of Social Sciences at Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) has experienced an unprecedented surge in international interest over the past five years, reflecting the growing global appeal of its programs. Between 2021 and 2025, the number of applications from abroad more than tripled, rising from 520 to 1,791*. This remarkable growth underscores the Faculty’s position as a leading destination for students seeking high-quality social science focused education in the heart of the Central European region.

The increase spans all major categories of international applicants. Full stipend SH (Stipendium Hungaricum) Scholarship applications doubled, climbing from 294 in 2021 to 697 in 2025. Even more appealing is the growth in self-funded applications, which soared from 226 to 1,079—more than a fourfold increase. These figures highlight both the attractiveness of scholarship opportunities and the willingness of students to invest in ELTE Faculty of Social Sciences’ programs.

Undergraduate programs remain the primary entry point for international students. In 2025, International Studies dominated the rankings, attracting 1,084 Stipendium applicants and 441 self-funded applicants. Sociology and Applied Economics also drew significant interest, with hundreds of applications each. At the master’s level, International Studies again led the way, with 870 Stipendium applicants and 137 self-funded applicants. Programs in Survey Statistics and Data Analytics and Community and Civil Development Studies followed closely, reflecting a strong demand for analytical and socially engaged applied disciplines. Doctoral programs also saw steady growth, with Interdisciplinary Social Research emerging as the top choice among international candidates.

The diversity of applicants is remarkable: in 2025, the largest number of applications came from Bangladesh, China, and Azerbaijan. Other notable regions include Turkey, the Middle East, Africa, as well as the Americas, underscoring the Faculty’s global reach.

Applications are only part of the story—enrollments have also grown significantly. Between 2022 and 2025, the number of international students who freshly enrolled more than doubled, from 124 to 272. Stipendium enrollments rose from 76 to 117, while self-funded enrollments tripled, from 48 to 151.

China, Russia, Azerbaijan, and Turkey lead the list of countries with the highest enrollment numbers. The most popular programs among enrolled students mirror application trends: International Studies at both undergraduate and master’s levels, followed by Sociology and Applied Economics. Doctoral enrollments are strongest in Interdisciplinary Social Research.

The increase in international interest reflects not only the academic strength of ELTE’s Faculty of Social Sciences but also its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment. For parents considering options for their children, these numbers tell a clear story: ELTE Faculty of Social Sciences is becoming a multicultural and diverse hub for social science education.