How a Pakistani Psychology Graduate Leveraged the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship to Earn an MSc in Psychology at the University of Pécs

I grew up in a family of writers, teachers, poets, artists, and headmasters, which instilled in me a growing curiosity for the world. As a Science student in O Levels, I initially aspired to pursue a career in medicine. However, I ultimately switched to Humanities and Social Sciences during my A Levels, after which there was no going back. Opting for History, Literature, Sociology, and Psychology, I realized that everything was ultimately rooted in a deep understanding of human nature. Writers like Kafka, Dickens, Brönte, and Doestivisky, and philosophers like Hypatia, Descartes, Voltaire, Nietzsche, and Marx all focused on the human psyche; thus, it was natural for me to opt for Psychology for my undergraduate studies. I gained a Bachelor of Science (Honors) in Psychology from one of the prestigious universities in Pakistan, Forman Christian College (FCCU), in 2023, graduating within the top 10% of my class.

Beyond academics, I was always very active in extracurriculars, gaining experience in various roles in 10+ student societies, most notably of which was serving as the International Service Project Chair at the Rotaract Club (affiliated with Rotary International). I also served as the Director of Crisis Management, Diversity and Inclusivity, Event Management, and Human Resources, all of which helped me use the knowledge I gained in my studies to the benefit of my fellow students. I also tried to take part in internships throughout the year, even trying things that were not completely related to my major, which gave me transferable skills. Additionally, I got involved in psychology-based internships during high school, which gave me the exposure I needed to make a clear decision about pursuing Psychology as a career. As a testament to my achievements, I was selected as the representative for Pakistan at the ASEF Young Leaders Summit, where I was one of 200 elected representatives out of thousands of applicants.

Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Details

I received the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship, which is funded by the Hungarian Government in partnership with the Tempus Public Foundation. It covers full tuition, accommodation, and health insurance, with a modest stipend that contributes towards general expenses.

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships?

After graduation, I received approximately 20 admission and scholarship offers, with some being:

1. 100% Tuition-free Merit Scholarship, TIAS Business School
2. Commonwealth Postgraduate Bursary, University of Liverpool
3. Vice Chancellor’s Postgraduate International Excellence Award, Brunel University
4. Merit Scholarship, Fenerbahce University
5. Merit Scholarship, University of Sheffield
6. Global Talent Scholarship, Queen Mary University of London
7. Global Superior Scholarship, Transylvania University
8. Iñigo scholarship, Saint Louis University
9. Hofstra University Provost Scholarship, Hofstra University
10. International Presidential Scholarship, University of Maine

How Did You Find Information About Scholarships and Institutions?

I began searching for scholarships during high school through Times and QS rankings, as well as various portals such as BachelorsPortals.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

I took the SAT, IELTS, HEC Higher Aptitude Test (HAT), NTS Graduate Assessment Test (GAT), and the GRE, scoring among the top 10-20% on all of them. The preparation for IELTS was mainly through self-study, and for NTS GAT, HAT, GRE, and SAT, I went through past papers, official resources, and took time to understand the format thoroughly.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Scholarship?

The main thing is your resume and personal statement. I wrote multiple drafts and consulted with Admissions representatives of my target universities to make sure that the essay fit all requirements. Finally, I made sure to keep all required and supplementary documents handy.

How Is (was) Your Experience at the Institution?

Being an international student at the University of Pécs is fulfilling, and there is never a dull moment. Within the first week, I had made friends from all over the world, and I even began learning new languages. Apart from some adjustment complications, it has been a smooth ride!

How Do You Rate the Institution Academically and Why?

The University of Pécs is one of the most prestigious institutions in Hungary, and the Psychology department is highly ranked. Academically, the institution is doing well, and the courses are quite interesting, with a wide range (from swimming and yoga to Chinese medicine), and most professors do their best to accommodate international students!

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or the Country’s Native Language?

My classes are conducted in English as the program itself is in English. However, many other programs are in Hungarian as well.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically, Not Knowing the Native Language of the Country?

No, although if there is a research course with field work, they might find themselves in uncharted waters and would have to rely on Hungarian classmates to communicate and translate.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

My resume, which took time to build, was quite strong, and I wrote a unique, sincere SOP without using AI, which I think was what stood out. Every story is unique, and if you have the courage to tell it, it can go a long way!

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

1. Do Your Research! Go through the program details, check out the university (you can even use Google for a campus tour!) and the accommodation. It also helps to research the country itself (cuisine, language, grocery prices, etc).
2. Connect With Your Existing Professors! To get the best references, you need to connect with the professors you have made a good rapport with, or those you know make an effort to help every student. Be clear about the requirements of the letters and make sure to request them at least 3 months prior!
3. Network! Make use of Facebook groups of aspirants and alumni to connect with the people who are already there and can guide you, especially if they are from your country, since you will feel quite homesick in the early days.
4. Save Up! A fully funded scholarship doesn’t mean that some extra money won’t be needed! Studying abroad means that there will always be something for you to do, and you will need money to do it, so it’s better if you start saving up!
5. Don't Use AI In Applications! As tempting as it is, using AI to write SOPs will most likely end in rejection. It can’t capture the essence of who you are and how your experiences affected you. Only you can tell your story.
6. Bring Your Traditional Spices! If you are from a South Asian, Middle Eastern or any other spice-rich country, you will probably find most Central European food to not be flavorful enough. Many students struggle with this and end up eating unhealthy meals. It always helps to bring a few spices (whole/powdered) from home because you will miss them!