The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has officially confirmed the test schedule for USAT and HAT, both of which are mandatory for students applying to the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship 2026. This announcement has come as a major update for thousands of Pakistani students preparing to apply for fully funded undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs in Hungary.
According to HEC, all applicants must submit valid USAT or HAT scores with their scholarship applications. Those who have not taken the exam earlier—or wish to improve their scores—can now appear in the special test session scheduled by ETC (Education Testing Council).
Registration Now Open Through ETC Portal
HEC has already opened registrations for the test through the official ETC portal. Students can apply online at:
Applicants must complete their profiles, upload required documents, and pay the test fee before submitting their forms. HEC has advised candidates to avoid last-minute submissions as the portal often experiences heavy traffic near the deadline.
Key Dates Announced by HEC
HEC has confirmed the following schedule for the Stipendium Hungaricum test session:
- Last date for registration: January 15, 2026
- Test date: February 1, 2026
- Test types:
- USAT for undergraduate applicants
- HAT for master’s and PhD applicants
These tests will be conducted across major cities in Pakistan, and admit cards will be issued online prior to the exam.
Why USAT and HAT Are Mandatory for the Scholarship
The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship requires applicants to submit standardized test scores to ensure academic readiness and fair evaluation.
What USAT Measures
- Analytical reasoning
- Quantitative skills
- Verbal and English comprehension
- Subject-related knowledge
What HAT Measures
- Research aptitude
- Logical and analytical reasoning
- Quantitative problem-solving
- Advanced verbal skills
These scores significantly impact the student’s overall competitiveness in the scholarship selection process.
Benefits of the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship
Every year, hundreds of Pakistani students opt for the Stipendium Hungaricum Programme due to its extensive benefits and global recognition.
Fully Funded Education
The scholarship covers complete tuition fees for selected academic programs.
Monthly Stipend & Accommodation
Students receive monthly financial support along with dormitory accommodation or housing allowance.
Access to Top Hungarian Universities
More than 30 participating institutions offer a variety of programs including engineering, medical sciences, IT, economics, humanities, agriculture, and social sciences.
International Exposure
Students gain global academic experience and confidence, improving their future career and research opportunities.
How to Register for the Test – Step-by-Step
Students applying for the Stipendium Hungaricum test session must follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the ETC Portal
Open etc.hec.gov.pk and sign in with your CNIC and password.
Step 2: Complete Registration Form
Fill out personal details, academic history, and test preference.
Step 3: Upload Documents
Upload a clear photograph, CNIC/B-form, and other required documents.
Step 4: Download Fee Challan
Print the bank challan and deposit the fee at the designated bank branch.
Step 5: Verify Payment
After fee verification, submit the form and keep checking the portal for the admit card.
HEC recommends completing all steps early to avoid delays or payment verification issues.
What Students Should Expect on Test Day
Students appearing for USAT or HAT should keep the following points in mind:
- Reach the test center at least one hour before the reporting time
- Bring original CNIC/B-Form and printed admit card
- Follow exam hall instructions strictly
- Avoid bringing mobile phones, calculators, or any electronic device
The test includes multiple-choice questions and may include a written component, depending on the category.
Tips to Score Better in USAT & HAT
To help students prepare effectively, here are some practical tips:
Revise Core Concepts
Focus on mathematics, analytical reasoning, and English comprehension.
Practice Past Papers
Understanding the format and difficulty level improves accuracy.
Take Timed Mock Tests
This helps improve speed and confidence.
Strengthen Vocabulary
Strong English skills can significantly boost verbal scores.
Why Early Registration Matters
HEC has strongly advised students to complete their registration early because:
- Payment verification can take time
- Last-minute server load may prevent form submission
- Students need sufficient time to prepare for the test
Applying early also ensures that students receive their admit cards on time without any complications.
Conclusion – Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship 2026
HEC’s confirmation of the test schedule for Stipendium Hungaricum 2026 applicants has provided clarity and direction to thousands of students preparing for this prestigious fully funded scholarship. With the registration deadline set for January 15, 2026, and the test scheduled for February 1, 2026, applicants now have a clear timeline to prepare and secure competitive scores.
Students are encouraged to begin registration immediately, prepare well for USAT or HAT, and stay updated through the ETC portal for further announcements.