HEC Opens USAT & HAT Registrations for Stipendium Hungaricum 2026
The Higher Education Commission (HEC) has officially opened registrations for the special USAT and HAT tests required for the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship 2026. This special session has been arranged to help Pakistani students complete their scholarship applications with valid, updated test scores.
The Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship is one of the most competitive and fully funded programs offered by the Government of Hungary in collaboration with HEC. Each year, hundreds of Pakistani students apply for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD studies under this prestigious initiative. The updated test schedule is seen as a major relief for candidates who could not attempt earlier test cycles or want to improve their previous scores.
Registrations Start December 8 Through ETC Portal
HEC has confirmed that the online registration process begins on December 8, 2025. All students must register through the Education Testing Council (ETC) portal using the official link:
Applicants must create an ETC profile, upload accurate personal details, and complete the online form. HEC advises students to log in early to avoid delays or last-minute technical issues.
Registration Deadline and Test Date Announced
The commission has shared the official timeline for the special test session:
- Registration deadline: January 15, 2026
- Test date: February 1, 2026
- Test type: USAT (for undergraduate applicants) and HAT (for master’s & PhD applicants)
The tests will be held in major cities across Pakistan under standard ETC guidelines. Admit cards will be issued shortly before the exam.
Why These Tests Are Mandatory for the Hungary Scholarship
HEC has made it clear that no applicant will be considered for the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship without valid USAT or HAT scores. The requirement helps standardize the selection process and ensures that only deserving students proceed to the next stage.
Purpose of USAT
The Undergraduate Studies Admission Test (USAT) evaluates:
- Quantitative reasoning
- Verbal skills
- Logical and analytical thinking
- Subject knowledge (depending on test category)
Purpose of HAT
The Higher Education Aptitude Test (HAT) measures:
- Analytical reasoning
- Quantitative problem-solving
- Verbal reasoning
- Academic competency for higher studies
These tests play a key role in determining a student’s readiness for international academic programs.
Who Should Appear in This Special Session?
This session is ideal for:
Students who have not taken USAT or HAT before
Many candidates applying for the Hungary scholarship missed previous test windows due to exam schedules, travel, or other reasons.
Students who want to improve their scores
A better score increases the chances of selection, especially for competitive fields like engineering, medicine, and social sciences.
Students whose previous scores have expired
The scholarship requires current, valid test scores. Older results may not be accepted.
How to Register on the ETC Portal
HEC has shared a simple process for applying to the test:
Step 1: Visit the ETC Portal
Go to etc.hec.gov.pk and sign in with your CNIC and mobile number.
Step 2: Complete Your Profile
Fill in personal details, academic records, and contact information.
Step 3: Choose Your Test Category
Select either USAT or HAT, depending on your scholarship level.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
- Recent photograph
- CNIC/B-form
- Academic certificates (if required)
Step 5: Generate and Pay the Fee
Download the fee challan and submit it at designated bank branches.
Step 6: Verify Payment and Submit Application
After payment verification, submit the final application before the deadline.
HEC encourages applicants not to wait until the last day, as the ETC portal often gets overloaded close to deadlines.
Why the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship is Highly Popular
The Stipendium Hungaricum Programme is one of the top international study opportunities for Pakistani students due to its benefits, including:
Fully Funded Education
The scholarship covers 100% tuition fees for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD studies.
Monthly Stipend
Students receive a monthly allowance to support their living expenses in Hungary.
Accommodation Support
Free dormitory stay or financial assistance is provided.
Medical Insurance
Scholarship holders are covered under the Hungarian health insurance system.
Wide Range of Fields
Students can choose from fields such as engineering, IT, medicine, natural sciences, humanities, economics, agriculture, arts, and more.
Because of its comprehensive coverage, thousands of students apply each year, making the test requirement even more important.
What Students Should Expect on Test Day
HEC has shared several guidelines to help students prepare for test day:
- Arrive at the test center at least one hour early
- Bring a printed admit card and original CNIC/B-Form
- Follow all exam hall instructions
- Do not bring mobile phones or electronic devices
Test results will be made available after evaluation, and students can use the scores directly in their Stipendium Hungaricum application.
Tips for Scoring High in USAT & HAT
Students planning to attempt the test should consider the following tips:
Practice Past Papers
HEC’s past papers are available online and help students understand pattern and difficulty level.
Strengthen English Skills
Verbal reasoning and reading comprehension make up a big part of the test.
Improve Analytical Thinking
Logical puzzles and quantitative reasoning require quick, accurate solutions.
Take Mock Tests
Timed practice helps students manage pressure and improve speed.
The key to success is consistent preparation and familiarity with the exam format.
Final Thoughts – HEC Opens USAT HAT Registrations Stipendium Hungaricum 2026
HEC’s decision to open a special USAT and HAT registration session for Stipendium Hungaricum 2026 applicants is a welcome step for students across Pakistan. With registrations starting on December 8, 2025, and the test scheduled for February 1, 2026, candidates now have a clear timeline to prepare and submit their applications confidently.
Students are strongly advised to register before January 15, 2026, to avoid last-minute delays or technical problems.
