Hungary has been undergoing a significant transformation of its higher education system since 2021, with public universities transitioning to foundation models managed by boards of trustees. This strategic shift aims to embed national values within universities and bolster their global competitiveness, drawing inspiration from successful models in Germany and the Netherlands. The "Universities 2030" program has set an ambitious goal: to have at least one Hungarian university ranked among the world's top 100 by 2030.
Current data from March 2025 indicates considerable progress, with twelve Hungarian institutions now positioned within the top 5% globally, three of which are in the top 2%, and Semmelweis University achieving a spot in the top 1%. Eötvös Loránd University (ELTE) has also seen a notable rise, climbing 36 places to 508th in the 2025 Centre for World University Rankings (CWUR), placing it in the top 2.4% of universities worldwide. This reform initiative has led to improved academic performance and a stronger international standing for Hungarian institutions, evidenced by increased student enrollment and a more robust global presence.
Despite these advancements, the reforms have attracted scrutiny from the European Union, which has expressed concerns regarding potential impacts on university autonomy due to the new governance structures. In December 2024, the EU maintained its decision to exclude most Hungarian universities from the Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe funding programs, citing ongoing rule of law issues. In response, Hungary has launched domestic alternatives such as the 'HU-rizont' and 'Pannonia' programs to support researchers and student mobility.
A notable instance within this reformed system is Balázs Orbán's PhD defense at Eötvös Loránd University in December 2024, where he received top honors for his dissertation on constitutional issues. While some critics raised concerns about potential political influence, the university affirmed its decision, stating no evidence of impropriety was found. This event highlights the ongoing discourse surrounding the integration of national values with academic pursuits.