Young Hungarians participating in voluntary basic military training can obtain additional points for admission to higher education institutions, as well as a special allowance, said Hungarian Defense Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky, according to Hirado.

The main goal remains to encourage as many young people as possible to join the Hungarian Armed Forces, which today represent a professional military force of the 21st century, equipped with modern combat systems, says the official from Budapest.

"Those who enroll in the program can be members of a brave, high-tech team, prepared and capable of defending the homeland", the minister maintains.

According to him, upon completion of training within the Hungarian Voluntary Military Service (ÖKSZ), participants can earn up to 64 points for admission to higher education institutions in the following year, while also taking part in a challenge and earning some money.

The program began on March 11, 2024

Additionally, participants can decide during training whether they want to become contract soldiers or continue their studies or civilian work and become reservists.

Upon completion of the 6-month basic training, participants will receive an additional 16 points and an allowance corresponding to the current minimum wage, while in the case of special professional training, 32 additional points and the guaranteed minimum salary will be granted.

The minimum wage in Hungary is 709 euros, respectively 860 euros per month for university graduates.

After six months, the ÖKSZ program can be continued for another six months, and those who do so will be able to earn an additional 64 points. The training program started on March 11.