The University of Szeged has taken a major step in expanding its international presence with the opening of the Szeged International College, a joint training center established with Shaanxi Normal University in Xi’an, China. More than 350 Chinese students were welcomed at the opening ceremony for the new academic year in late September, marking a major milestone for a joint education model that is unique in higher education cooperation between Hungary and China.

The University of Szeged’s Faculty of Engineering has expanded its robotics capabilities with high-tech equipment acquired in close collaboration with SZTE’s Center of Excellence for Interdisciplinary Research, Development, and Innovation (IKIKK). The new Unitree G1 humanoid robot and Unitree Go2 robotic dog will enrich hands-on engineering education and strengthen research and development activities across SZTE, further enhancing the University’s international competitiveness.

The University of Szeged has strengthened its position among the world’s leading universities for sustainability, rising to 34th place in the latest UI GreenMetric World University Rankings. SZTE now ranks among Europe’s top 20 universities and third in Eastern Europe. Its sustainability efforts have also earned special recognition, with the University named the most active Hungarian member of the international UI GreenMetric network.

The University of Szeged’s 30th Autumn Cultural Festival starts on Thursday, October 1, with the opening of an exhibition of paintings by Ferenc Pataki, followed by a light show and concerts. Organized by the SZTE Cultural Office, the two-month festival will feature 350 events across 80 venues.

More than a century after his birth, Albert Szent-Györgyi remains one of the most influential figures in the University of Szeged’s academic and intellectual legacy. His enduring connection to the University was celebrated once again on September 16, 2026, at a commemoration honoring the Nobel laureate and former Rector. Speakers looked back on his years in Szeged and reflected on his lasting contribution to the University’s intellectual life, before the ceremony concluded with a tribute unmistakably associated with his name: a wreath of paprika peppers laid at his full-length statue.

The 2026 ROTAX MAX Challenge Euro Trophy, which brings together some of Europe’s best kart racers, came to a thrilling season finale at the Steel Ring in the Czech Republic. For Ádám Szabó, a mechanical engineering student at the University of Szeged (SZTE), it proved to be a weekend to remember. Competing in the championship’s top-tier, all-electric ROTAX E20 category, Ádám delivered a flawless performance to claim the biggest victory of his career so far. And there was more at stake than the trophy: the win also secured his place among the world’s best at the ROTAX MAX Grand Finals this November.

The University of Szeged has reached a major new milestone in its collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO): the Cluster for Third Mission Developments within the University’s Centre of Excellence for Interdisciplinary Research, Development and Innovation (IKIKK) has been designated a WHO Collaborating Centre for Public Health Innovation (HUN-33). This designation marks an important step forward in the partnership between the two organizations and further strengthens the University of Szeged’s international role in public health innovation.

The University of Szeged has once again earned recognition on the global academic stage, ranking among the world’s best universities in five fields in the latest ShanghaiRanking subject rankings. SZTE ranks among the world’s top 300 in Human Biological Sciences, Clinical Medicine, and Dentistry & Oral Sciences, while taking the top spot in Hungary in Human Biological Sciences. The University also achieved notable international and national results in Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences and Education, underscoring the breadth of its academic and research excellence.

More than 1,500 international students began their academic journey at the University of Szeged with four action-packed days of discovery, connection, and practical guidance. From information sessions and cultural programs to team-building activities, a library tour, and even a tram party, Orientation Days gave newcomers an engaging introduction to university life in Szeged. Organized by the Directorate for International Affairs and Public Relations from September 1 to 4, the program helped students navigate their new environment, meet new people, and begin exploring both the University and the city they will now call home.