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Frequently Asked Questions
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Does the University of Debrecen accept transfer credits?Yes. The faculty shall recognize the credits acquired by its students in a different domestic or foreign higher education institution based on inter-institutional credit equivalence agreements, individual student contracts, or legislation on credit equivalency. The extent to which two curricula are similar is determined by a faculty-level Sub-Committee for Educational Matters and Credit Transfer.
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Can the exam be taken online?If the applicant cannot travel to Hungary or to one of the exam sites abroad, an online exam is available. This is usually organized via Zoom or Skype.
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How can I know if I am eligible to apply for a certain study program?You can check the application requirements on the page of each study program. General requirements: A high school certificate (successful completion of grade 12, ultimate grade of high school, and passing the final exam) is required to apply for bachelor's degree programs. A relevant bachelor's degree certificate is required to apply for master's programs. A relevant master's degree certificate is required to apply for doctoral (PhD) programs.
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Is formal clothing required for the exam/interview?Business casual is fine.
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How long does the admissions process take?In general, after your application is complete and submitted properly, one of the admission coordinators will get in touch with you or your representative within a few days. Freshman applicants (those who apply to the first year of a program) need to take an entrance exam or interview. The date of the exam/interview is set through email communication with the applicant or their representative. The results of the exam/interview are announced within 1-2 days after the exam. Applicants with credit transfer: it may take several weeks until the responsible committee finishes the procedure regularly conducted in these cases.
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How early should a student apply? What is the application deadline?Application deadlines differ based on which program you are interested in: September intake for doctoral programs: 15th May September intake for all other programs: 15th June January BMC: 1 November February intake for all other programs: 15th November February intake for other non-medical programs: 30th November However, to avoid any missed deadlines, we strongly encourage prospective students to submit their applications at their earliest convenience.
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Do you accept exams such as SAT?Taking an exam such as the SAT does not exempt you from taking our entrance exam/interview.
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What is the next step after the entrance exam?You have to pay your seat reservation fee or full tuition fee stated in your Letter of Acceptance. In case you need a visa to enter Hungary, you will receive the visa supporting documents (original Letter of Acceptance, visa support letter, health insurance copy) from the University upon receipt of the full tuition fee, and you can start arranging your visa. Do not forget to take care of your flight and accommodation.
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I am a final year student at my high school/university. Can I apply for a degree program before my graduation?Yes, absolutely. In this case, you still need to fill in the name of your school/university and your expected graduation date in the application form. You can apply during the final year of your current level of education with the following documents: your transcripts (end-of-year reports) of the last 2-3 academic years, predicted grades and/or expected graduation certificate. You will have to present your original high school/bachelor/master degree certificate at registration.
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Is the entrance exam for medical programs compulsory?Yes, the entrance examination is compulsory for everyone applying for the following courses: Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Basic Medicine Course.
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Do I have to submit letters of reference?To apply for bachelor's or master's programs, applicants will not need letters of reference. However, if you submit your application for a doctoral program (excluding the medical programs), you must present two letters of recommendation from your former professors.
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How can I submit an application?You can submit your application online via our application platform. You will have to enter your personal and contact data, and information about your current studies. You will also need to submit several documents, such as a passport, school documents, a short CV, and a bank receipt of the application fee, depending on the level of education and the chosen program.
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What is an entrance interview?An entrance interview is compulsory for those who apply for bachelor's and master's programs in the medical and health fields (for example, Public Health BSc and MSc, Physiotherapy BSc, Nursing BSc, Molecular Biology MSc, Social Work MA and MSc) and for certain non-medical programs as well (e.g., Engineering master's programs). Bachelor and master applicants can expect questions about their motivation, future plans, and previous education. Master applicants will also receive relevant scientific questions regarding their professional background and experience. Communication skills and level of English are also assessed. For transfer students, the entrance interview contains scientific questions as well to ascertain the applicant’s knowledge certified in the transcripts.
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What to expect from the entrance examination?Medical Programs: Biology is compulsory, and you may choose between Chemistry or Physics as the second subject. The entrance exam consists of two parts: Written Part: The exam paper includes multiple-choice questions, definitions, and calculations. Allowed time: 50 minutes per subject. The online exam schedule may vary. Oral Part: Students are interviewed one by one by an exam committee. The decision is announced immediately after the oral exam, and you will receive your Letter of Acceptance. Non-Medical Programs: The entrance exam consists of two parts: Written Part: Test in English, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and Geography (depending on the chosen program). Oral Part: The subjects are the same as above; students present themselves one by one to the committee. The results are announced immediately after the oral exam.
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When am I expected to pay tuition for the school year? How do I pay it?In case you need a visa to enter Hungary, the total yearly tuition fee must be paid after receiving the Letter of Acceptance (for September intake, by July 15th; for the Spring intake, by November 15th). The University of Debrecen can furnish you with the visa supporting documents only when the fee has been paid. For Medicine programs: You should secure your place by paying the seat reservation fee defined in your Letter of Acceptance within two weeks. We cannot guarantee the seats for students paying after the deadline. If you can enter Hungary without a visa, the rest of the tuition fee can be paid in two installments – 1st semester: before registration, 2nd semester: until March 31st. Students paying the full yearly tuition fee in one installment before registering for the first semester will get a discount. For non-medical programs: The rest of the tuition fee should be paid in full before registration. Payments are accepted in the form of Bank Transfers. Cheques and cash payments are not accepted. All bank expenses should be paid by the applicant.
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How do students apply for financial aid?On this particular matter, you can find detailed information under Scholarships section.
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How do students apply for scholarships?On this particular matter, you can find detailed information under Scholarships section.
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Can I get a discount from the tuition fee?From the 2nd year of their full-time studies onwards, registered full-time students who achieved a 4.0 grade average or higher in each of the previous consecutive 2 semesters on their current program and completed at least 20 credits/semester may be eligible for the tuition fee reduction. Please note that the 'SCHOLARSHIP INDEX = STIPEND INDEX = ÖSZTÖNDÍJ INDEX' will be considered to calculate the results of the grade average.
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What are the tuition costs and is financial aid available?Tuition fees vary based on the program you apply for. The lowest-priced programs cost 5,500 USD/year, while the most expensive ones are around 17,000 USD/year. For further information, please visit the Tuition fee section. Several scholarships are available at UD; please see under Scholarships section.
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Can I apply for Erasmus?Yes, in general, you may. Please contact: Nemzetközi Iroda. Please keep in mind that you still need to pay your tuition fee during your exchange program.
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Can I pay the tuition fee in installments?First-year students cannot request partial payment because they need the bank statement of the bank transfer/confirmation from the university for their visa. From the 2nd year on, students may pay their tuition fee in two installments upon request.
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How and when can I register for a semester?New students’ registration is coordinated by the Coordinating Center for International Education, where you need to present yourself in person within two weeks of Orientation. Admitted students receive an email about the registration procedure in a timely manner (usually in July or early August), and this information is also published on Freshman Information Section. Make sure you check it regularly. Certain parts of the registration process happen online (for example, data updates). However, to establish your student status, you have to complete your registration process in person.
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How can I register for subjects?Registering for subjects/classes can be done in the University’s online academic database called NEPTUN. For new students of medical and health programs (only for the very first semester), your registration is completed by the Registrar’s Office. From your second semester onwards, you will have to register yourself; however, you will get assistance from the appropriate university staff. As a non-medical student, you will have to register yourself. Only the registration of foundation students will be completed by the Faculty Coordinator.
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How can I get health insurance? Do I have to pay for it?The insurance is included in your tuition fee. You will receive the contract and the online insurance card during registration. For additional information please visit the Health Insurance section.
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Is there mental health counselling available for international students?Yes, the University provides mental health counseling for its international students if needed.
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Where can I go in case of a health problem?The university GP's office is located at the Main Campus (physical address 1 Egyetem tér, Debrecen), in the building right behind the Coordinating Center for International Education – side entrance of Kossuth Dormitory III, ground floor. Office hours are Monday- Friday, 08:00-16:00. The telephone number for requesting an appointment: +36 30 227 8604 or +36 30 227 8601
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What is the medical examination? Where and when does it take place? Do I have to pay for it?The medical check-up is compulsory for all new students arriving at the University, furthermore, it needs to be repeated according to the requirements of different practices. The examination includes the following tests: blood test, HIV, anti-HCV, HBsAg, Anti HBs, measles, a chest X-ray, and physical examination. You will receive the necessary documents and appointments during registration. The fee for the medical check-up is included in your tuition fee. The doctor’s office is on campus, right in front of the Coordinating Center for International Education.
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What is the difference between Unipass and Student card?The Unipass card is issued by UD for the university community (students and employees) and provides privileges in local services, as well as access to certain services. It also serves as your library card at UD. The student card, however, is issued by the government; it proves that you are a student and is accepted everywhere in Hungary (and for certain services in Europe). Students mostly use it to enjoy discounts on public transportation or cinema tickets.
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How can I get a brochure?You may download brochures from our webpage.
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What is the Student card for?The student card is a nationally unified ID for students, which proves active student status. The student card is valid with a valid semester sticker. A valid student card entitles you to discounts on public transportation, in certain museums, swimming pools, and other services. It is also required for student work. Additionally, it functions as a European Youth Card, so before you travel to another European country, you can check where it is accepted.
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What is the Unipass card for?The Unipass card is a privilege card for the members of the University of Debrecen. It is used for identification in certain buildings of the university, as a dormitory pass, library card, and discount card. For further information, please visit Unipass.
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How to get around on campus?We have a useful little map for you to use when you first arrive.
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How can I contact UD? Where can I find you on social media?E-mail: pericia@reps.unideb.hu Phone: +974 33120030 Whatsapp: +20 1274446885 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universityofdebrecenadmission Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unideb.admission
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At which university campus/city will I study/attend classes?The University of Debrecen has several campuses, some in nearby cities. UD has several campuses outside the city of Debrecen, so please check the location of your program carefully. Most campuses and study programs are based in Debrecen. Some programs of the Faculty of Health Sciences are based in Nyíregyháza; these are: Nursing BSc, Social Work in Health Care MSc, Social Work, and Social Economy MA. The Kindergarten Education BA program is based in Hajdúböszörmény.
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How long has the University of Debrecen been around? Is it accredited?The University was officially founded in 1912, but considering its predecessors, it has been around since 1538. The University conducts its programs according to the European Qualifications Framework of the Bologna Process. Thus, diplomas attained at the University of Debrecen are generally accepted in the countries of the European Union. Moreover, all our programs are accredited by the Hungarian Accreditation Board, which is part of the European Accreditation Board. Medical programs are accredited by the World Health Organization (WHO), the State Education Department (NY, USA), the Medical Board of California, the General Medicine Council, and the Medical Councils of India (a qualifying exam is compulsory), Israel, Ireland, Iran, Norway, and the United Arab Emirates. Engineering programs are recognized by FEANI, or Fédération Européenne d'Associations Nationales d'Ingénieurs (i.e., European Federation of National Engineering Associations), and can be found in the European Engineering Education Database (EEED).
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Are any degree programs offered online?The University of Debrecen does not offer online courses or distance education; thus, all courses are held on-campus.
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Do I need to bring a computer with me to Hungary? Can I buy one there?We strongly recommend bringing a computer with you or buying one on the spot, as the registration procedure and several study-related tasks do require one. There are a great deal of shops and malls in Debrecen where you can purchase a laptop or PC that suits you best; however, most of them are designed for Hungarian language users.
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What arrangements do I need to make before arriving in Hungary?If you are already admitted, please read your acceptance letter carefully for all necessary information. Make sure you regularly check the Freshman Information section for dates and useful tips. Here, you can also sign up for an extremely useful Checklist. If you are from a visa-bound country, you will have to apply for a student visa at the nearest Hungarian Embassy. The university can only issue the necessary visa-supporting letter upon receipt of your full tuition fee. Start looking for accommodation as early as you can! Contact Troubleshooter
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Will the University of Debrecen provide accommodation for its students?Students have to organize their own accommodations. Debrecen is a popular university town, and many new students and expats arrive every year. Therefore, it can be difficult and time-consuming to find accommodation. It is vital that you start looking for a place to live as early as possible. We strongly suggest you have your accommodation booked before you arrive in Debrecen. Finding a place to live after your arrival in September can be extremely challenging. Our office, called Troubleshooter, can help you find a place to rent in Debrecen, as well as assist with other practical issues. You can contact them at troubleshooter@edu.unideb.hu. For further information, please visit the Accommodation section.
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What is the first thing I should do after I arrive in Debrecen?The first school-related duty is to be present at the Orientation: exact date, time, and place will be announced in Freshman Information Section. The Orientation is an event for newcomers where you will receive all necessary information and documents regarding the start of school: registration tasks, timetable, immigration and residence permit duties, medical examinations, student card, subject registration, etc. For leisure activities in Debrecen please check Leisure Time section.
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How can I earn money while enrolled in a university program?Students can work up to 30 hours/week with a student visa. More information about student jobs can be found in this link.
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I have dietary restrictions; how will I get by?There are many options both on campus and in town for all with food allergies and other dietary restrictions (vegetarians, vegans, halal, kosher options, etc.). You may have a look at various food delivery apps available in Hungary!
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