University of Debrecen
The University of Debrecen is one of Hungary’s largest universities, running foundation programmes that bridge students into full degree study rather than rejecting applicants who fall short of direct entry requirements.

Institution size
Very large
Min. CGPA floor
No fixed floor; foundation year available
Tuition / yr
€1.5k–€6k
Type
Public university
Key Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Debrecen, Hungary, Hungary |
| Type | Public university |
| Institution size | Very large |
| Rankings | Featured in QS/THE global rankings outside the top 800; one of Hungary’s largest and oldest universities. |
| Notable feature | Dedicated foundation programmes bridging students into full degree study |
| Official website | unideb.hu |
Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants
- Foundation-year and preparatory programmes available for applicants who do not meet direct entry requirements
- Direct entry requirements vary by faculty and programme
Tuition and Fees
| Item | Approximate Range |
|---|---|
| Tuition (non-medical programmes) | €1.5k–€6k per year |
| Foundation year | Additional cost and time; confirm current rate directly with the university |
| Living costs (Debrecen) | €400–€600 per month, below Budapest |
Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.
Programmes Offered
- Engineering
- Business and Economics
- Agricultural Sciences
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Medicine
- Pharmacy
- Dentistry
- Informatics
This list covers the primary subject areas available; it is not the full course catalogue. Confirm the complete, current list of programmes directly on the university’s official course finder.
Degree Levels Offered
- Diploma / Certificate: Offered
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Offered
- Postgraduate (Master’s / MSc / MA): Offered
- Doctorate (PhD): Offered
- Post-Doctoral Fellowship: Offered
- Short Courses: Offered
Availability of Short Courses and Post-Doctoral Fellowship positions can vary by department and is not always centrally advertised; confirm current openings directly with the relevant faculty.
Scholarships and Funding
- Stipendium Hungaricum available for eligible applicants, covering full tuition, a monthly stipend, and accommodation contribution
- Applications for Stipendium Hungaricum typically close in mid-January, well ahead of general admission deadlines
Application Process
- Confirm the specific CGPA, GPA, or classification requirement for the target programme directly with the admissions office
- Complete required English proficiency testing (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if applicable
- Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters or references, and a resume or CV
- Submit the application through the university’s official admissions portal and pay the application fee
- Await the admission decision and, once accepted, pay any required deposit
- Apply for the relevant student visa or study permit using the offer letter and financial documentation
Admission Outlook
Debrecen’s structured foundation programmes give students who fall short of direct entry a genuine, mainstream route into the same final degree, and Stipendium Hungaricum funding is genuinely worth pursuing given the university’s scale of participation.
Campus Life
Debrecen is Hungary’s second-largest city, offering living costs below Budapest with an established international student community.
International students generally have access to a dedicated international student office, orientation programming, and student clubs and societies. Housing options typically include on-campus or university-affiliated accommodation alongside private rental options; applicants should apply for housing as early as possible after accepting an offer, since availability varies by intake and city.
Other Essential Information
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Typical intakes | September is the primary intake for most programmes. |
| English language requirement | IELTS overall band 6.0 is typical, though many programmes waive this requirement for applicants with prior English-medium education. |
| Student visa type | Type D Visa, followed by a residence permit for the purpose of study |
| Post-study work options | Graduates may apply for a residence permit for job-seeking purposes, provided the intended role matches their qualification level. |
Official Resources
- University homepage: unideb.hu
Compare University of Debrecen against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.