Moving to a new country for your studies is exciting, but it is also important to understand how the healthcare system works. The University of Debrecen provides healthcare services and support to help international students stay healthy throughout their studies.

All international students must have valid health insurance while studying in Hungary. Health insurance is required by Hungarian authorities and is a condition for semester registration during your entire study period. The process of getting health insurance depends on your student status. Fee-paying students receive University-provided health insurance, while Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship holders use the Hungarian social security system after obtaining a Social Security (TAJ) number.

In this guide, you will learn about health insurance requirements, healthcare services, emergency medical care, mental health support, and where to get medical help during your studies at the University of Debrecen.

Health Insurance Requirements for International Students

Having valid health insurance is one of the first requirements for studying at the University of Debrecen. It ensures that students can access healthcare services when needed and meet the legal requirements for living and studying in Hungary.

Why Is Health Insurance Mandatory?

Health insurance is required by Hungarian authorities for all international students. It is also a requirement for semester registration and must remain valid throughout your studies at the University of Debrecen.

First aid and emergency medical care are provided free of charge for foreigners. However, in other medical situations, students must pay for treatment unless they have valid health insurance. Having the right insurance helps students access medical services while studying in Hungary.

Health Insurance for Fee-Paying Students

The University of Debrecen provides compulsory health insurance for fee-paying international students. This combined health and travel insurance is included in the tuition fee, so students do not need to purchase a separate policy before arriving.

The insurance covers emergency medical treatment throughout Hungary. For non-emergency healthcare, students receive treatment through the University's medical services and University doctors.

Students who need a student visa also receive their insurance contract together with their visa documents. This document can be used during the visa application process. After arriving in Hungary, fee-paying students are also required to complete a medical check-up.

Health Insurance for Stipendium Hungaricum Students

Getting a TAJ Number

Students who receive the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship follow a different process to access healthcare in Hungary. Instead of the University's insurance, they use the Hungarian social security system after obtaining a valid Hungarian Social Security (TAJ) number.

A TAJ number is the Hungarian Social Security number. It allows Stipendium Hungaricum students to use the Hungarian public healthcare system.

Students should apply for a TAJ number during registration or as soon as they have all the required documents. The University of Debrecen helps students with the application process. To receive a TAJ number and card, students must complete the required forms and submit copies of all necessary documents.

Required Documents

Students need the following documents to apply for a TAJ number and card:

The first application can usually be completed during the student's first personal registration at the University.

Applying in Person

Students can also apply for a TAJ card in person at the National Health Insurance Fund office in Debrecen. Applying in person may help students receive their card more quickly. Future card renewals can also be completed at the same office. Students who apply in person must bring the original copies of all required documents.

Where to Get Medical Care

The University of Debrecen provides medical services to help students receive healthcare quickly and easily. Students should visit the University GP first for most health concerns.

University GP Office

The University's GP office is located at 1 Egyetem Square, 4032 Debrecen, on the ground floor of Kossuth Dormitory III, behind the Coordinating Center for International Education.

The office is open from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Students are cared for by Dr. Ágnes Bertók, Dr. Viktor Rekenyi, and Dr. Csongor Szepesi.

Students should call and book an appointment before visiting the GP office. In urgent situations, an appointment is not required, and students can visit the office as soon as possible.

Specialist Care

If further medical treatment is needed, the University GP will refer students to a specialist at the University of Debrecen Clinical Center. This ensures that students receive the appropriate medical care based on their condition.

Emergency Medical Services

Medical emergencies can happen at any time. The University of Debrecen provides access to emergency healthcare both during and outside normal office hours.

Students should call 104 if they need an ambulance.

Outside the GP office's opening hours and during weekends, students can receive medical care at the Gastroenterology Clinic.

Emergency treatment is also available 24 hours a day at the Traumatology Department of Kenézy Gyula Hospital in Debrecen.

Pharmacies in Debrecen

Buying medicine in Debrecen is simple. Pharmacies are called Gyógyszertár or Patika in Hungarian. They are located throughout the city, including near the city centre, supermarkets, and the University's main campus.

Most pharmacies are open until 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM on weekdays, although opening hours may vary.

Students can also buy basic medicines, such as pain relievers, from stores like DM and Rossmann.

Mental Health Support for International Students

The University of Debrecen understands that studying abroad can sometimes be challenging. To support student well-being, the University offers mental health counselling for international students through its Mental Health Centre.

DEMEK Mental Health Counselling

International students can receive professional mental health support through DEMEK. The service includes one introductory session followed by four counselling sessions.

The first meeting focuses on understanding the student's concerns and identifying the main issue. The remaining sessions provide support for challenges such as family and relationship problems, conflicts, adaptation to a new environment, and other personal difficulties.

The counselling service is not an emergency service. Students who need emergency medical care should visit the emergency department.

How to Book an Appointment

Students can learn more about the counselling service on the DEMEK website.

Appointments can be booked through the University's online appointment system.

Students can also contact the team by email at mentalconsult@unideb.hu for more information.

Tips for Staying Healthy During Your Studies

Taking a few simple steps can help you stay healthy and make it easier to access medical care while studying at the University of Debrecen.

Conclusion

The University of Debrecen provides comprehensive healthcare support for international students. Whether you are a fee-paying student or a Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship holder, you can access healthcare services by following the required registration process. From GP services and specialist care to emergency treatment and mental health counselling, the University offers a strong support system to help students stay healthy throughout their studies.

To make your transition to Hungary easier, complete your health insurance and healthcare registration as early as possible after your arrival. This will help you access medical services whenever you need them.

If you would like to learn more about studying at the University of Debrecen or preparing for student life in Hungary, contact the University of Debrecen South Asia Regional Office. Our team can guide you through admissions, student services, and every step of your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is health insurance mandatory for international students in Hungary?

Yes. Hungarian authorities require all international students to have valid health insurance. It is also required for semester registration throughout your studies.

What health insurance do fee-paying students receive?

Fee-paying students receive compulsory combined health and travel insurance provided by the University of Debrecen. The cost is included in the tuition fee.

What is a TAJ number?

A TAJ number is the Hungarian Social Security number. It allows eligible students, including Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship holders, to use the Hungarian public healthcare system.

How do Stipendium Hungaricum students get health insurance?

Stipendium Hungaricum students apply for a TAJ number by submitting the required documents during or after registration. The University helps students with the application process.

Where is the University GP office located?

The GP office is located at 1 Egyetem Square, 4032 Debrecen, on the ground floor of Kossuth Dormitory III, behind the Coordinating Center for International Education.

What should I do in a medical emergency?

Call 104 for an ambulance. Outside GP office hours, students can receive medical care at the Gastroenterology Clinic or the Traumatology Department of Kenézy Gyula Hospital, which provides emergency treatment 24 hours a day.

Where can I buy medicine in Debrecen?

You can buy medicine from pharmacies, known as Gyógyszertár or Patika, located throughout the city. Basic medicines are also available at stores such as DM and Rossmann.

Does the University of Debrecen provide mental health support?

Yes. International students can receive professional counselling through the University's DEMEK Mental Health Centre.

How do I book a GP appointment?

Students should call the University GP office before visiting. Appointments can also be booked through the University's online appointment system.

Can I visit a specialist doctor?

Yes. If specialist treatment is needed, the University GP will refer you to a specialist at the University of Debrecen Clinical Center.