University of Debrecen Requirements for International Students: Do I Qualify?
Ahsan Naseem
13 min read
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'Can I get in?' is the first question almost every applicant asks. This guide explains the University of Debrecen requirements for international students in plain language, by program level: medical programs, non-medical Bachelor's programs, Master's degrees and PhDs. It also covers English language options, how we assess qualifications from different school systems, and what to do if your marks are just below the requirement.
The short version: the University of Debrecen combines your previous results with its own entrance exam or interview. If you're unsure where you stand, send us your marks and we'll confirm your eligibility at no cost.
University of Debrecen Entry Requirements at a Glance
| Program level | Academic requirement | Entrance assessment | English proof |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy | Secondary school with at least 60% in Biology and in Chemistry or Physics | Written exam (Biology + Chemistry or Physics) and interview | Required; several options accepted |
| Medical foundation / Basic Medicine Course | Secondary school with roughly 50–60% in the science subjects | Entrance exam and interview | Required |
| Non-medical Bachelor's (BSc/BA) | Secondary school with good results in the subjects relevant to your program | Written exam in English and program-related subjects, plus interview | Required for non-native speakers |
| Master's (MSc/MA) | A relevant Bachelor's degree | Entrance interview | Required for non-native speakers |
| PhD | A relevant Master's degree plus a research topic proposal | Interview with the doctoral school | Required for non-native speakers |
The rest of this guide explains each level in detail.
How the University of Debrecen Assesses International Applicants
The University of Debrecen welcomes students from more than 140 countries, so it doesn't rely on a single national exam or grading system.
Admission decisions are based on three things:
- Your academic record: your school or university results in the subjects that matter for your chosen program.
- The entrance exam and/or interview: this gives every applicant a fair chance to show their knowledge, English skills and motivation.
- Your supporting documents: certificates, transcripts, passport and proof of English.
Because the entrance assessment carries real weight, strong exam performance can matter as much as your school marks. It also means the committee can recommend a better-suited route, such as a foundation program or a different degree, rather than simply rejecting your application.
Requirements for Medical Programs (Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy)
Medical programs have the most specific requirements, because the first years of study build directly on school-level science.
Academic requirements
Applicants should have completed secondary school (or be in their final year) with at least 60% in Biology and in Chemistry or Physics. Final-year students can apply with predicted or mid-year results and submit their final certificate before registration.
The medical entrance exam
The medical entrance exam has two parts:
- Written test: Biology (compulsory) plus Chemistry or Physics (your choice). Each subject is timed separately, at around 40 minutes per subject.
- Interview: assesses your subject knowledge, English communication and motivation to study medicine.
Depending on your performance, you may be admitted to the first year, offered a place on the Basic Medicine Course (a preparatory route), or not admitted in the current cycle. You can prepare with official entrance exam sample papers.
Study gap
For medical programs, the gap since your last completed studies generally cannot be longer than six years. If you finished school some time ago, contact us before applying.
Requirements for Non-Medical Bachelor's Programs
Non-medical Bachelor's programs include engineering, computer science, business, agriculture, sciences and more.
Academic requirements
You need a completed secondary school qualification with good results in the subjects related to your program: for example, Mathematics and Physics for engineering, or Mathematics and English for business. As a general guide, applicants should have around [65% / 70%] in the relevant subjects.
The non-medical entrance exam
The entrance exam for non-medical programs covers English plus subjects related to your chosen program. It usually includes a written test and an oral interview. Applicants with exceptional previous grades may, in some cases, be admitted directly to the first year.
Study gap
For non-medical foundation and Bachelor's programs, the gap since you last studied generally cannot be longer than four years.
Requirements for Master's Programs
Master's programs are open to international students who have completed a relevant Bachelor's degree.
What you need:
- A Bachelor's degree in the same or a closely related field
- Your degree certificate and full academic transcript
- Proof of English proficiency (if English isn't your first language)
- A short CV
Entrance assessment: for most Master's programs, admission is based on an entrance interview rather than a written exam. You can expect questions about your motivation, plans, and previous studies, plus some subject-related (scientific) questions about your field. Interviews are compulsory for medical and health programs and for certain non-medical programs, such as engineering Master's degrees.
Study gap: for non-medical Master's programs, the gap since your Bachelor's degree generally cannot be longer than six years.
If you already have work experience in your field, mention it. It can strengthen your interview. See all Master's programs at the University of Debrecen.
Requirements for PhD Programs
The University of Debrecen has 16 doctoral schools offering PhD programs fully in English.
What you need:
- A Master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field
- Your degree certificate and transcripts
- A research proposal, either on a topic from the doctoral school's list or a new topic with a detailed description
- Proof of English proficiency
- A CV, including any publications or research experience
Entrance assessment: PhD applicants are interviewed about their academic background and research plans. Incomplete applications can't be processed, so make sure every document is included. Learn more about PhD programs.
English Language Requirements
All programs are taught in English, so you need to show that you can study in English. The good news is that an IELTS or TOEFL certificate isn't the only option.
Accepted ways to prove your English
According to the university's application guidelines, you can prove your English proficiency by:
- A standardised language certificate at upper-intermediate (B2) level or above, obtained at a proctored exam, such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- A medium of instruction (MOI) certificate, if your previous school or university education was in English. An official letter from your school or university confirming this is usually accepted instead of a language test.
- Other qualifications that demonstrate English ability, such as good GED, SAT or ACT results.
- Being a native English speaker.
The university may also conduct an online interview during your application to assess your English communication skills. Your English is always assessed again during the entrance exam or interview.
How We Assess Qualifications from Different School Systems
International students apply to the University of Debrecen with very different qualifications: percentage-based certificates, GPA systems, letter grades, national diplomas, A-levels, the International Baccalaureate and more.
Here's how our admissions team handles this:
- We look at the subjects, not just the overall result. For medicine, we focus on your Biology and Chemistry or Physics results. For engineering, we look at Mathematics and Physics, and so on.
- We compare your grades with the university's requirements. If your system uses GPA or letter grades, we convert them to an equivalent level.
- We accept predicted or mid-year results if you're still in your final year, with the final certificate submitted before registration.
- We confirm which route fits you best: direct entry, foundation program, or a different program that matches your background.
Documents must be in English or officially translated into English. Keep your original certificates: you'll need to present them at the entrance exam or at registration.
This is exactly why we offer a free eligibility check. Instead of guessing how your grades compare, send us your results, and we'll tell you where you stand.
What If My Marks Are Just Below the Requirement?
Being slightly below the threshold doesn't necessarily end your plans. Here are your options.
1. Start with a foundation program
The Foundation Program prepares students for degree-level study by strengthening the key subjects and academic English. For medicine, the Basic Medicine Course is designed to prepare students for Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmacy. For example, if your science marks are between 50% and 60%, the medical foundation route may be available to you.
2. Let the entrance exam work in your favour
Because the entrance exam carries significant weight, strong preparation can make a real difference. Use the sample papers and focus on the core topics.
3. Consider a related program
In some cases, the entrance committee may offer acceptance to a different study program that suits your results and interests. For example, a student interested in medicine might consider a health sciences or life sciences degree.
4. Ask us before you give up
Every application is assessed individually. The fastest way to know your options is to ask our admissions team.
Documents Checklist
Most applicants need:
- Completed online application form
- Secondary school certificate, diploma or university degree (translated into English)
- Academic transcripts
- Passport copy (proof of citizenship)
- Short CV or resume
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
- Research proposal (PhD only)
- Payment of the application fee (USD 150, non-refundable) and entrance procedure fee (USD 350)
How to Apply: Step by Step
1. Check your eligibility with the regional office (free).
3. Pay the application and entrance procedure fees.
4. Take the entrance exam and/or interview. Online exams via video call may be possible if you can't travel to an exam location.
5. Receive your Letter of Acceptance. Once you pass the entrance assessment, the regional office aims to issue your acceptance letter the next day.
6. Pay your tuition deposit and apply for your student visa.
Check the latest dates on our application deadlines page. For the February 2027 intake, the deadline is 1 November 2026.
Find Out If You Qualify: Free Eligibility Check
Every student's background is different, and the quickest way to know your chances is to ask the people who assess applications.
Send us your marks, and we'll confirm your eligibility. Tell us your qualification, your results in the key subjects, and the program you're interested in. Our admissions team will tell you whether you qualify for direct entry, a foundation program, or an alternative route, and what to do next.
Prefer to talk? Chat with us on WhatsApp or visit the University of Debrecen South Asia Regional Office.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the University of Debrecen requirements for international students?
Requirements depend on the program level. Medical programs need strong results in Biology and Chemistry or Physics plus an entrance exam and interview. Non-medical Bachelor's programs need good results in relevant subjects plus an entrance exam. Master's programs need a relevant Bachelor's degree and an interview. PhD programs need a Master's degree and a research proposal.
Is IELTS required for the University of Debrecen?
No, IELTS isn't compulsory. You can also prove your English with a medium of instruction certificate, other recognised language certificates, or good GED, SAT, or ACT results. Your English is also assessed in the entrance exam or interview.
What marks do I need for Medicine at the University of Debrecen?
As a general guide, at least 60% in Biology and in Chemistry or Physics. Students with slightly lower marks may be eligible for the medical foundation route.
Is there an entrance exam for Master's programs?
Most Master's programs require an entrance interview rather than a written exam. The interview covers your motivation, previous studies and subject knowledge.
Can I take the entrance exam online?
If you can't travel to Hungary or an exam site, an online exam or interview via video call is usually possible. Contact us to arrange it.
Can I apply before I receive my final school results?
Yes. Final-year students can apply with their current or predicted results and submit the final certificate before registration.
Is there a limit on the gap since my last studies?
Yes. In general, the gap can be up to four years for non-medical foundation and Bachelor's programs, and up to six years for non-medical Master's and medical programs.