Secondary education is carried out in grammar schools/general secondary schools, vocational secondary schools, and vocational schools. Art schools are also educational institutions, the aim of which is to develop artistic skills, to enhance and nurture artistic talent,and to prepare for specialised further education. 

There are three different types of secondary schools:

Grammar Schools (General Secondary Schools)
Grammar schools (Hungarian: gimnázium) provide general education and care, preparing students for the school leaving examination and for commencing higher educational studies. Once completing the final year of secondary school, students take a school-leaving examination called érettségi (Matura). This final exam can be compared to A-level exams or Abitur. Since 2005 Hungarian Matura consists of five different subjects, including a written exam in mathematics, oral and written exams in Hungarian literature and grammar, a foreign language, history, and a written and / or oral exam in a subject of the student’s choice. The school leaving examination plays a significant part in the entrance requirements to higher education institutions.

 Vocational Secondary Schools
Besides providing students with the general knowledge of secondary education, vocational secondary schools (Hungarian: szakgimnázium) also offer professional theoretical and practical training in order to prepare students to enter specialised higher education or enter a job in a related field. Once completing vocational secondary school, students obtain a vocational school-leaving examination certificate.

Vocational Schools
Vocational schools (Hungarian: szakközépiskola) have five grades, of which three are vocational grades, consisting of general knowledge on the subject and adequate training requirements for obtaining a state-accredited vocational qualification, as well as professional theoretical and practical training; and two other grades preparing students for the secondary school leaving examination (optional).

To find out more about secondary schools and vocational schools maintained either by the School District Centre of Debrecen or the churches, public institutions, or various foundations, visit the official website of the city of Debrecen (only available in Hungarian).

Most Hungarian schools and universities are public, and students traditionally study for free.

Most educational institutions organise open days to provide parents and children with the opportunity to view facilities, and to learn more about the various programmes the institution has to offer.  

School meals are optional and are provided for a fee.

Canteens (menza) usually offer various menu options, which provide a good selection for a balanced and healthy diet. Improving food quality and addressing nutrition has been an important policy implemented in most Hungarian schools. Buffets and vending machines are also generally to be found on the schools’ premises.

Special dietary requirements need to be stated on registration at the school.