Frequently Asked Questions

Debre Berhan University — Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about admissions, academics, graduation, student life, staff, library and research based on DBU Senate Legislation and university policies.

Admissions

Placement follows Ministry of Education criteria. Special admissions exist for private applicants, mature students, disadvantaged groups and exceptional performers.

Admissions

Yes — private applicants who meet requirements and can cover fees may be admitted; private intake is limited (max 5% of program intake).

Admissions, Graduate

Admission is competitive. Masters require a related Bachelor degree and may include entrance exams. PhD admission may be open year-round; candidates must meet program-specific requirements.

Admissions, CDEP

Yes. DBU offers evening, summer-in-service, distance, correspondence and online learning opportunities for working adults.

Admissions

Yes, under Senate rules. Transfers require proof of good academic standing and approval by the receiving program.

Academics

Yes, the Senate approves the academic calendar each year. It defines teaching-learning periods, exams, and breaks.

Academics

DBU uses letter grades A-F with numeric equivalents. CGPA determines academic standing and graduation eligibility.

Academics

Typically 50% of the final grade. Includes tests, assignments, projects and presentations.

Academics

Regular bachelor programs last 3–6 years depending on discipline.

Graduate

Masters typically 2 years; PhDs vary by field but often 3–5 years.

Academics

Yes, within deadlines set by the Registrar. Approval from advisors is required.

Academics

They must repeat it or take an equivalent course as determined by their department.

Academics

Students with valid reasons may apply for re-exams. Rules are set by the Senate.

Graduation

Complete required credits, meet CGPA, and fulfill program-specific conditions (e.g. internships).

Graduation

Students graduating with a CGPA of 3.60–3.79 earn distinction, 3.80+ earn great distinction.

Graduation

Yes. The University Medal is awarded for top academic performance.

Graduation, Honorary

Yes. Senate may award Doctor Honoris Causa to exceptional individuals. Max 3 per year.

Student Support

Yes. Advisors guide students on courses, workload, and academic progress.

Student Life

Attend classes, complete assignments, maintain integrity, respect University property and community.

Student Life

Dormitories, cafeterias, health care, sports, counseling, ICT labs, and library access.

Student Life

Yes. Students can join unions, clubs, and associations recognized by the University.

Student Life

Cases reviewed by the Student Affairs Committee. Sanctions range from warnings to expulsion.

Student Life

Yes. The University provides guidance, integration support, and services for foreign students.

Student Life

DBU provides support for students with disabilities, disadvantaged backgrounds, and special needs.

Finance

Yes, based on merit or need. The Senate and external partners offer scholarships.

Staff

Teaching, advising, research, community service, governance, and upholding ethics.

Staff

Graduate Assistant, Lecturer, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Professor.

Staff

Promotion is based on merit, publications, service, and Senate approval.

Staff

Yes, after 6 years of service, academic staff may take a year with pay for research or study.

Staff

Only with approval. Conflicts of interest and full-time obligations apply.

Research

Through the Research & Community Service Directorate and PGRCSC committee.

Research

Applied research in agriculture, health, technology, education, and community development.

Research

The University retains rights, with recognition of researcher contributions.

Research

Yes. DBU publishes peer-reviewed journals and encourages faculty/student publications.

Community

Yes. Outreach programs, consultancy, and local development projects are part of its mission.

Library

The Library Directorate oversees resources. Policies set by the Library & ICT Committee.

Library

Book lending, digital resources, e-journals, reading spaces, and research support.

ICT

Yes. E-learning, online portals, and ICT labs are available for students and staff.

Academics

Programs may use modular structures grouping related courses into competency-based modules.

Academics

Yes. Withdrawal and readmission rules are defined by the Senate and Registrar.

Student Support

Yes. Guidance and Counseling Office provides academic and psychological support.

General

Main Campus, Asrat Woldyes Health Science Campus, and Mehal-Meda Campus.

General

The Senate, University Council, and Board govern academic and administrative affairs.

Governance

President, VPs, Deans, Directors, staff, and student representatives.

Governance

An advisory body with Deans, Directors, Senate members, and staff/student reps.

Governance

A strategic advisory group chaired by the President.

Support

Yes. The Children, Youth, and Women Directorate and Inclusivity Office support equality.

General

DBU was established by Council of Ministers Regulation No. 228/2011.

General

To provide quality teaching, applied research, and community service for national development.