Quick Summary
Based in Kampala, Uganda, Makerere University is a public with roots dating back to 1922. Ranked #801-850 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 35000 students including 10% from outside Uganda. Known for strengths in Medicine, Agriculture and Forestry, Development Studies, it maintains an acceptance rate of 30%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
It is the oldest and most prestigious university in East Africa with a massive global research network in infectious diseases.
Subject Strengths
MedicineAgriculture and ForestryDevelopment StudiesLife Sciences
Founded1922
TypePublic
Total Students35000
Intl Students10%
Faculty Ratio25
CampusUrban
Campus Size300 acres
Affiliated HospitalsMulago National Referral Hospital, Kawempe National Referral Hospital
AccreditationNational Council for Higher Education (NCHE) Uganda
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Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#801-850
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#801โ1000
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
Not Available
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Diploma, PhD, Short Courses
Programs
Available
PhD Programs
Available
Online Programs
Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR), Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC)
Research Centers
High
Research Output
National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) Uganda
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate30%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL80
Min GPA2.8
GRENot Available
GMATNot Available
SATNot Available
ACTNot Available
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline ยท June 30
SPRINGApplication Deadline ยท November 30
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Ensure all transcripts are verified by the National Council for Higher Education for international students. Apply early as competitive programs fill quickly.
05
Cost Ledger
Amounts in Ugandan Shilling
UG Tuition
UGX6,800,000/yr
per year ยท UGX
Living Cost
UGX15,000,000/yr
per year ยท UGX
PG Tuition
UGX9,500,000/yr
per year ยท UGX
Application Fee
$50
one time ยท USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
UGX25,000,000/yr
tuition + living + essentials ยท UGX
Scholarships AvailableAvailable
Avg Scholarship$3,000
Financial AidAvailable
Work-StudyLimited
06
Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Diploma, PhD, Short Courses programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Bachelor of Laws | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Bachelor of Agricultural and Rural Innovation | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Bachelor of Business Administration | MBA | 12-24 MO |
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Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$7,000
Average Salary After Graduation
75%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementYes
Industry Connections
Strong links with WHOFAOUnited Nationsand East African Community agencies.
Notable Alumni
Julius Nyerere, Milton Obote, Mwai Kibaki, Ngลฉgฤฉ wa Thiong'o
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Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Olympic-sized swimming pool, Makerere Main Sports Ground, Tennis courts, Indoor arena
Student Clubs
Over 100 student organizations including Makerere Law Society, Guild Student Council
Library Resources
Makerere University Main Library, specializing in African history and tropical medicine
Exchange Programs
Available
Summer Programs
Available