2025 - 2026 SAA Rankings for Best Value Universities In Uganda For International Students

41 Best Value Institutions in Uganda for International Students

Here are the 41 best-value institutions in Uganda for international students. Here, you’ll learn more about their rankings, international student population, and their background.

Makerere University is one of the oldest universities in Africa, and it started as a small technical school. Over the years, the institution expanded to cater to as many students as possible across different academic disciplines. Today, the university is highly regarded for its excellence in training students and its initiative to uphold advanced academic teachings that would amplify the skills of its learners. Indeed, Makerere University has lived up to its motto of building for the future.

St. Lawrence University was founded in October 2006 by Lawrence Mukiibi, a renowned professor who had made a significant impact and influence on Uganda’s education sector. The university stands out as a leading provider of information and communication technology (ICT) and entrepreneurship studies in the country. It is known for its pragmatic approach to learning, emphasizing the development of students’ entrepreneurship skills, self-empowerment, and leadership.

Kyambogo University is an institution that focuses on developing the skills and talent of learners in the fields of science, technology, and education. It seeks to maintain a productive learning environment where both students and teachers practice healthy discourse, and everyone shares equal opportunities. Honing its students’ professionalism and ethical standards is one of the main objectives of Kyambogo University in order to achieve its goal of becoming a progressive and transformative educational institution where academic and professional excellence is fostered.

Uganda Christian University (UCU) is a private Christian institution situated in Mukono, Uganda. It was established in 1997 and has since gained a strong reputation as one of the leading universities in the country. Accredited by the Uganda National Council for Higher Education, UCU is widely recognized as a leading institution for teaching and research in Uganda. UCU’s primary objective is to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for successful and fulfilling lives guided by Christian principles.

With a mission of delivering quality education anchored on respect and principles, Kampala International University maintains an international institution that instills not just academic knowledge in its students but also ethics and civic engagement. The university hopes to produce graduates who seek to positively contribute to society, as this is the university’s definition of intellectual and holistic development.

Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) is a reputed private institution owned by the Episcopal Conference of the Catholic Bishops of Uganda. Established in 1993, UMU is situated on Nkozi Hill, nearly 82 km west of Kampala. Renowned for its commitment to delivering exceptional education, fostering research, community engagement, and ethical values, UMU offers a diverse range of degree programs. With a steadfast dedication to providing quality education, UMU strives to make a meaningful and positive impact on society, staying true to its motto “In wisdom, lead the world.”

 

Founded in 1989, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) is a prestigious public university in Uganda. It has established itself as a leading institution for high-quality education in the field of science and technology. MUST is committed to fostering academic and professional excellence, offering a diverse range of training programs that focus on the needs of the community. The university strives to cultivate graduates who are well-equipped to address community challenges and succeed in their chosen careers.

Gulu University, founded in 2002, is one of the ten Public Universities in Uganda. It is located in Laroo Division, Gulu City, and offers a diverse array of academic programs through its six faculties and two institutes. To facilitate community transformation and industrialization for sustained development, Gulu University focuses on providing high-quality higher education, training, research, and innovations that contribute to the country’s social and economic advancement. The university strives to offer its students high-quality higher education, training, research, and innovations, with an emphasis on community transformation and sustainable development.

Mountains of the Moon University was founded as a private, non-profit institution in 2005. In 2018, the Uganda National Council for Higher Education granted the university chartered status. In July 2022, it became a public university through a Memorandum of Agreement. As a public university, it was established to provide educational services and effect positive change in Uganda’s rural communities. Its specializations are in the fields of agriculture, tourism, and environmental conservation.

The Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) dates back to 1988 when it was founded through a bilateral agreement between the Government of Uganda and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). The formal establishment of the university occurred in 1990 when it was approved by the Parliament of Uganda.  Since its establishment, IUIU has undergone substantial development. Guided by Islamic principles, the university aspires to become a leading International center for academic excellence. Its mission is to generate knowledge and prepare students to fulfill the requirements of society.

LivingStone International University is a private institution of higher learning established in 2012 by the New Testament Churches of Christ. It seeks to transform the lives of its students by delivering quality programs and instilling Christian values. The university offers various programs in the fields of education, information technology, Christian ministry, and business administration at the bachelor’s, diploma, and certificate levels.

Nkumba University, founded in 1994, is a fully chartered private institution in Uganda. This chartered status is a testament to the university’s consistent delivery of quality education and services. In addition to its top-notch programs, it also boasts state-of-the-art facilities and amenities for its students, faculty, and stakeholders. The university features a modern library that carries over 10,000 books. Its main campus is on Nkumba Hill, an urban area in the Wakiso District. The university is one of the largest private institutions in East Africa.

Busitema University was established in 2007 and is a well-known public university located in the eastern region of Uganda. Its main campus is situated in Busitema and it also has several other campuses across Uganda. The university aims to provide equitable access to higher education in the country. With a vision to become a center of academic and professional expertise in science, technology, and innovation, Busitema University is committed to academic and professional excellence, innovation, and sustainable development.

Established in 1992, Ndejje University (NDU) is a distinguished institution that is owned by the Church of Uganda (CoU) Dioceses in the Buganda Region. The university places great emphasis on practical training and meaningful research, promoting student involvement in the community and cooperation with industry partners. Located in a peaceful setting, NDU provides a favorable environment for education, research, and the harmonious cohabitation of humans and wildlife. Furthermore, NDU is well-known for its outstanding achievements in sports, having secured multiple championship titles in various fields at both regional and national levels.

Bugema University has consistently delivered quality education since its establishment in 1948 as a training school for teachers and pastors for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in East Africa. From being a training school, it has become one of Uganda’s leading private institutions, offering undergraduate, graduate, and diploma courses across various disciplines that include social sciences, information technology, business management, and education.

As an institution in the Seventh-day Adventist education system, it instills in its students the importance of spirituality and morality. In addition to academic excellence, the university provides a nurturing environment to its students, allowing them to grow holistically.

Founded as the Gaba Bible Institute in 2007, Africa Renewal University remains committed to making a difference in the world through its value-based educational framework. It was established through the efforts of the Africa Renewal Ministries, an Indigenous Christian ministry that provides sponsorships to over 8,000 students across Uganda. Over the years, the university has expanded its programs to include various undergraduate and graduate degrees, focusing on areas like theology, business administration, social work, and community development.

Ibanda University is a private higher education institution in Ibanda, Uganda. It was established in 2014 and is duly recognized by the Uganda National Council for Higher Education. Driven by its motto, “Hard work for Excellence,” this university instills the values of dedication and perseverance in its students. One of its goals is to contribute to the nation’s sustainable development by producing highly skilled graduates who can effect positive change in their chosen fields.

Ankole Western University is a private institution of higher learning owned and managed by the Western Ankole Diocese of the Church of Uganda. It was established in 2005 and is located in the quiet town of Kabwohe Hill. As a Christian-oriented university, it is committed to upholding Christian values for its students. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs across four faculties.

Kumi University was founded by a Korean missionary couple in 1996 and was initially named Africa Leaders’ Training Institute. It aims to provide quality and accessible higher education relevant to the community’s needs. As a Christian-based education institution, the university integrates faith and values in its approach to learning. Its location in Nyero, a sub-county of Kumi District, is also home to the Nyero Rock Paintings, offering international students an opportunity to explore and immerse themselves in the area’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

Kampala University believes in the power of quality education. It prioritizes offering academic programs that fit their expertise well, positively influencing the intellect and skills of their constituents. Operating for more than 20 years, the university has already created linkages both in local and international settings, providing broader opportunities for its graduates to be marketed worldwide.

Metropolitan International University is a private institution of higher learning in Kampala, Uganda. It was established and accredited by the National Council for Higher Education in 2016. Inspired by its motto, “Empowerment through knowledge creation,” this institution aims to effect positive change in the lives of its students and community through education. The university functions across three campuses. Its main campus is in Kisoro, while the other two are in Mbarra and Kampala.

Founded in 2002 by the Ankole Diocese Synod, Bishop Stuart University remains one of Uganda’s leading institutions of higher learning. The university was named in honor of Cyril Stuart, a renowned and well-loved Anglican Bishop of Uganda. Aside from its expansive course offerings, the institution integrates and instills Christian values into its teaching methods. It aims to produce well-rounded individuals who can excel in their chosen careers while also fostering their community’s growth and well-being.

Established in 2006, ISBAT University, also known as the International Business, Science, and Technology University, is a well-known institution in Uganda that provides high-quality education and training. In 2019, the university was granted a charter by the President of Uganda, making it one of the few chartered universities in the country. ISBAT University has established international partnerships with esteemed institutions and offers a diverse and enriching learning experience. The university provides a variety of degree programs in fields such as Information Technology, Business, Commerce, Multimedia, Animation, and Engineering. By focusing on practical skills and employability, ISBAT University aims to cultivate well-rounded and empowered global citizens.

Muteesa I Royal University is a duly accredited higher education institution in Uganda. It was established in 2007 and was chartered in March 2024. The university has three campuses. Its main campus is in the vibrant city of Masaka. The second campus is in Mengo Hill in Buganda, while the other is in the town of Mubende. The university was named after a distinguished monarch, Kabaka Muteesa I of Buganda, for his significant contributions to the country’s education.

The African Rural University is the first women’s rural university in Africa. It was founded by the Uganda Rural Development and Training Programme and is fully accredited by the National Council for Higher Education. The university’s establishment aims to empower women to participate in leadership roles and address socio-economic issues. It trains a generation of women equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence to effect positive change in their communities.

Victoria University, Kampala, is one of the top private education institutions in Uganda. Established in 2013, it remains committed to providing a unique contemporary approach to learning. In 2022, the Republic of Uganda awarded the university charter status as a testament to its high-quality educational services that meet national and international standards. This institution harnesses and nurtures its students’ innovative and entrepreneurship skills, preparing them to become future business owners and leaders in their chosen fields.

Recognized as one of Uganda’s leading private institutions, King Ceasor University has established a solid reputation for delivering innovative, comprehensive, and relevant programs in the fields of healthcare science, law, management, computer science, and engineering. Since its establishment in 2011, this institution has continued to provide quality education that meets the demands of both local and international students. The university affirms this commitment through inventive teaching, continuous learning, and research.

Kabale University was established in 2001 as a non-profit community institution owned by the people of Kigezi. In July 2015, Statutory Instrument No. 36 converted it from a private to a public university. With the university’s location on Kikungiri Hill in Kabale, it has the potential to become the leading university in the Great Lakes Region. Its strategic location makes it accessible to students and faculty from Francophone and Anglophone countries.

 

Cavendish University, founded in 2008, is a private institution of higher learning in Uganda. Its main campus is in Nsambya, a hilly southern neighborhood in Kampala. The university also operates in two other locations: the Acacia Law campus and the Kingsgate campus. This institution utilizes an innovative teaching approach focusing on students’ learning needs and practical applications. It encourages its students to think independently, preparing them to become influential leaders and effective problem solvers in their fields.

Team University has a long history, which can be traced back to 2001 when three accountants founded it as Team Business College. It offered training leading to a certification from the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA). In 2006, its founders started the process of applying to be recognized as a private “Degree Awarding Institution,” which was granted in 2010. It received full accreditation from the Uganda National Council for Higher Education as a private university in 2015.

Clarke International University’s roots can be traced back to 2005 when it was founded as the International Hospital Kampala School of Nursing. It underwent numerous transformations until it was renamed to its current name in 2018. The university was established by a renowned philanthropist, Dr. Ian Thomas Clarke, who envisions revolutionizing the country’s healthcare education. In addition to providing high-quality, accessible healthcare-related programs, the university also offers business management and applied technology courses.

The University of the Sacred Heart Gulu is a private higher education institution in Uganda. It is affiliated with the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Gulu and caters to students from Uganda and neighboring countries like South Sudan and Congo. The university was established to meet the demand for higher education in the region. Its initial course offerings include information and communications technology (ICT) and counseling psychology to help combat pressing issues in the community.

The Anglican Church of Uganda first proposed establishing All Saints University Lango in 1963. It was officially founded in 2008 and started operating in May of the following year, offering business management, social sciences, and education programs. Although the university’s founders and administrators are Christians, this institution welcomes students regardless of nationalities, religions, and ethnic backgrounds. Its curriculums are duly recognized and accredited by the Uganda National Council for Higher Education, ensuring that students receive quality education that meets national standards.

Founded in October 2015, Valley University of Science and Technology strives to deliver science and technology programs that can be applied in a rural setting. It aims to contribute to Uganda’s sustainable development efforts by producing graduates with knowledge and skills in improved agricultural practices, infrastructure improvements, and community empowerment through education. The university offers quality programs in agribusiness, education, and business management.

Lira University was established in 2009 as a constituent college of Gulu University. It became an independent institution and was renamed to its current name in 2015 through a parliamentary act. The university specializes in health sciences education and provides medical training to its students through the Lira University Hospital, Uganda’s first university teaching hospital. Aside from healthcare courses, this institution also offers high-quality programs in management, education, and information technology.

Uganda Pentecostal University is an accredited private institution of higher learning located in Fort Portal, Uganda, in the heart of Kabarole District. It was founded in 2001 as the Grotius School of Law and Professional Studies and was initially part of another university. In 2005, the Uganda National Council for Higher Education granted it the right to become an independent institution and adopted its current name. The university currently operates two campuses: its main campus in Fort Portal and the other in Kampala.

The Ugandan Technology and Management University (UTAMU) is a private university founded in 2013. It is known for integrating technology and management sciences into its academic programs and is accredited by the National Council for Higher Education. The university’s primary activities focus on student-centric teaching, research, innovation, and community involvement. UTAMU is dedicated to fostering innovation, research, and community engagement, offering students outstanding prospects for personal and professional development.

As an international student, choosing Kayiwa International University for your undergraduate studies allows you to experience a diverse and inclusive academic setting. Additionally, the university’s location in the capital city of Kampala lets you enjoy the warmth and rich cultures of the Ugandan people. The university was founded in 2012 and continues to deliver accessible and quality tertiary education in the country. Being a Christian-oriented institution, it imparts the values of God-fearing, integrity, and professionalism to its students, making them highly skilled and honorable citizens.

The International University of East Africa, guided by its motto, “Learning to Succeed,” is among Uganda’s premier private institutions of higher learning. The National Council for Higher Education granted its chartered university status in September 2022. This milestone supports the university’s commitment to providing high-quality programs and striving for continuous improvement in its services. The institution’s campus is on a 20-acre land at Kansanga, a southeastern suburb of Kampala.

Muni University is one of the public universities in Uganda. Its main campus is in Muni Hill in the city of Aura, and it plans to build more campuses in Okollo and Bidibidi. Guided by its mission and vision of transformation and development through education, innovation, and community empowerment, the university has continued to achieve its mandate of providing accessible academic excellence over the years. It offers various programs in information technology, management, education, health science, and agriculture.

Soroti University is a public university in Uganda that was established in 2015. It is mandated to provide affordable, quality, and accessible education, promote research, and provide facilities to its students and stakeholders. In addition, it aims to produce well-rounded and highly skilled graduates who can contribute to the advancement of their fields. The university is located in Soroti, which is in the eastern part of Uganda.