How to Study in Senegal for International Students
Known as the Gateway to Africa, Senegal's strategic location makes it an attractive destination for aspiring international students. The country provides easy access to different air and maritime travel routes and also has a rich natural heritage. International students in Senegal gain first-hand experience of the country's efforts to diversify its economy and strengthen international relations through industry partnerships and research support. Senegal believes that investing in its educational sector will have a ripple effect on its overall development.
When it comes to the choices that are available, Senegal currently has 25 universities, from which 8 universities are a part of the public sector and 17 universities are private institutions.
Suppose you’re not just looking for any school but a well-performing school. In that case, the top universities in Senegal you should definitely check out are Cheikh Anta Diop University, Gaston Berger University, and University of Thies.
Being able to study in Senegal as an international student starts with planning ahead of time, as the process of researching your institution, filling out forms, and completing your paperwork can take a vast amount of time. In this article, you will find out the application process to study in Senegal, along with information on tuition, language requirements, and visa applications. So, let’s dig in!
1. Cost of Studying in Senegal
The cost of your studies in Senegal may vary depending on various factors such as your degree, program, and chosen university. We do not have the tuition fee information in Senegal.
2. Requirements to Study in Senegal for International Students
Beyond tuition fees, knowing the admission requirements is a crucial step in your plans to become an international student. Universities in Senegal might require you to complete an online application and submit your academic records, such as a transcript or diploma from your previous school.
On top of the general paperwork you need to complete, specific program levels might require you to prepare additional documents. For example, some master’s programs require applicants to submit the following:
- Statement of purpose
- Curriculum vitae or resume
- Letters of recommendation
Other specialized programs, such as medicine and the MBA, might require you to pass an admission test before you can apply.
Finally, you’ll need to get your travel documents ready, like your passport and visa, in order to travel to Senegal.
Application Procedure to Study in Senegal
The specific admission process may vary depending on the university. The good news is that most institutions in Senegal have online applications available on their websites, like Cheikh Anta Diop University and Gaston Berger University. To help you with this, we also compiled the official websites and admission pages of some of the top institutions in Senegal.
Cheikh Anta Diop University
Gaston Berger University
University of Thies
Make sure to gather all the information you need for the admission process. As you apply to these institutions, expect that they may ask for additional requirements depending on your nationality, degree, or program. So, it’s best to keep your lines active.
After completing your academic and language requirements, it’s time to apply!
The admission process in Senegal differs from one university to another, so it’s best to contact your chosen school beforehand. Please note that the admission process for international students may take some time, so be sure to know the application dates and apply early.
The application process may take weeks or months, depending on your timing, nationality, degree, and other factors. To make the most of your application, make sure to completely follow the admission steps and submit the necessary requirements to ensure that you’ll be accepted to your chosen university in Senegal.
The key to being admitted to your chosen school will depend on your punctuality and the quality of your application. So make sure to complete the requirements beforehand and follow the steps in applying. After this, you’ll wait for a week or a month for the results.
4. Visa Application for International Students in Senegal
Now that you’re accepted into your chosen institution, it’s time to apply for a student visa in Senegal. A student visa is an essential document for studying abroad. It’s an important government document that you need to present before going to Senegal as an international student.
In this section, let’s briefly discuss the requirements needed and how you can apply for a student visa in Senegal. If you’re going to stay here for your studies, you will need to obtain a Study Visa.
To start your student visa application in Senegal, you will need to present the following:
- Two copies of the completed visa application form.
- Valid passport
- Photocopies of passport and previous visas
- Passport-size photos
- Photocopies of flight ticket
- Proof of financial capacity
- Proof of accommodation
Kindly take note that these requirements may vary depending on your nationality. So, please expect that may ask for additional requirements. Moreover, you will be required to pay a student visa application fee. The visa application fee in Senegal is 47200 CFA.
After preparing your requirements and application fees, it’s time to apply for a student visa! The first steps in getting your student visa are:
- Consult with the nearest Senegal embassy or consulate to make an appointment.
- Prepare the needed documents, together with the specific requirements asked by the embassy upon consultation.
- Submit your application and documents either in person or through post.
- Wait for your visa to be processed.
For more information regarding the specific steps in applying for a student visa, visit or contact the nearest embassy or consulate in your home country. They are the ones responsible for processing your student visa application.
That’s it! After getting your student visa, you can now officially study in Senegal. Make sure to book a flight early, before your classes start, so that you’ll have ample time to explore and familiarize yourself in your new place!