International Students at the University of Dar es Salaam
Join a diverse academic community and experience world-class learning, research, culture, and innovation at Tanzania’s oldest and most prestigious public university.
Welcome to UDSM
The University of Dar es Salaam welcomes students from across Africa and around the world to pursue academic excellence, research, innovation, and cultural exchange in one of East Africa’s most vibrant learning environments.
As Tanzania’s oldest and leading public university, UDSM offers international students an opportunity to study in a respected academic institution, experience life in Dar es Salaam, and become part of a diverse community committed to knowledge, leadership, and service.
International Student Experience at a Glance
Why Study at UDSM?
Academic Excellence
Study at a leading public university in Tanzania with strong teaching, research, and innovation capacity.
Global Learning Environment
Join a diverse academic community with students, scholars, and partners from different countries and cultures.
Affordable Quality Education
Access quality higher education in East Africa within an institution known for academic reputation and public service.
Life in Dar es Salaam
Experience study life in Tanzania’s vibrant coastal city, a regional hub for culture, business, transport, and opportunity.
Your Student Journey
Explore Programmes
Review available academic programmes and identify the study pathway that fits your goals.
Apply for Admission
Submit your application through the appropriate University admission procedures.
Receive Admission
After admission, review your offer and prepare the required documents for study in Tanzania.
Arrange Visa & Travel
Begin visa, residence permit, travel, and immigration arrangements as early as possible.
Secure Accommodation
Explore available accommodation options, including halls, homestays, and residential flats.
Begin Your UDSM Journey
Arrive, attend orientation, connect with student support services, and start your academic journey.
Essential Information for International Students
Admissions & Fees
Find guidance on admission pathways, application procedures, tuition fees, and important requirements for studying at UDSM.
View admissions and feesVisa & Immigration
International students are advised to begin visa and residence permit arrangements immediately after receiving admission confirmation.
Contact DICA for guidanceAccommodation
UDSM provides guidance on suitable accommodation options including halls of residence, staff homestays, and residential flats.
Explore accommodation optionsStudent Life
International students become part of a vibrant academic and social community with opportunities for culture, learning, and engagement.
Learn about student lifeHealth & Safety
UDSM supports student well-being through campus services, welfare support, security services, and guidance for living in Tanzania.
View support informationOrientation & Arrival
DICA supports international students with arrival preparation, orientation guidance, and connection to relevant university services.
Ask about arrival supportVisa and Immigration Guidance
International students admitted to the University of Dar es Salaam are expected to comply with the immigration requirements of the United Republic of Tanzania. Students should begin visa, travel, and residence permit preparations as soon as they receive admission confirmation.
The Directorate of Internationalization, Convocation and Advancement provides guidance to help students understand key immigration procedures, prepare necessary documentation, and plan their arrival in Tanzania.
Support may include guidance on student visa requirements, residence permit procedures, immigration documentation, arrival preparation, and compliance with Tanzanian immigration regulations.
Accommodation and Living Arrangements
The University of Dar es Salaam offers a range of accommodation options to support international students during their academic journey. Availability may vary depending on the academic year, student category, and university accommodation arrangements.
DICA works with relevant university units to provide guidance on available options, application procedures, and arrival planning.
University Halls of Residence
University-managed student hostels provide convenient on-campus living, allowing students to stay close to academic facilities, libraries, student services, and campus activities.
Internal Staff Homestays
Selected university staff families may host international students through homestay arrangements, offering a welcoming environment, cultural immersion, and additional support during the transition to life in Tanzania.
University Residential Flats
Residential flats within university premises provide a more independent living option for students who prefer additional privacy and flexibility while remaining connected to the campus community.
International Student Support
Orientation
Guidance to help students understand the university environment, academic expectations, and life at UDSM.
Administrative Guidance
Support in connecting students with relevant university offices, procedures, and documentation.
Cultural Integration
Assistance to help international students adapt to life in Tanzania and engage with the university community.
Health, Safety & Well-being
Access to campus health, welfare, security, and student support systems during the study period.
Student Life at UDSM
International students at UDSM become part of a vibrant academic and social community. Beyond lectures and research, students can engage in academic clubs, student organizations, sports, cultural activities, community engagement, and international student networking opportunities.
Located in Dar es Salaam, students also benefit from access to Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage, coastal attractions, business opportunities, and regional connectivity across East Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to study at UDSM as an international student?
International students should review the admissions and fees information and follow the relevant application procedures for their chosen programme. DICA can guide students to the appropriate university admission channels.
What language is used for instruction?
The University of Dar es Salaam mainly uses English as the language of instruction for academic programmes.
Do international students need a visa or residence permit?
Yes. International students are expected to comply with Tanzanian immigration requirements. Students should begin visa and residence permit arrangements after receiving admission confirmation.
Does UDSM provide accommodation for international students?
Accommodation guidance is available through university-managed halls of residence, internal staff homestay arrangements, and university residential flats, subject to availability and applicable procedures.
When should I arrive in Tanzania?
Students are advised to plan arrival in line with university reporting dates, orientation arrangements, and immigration requirements. Contact DICA for guidance before travel.
Can international students participate in campus activities?
Yes. International students are encouraged to participate in student organizations, academic clubs, sports, cultural activities, and community engagement opportunities.
International Student Stories Coming Soon
Future international student experiences, testimonials, and success stories will be featured here to help prospective students learn more about life and study at UDSM.
Study at the University of Dar es Salaam
Whether you are seeking a degree programme, exchange opportunity, research collaboration, or short-term study experience, UDSM welcomes students from around the world.