How University Admission Works in Botswana

Apply to each university separately

Botswana runs a decentralized admission system. Unlike countries with one national placement portal, you apply directly to whichever public university you want to attend, whether that is the University of Botswana (UB), Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST), or Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN). Each institution manages its own application process, fee, and deadline.

UB, the country's oldest and largest public university, takes applications online through the "STUDY" link on its website. You need a working email address to register and track your application, since result notifications go out by email and phone. UB's admissions office treats this as the only route in for new undergraduates.

Documents you need

Gather certified copies before you start. UB's application requirements page lists what every applicant must submit.

• A certified copy of your Senior Secondary School Certificate, or a Statement of Results if you have not received your certificate yet.

• A certified copy of your national ID (Omang) or passport.

• Proof of payment of the non-refundable application fee, paid through the university's payment portal or at a participating bank.

• For transfer or re-admission applicants: certified transcripts and certificates from your previous institution.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check the entry requirements for your intended program on the university website.

2. Set up an email address if you do not already have one.

3. Register on the university's online application system and complete the form.

4. Pay the application fee and upload your receipt.

5. Upload certified copies of your certificate or statement of results and your Omang or passport.

6. Submit and wait for a response by email or phone. Keep your contact details correct and check your account regularly.

Entry requirements vary by program

Universities set their own subject and grade requirements for each program, and these differ for competitive fields like medicine or engineering compared with general degrees in humanities or social sciences. Check the specific program page on the university website rather than relying on a general average, since requirements shift as capacity and demand change.

Deadlines and intakes

Public universities run fixed intake windows, usually once or twice a year. UB's application window for its August intake closes in early August. Applications for the August 2026 intake close on 6 August 2026, according to the university's admissions page . Deadlines shift slightly year to year, so confirm the exact date on the university site rather than assuming it repeats.

Meeting requirements is not a guarantee

UB states directly that meeting the minimum entry requirements "does not, therefore, guarantee admission." Places in competitive programs, such as medicine, engineering, and law, go to the strongest applicants within each intake, not only those who cross the minimum bar. Apply early and list a realistic backup program.

If you have a disability, contact the university's Disability Support Services Unit early in the process so it can arrange accommodations for your application and, if admitted, your studies.

If you miss a spot

If you don't get into your first-choice program, you have options. Apply to a different program at the same university, or apply to another public university such as BIUST or BUAN, each with its own entry requirements and deadlines. Consider BQA-accredited private universities such as Botho University or Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, which run their own intakes and often have more flexible start dates. Reapply in the next intake cycle if you improve your results or want a second attempt at the same program.