University Tuition Fees in Zambia 2026
Updated March 2026 · 10 universities compared
Compare tuition fees across Zambia's public and private universities. From UNZA and CBU to Cavendish and ZCAS — fees, programs, scholarships, and living costs.
University Tuition Comparison
| University | Type | Annual Tuition | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Zambia (UNZA) Arts K19K–K23K, Science/Med K22K–K29K (varies by year). Int'l: ~K63K | Public | K19,390 – K28,980/yr | Lusaka |
| Copperbelt University (CBU) K11,400–K14,950/semester. Foreign: K34K–K45K/yr | Public | K22,800 – K29,900/yr | Kitwe/Lusaka |
| Mulungushi University Business, education, agriculture | Public | K10,000 – K18,000/yr | Kabwe |
| Cavendish University Business-focused, flexible schedules. Int'l from $5,000 | Private | K15,000 – K30,000/yr | Lusaka |
| University of Lusaka (UNILUS) Evening & weekend programs | Private | K12,000 – K22,000/yr | Lusaka |
| Zambian Open University (ZAOU) Open & distance learning | Public | K5,000 – K12,000/yr | Distance |
| Levy Mwanawasa Medical University Medical & health sciences | Public | K20,000 – K35,000/yr | Lusaka |
| ZCAS University Accounting, finance, insurance | Public | K12,000 – K22,000/yr | Lusaka |
| Northrise University Christian university, business & IT | Private | K10,000 – K18,000/yr | Ndola |
| DMI St. Eugene University Education, business, computing | Private | K8,000 – K15,000/yr | Chipata |
Additional Student Costs
UNZA Hostel Accommodation
On-campus, limited availability (UNZA 2025/26 rate)
K5,850/yr
Off-Campus Rent (Shared Room)
Near university, utilities extra
K800 – K2,000/mo
Books & Study Materials
Textbooks, photocopying
K500 – K2,000/yr
UNZA User Fees (Total)
Registration K40, Library K250, Technology K194, Medical K200, Recreation K300 etc.
~K1,344/yr
Examination Fee
Per course per sitting (UNZA supplementary exams extra)
K50/course
Student ID & Caution Fee
First year only at UNZA (K200 ID + K210 caution)
K410 (one-time)
Monthly Food Budget
Cooking or campus meals
K1,000 – K2,000/mo
Higher Education in Zambia
Zambia has over 60 registered higher education institutions regulated by the Higher Education Authority (HEA). The two oldest and largest public universities — UNZA (1966) and CBU (1987) — educate the majority of Zambian graduates.
Funding & Scholarships
The CDF (Constituency Development Fund) provides bursaries through local MPs — apply at your constituency office. Government bursaries cover tuition for qualifying students at public universities. Mining companies (FQM, Barrick Gold) and corporations (Stanbic, MTN) offer merit-based scholarships. Student loans are available through the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB).
Employment Prospects
Graduates in mining engineering, IT, accounting, and healthcare have the strongest job market. UNZA and CBU have the strongest employer networks. ZCAS graduates are sought by financial institutions and audit firms. Many universities now include internship programs to improve employability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does university cost in Zambia?
Public university tuition is higher than many expect. UNZA charges K19,390–K28,980 per year for Zambian students depending on programme (arts vs science). CBU charges K11,400–K14,950 per semester (K22,800–K29,900/yr). International students pay roughly double. Private universities like Cavendish charge K15,000–K30,000/year. Add K5,850 (UNZA hostel) or K10,000–K24,000 for off-campus accommodation annually.
What are the entry requirements for UNZA?
UNZA requires a Grade 12 full school certificate with credits (minimum 5 O-levels including English and Mathematics for most programs). Cut-off points vary by program — medicine, law, and engineering are the most competitive. Mature entry (over 25 years old with relevant experience) is available for some programs.
Are there scholarships for Zambian students?
Yes, several options: CDF (Constituency Development Fund) bursaries through MPs, government bursaries through the Ministry of Education, UNZA and CBU internal scholarships for top performers, and private scholarships from companies like ZESCO, FQM, and Barrick Gold. Apply through the university financial aid office or your local MP for CDF funding.
Which university is best in Zambia?
UNZA is the most established and offers the widest range of programs. CBU is strongest for mining, engineering, and IT. Cavendish is the top private university for business and is known for flexible scheduling. ZCAS University is the best for accounting and finance. For medicine, Levy Mwanawasa Medical University is the dedicated institution.
Can I study part-time or by distance in Zambia?
Yes, several options exist. ZAOU (Zambian Open University) specializes in distance learning from ZMK 3,000/year. UNZA and CBU offer evening programs for working professionals. Cavendish and UNILUS have flexible weekend and evening classes. Many universities now offer blended learning with online components.