Study in Zambia

• Apply to the Department of Immigration for a study permit with your admission letter, ideally before you travel
• You need your passport, admission letter, proof of funds or sponsorship and a police clearance certificate
• The permit is for study only; paid work needs a separate permit

• A completed secondary school certificate for bachelor's, a relevant bachelor's degree for master's, and usually a master's for a PhD
• English: IELTS, TOEFL or another test the university accepts, unless English is your first language or you studied in English
• Official transcripts and certificates, with certified translations if they are not in English
• Apply through the university's online admission portal
• For master's and PhD: a CV, statement of purpose and academic references; PhD applicants usually also need a research proposal and an agreed supervisor
• For the study permit: passport, admission letter, proof of funds or sponsorship and police clearance

Lusaka is the main student city, home to the University of Zambia, with the Copperbelt University in Kitwe the other large public campus. Living costs are low, and minibuses are the usual transport. Drought cut hydropower in 2024 and caused long daily power cuts, so ask whether accommodation has backup power. Victoria Falls and South Luangwa are the main trips outside term.