Entry requirements for degree courses in Tanzania for the academic year 2024/2025 are diverse and encompass a range of qualifications and standardized test scores. Aspiring students are met with various entry requirements, including academic achievements, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. Each degree program has its unique opportunities and challenges that require specific qualifications for admission.
The Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU) recognizes four entry schemes to Bachelor’s degree programs. These include the equivalent entry qualifications for holders of Ordinary Diploma or Equivalent Qualifications, the Foundation Program of the Open University of Tanzania, the Advanced Certificate of Secondary Education Examination (ACSEE), and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. Additionally, students must attain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or higher to qualify for admission.
For postgraduate programs, the admission procedure allows universities to receive and process applications to select and admit students. Holders of a bachelor’s degree or advanced diploma with a minimum GPA of 2nd class or a professional qualification are eligible to apply for admission into the Institute’s Master’s Degree programs. The TCU outlines the requirements for admission into postgraduate programs in Tanzania. These requirements include a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution, a minimum of a second-class lower division, and relevant work experience.
General Entry Requirements
To be admitted into a degree program in Tanzania, there are some general entry requirements that applicants must meet. These requirements vary depending on the level of the degree program, whether it is a certificate, diploma, or bachelor’s degree.
Certificate Level
To be admitted into a certificate-level program, an applicant must have completed Form IV of secondary education and passed the National Vocational Award Level 1 (NVA 1) or National Technical Award Level 1 (NTA 1) examination. Alternatively, an applicant can have a Basic Technician Certificate (BTC) or a Basic Technician Education Examination (BTEE) certificate.
Diploma Level
To be admitted into a diploma-level program, an applicant must have completed Form IV of secondary education and passed the National Vocational Award Level 3 (NVA 3) or National Technical Award Level 3 (NTA 3) examination. Alternatively, an applicant can have an Ordinary Diploma (OD) or an Ordinary Technician Certificate (OTC).
Bachelor’s Degree Level
To be admitted into a bachelor’s degree program, an applicant must have completed Form VI of secondary education and obtained a minimum of two principal passes in relevant subjects. Alternatively, an applicant can have an Advanced Certificate of Secondary Education Examination (ACSEE) or an International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma. In addition, an applicant must have a minimum grade of C in Mathematics and English at O-level.
Overall, meeting these general entry requirements is just the first step towards being admitted into a degree program in Tanzania. Applicants must also meet specific entry requirements for the particular degree program they wish to pursue.
Specific Requirements by Faculty
Faculty of Medicine
The Faculty of Medicine has specific requirements for students seeking admission into its degree programs. Prospective students must have a minimum of two principal passes at the Advanced Level in Chemistry and Biology, and a subsidiary pass in Physics or Mathematics. Additionally, they must have a minimum score of 4.0 points in their Advanced Level exams.
Faculty of Engineering
The Faculty of Engineering requires prospective students to have a minimum of two principal passes at the Advanced Level in Mathematics and Physics, and a subsidiary pass in Chemistry. Additionally, they must have a minimum score of 4.0 points in their Advanced Level exams.
Faculty of Law
Prospective students seeking admission into the Faculty of Law must have a minimum of two principal passes at the Advanced Level in any subject. Additionally, they must have a minimum score of 4.0 points in their Advanced Level exams.
Faculty of Education
The Faculty of Education requires prospective students to have a minimum of two principal passes at the Advanced Level in any subject. Additionally, they must have a minimum score of 4.0 points in their Advanced Level exams.
It is important to note that these are the specific requirements for each faculty and that general entry requirements also apply. Prospective students should check with their desired faculty to ensure they meet all the requirements for admission.
Competitive Entry Scores
Entry into degree programs in Tanzania is highly competitive, with a limited number of spaces available for students. As a result, universities in Tanzania have set high entry scores for students seeking admission into their degree programs. These scores vary depending on the program of study and the university.
Science and Technology Programs
For science and technology programs, the entry scores are generally higher than those for arts and humanities programs. For example, the entry score for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at the University of Dar es Salaam is 4.0 points, with a minimum of two principal passes in Mathematics and Physics or Chemistry at the Advanced Certificate of Secondary Education (ACSEE) level.
Similarly, the entry score for Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronics Engineering at the University of Dodoma is 3.5 points, with a minimum of two principal passes in Mathematics and Physics at the ACSEE level.
Arts and Humanities Programs
For arts and humanities programs, the entry scores are generally lower than those for science and technology programs. For example, the entry score for a Bachelor of Arts in Kiswahili at the University of Dar es Salaam is 3.0 points, with a minimum of two principal passes in Kiswahili with a minimum of “D” grade and in one of the following subjects: English, French, Arabic, Chinese, Geography, and History at the ACSEE level.
Similarly, the entry score for Bachelor of Arts in Education at the University of Dodoma is 2.5 points, with a minimum of two principal passes in any two subjects at the ACSEE level.
It is important to note that these scores are highly competitive, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission into the program. Universities in Tanzania receive thousands of applications each year, and only a limited number of spaces are available. Therefore, students need to strive for excellence in their academic performance to increase their chances of admission into the program of their choice.
Application Process
Applying for admission into various degree courses in Tanzania for the 2024/2025 academic year requires following specific procedures. This section outlines the documentation needed, submission deadlines, and selection procedures.
Documentation Needed
Applicants must provide the following documentation when applying for admission:
- A certified copy of their academic transcripts
- A certified copy of their birth certificate or passport
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- A copy of their National Identification Number (NIN)
- A non-refundable application fee
Applicants should ensure that their documentation is complete, accurate, and submitted on time to avoid disqualification.
Submission Deadlines
The submission deadline for applications varies depending on the institution. Applicants must check with their institution of choice to confirm the deadline for submission. Late submissions are not accepted.
Selection Procedures
The selection process for admission into various degree courses in Tanzania is competitive. Applicants are selected based on their academic qualifications and performance in entrance examinations. The entrance examination may vary depending on the institution and the course applied for.
After the selection process, successful applicants are notified of their admission status and provided with instructions on how to proceed with registration. It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission.
In conclusion, applicants must ensure that they follow the application process carefully and provide all required documentation. They should also prepare adequately for the entrance examination and submit their application before the deadline. By doing so, they increase their chances of being admitted into their institution of choice.
International Students
Visa and Permit Requirements
International students who wish to study in Tanzania are required to obtain a student visa and a residence permit. The student visa can be obtained from the Tanzanian embassy or high commission in the student’s home country. The visa is valid for 90 days and can be extended for the duration of the course. The residence permit is obtained after arrival in Tanzania and is valid for the duration of the course.
To obtain a student visa, the student must provide a letter of acceptance from the university or college where they have been admitted to study. They must also provide proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses while in Tanzania.
Language Proficiency
International students must be proficient in the language of instruction used in the university or college where they have been admitted to study. Most universities and colleges in Tanzania use English as the language of instruction. Therefore, international students whose first language is not English are required to provide proof of English language proficiency by taking an English language test such as TOEFL or IELTS.
In addition, some universities and colleges may require international students to take a language proficiency test in the language of instruction used in the specific course or program they have been admitted to study. International students need to check with their respective universities or colleges for specific language proficiency requirements.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Tanzania offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help students pursue their academic goals. These scholarships cover a range of subjects and levels, from undergraduate to PhD studies. Some of these scholarships are fully funded, while others are partially funded.
The Tanzanian government offers scholarships to students who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. The Tanzania Scholarship Fund is one such program that provides financial assistance to students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Tanzania. The fund covers tuition fees, accommodation, and other expenses.
In addition to government scholarships, there are also scholarships offered by international organizations and foreign governments. For example, the Commonwealth Scholarship is a fully-funded scholarship that enables Tanzanian students to study in the United Kingdom. The scholarship covers tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses.
Students can also apply for scholarships offered by universities and colleges in Tanzania. These scholarships are often merit-based and cover tuition fees or provide a stipend for living expenses. Some universities also offer need-based scholarships to students who demonstrate financial need.
Overall, there are numerous scholarships and financial aid options available to students in Tanzania. Students are encouraged to research and apply for scholarships that align with their academic goals and financial needs. By taking advantage of these opportunities, students can pursue their studies without the burden of financial constraints.
Appeals and Admissions Queries
If a candidate is not offered admission to a degree program, they have the right to appeal the decision. The Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU) has established guidelines for the appeals process, which can be found on their website. Candidates who wish to appeal should follow these guidelines and submit their appeal within the specified timeframe.
In addition to the appeals process, candidates may also have queries or concerns regarding the admissions process. These may include questions about entry requirements, application procedures, or the status of their application. The TCU has a dedicated admissions department that can assist candidates with these queries.
Candidates can contact the TCU admissions department via email or phone. The contact details can be found on the TCU website. When contacting the admissions department, candidates should provide their full name, application number, and a clear description of their query or concern.
It is important to note that the admissions department may take some time to respond to queries, particularly during peak periods. Candidates should therefore submit their queries as early as possible to ensure a timely response.
Overall, the appeals and admissions queries process is an important aspect of the degree program admissions process in Tanzania. Candidates should be aware of their rights and the guidelines established by the TCU, and should not hesitate to contact the admissions department if they have any queries or concerns.