Types of Universities:
Higher education in Zambia has improved in the recent years due to the increase of private universities and colleges. The biggest university is the public University of Zambia, which is located in the capital Lusaka. Then there are many other smaller universities, some public others private including Copperbelt University, Zambia Open University, European University Zambia Zambia Catholic University, Cavendish University, Zambia Adventist University, Northrise University, University of Lusaka, Lusaka Apex Medical University, Woodlands University College, Copperstone University College, University of Africa, Information and Communication University, Mulungushi University, Kwame Nkrumah University of Education and there are various Health training Institutes offering Diplomas in clinical medicine, Registered Nursing.

Academic Year:
In Zambia, for University education, the calendar year starts in January and ends in December. The academic year is divided into 2 terms as follows:

1. Semester One: January to June
2. Semester Two: July to December

Semester One Holiday Break: Mid June to mid July.

General Application Requirements:
For admission into a tertiary education, Zambian universities generally require you to present proof of completing one of the following requirements. Applicant should have:

1. Regular admission to a Bachelor degree programme requires a High School Leaving Certificate with an aggregate score of 60 or “C” or “Credit”, or equivalent.
2. Applicants with a Diploma or Advanced Diploma in a relevant area may be considered for credit transfer
3. Applicants with at least 2 years post-secondary relevant experience may be considered for entry
4. Recognized proof of English proficiency
5. Up to date CV
6. Copy of Passport of National ID

Also, they would be asked to show their higher secondary mark sheet for verifying their competency in their desired field of study in Zambia. This is also applicable for the students of masters and PhD. However, any university may demand additional documents as per their rules and regulation.

Program Duration:

*Higher Certificate: usually takes 1 year to complete.
*National Diploma: usually takes 2 years to complete.
*Bachelors Degree: usually takes 1- 3 years to complete.
*Honors Degree (Bachelors with Honors): usually takes 4 years to complete. It is a bachelor’s degree plus an extra year of study.
*Masters Degree: Usually takes 1-2 years after an Honors degree.
*Doctorate Degree (PhD): usually takes 3-5 years after a Master’s degree.

POST GRADUATE OPPORTUNITIES-

ZCCM Investments Holdings ex-Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines Ltd., CEC, Chambishi, Chilanga Cement, Public institution, Zanaco (Zambia National Commercial Bank), etc companies are leading the country with greatest opportunities for the postgraduate students.  Promising sectors of the Zambian economy includes Tourism, Agriculture, Industry and manufacturing, Transport, Mining and petroleum etc.