Applications Now Open at Makerere University
Makerere University has officially opened applications for its Private Sponsorship (self-sponsored) undergraduate programmes for the 2026/2027 academic year. The announcement covers both direct entry and diploma/degree entry schemes, with applications being processed through the university’s ACMIS online portal.
The intake is scheduled for the August 2026 academic session, and all applications must be completed online.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
The application window is open to a wide range of candidates, including Ugandan, East African, and international applicants.
For the Direct Entry Scheme, applicants must have completed A-Level studies with the required minimum points in the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education, along with relevant O-Level passes. Some programmes may have additional subject requirements depending on the course.
For the Diploma or Degree Entry Scheme, applicants must hold at least a Second Class or Credit Diploma from a recognized institution, or a degree from a chartered university. In most cases, Third Class or Pass Diplomas are not accepted unless a specific programme allows it.
Certain competitive programmes, such as Bachelor of Laws, require applicants to sit pre-entry examinations before admission.
How to Apply Online
Applications are submitted exclusively through the ACMIS portal at https://apply.mak.ac.ug
Applicants begin by creating an account using their full name, email address, and mobile number. A password is then sent via email or SMS for login access.
Once logged in, applicants select the appropriate scheme, such as Direct Entry Private Sponsorship or specific professional programmes like Bachelor of Medical Education.
They are then required to complete all sections of the application form accurately before proceeding to payment.
Application Fees and Payment Process
All applicants are required to pay a non-refundable application fee before submission.
For Ugandan and East African applicants, the fee is UGX 50,000, while international applicants pay UGX 281,250 or its equivalent. In addition, a service fee of UGX 5,000 applies to all applicants.
Payments can be made through authorized banks or mobile money platforms linked to the Uganda Revenue Authority system.
Submission Requirements and Documents
After completing the online application, diploma and degree holders, as well as international applicants, are required to submit certified academic documents. These include transcripts, certificates, and a recent passport-size photograph.
Physical submission is done at Office 315, Level 3, Senate Building at Makerere University.
Applicants are advised to ensure all uploaded documents are clear, properly formatted, and officially certified, as provisional results are generally not accepted.
Important Deadlines and Timelines
Deadlines vary depending on the programme.
Some competitive programmes, such as Bachelor of Medical Education (Private), are expected to close around 26 April 2026. Direct Entry Private Scheme applications may extend into May 2026, while diploma and degree holder applications may have earlier cut-offs or limited remaining windows.
Pre-entry examinations for select programmes, including Law, may also have separate deadlines.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to confirm exact closing dates directly on the ACMIS portal, as extensions may be announced.
Key Guidelines and Warnings
All applications must be completed online through the official portal. Paper submissions are not accepted.
Applicants should ensure accuracy in all details and avoid using unofficial agents, as the university does not authorize third-party application handlers.
Programme fees vary depending on the course and are paid separately upon admission.
International applicants should also verify equivalency requirements for their academic qualifications before applying.
Where to Get More Information
For official updates and detailed programme listings, applicants should refer to:
- https://apply.mak.ac.ug
- Makerere University admissions office
- Senate Building, Level 3, Kampala campus
- Official university announcements and admissions booklets for 2026/2027
Final Note
Prospective students are encouraged to apply early, especially for high-demand programmes that fill quickly. With several deadlines approaching, timely submission is essential. Applications are now open, and candidates are advised to begin the process immediately through the official portal.
