Makerere University has released the official Freshers’ Joining Instructions for the 2026/2027 academic year. If you just got admitted, here is every date, fee, and rule you need to know — no fluff.
Orientation Week runs Saturday 1st August to Friday 7th August, 2026. Resident freshers must be in their halls of residence or private hostels by 5:00 PM on Saturday 1st August.
On Monday 3rd August, all freshers must be at Freedom Square at 9:00 AM for the central orientation with university officials. College-specific orientation then runs Tuesday 4th through Friday 7th August.
Lectures begin Monday 10th August, 2026.
Key Academic Dates
- Semester One: 8th August – 5th December 2026 (17 weeks)
- Semester Two: 16th January – 15th May 2027 (17 weeks)
Government sponsored students pay UGX 155,404 in functional fees.
Privately sponsored students pay:
- UGX 834,505 (Ugandans, Semester 1)
- UGX 1,489,785 (International students, Semester 1)
- UGX 132,250 (Semester 2, Year 1)
Additional fees include UGX 20,000 to the National Council for Higher Education (paid at Stanbic Bank) and UGX 2,000 UNSA subscription annually.
Government sponsored students can pick up their full admission letters from their colleges from Monday 6th July 2026.
Registration opens Monday 10th August at 9:00 AM and must be completed within the first two weeks of semester. Miss this window and you risk not being recognised as a bonafide student.
Privately sponsored students must pay 60% of tuition plus all functional fees before picking up their original admission letters.
Bring your original academic documents — no copies accepted for verification.
You can apply to change your programme or subject combination online between Monday 3rd August and Friday 14th August 2026. The application fee is UGX 6,000 plus bank charges.
A word of warning straight from the University: changing programmes without proper authority can get you discontinued. Seek advice before applying.
One More Thing — Bring a Laptop
Makerere has made it official: all freshers must have a laptop computer. It is listed as an essential tool for study. Plan accordingly before you report.
Welcome to the hill. See you in August.
