Universities in Ghana
Ghana has a vibrant higher education sector with over 100 accredited universities and institutions. The public universities are the most sought after, with the University of Ghana (Legon), KNUST, and University of Cape Coast (UCC) being the top three.
Top Public Universities in Ghana
| University | Location | Known For | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Ghana (UG/Legon) | Accra | Arts, Law, Sciences, Business | ug.edu.gh |
| KNUST (Kwame Nkrumah Univ) | Kumasi | Engineering, Science, Tech | knust.edu.gh |
| UCC (University of Cape Coast) | Cape Coast | Education, Arts, Sciences | ucc.edu.gh |
| University of Education, Winneba | Winneba | Education, Creative Arts | uew.edu.gh |
| University of Development Studies | Tamale | Applied Sciences, Development | uds.edu.gh |
| Ghana Technology University | Accra | ICT, Engineering, Business | gtuc.edu.gh |
2025/2026 University Cut-Off Points
The cut-off points for university admission vary by university, program, and candidate type (Science or General/Arts). Below are the approximate WAEC WASSCE aggregate ranges for popular programs:
University of Ghana (Legon) — Minimum Aggregates
| Program | Science Applicants | General/Arts Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine & Surgery | 5 – 8 | 5 – 8 |
| Law | 6 – 10 | 6 – 10 |
| Dentistry | 6 – 10 | 6 – 10 |
| Nursing | 8 – 12 | 8 – 12 |
| Engineering | 8 – 14 | 8 – 14 |
| Computer Science | 9 – 15 | 9 – 15 |
| Business Administration | 10 – 18 | 10 – 18 |
| Economics | 8 – 14 | 8 – 14 |
| Psychology | 10 – 18 | 10 – 18 |
| Arts (English, History, etc.) | 10 – 20 | 10 – 20 |
KNUST — Minimum Aggregates
| Program | Science Applicants |
|---|---|
| Medicine | 5 – 8 |
| Engineering | 8 – 15 |
| Computer Science | 8 – 16 |
| Pharmacy | 7 – 12 |
| Agriculture | 10 – 20 |
| Business Administration | 12 – 22 |
How to Apply for University Admission in Ghana
All applications to Ghanaian universities are done through the University Admissions System:
Step 1: Check Your WAEC Results
Before applying, make sure you have your WAEC results. You need at least 6 credits (C6 or better) including English Language and Mathematics to qualify for most programs.
Step 2: Get Your Reference Number
Visit www.ug.edu.gh/admissions or the respective university's admissions portal to begin your application. You'll need to create an account and get a reference number.
Step 3: Choose Your Programs
Select up to two program choices in order of preference. Research the cut-off points for your desired programs to maximize your chances.
Step 4: Fill In Your Details
Enter your WAEC index number, results, personal details, and program choices. Double-check everything before submitting.
Step 5: Pay Application Fees
Application fees range from GHS 200 – GHS 500 depending on the university. Pay via mobile money, bank transfer, or at the bank.
Step 6: Wait for Admission List
After applying, check the university's admissions portal regularly for your admission status. Admission lists are typically released between July and October.
How to Check Your Admission Status
- Visit the university's admissions portal (e.g., apps.ug.edu.gh/admissions)
- Log in with your application reference number and PIN
- Navigate to "Check Admission Status" or "View Admission Letter"
- If admitted, download and print your admission letter
- Follow the registration instructions on your admission letter
2025/2026 Admission Timeline
| Activity | Approximate Date |
|---|---|
| WAEC WASSCE Results Released | August 2025 |
| University Application Opens | September – November 2025 |
| 1st Admission List Released | July – August 2026 |
| 2nd Admission List Released | August – September 2026 |
| 3rd Admission List Released | September – October 2026 |
| Registration/Orientation | October – November 2026 |
| Academic Year Begins | January 2027 |
Private Universities in Ghana
If you don't make the public university cut-offs, private universities are a great alternative. They offer quality education and many are accredited:
- Ashesi University — Premier private engineering & business university
- All Nations University — Christian-based private university
- Central University — Pentecostal university with multiple campuses
- Valley View University — Private Christian university
- Presbyterian University College — Faith-based private institution
- Ghana Christian University College — Presbyterian-affiliated
University Application Tips
- Apply early: Don't wait until the deadline. Apply as soon as applications open
- Research thoroughly: Check the cut-off points for your program in previous years
- Have a backup plan: Apply to 2-3 universities to increase your chances
- Watch for supplementary admission: Some universities admit students who didn't make initial cut-offs through supplementary applications
- Keep checking: Admission lists can be released in multiple batches over several weeks