How to apply for University of Ghana?

Key takeaways

• To apply to UG as a Ghanaian, you must purchase an e-voucher via an approved bank. Foreign applicants pay online.
• Log in to the admission portal using your voucher details, complete the form, upload the required documents, and select up to three programmes in order of preference.
• Print your proof of application, then wait for admission lists or SMS notifications.

The University of Ghana is a top choice for students seeking quality higher education. If you’re planning to apply as an undergraduate, here’s everything you need to know.

Eligibility and admission requirements

Before purchasing an application voucher, you must first confirm that you meet the general requirements. UG accepts a variety of qualifications. Let’s go over them.

01 – Applying with SSCE/WASSCE

If you wrote WASSCE or SSCE, you must have at least credit passes (A1-C6 for WASSCE and A-D for SSCE) in the four core subjects (English, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Integrated Science) and three elective subjects.

Your total aggregate (the sum of your best six subjects, including core and electives) should ideally meet the cut-off for your chosen programme.

If you’re writing WASSCE in the same year, you can still apply. It will be processed as “awaiting results.” Admission will be confirmed once your results are released.

02 – Applying with a Cambridge/IB qualification

You must have three relevant subjects at the Cambridge ‘A’ level and passes in at least five subjects at the ‘O’ Level, including English and Mathematics.

03 – Applying as a mature student

You must be at least 25 years old at the time of application and must provide proof of your age using a national ID or any legitimate document. Also, you’ll need to take and pass UG’s entrance examinations (Access Course).

04 – Applying with a diploma/HND qualification

UG Diploma holders, with an FGPA of 3.25 or better (Legon and city campus) or 2.5 or better (Distance learning), can apply to the same area of study.

HND holders from a recognised Technical University or Polytechnic, with an FGPA of 4.00 (Legon and city campus) or 3.25 or better (distance learning), can apply to the same area of study. You may be required to take an entrance exam and/or interview.

Other requirements include:

• An E-voucher for Ghanaian applicants.
• A passport photo with a white background (600×800px max; 100×100px min).

How to purchase the UG online application e-voucher?

The e-voucher costs GH₵220 and can be purchased through an approved bank or via USSD code.

#1 – Through  banks

You can purchase the UG e-voucher at the following banks: Ecobank, Republic Bank, Agricultural Development Bank, GCB Bank, Zenith Bank, Universal Merchant Bank, Consolidated Bank Ghana, Prudential Bank, First Atlantic Bank and Fidelity Bank.

#2 – Through USSD code

Alternatively:

1. Dial *887*9# on all networks.
2. Enter UG.
3. Enter 1 to proceed.
4. Wait for a prompt to enter your PIN for approval.

Once successful, you’ll receive the e-voucher through SMS. If you don’t receive it, redial *887*9#, select Yes, then Retrieve E-Voucher. The serial number and PIN will be displayed.

Note: Foreign applicants are exempt from purchasing an e-voucher. You must pay a $55 processing fee online or by bank transfer.

When to apply

Applications for the 2025/2026 academic year are still ongoing. These are the deadlines for the various applicant categories:

Categories	Application duration
Regular undergraduate Ghanaian application	March – when WASSCE results are released.
Diploma to Degree application	March – July
Ghanaian with foreign qualifications application	March – October
Undergraduate international application	N/A

How to apply to the University of Ghana

The application process is online and straightforward. Whether you’re applying from Ghana or abroad, here’s what to do:

For Ghanaian applicants

For applicants in Ghana who wish to study at the university, follow these steps:

1. Log in to the UG application portal using the serial number and PIN received after buying the voucher.
2. Start the application by filling out your biodata (basic info, guardian info, disability status, etc.). Click Save and Continue to proceed to the next section.
3. Enter your entry info. If you are applying the same year as writing WASSCE, select I have no WASSCE/SSCE result, expecting to write WASSCE this year for the Entry Type.
4. Next, complete your educational background. You can enter a maximum of three exam sittings.
5. Select your programme options in order of preference. Make sure you meet the cut-off for the programmes you’re selecting. You can choose a maximum of three programme choices. If you are interested in fee-paying, I agree to that option.

Note: Health Sciences Programmes (except Allied Health) and the following: Veterinary Medicine, IT, Computer Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering can only be selected as the first choice. For the second and third choices, choose from the Sciences.

If you select B.Sc. Administration or Law (LLB) as your first choice, and choose Bachelor of Arts bouquets as your second choice for better chances. Watch these videos for more information on how to choose programmes according to the college.

1. Upload your passport photo (use the photo tool to crop correctly).
2. Review your details in the Summary section. Check spelling and uploads. If satisfied, click Accept and Print Proof.

For international and Ghanaian applicants abroad

For international applicants and Ghanaians living abroad, there is a slight change in procedure:

1. Visit the UG international application website.
2. Read the fee requirements carefully and scroll down. Select Apply Now.
3. Select Get Started and create an account.
4. Confirm your email via the link sent to you.
5. Begin the application and fill in the required sections (as stated above in the Ghanaian applicants section).
6. For the Supporting Documents section, upload all results, transcripts and certificates.
7. Select your level of English proficiency in the Self-Assessment section.
8. In the Make Payment section, upload your payment slip after paying the $55 at the bank or pay online via Visa or Mastercard.
9. Click Accept and Print Proof at the Summary section once all correct data has been entered.

Important tips for a successful application

Here are some key tips to help you submit a strong application:

• Know the programmes you intend to apply for and their requirements.
• Fill the form thoroughly and double-check all spellings, numbers, and uploads.
• Provide the necessary identification needed in the application.
• Understand the difference between regular and fee-paying options. Regular students receive a government subsidy for tuition, whereas fee-paying students carry the full tuition cost (much higher). If your grades don’t meet the regular cut-off, consider fee-paying.

What happens after applying?

After submitting your application, wait patiently till UG releases the admissions lists. In the meantime, here’s what to expect:

• You’ll receive an SMS if admitted. If not, you can still check your admission status [link] on the portal.
• If admitted, download your admission letter and follow the instructions for accepting the offer.
• If not admitted under the regular option, check if you qualify for fee-paying or other available options.

You can also keep an eye on the UG official site and social media for updates.

FAQs

What if I don’t meet the cut-off for the programmes I chose after my WASSCE results are released?

If you don’t meet the cut-off point for your desired programme, you can apply as a fee-paying student. Also, the portal will be opened when the WASSCE results are released—you can rechoose programmes you will qualify for.

Can I make edits after submitting?

Yes, the university opens the portal after the release of the WASSCE results for edits. For other changes, contact the UG admissions office.

How do I know if I’ve been admitted?

Once admissions are out, you’ll receive an SMS. Admission lists are also published online and on your portal.

Can I use both NOV/DEC and WASSCE results to apply?

Yes, you can use both NOV/DEC and WASSCE results to apply. You can submit up to three exam sittings.

Final words

If you’re a fresh SHS graduate or a guardian supporting one, start early and follow the instructions carefully.

Choose programmes wisely, double-check your application, and stay updated on deadlines. UG offers one of the best academic and personal growth experiences in the region, so go for it!

Have any questions? Please share them with us in the comments below.