Gulu University
Gulu University is a public university in Gulu, Uganda.
The history of Gulu University is one of resilience and hope. The university was founded in 2002, during the midst of the brutal civil war in northern Uganda. The war had ravaged the region, destroying schools and infrastructure, and displacing millions of people. Despite the challenges, the people of Gulu were determined to build a better future for themselves and their children. They saw education as the key to rebuilding their lives and their community. In 2001, the Parliament of Uganda passed the Gulu University Act, establishing the university as a public institution.
Gulu University admitted its first students in September 2002. The university began with a small number of students and staff, but it quickly grew. In 2009, GU established a constituent college in the city of Lira, which is about 100 kilometres (62 mi) to the southeast of Gulu. The campus, then named Lira University College, admitted its first students in August 2012 (100 of them). GU has faced many challenges in its early years. The university has been underfunded, and it has been difficult to attract and retain qualified staff. However, GU has persevered, and it has become a leading institution of higher learning in Uganda.
GU is a symbol of hope and resilience for the people of northern Uganda. The university is providing its students with the education they need to rebuild their lives and their community. GU is also making a significant contribution to the development of Uganda and the African continent. Gulu University is a young university, but it has already made a significant impact on Uganda and the African continent. GU is committed to providing its students with a high-quality education and to conducting research that makes a positive impact on society.
Gulu University is ranked as the #5 top university in Uganda during 2025. This is the same rank as last year.
University Profile
Get a quick snapshot of the university's key details.
| 2025 Ranking | #5 |
|---|---|
| University Name | Gulu University |
| Year Established | 2002 |
| Motto | Empowering Minds, Transforming Lives |
| Governing Type | Public |
| Student Body | Co-education |
| Highest Degree | Doctorate |
| Campus Type | Urban |
Location
The university is located in Gulu. Find the address and map of the university below.
| Address | Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda |
|---|---|
Contact
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| Phone | ( +256) 47132094 |
|---|---|
| Website |
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| Click here to send email | |
| More Links |
Admission Info
Admission to Gulu University is based on the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) results or equivalent qualifications for international students. Applicants must meet the required academic criteria for their chosen program, and may need to take an entrance exam or undergo an interview. International students are required to meet specific academic and language proficiency requirements. The university offers detailed admission guidelines on its website, with information about application deadlines, required documents, and additional eligibility criteria.
| Accepts International Students | Yes |
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Scholarship and Financial Aids
Gulu University offers several scholarships and financial aid options to support its students, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Scholarships are available for both Ugandan and international students, with a focus on promoting education for students in the northern region and across Uganda. The university’s scholarship programs often include merit-based awards as well as need-based financial aid, and students are encouraged to apply early for financial support. Detailed information on available scholarships can be found on the university’s website.
Programs and Courses
Get a quick overview of programs and courses offered at this university.
| Bachelor's Degrees | Master's Degrees | Doctorate Degrees | Diplomas | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arts & Humanities | n/a | n/a | ||
| Business & Social Sciences | n/a | n/a | ||
| Engineering | n/a | n/a | n/a | |
| Language & Cultural Studies | n/a | n/a | n/a | n/a |
| Medicine & Health | n/a | n/a | ||
| Science & Technology | n/a |
Click on the following button to explore a detailed list of programs and courses of this institute.
View Course ListRanking History
The following chart shows how the ranking of this university in Uganda has changed over the last 5 years.