University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) – Annual Application Outline
About the University
The University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) is the nation’s premier higher education institution, established in 1965 to provide quality tertiary education and drive national development through research, teaching, and innovation. The university is located in Port Moresby and operates additional campuses in the provinces. UPNG offers programs designed to meet the academic, professional, and technical needs of Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific region.
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| University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) Application Processes |
Schools and Faculties
UPNG is structured into several schools, each specializing in key academic and professional fields:
- School of Business and Public Policy (SBPP) – Focuses on commerce, management, economics, and public administration.
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS) – Covers disciplines such as languages, history, social work, journalism, and political science.
- School of Law (SOL) – Offers the Bachelor of Laws program and postgraduate legal studies.
- School of Medicine and Health Sciences (SMHS) – Provides programs in medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and other allied health fields.
- School of Natural and Physical Sciences (SNPS) – Offers studies in mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, geology, and environmental sciences.
- Each school provides undergraduate and postgraduate programs tailored to meet academic standards and the workforce demands of both PNG and the global market.
Course Programs Offered
The University offers a range of programs, including:
- Undergraduate Degrees: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Business and Management, Bachelor of Law, Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery, among others.
- Postgraduate Programs: Master’s degrees, Postgraduate Diplomas, and Doctoral research opportunities in specialized fields.
- Diploma and Certificate Courses: Shorter programs focused on skill development and professional advancement.
- Programs are offered through full-time, part-time, and flexible learning modes to accommodate various student needs.
Admission Requirements
For Local Students:
- Completion of Grade 12 with a minimum GPA as set by each school.
- English and Mathematics as compulsory subjects for most programs.
- Selection is based on academic merit through the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) National Online Application System (NOAS).
- Applicants must meet specific subject prerequisites depending on their chosen program.
For International Students:
- Completion of a qualification equivalent to PNG’s Grade 12, recognized by UPNG.
- Proof of English language proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL) where applicable.
- Certified academic transcripts and passport copies must be provided.
- International students must secure a valid student visa before enrollment.
Application Process
For Local Applicants:
- Apply through the DHERST National Online Application System (NOAS) at the end of the academic year (usually around October–December).
- Select UPNG and preferred programs as part of the tertiary choices.
- Await offer confirmation through DHERST’s national selection.
- Successful applicants receive an offer letter from UPNG and proceed with registration before semester commencement in February or March.
For International Applicants:
- Obtain an application form from UPNG’s Admissions Office.
- Submit completed forms with certified academic documents, references, and proof of English proficiency.
- Applications are reviewed by the Admissions Committee.
- Upon acceptance, applicants receive an offer letter and proceed with visa arrangements.
- Registration and orientation take place before the academic year begins.
- Application and Enrollment Dates (General Timeline)
- Applications Open: August to October (for the following academic year).
- National Selections (DHERST): November to December.
- Offer Letters and Enrolment: January to February.
- Semester One Commencement: February or early March.
- Mid-Year Intake (if available): June to July for selected programs.
Tuition and Fees (Annual Estimates)
Fees vary across programs and schools and are reviewed each year. General annual estimates are:
- Undergraduate Local Students: K3,000 – K7,000 per year depending on the program.
- Undergraduate International Students: K8,000 – K15,000 per year.
- Postgraduate Programs: K10,000 – K20,000 per year, depending on specialization.
- Accommodation and Living Costs: K2,000 – K5,000 annually for on-campus housing (subject to availability).
- Students are advised that fees are subject to annual adjustments based on university policies and national economic conditions.
Summary
UPNG continues to uphold its mission of producing competent, ethical, and innovative graduates for national and regional development. With a diverse range of academic programs, modern facilities, and a supportive learning environment, the university remains a leading destination for higher education in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific.
Check out >> Study in Papua New Guinea
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