RUCU Admission Requirements 2026/2027 (Certificate and Diploma Programs)
Choosing the right university is an important step in every student’s academic journey. Ruaha Catholic University (RUCU), located in the center of Iringa, has made a name for itself as a top institution in Tanzania. It offers many programs in Law, Business, Health, and Information Technology.
As we enter the 2026/2027 academic year, prospective students should know the specific entry requirements and fee structures to make the application process easier. Whether you are a Form Four leaver or aiming to advance your career with a diploma, this guide includes everything you need to know about RUCU admissions.
1. Faculty of Law: Building Legal Experts
The Law program at RUCU is highly respected across East Africa.
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Certificate in Law (NTA Level 4):
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Requirements: Possession of a Certificate of Secondary Education (CSEE) with at least four (4) passes in non-religious subjects.
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Note: English is a mandatory subject for Law applicants.
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Diploma in Law (NTA Level 6):
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Direct Entry: Possession of ACSEE (Form Six) with at least one principal pass and one subsidiary.
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Equivalent Entry: Possession of a Certificate in Law from a recognized institution with a minimum GPA of 2.0.
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2. Health and Allied Sciences: Excellence in Medical Training
RUCU offers some of the most competitive medical diploma programs in the Southern Highlands.
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Ordinary Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences:
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Requirements: Four (4) passes in CSEE, including Chemistry and Biology. A pass in Mathematics and English is an added advantage.
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Ordinary Diploma in Medical Laboratory Sciences:
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Requirements: Four (4) passes in CSEE, including Chemistry, Biology, and Physics.
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Ordinary Diploma in Nursing and Midwifery:
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Requirements: Four (4) passes in CSEE, including Chemistry, Biology, and Physics.
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3. Business and ICT Programs
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Certificate in Business Administration: Requires four (4) passes in CSEE, including subjects like Commerce, Bookkeeping, or Mathematics.
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Diploma in Computer Science: Requires four (4) passes in CSEE, including Mathematics, Physics, or Chemistry.
RUCU Fee Structure 2026/2027 (Estimates)
Planning your finances is as important as meeting the academic criteria. Below are the estimated annual tuition fees for various non-degree programs:
| Program | Annual Tuition Fee (TSH) | Total (Inc. Direct Costs) |
| Certificate in Law/Business | TSH 960,000/= | ~ TSH 1,270,000/= |
| Diploma in Law | TSH 1,060,000/= | ~ TSH 1,325,000/= |
| Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences | TSH 1,740,000/= | ~ TSH 2,090,000/= |
| Accommodation (Hostels) | TSH 350,000/= | (Optional) |
Steps for Application
To apply to Ruaha Catholic University, follow these professional steps:
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Visit the OAS Portal: Access the RUCU Online Application System (OAS) at oas.rucu.ac.tz.
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Create an Account: You will need a valid email address and your NECTA Form Four Index Number.
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Select Your Program: Ensure you choose the correct entry type (Certificate or Diploma).
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Upload Documents: Scan and upload your CSEE Certificate, Birth Certificate, and a recent passport-sized photo.
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Pay Application Fee: Follow the instructions to generate a control number for payment (usually TSH 10,000-20,000).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Where is RUCU located?
RUCU is located in Iringa Municipality, along Uhuru Road. It is easily accessible via the Dodoma Road or the Kihesa bus stand.
Q2: Can I pay fees in installments?
Yes, RUCU allows tuition fees to be paid in four (4) equal installments per academic year to ease the financial burden on students.
Q3: Is RUCU a registered university?
Absolutely. RUCU is fully accredited by the Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU), and its technical programs are recognized by NACTVET.
Q4: What should I bring during registration?
You must bring original copies of your academic certificates, birth certificate, and evidence of health insurance (NHIF). If you don’t have NHIF, you will be required to pay TSH 50,400/= during registration.
Download RUCU Joining Instructions 2026/2027 PDF
Conclusion
Ruaha Catholic University (RUCU) remains a symbol of “Education as the Source of Life.” It combines religious values with high academic standards. This prepares students not just for exams but for life. Make sure to check your CSEE grades against the specific requirements mentioned above before starting your application for the 2026 intake.