University of Kinshasa

University of Kinshasa is a public university located in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is one of the three major universities in the country, along with the University of Kisangani and the University of Lubumbashi.

The history of the University of Kinshasa (UNIKIN) can be traced back to 1954, when it was founded as Lovanium University during Belgian colonial rule. Lovanium was the first university in the Belgian Congo, and it was established with the support of the Catholic Church.

Lovanium University quickly gained a reputation as one of the best universities in Africa. It attracted students and faculty from all over the continent, and it played a key role in the development of Congolese education and culture.

After the Democratic Republic of the Congo gained independence from Belgium in 1960, Lovanium University was renamed the National University of Zaire (UNAZA). UNAZA continued to grow and develop in the years following independence, but it was also affected by the political and economic instability that plagued the country during this period.

In 1971, UNAZA was merged with two other universities to form the National University of Zaire (UNAZA). UNAZA was divided back into three separate universities in 1981, and the University of Kinshasa was re-established.

Since its re-establishment, the University of Kinshasa has faced a number of challenges, including limited financial resources, political instability, and conflict. However, the university has remained committed to providing its students with a high-quality education and to conducting research that benefits the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The University of Kinshasa has played an important role in the history of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It has educated many of the country's leaders and intellectuals, and it has been a site of student protests and political movements over the years. UNIKIN remains a vital center of learning and research in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and it is committed to helping the country build a better future.

University of Kinshasa is ranked as the #1 top university in Congo (Democratic Republic) during 2025. This is the same rank as last year.

University Profile

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2025 Ranking	#1
University Name	University of Kinshasa
Name in Local Language	Université de Kinshasa
Acronym	UNIKIN
Year Established	1954
Motto	Scientia Splendet et Conscientia
Motto in English	Science shines and so does conscience
Governing Type	Public
Student Body	Co-education
Highest Degree	Doctorate
Campus Type	Urban
Colors	Red, yellow and blue

Location

The university is located in Kinshasa. Find the address and map of the university below.

Address	BP 125, Kinshasa, Congo (Democratic Republic)

Contact

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Phone	+243 (89) 89 20 507
Website
Email	Click here to send email
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Programs and Courses

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	Bachelor's Degrees	Master's Degrees	Doctorate Degrees	Diplomas
Arts & Humanities	n/a	n/a
Business & Social Sciences	n/a	n/a	n/a	n/a
Engineering	n/a	n/a	n/a	n/a
Language & Cultural Studies	n/a	n/a	n/a	n/a
Medicine & Health	n/a	n/a	n/a	n/a
Science & Technology	n/a	n/a		n/a

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Ranking History

University of Kinshasa has persistently ranked as the 1st top university in Congo (Democratic Republic) throughout the last 5 years.

Admission Info

Admission to the University of Kinshasa is open to both Congolese and international students. For undergraduate programs, prospective students must have completed their secondary education and meet the university’s entry requirements, which typically include passing the national baccalaureate exam or its equivalent. International students may be required to submit additional documentation such as proof of language proficiency (in French, as the primary language of instruction), academic transcripts, and sometimes a personal statement. Graduate program applicants must have a relevant undergraduate degree and meet specific program requirements, including submission of academic records and sometimes an entrance exam or interview. The admissions process may vary slightly depending on the faculty or department.

Scholarship and Financial Aids

University of Kinshasa offers various scholarships to support both local and international students. These scholarships are typically based on academic merit, financial need, and special achievements in specific fields. Although funding opportunities may not be as extensive as in some other countries, the university provides scholarships that cover tuition fees and, in some cases, living expenses for deserving students. Additionally, international students may be eligible for specific scholarships or financial aid programs sponsored by the government, international organizations, or through exchange programs with partner universities. The university is committed to making education accessible to talented students, regardless of their financial background.

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Information on University of Kinshasa was last updated on January 21, 2025.