Average cost of higher education in Dakar (private and public) – 2025 Guide

Dakar is the heart of higher education in Senegal, offering a wide range of public and private programs. Costs vary considerably depending on the institution, program, and level of study. This SEO-optimized article helps you understand the average cost of higher education in Dakar in 2025 and compare options for students and parents.

Cost of higher education in the public sector in Dakar

Public universities such as UCAD (Cheikh Anta Diop University) or the University of Thiès offer very affordable registration fees:
– Licence 1 to Licence 3: approximately 25,000 FCFA per year.
– Master 1 and Master 2: approximately 50,000 FCFA per year.
– Doctorate: approximately 75,000 FCFA per year.

However, the actual cost to the state is much higher. On average, the state spends approximately 1,178,742 CFA francs per student each year, including 542,702 CFA francs on education and educational services.

Cost of higher education in the private sector in Dakar

Private schools and universities vary greatly in their fees. On average, the annual cost ranges from 300,000 to 2,000,000 CFA francs, depending on the program and the institution's standing. Here are some guidelines:
– Technical and IT sectors: 700,000 to 1,200,000 FCFA/year.
– Business and management schools (CESAG, ISM): 1,230,000 to 1,800,000 FCFA/year.
– University of the Sahel: 800,000 to 1,000,000 FCFA/year for a Bachelor’s degree, up to 1,200,000 FCFA for a Master’s degree.
– ISM Dakar: between 500,000 and 582,000 FCFA/year.

Since 2023, a mandatory reduction of 10 % has been applied to Senegalese and UEMOA students in private establishments in Dakar (5 % outside Dakar).

Tips for choosing your higher education in Dakar

– Check that the school is approved by the Ministry and recognized by CAMES or ANAQ-SUP.
– Compare registration fees and the cost of living (housing, transportation).
– Find out about available scholarships (national, UEMOA, or school-specific).
– Favor accredited training courses that facilitate professional integration.
– Take advantage of the discounts and payment facilities offered by certain schools.

Conclusion

Studying in Dakar in 2025 remains accessible, especially in the public sector, where student fees are low but the government bears a high cost. Private education, while more expensive, offers advantages such as professional programs and better integration. Comparing options and seeking financial aid remains key to choosing the right program.