looking to study medicine in Zambia?
Get real answers from someone who's done it.
Whether you're a student considering medicine in Zambia or a parent looking for clarity and reassurance, StudyMed Zambia is here to help you better understand what it's like to really study medicine abroad. Through genuine first-hand student experiences, honest insights, and practical guidance, we aim to help students and families feel more informed, prepared, and confident when exploring medical education opportunities and student life in Zambia.
👪Support for Students & Parents
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Helping families and students feel more informed and confident when exploring medical studies abroad.
🚖Practical Everyday Advice
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Guidance on transport, safety awareness, budgeting, and navigating daily life in Zambia.
🏠Student Living Guidance
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Helpful information about student life, accommodation areas, and adjusting to life abroad.
🎓First-Hand Student Experience
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Real insights from a South African student studying medicine in Zambia
What We Offer
PROVEN EXPERIENCE
Hiyaa, I'm Sharaé.
I'm a South African medical student currently studying in Zambia, and I've been living here for just over 5 years. I'm currently in my 5th year of medicine at the University Of Lusaka.
When I first moved here and started my degree, I had so many questions- about safety, accommodation, transport, and what student life would actually be like. Unfortunately, there wasn't a single place where all of this information was available- I relied only on word of mouth from current students and personal experience that i gained over time.
Over the years, I've lived in multiple apartments, used different transport options, and experiences both the good and the challenging sides of studying in Zambia.
I created StudyMed Zambia to make this journey easier for other students and their families- by providing honest, reliable, and first-hand information you may trust.
My goal is simple: to help you feel confident, prepared, and supported before making such an important decision.
Is Zambia safe for international students?
Many international students find Zambia to be calm, welcoming, and relatively easy to adjust to. Like any country, students should still remain aware of their surroundings and take normal precautions, especially at night. Many students and parents appreciate the slower pace and friendliness of everyday life in Lusaka.
Are there familiar restaurants and shopping centers?
Yes. Lusaka has a wide variety of restaurants, cafe's, supermarkets, gyms, malls, cinemas, and social spaces. Many students are surprised by how modern and comfortable everyday life can be, I know I was during my first year of being in Lusaka. Some popular common restaurants include KFC, Nando's, Panarottis, Rocomamas, Spur, Pedro's, Debonairs and so many more.
Is it easy to get a SIM card and internet access?
Yes. SIM cards are easy to obtain once arriving in Zambia, and many students use Airtel or MTN. Internet and mobile connectivity are generally good in most student areas.
Is studying medicine in Zambia worth considering?
For many students, studying medicine in Zambia has provided opportunities and experiences that they may not have easily had elsewhere. For me personally, I feel like I have grown so much as a person and I've become much more independent and mature. I've also made so many amazing friends from different countries.
What is student life like in Lusaka?
Lusaka offers a balance between academics and student life, with malls, restaurants, cinemas, gyms, cafe's, social clubs, and entertainment areas available throughout the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating medical school is a massive step. We've gathered the most common questions from individuals interested in studying medicine in Zambia to give you the clarity and confidence you need to get started.
What currency is used in Zambia?
The local currency is the Zambian Kwacha(ZMW). Bank cards are widely accepted in many stores, malls, restaurants, and supermarkets, and ATMs are commonly available throughout Lusaka and upon arrival at the airport. Money exchange Bureaus are also widely available at the airport as well as in many local malls. Personally, I prefer to withdraw cash from my bank card, and keep some cash handy while depositing the rest into my Airtel mobile money account. However, you would be charged international bank fees when withdrawing.
What transport options are available?
Lusaka has multiple transport options including ride services similar to Uber called Yango, local taxis, bus services, and delivery services that students commonly use to order food from restaurants or items from convenient stores.
Are medical schools in Zambia accredited in South Africa and other countries around the world?
Accreditation and recognition vary depending on the university and the country where a student intends to practice in the future. But for most accredited universities, one would still need to complete their board exams for the country they intend to practice in once completing their medical degree. Students are encouraged to do thorough research regarding the various medical universities in Lusaka and their accreditation. However, you may find more information regarding the accreditation of some universities and the academic requirements to be accepted into medicine as well as the average university fees for various universities in "The Zambian Student Starter Guide" below.
Can parents visit easily?
Yes. Zambia is easily accessible from South Africa and other southern African countries, and many parents do visit students throughout the year. There are also many lovely hotels, lodges, and Airbnb options available for visitors.
Access the Zambia student starter guide:
What you'll get access to in the Zambia student starter guide
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Accommodation options and popular student areas
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Transport, ride services, and staying connected
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SIM cards, mobile money, and staying connected
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Student budgeting and everyday living costs
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General guidance on university accreditations and recognition
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Entry requirements and application considerations for selected universities
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Study permits and practical requirements
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Insights into postgraduate pathways and working abroad after graduation
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Common mistakes new students make and how to avoid them
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Practical advice for both students and parents
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First-hand knowledge gained from over 5 years of studying and living in Zambia
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The Zambia Student Starter Guide
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