ADMISSIONS

1. Is the university accredited?

Yes, BTU is a fully accredited Private Higher Education Institution in Zambia.

We are officially registered as a ZQF 9 University by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) of Zambia (hea.org.zm) and offer accredited programs that meet both national and international standards.

BTUC's accredited learning programs are recognized by the Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA) and are registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), confirming compliance with international requirements.

Our current accreditations, certifications, and memberships include:

• Registered and Accredited by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) of Zambia
• Registered and Accredited by the Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA) for international recognition
• Founding Member of the Chaplains Association of Zambia (CAZ)
• Member of the Christian Colleges & Universities Association (CCUA) of Zambia
• Certified by the Church of God Division of Education (USA) as a Level III theological training institution
• Authorized by the Church of God School of Ministry (USA) to offer Certificates in Ministerial Studies (CIMS)

2. Where can I verify the institution’s accreditation status?

To verify our registration and accreditation, visit https://hea.org.zm/ where a list of all registered universities and colleges in Zambia is maintained and updated regularly. 

1. What are the admission requirements?

To be considered for admission, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Grade 12 Certificate with five (5) O-level credits or better, or an equivalent qualification
• Certified copy of National Registration Card (NRC) for Zambian applicants
• Certified copy of passport for international applicants
• International students must apply for an entry visa and a study permit
• Proficiency in reading, writing, and understanding English
• Recommendation letter from a pastor or supervisor

For further information, please contact admissions@btuc.africa 

2. How do I apply?

You can apply through the BTUC website or by contacting our Admissions Office at

admissions@btuc.africa 

3. What is the application deadline

BTUC has rolling admissions; we do not have a fixed application deadline. Students are welcome to apply at any time throughout the year. However, please note that enrollment for On-Campus programs takes place once a year in January. For assistance, contact admissions@btuc.africa

4. How can I check my application status?

You can check your application status through the Admissions Portal on Populi.

A link to the portal will be provided by the Admissions Office once your application has been submitted. For further assistance, contact admissions@btuc.africa

5. Do you accept international students?

Yes. BTUC is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students and does not discriminate based on nationality, race, colour, or gender.

6. How do I defer my admission?

Submit the deferral request letter outlining your reasons for deferral and your continued interest to the admissions office. The admissions office reserves the right to approve or reject the request depending on the terms and conditions provided in the deferral policy.

7. Can I transfer from another college or university?

Yes, BTUC accepts transfer students provided the school you are transferring from is accredited by HEA and ZAQA or any equivalent accrediting body.

1. What is the cost of attendance?

Below is a breakdown of the estimated cost of attendance per semester at BTU:

Tuition (per semester):

• ZMW 6,000

Fees (per semester):

• Registration Fee: ZMW 100
• ICT Fee: ZMW 750
• Library Fee: ZMW 300

Room (per semester):

• Dorm Housing (15 weeks): ZMW 3,500

Board (per semester):

• Pre-Paid Meal Plan (15 weeks): ZMW 4,000

One-Time Fees:

• Application Fee: ZMW 100
• Dorm Deposit: ZMW 500

Miscellaneous Fees:

• Late Registration Fee: ZMW 500

Please note that all fees are subject to change. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, contact the Accounts Office at accounts@btuc.africa.

2. How do I apply for financial aid or scholarships? 

Everyone is welcomed to apply, though scholarship is not guaranteed. To apply for a scholarship, you need to submit a written scholarship application letter, reference from your pastor, and a support letter from your legal guardian. You can contact the Admissions Office at admissions@btuc.africa to inquire about the availability of scholarship funds. If the funds are available, you are free to apply for such funds and wait for a response.  Any student who is admitted to study at BTUC is eligible to apply for scholarship funds.

3. How do I set up a payment plan?

To arrange a payment plan, please contact our Accounts Office at accounts@btuc.africa. Kindly note that approval of a payment plan is at the sole discretion of the institution.

4. Do you offer work-study opportunities?

No, we do not currently offer work-study opportunities.

5. Can international students receive financial aid?

Yes, international students may be eligible for financial aid if they meet all the required conditions.

1. Is on-campus housing available?

Yes, on-campus housing is available for students depending on availability

2. How do I apply for student housing?

To apply or get more information, please visit the Office of the Registrar or contact admissions@btuc.africa 

3. Are freshmen required to live on campus?

No. Living on campus is optional. 

4. Are there qualifications to live on campus and remain living on campus?

Yes, there are qualifications for a student to live on campus and remain there until one completes his/her academic program. A student must:

• Know and abide by the rules and regulations of the campus.
• Be full-time. 
• Keep the dorm room clean all the time.
• Be able to pay the accommodation charges.
• See Student Handbook for a more detailed list.

5. What are the rules for on-campus residents? 

The university has rules for the on-campus residents:

Leaving campus policy

All residential students leaving the campus during their free time must log out in the logbook, clearly indicating where they have gone and stating the reason for leaving the campus.

Curfew

Students are required to be on campus and in their rooms by 21.00 hours. After 21.00 hours, the security closes the gates. Also, students should power off all lights when not in the room. They should unplug electrical appliances when not in use (including telephone chargers)! They must also switch off all lights at 23:00hrs (except security lights).

Quiet hours

Noise pollution on campus is not allowed, and students are to maintain a noise-free environment to always foster a study-friendly atmosphere.

Cleanliness

Students are responsible for keeping their rooms clean and tidy all the time.

Work hour

Students who are scholarship recipients are required to work for one hour each day from Monday to Friday. They clean the surrounding areas and dormitories (the outside areas). Cleanliness is vital to the upkeep of our campus. Additionally, everyone should take part in the gardening process.

Please see the Student Handbook for a more detailed list.

6. What dining options are available on campus?

We offer a prepaid meal plan for commuting and resident students. You either pay monthly or per semester.

7. What student organizations and clubs are available?

We have a student praise team and an intercession group. Also, students gather weekly to practice football and participate in informal matches with the neighboring school. There are student activity nights periodically throughout the semester.

8. Is there a health Centre on campus?

No. We only have a sick bay. The institution is surrounded by three hospitals within a radius of five kilometers from the BTUC campus.

9. Are there recreational or fitness facilities?

Yes. We have a Basketball/Volleyball court, Soccer field, game room with Ping Pong, and other games such as chess, checkers, and card games. We also have Student Activity nights for students to gather for fun and fellowship.

1. What programs or majors are offered?

BTU offers internationally (HEA and ZAQA) accredited programs in the following:

• BA in Theology

• BA in Chaplaincy

• BA in Ministry and Leadership 

• Diploma In Theology

• Certificate in Chaplaincy

• Certificate in Church Ministries

2. What is the duration for the certificate, degree and degree programs?

• Bachelor’s Degree – 4 years

• Diploma – 2 and ½ years

• Certificate – 1 year 

3. How do I register for classes?

Apply online through our website at admissions@btuc.africa, OR come in person to fill out an application through our Admissions office.

4. How can I change my major?

To change your major, you will be required to fill in a form expressing your desire to change your Major. Upon meeting the required criteria, a change of Major may be granted. 

5. What is the academic calendar?

The Academic Calendar at Berea Theological University (BTU) is a structured schedule that outlines all key academic and spiritual activities throughout the academic year. It includes course blocks, registration periods, assessments, holidays, and ministry engagements, ensuring alignment with HEA requirements and the institution’s Christian mission. The calendar guides teaching, learning, and administrative planning across all programs. We use a semester system. Each Semester is further broken down into Blocks in the following manner:

Semester 1: January to May

Semester 2: August to December 

6. How do I contact an academic advisor?

Prospective students can connect with our academic office by scheduling an appointment through the Admissions office or calling us at (+260) 211 296 068. You can also come in person to our campus and speak with our academic office staff.

7. Are online, distance, part-time, or evening classes available? 

The following Online Distance learning degree programs are offered at the BTU: BA in Theology, BA in Chaplaincy, and BA in Ministry and Leadership. The duration of each program is 4 years.

8. How do I apply for an Online degree program? 

BTU offers online programs, namely: BA in Theology, BA in Chaplaincy, and BA in Ministry and Leadership. Interested applicants can contact us by calling or texting the following number: +260967396381. They can also contact us via the following email address: admission@btuc.africa, or visit our website at www.btuc.africa.  

9. How do I access the library and other academic resources?  

Students have full access to library services and academic support resources both on campus and online. On campus, we have the Lovell and Ginny Cary Learning Centre. It is a well-stocked Library with thousands of titles, new iMac desktop workstations, and a comfortable, quiet study environment. Online, we have such resources as Perlego and Lee University’s William G. Squires Library. Upon successful registration, students are given login credentials to access both Perlego and the OPAL (Ohio Private Academic Libraries) network through the William G. Squires Library. The OPAL Network provides access to over 170 databases, eBooks, research starter kits, virtual librarian assistance, citation help, and more.

BTU’s Writing Support Services are dedicated to helping students develop strong academic writing and research skills. These services provide guidance on essay structure, referencing, grammar, and clarity, with the goal of improving students’ ability to communicate effectively in theological, ministerial, and academic contexts. Support is offered through workshops, one-on-one consultations, and resource materials.

1. How do I apply as an international student?

Academic Qualification: Grade 12 Certificate with five (5) O-Level credits or better, or an equivalent qualification.

Identification Documents:

• Zambian applicants must submit a certified copy of their NRC.
• International applicants must submit a certified copy of their passport.

Visa and Permit (for International Students):

• International students are required to apply for an entry visa and study permit before admission.

Language Proficiency:

• Applicants must be able to read, write, and understand English.

Character Reference:

• A recommendation letter from a Pastor or Supervisor is required.

Technology:

• Prospective students are expected to be familiar with how to navigate a computer and basic applications such as word processors and web browsers. They will not be taught the basic functions of using a computer.

2. What are the visa requirements?

To apply for a student visa, the following documents are required:

• A certified copy of your passport
• Introduction letter from the school
• Official acceptance letter
• Current visa endorsement (if applicable)
• Medical form from a Zambian government hospital
• Support letter from your spouse or guardian
• Cover letter from your spouse (if applicable)
• A cover letter from you (the student) addressed to the Director General of Immigration
• One passport-size photo
• Proof of financial commitment from your sponsor
• Documentation showing the status of your host

For further assistance, please contact admissions@btuc.africa 

3. Is there language support or ESL (English as a Second Language) programs?

Students who may need language support are given one semester to learn English either online or on campus. All students are required (unless exempted) to take English 101, but should have conversational, reading, and writing proficiency first. Any other further English support will be available on a case by case basis upon consultation with the on-campus English teacher.

4. What support services are available for international students?

The university assists students in processing their study permits with the Immigration office. The cost of study permits is borne by the student. Library and Academic Support Services are available virtually to all actively enrolled online students. On-campus international students have all of the full benefits of our Student Supports Services. There are no differentiations.

1. How do I apply for graduation?

You apply for graduation through the office of the Academic Dean or Registrar. Upon meeting all graduation requirements, you will be required to participate in a graduation ceremony organized by the university. The requirements for graduation include:

• Having satisfied all grade requirements in every course.
• Filled in the graduand clearance form.
• Payment of a graduation fee
• Pay the certificate fee 
• Buy or rent the correct graduation gown.

2. Do you offer internships/attachment programs?

Yes. Internships are offered to fourth-year students from June to July each academic year according to their Majors (i.e. Chaplaincy, Theology, Ministry and Leadership).  All students participate in Field Education partnerships with local industry units throughout their course of study.

1. How do I access my student email or portal?

Students can access their student portal via Populi on the University Website (www.btu.edu.zm ) from anywhere in the world. Students are expected to remember their login credentials upon registration, in order to continually access our Learning Management System (LMS).

2. What technological support is available to students?

Students are provided with access to Apple iMac computers in the library (Computer Lab). Our dedicated library staff are always on hand to provide technological support to our students.  We also have a dedicated Online Development Coordinator who assists students with issues pertaining to our LMS, Populi.

3. Is there Wi-Fi on campus?

The University provides 24/7 access to high-speed internet to students and faculty within the footprint of its Wi-Fi network on the Campus.  We also provide free guest access to our Wi-Fi for all visiting guests.

4. If computers are available to use in the library, do I need my laptop?

Yes. ALL BTU students are required to possess a laptop and know how to use it. On-campus students are required to access electronic textbooks, notes, and other resources daily through our online learning management system. Lecturers require ALL students to bring their computers to each class to access course materials during class. A smartphone is NOT an alternative solution. Online degree program students MUST have consistent and regular access to a desktop or laptop computer to complete the online degree program.

1. Is parking available on campus?

We have a spacious and secure car park that can accommodate several vehicles at a time. Security officers are always on hand to secure the vehicles parked in the parking lot. Students are not given long-term parking.

2. Is public transportation accessible to campus?

Absolutely. BTU is situated approximately 4 km from Lusaka's city Centre, making it easily accessible via public transportation. Minibuses and taxis can easily access our Campus through Great East Road, connecting to Chigwilizano Road to the campus located next to Rhodes Park School. We are not far from Manda Hill shopping Mall.

3. What safety services are available (e.g., campus police, escort services)?

The university is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all students, staff, and visitors. Campus safety services provide 24/7 security personnel, monitoring both the grounds and the main gate. The main gate is locked at night and during the day to maintain safety. Visitors are required to check-in and check-out. The campus is in an electrified and secure fence, and access into the facility is highly controlled and monitored