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Studying in Senegal. Where to start.

Whether you're enrolling at a Dakar university, doing a semester exchange, or following a French-language program — Senegal is one of West Africa's top academic destinations. Here's your complete guide.

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NOTE

Senegal has over 30 accredited universities and grandes écoles in Dakar. Most programs are in French. The academic year starts in October — apply at least 3 months early for visa and enrollment.

University selector

UCAD
Public, flagship

Université Cheikh Anta Diop. 80,000+ students. Full range of faculties.

ISM Dakar
Private, business

Institut Supérieur de Management. International programs. English & French.

ESP
Engineering

École Supérieure Polytechnique. Part of UCAD. Engineering, tech, applied sciences.

Monthly budget breakdown
Housing
150-350 EUR/month
Food
100-180 EUR/month
Transport
30-60 EUR/month
Leisure & miscellaneous
80-150 EUR/month

Your profile checklist

Tick items as you complete them

0 / 20 completed
Phase 1: Before departure

Weeks -3 to 0

Get accepted by your university [First step]
Enrollment letter required for visa application
Apply for student long-stay visa
Via the Senegalese embassy or consulate in your country in your home country
Get international student health insurance
Required for visa + university enrollment
Gather required documents
Diploma, transcripts, ID, passport-size photos
Research student housing options
Campus residence, private room, shared apartment
Brush up on your French
Most programs and daily life are conducted in French
Phase 2: Arrival & setup

Days 1 – 14

Get a local SIM card
Orange or Free Senegal. Student data packs available.
Set up Wave or Orange Money
For rent, food, and daily payments
Register at your university [Priority]
Bring all original documents plus copies
Confirm your housing arrangemen
Get the contract signed before paying any deposit
Open a local bank account
Useful for recurring payments
Locate campus services & transport routes
DDD buses, Dakar Dem Dikk, taxis
Register with your embassy
Recommended for stays over 3 months
Phase 3: Setting In

MOnths 1 – 3

Apply for residence permit (CIE)
Within 90 days of arrival
Join student associations & clubs
Best way to integrate and build your network
Find affordable local restaurants
This boudienne for 2-3 EUR near campus
Explore Dakar & beyond
Ile de Goree, Saint-Louis, Cap Skirring
Connect with the Visene student community
Tips, events, International residents student groups
You’re fully settled. Study well
Senegal is now your second home.

Curated guides

View all guides
Universities in Dakar
Curated Guide
Universities in Dakar: The International Student Guide
Read guide →
Student Housing
Curated Guide
Student Housing in Dakar: Campus vs Private
Read guide →
Cost of Living
Curated Guide
Cost of Living in Senegal (2026)
Read guide →
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Concierge recommendation — Starter pack

“Master's student at ISM Dakar from Spain: 'I didn't know anyone in Dakar. The Visene call gave me a neighborhood to target, a checklist to follow, and the confidence to just go”

Lucas M.
Lucas M.

Best 150 EUR I spent

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Temporary accommodation (first days)
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