International Relations Office

The International Relations Office – A Home Away From Home

The International Relations Office at Bishop Stuart University is committed to making the stay of our international students, researchers and visitors not only productive but also fulfilling and memorable. We proudly serve as a home away from home for all our global guests.

This office is the central point of contact for all matters related to international engagement at BSU—whether it’s organizing academic programs, coordinating research collaborations, managing mobility exchanges, or offering personal guidance and support. We envision a vibrant, multinational and multicultural campus life, where everyone is welcomed, respected, and fully integrated into the BSU community.

The International Relations Office operates under the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and works closely with various faculties, institutes, the Dean of Students’ Office, the Students’ Guild Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Public Relations. Through these partnerships, we aim to promote and sustain strategic global collaborations, partnerships, and networks that enhance the university’s international visibility, academic excellence and global significance.

Through this office, international students and guests receive comprehensive orientation, including assistance with acquiring student passes, visa recommendations and renewals, accommodation arrangements, and guidance on language and cultural integration. Whether you are here for study, research, or professional exchange, we are committed to supporting your welfare and official requirements throughout your stay.

At Bishop Stuart University, we are not only building academic futures but also nurturing global friendships, shared values, and cross-cultural understanding. Here, you will find not only a place to grow intellectually but also a warm and welcoming environment that truly feels like home.

1. Pre-Arrival Information (Visa Support for Visitors and Students, Visas and immigration information, Visa requirements).

Traveling to Uganda https://visas.immigration.go.ug please visit the website for details on how you may apply for a visa for your stay in Uganda. Note: Your passports’ expiry date should be beyond the period of your designated stay at the University.

2. Detailed Visa process

1. Go to https://visas.immigration.go.ug
2. Look for visas/permits on the upper taskbar, check out visas under the drop-down box, and read about the requirements.
3. Then proceed to applications (also on the upper taskbar)
4. You will apply online for your entry visa before you come to Uganda.
5. On arrival at Bishop Stuart University (BSU), you will apply for a student pass/ work permit that will enable you to stay for twelve months/one year (The IRO will ably take you through this process.
6. East Africans are exempted from paying for a Ugandan Visa.

Getting to BSU from Entebbe International Airport

Bishop Stuart University is located in Mbarara, approximately 295 km (5 hours) from Entebbe.

Public Transport Option: Take a cab from Entebbe Airport to the Global Bus Park or Tausi Bus Park in Kampala (~47 km). Estimated fare: 120,000 UGX or $32 USD. From Kampala to Mbarara, board Global Coaches or Tausi Coaches (24-hour service). Fare: 30,000 UGX or $8 USD.

Private Transport Option: A direct private hire from Entebbe to Mbarara costs between 140 – 200 USD (approx. 560,000 – 800,000 UGX). For travel assistance, contact: iro@bsu.ac.ug

3. Weather Considerations

Uganda enjoys a tropical climate.

• Average temperatures: 21–25°C (70–77°F)
• Rainy seasons: March–May and August–November
• Evenings can be cool. Be prepared for both sunshine and rain on any day!
• Bishop Stuart University (BSU) operates a multi-campus system, with its Main Campus located in Kakoba, just about 2.5km from Mbarara City Center and two specialized campuses that house key faculties:

The Faculty of Law is located just a short distance from the Main Campus, within the Kakoba Division of Mbarara City. Its proximity to the main campus allows students and staff to benefit from shared facilities and resources, while also enjoying a dedicated space tailored to legal education.

The Faculty of Health Sciences is located in Ruharo, roughly 4 kilometers from Mbarara City Centre, along the Mbarara–Kasese highway. The campus is strategically positioned near health facilities and community outreach centers, enhancing practical training for students in Nursing, Midwifery, Public Health, and related programs.

4. Average Daily Expenses

BSU is located in Mbarara, where living costs are moderate. Estimated Costs: Campus meal: $1–$2 USD, Restaurant meal: $9.65 USD, Cappuccino: $2.20 USD, Espresso: $1.50 USD.

5. Accommodation

For Full-Time Students: Monthly rent: $120–$300 USD, depending on location and amenities. Email: dos@bsu.ac.ug
For International Guests and Visiting Students: Guest rooms are available at $14 USD per night in University quarters. For inquiries: iro@bsu.ac.ug

6. Dress Code and Cultural Norms

Ugandan culture encourages simple, modest, and professional dress.

Men:

• Office wear: long-sleeved shirts, ties, trousers
• Weekends: smart casual
• Avoid shorts and extreme hairstyles

Women:

• Skirts/dresses should cover the knees and chest
• Light makeup and minimal jewellery
• Tattoos should be covered during official events

7. Do’s and Don’ts

Do:

• Attend all academic and practical sessions
• Wear your ID and name tag at all times
• Carry scrubs, lab coats and closed shoes (for clinical students)
• Have your medical tools (stethoscope, BP machine, thermometer)
• Use mosquito nets and repellent

Don’t:

• Wear shorts, open shoes, revealing clothing, or crazy hairstyles
• Bring unnecessary valuables—keep all belongings labelled and secure

Note: The university is not liable for lost property.

8. Cross-Cutting Policies. BSU upholds policies on Gender Equality, Disability Inclusion, HIV/AIDS Response and Anti-Sexual Harassment (Available through the International Relations Office).

9. Checklist for International Students
Before Arrival: Browse this International Visitor Guide; check your visa, passport, and health documents and  Research about Mbarara and BSU.

Upon Arrival: Report to the Dean of Students, Academic Registrar and IRO; Complete academic registration; Collect student ID; Get health insurance; Open a local bank account (with a BSU recommendation letter)

During Your Stay: Join student clubs, associations, or the International Students Platform; Enroll in a Kiswahili/Runyankole/English course through the IRO; Attend international student events (orientation, dinners, workshops)and have fun and explore responsibly!

Before You Leave: Clear all academic and administrative obligations; Collect transcripts or designate a proxy; Close your Ugandan bank account.

Student Categories Covered in this guide

• Degree Students: Enrolled at BSU to earn a full degree.
• Occasional Students: Exchange, elective, or short-term students affiliated with a home university.
• PhD Candidates: Registered at BSU for doctoral research.
• Exchange PhD Students: On short research or training stays at their home universities.