Copperbelt University (CBU): your freshman guide
Programs and courses, accommodation near campus, the campus map, important dates and a results calculator: everything a new CBU student searches for, in one place.
CBU programs and courses
CBU is known for its schools in fields such as business, engineering, mines and mineral sciences, the built environment and natural resources, along with other schools and programs. Instead of searching across several documents, you can use My Program in Freshman Hub to move from school to program to course and see the first-year courses, with course codes, before you register.
Use the search box to look for a program name, a course code or a keyword across all schools at once. Each program shows its qualification and length so you can compare options.
How to apply to CBU
Public universities in Zambia generally ask for a Grade 12 school certificate with the required credits (including English) and any subject requirements for your chosen program. Applications, closing dates and entry requirements are set by CBU each year, so always confirm them on CBU's official website or notices.
Before you apply, use Freshman Hub to check which courses make up the program you want, so you apply knowing what you will study. Our general guide explains the documents and steps most applicants need.
Registration, orientation and what to bring
After admission you will usually need to accept your place, pay your fees or show sponsorship, register, and attend orientation. Dates change each year, so follow CBU's official notices and use the Important Dates timeline and reminders in the app (mobile apps coming soon) to stay ahead of deadlines.
Bring your admission letter, NRC or passport, certificates, passport photos and payment receipts, plus the basics for daily life.
Fees, loans and bursaries
Fees and payment deadlines are published by CBU and can change, so Freshman Hub does not list fee amounts for tuition. Residence fees per semester are shown on each on-campus residence page in the app where available.
Students often look at government loans and scholarships (for example through the Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board, HELSB), bursaries, employer sponsorship or family support. Check the official eligibility rules and deadlines for each option.
CBU accommodation: on-campus hostels and boarding houses near campus
Finding a place to stay is the top worry for many new CBU students. Freshman Hub's Accommodation section has two sides: On-Campus (official residence information such as fee per semester, beds available, application steps, requirements and deadline) and an Off-Campus Marketplace of boarding houses and rooms with area, distance from campus in km, price per month, facilities and the landlord's contact.
On-campus space is limited, so apply early. For off-campus places, compare distance to campus, safety, rent and what is included before you pay. Off-campus listings are marked Ad so you can tell them apart from official information.
CBU campus map and directions
New campus, no idea where the lecture hall is? The Campus Guide lists academic buildings, libraries, laboratories, student services, administration, hostels and cafeterias on a map. Tap a place for live walking directions to the entrance, with the distance left and the next turn.
On-campus routes follow the campus footpath network and work even with weak internet.
CBU results, grades and GPA
The Results Calculator shows how marks turn into grades and GPA points under your university's scheme: your CA mark plus your exam mark make your final mark, with a table of grades, points and remarks. Check a grade, see what exam mark you need, or work out your semester and cumulative GPA.
It is for guidance only. Your official results are issued by CBU.
CBU questions answered
Where is Copperbelt University?
Copperbelt University (CBU) is a public university in Kitwe on the Copperbelt, with a campus in Ndola as well.
What programs does CBU offer?
CBU offers programs across several schools, including areas such as business, engineering, mines and mineral sciences, the built environment and natural resources. In Freshman Hub you can browse CBU's schools, programs and first-year courses and search by program name or course code.
How do I apply to CBU?
Apply through CBU's official application process. You usually need a Grade 12 certificate with the credits your program requires, including English. Requirements and closing dates change each year, so confirm them on CBU's official website.
Where can I find accommodation near CBU?
Options are on-campus residences and off-campus boarding houses and rooms. Freshman Hub's Accommodation section shows both, with photos and details. Apply for on-campus space early, and compare distance, safety, rent and what is included before paying for an off-campus room.
When does registration start at CBU?
Registration and orientation dates change each year, so check CBU's official notices. Freshman Hub shows the important dates for CBU, including deadlines, registration, orientation, lectures and exams, and can remind you before they arrive.
Is there a CBU campus map?
Yes. The Campus Guide in Freshman Hub shows CBU buildings by category on a map, with live walking directions to each building's entrance.
Can I calculate my CBU GPA?
Yes. The Results Calculator in the app explains the grading scheme and lets you check a grade and work out your GPA. It is for guidance only; your official results come from CBU.
Is Freshman Hub the official CBU app?
No. Freshman Hub is an independent guide for first-year students and is not run by, or an official channel of, any university.
Start your first year with confidence
Open Freshman Hub, pick your university and see what's waiting for you.