The University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) plays a pivotal role in higher education within Papua New Guinea, offering a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Each year, UPNG releases acceptance lists to notify applicants of their admission status across various categories.
For the 2026 academic year, significant changes have been implemented in the application and selection process through collaboration with the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST).
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the acceptance lists, access methods, financial considerations, and key dates to assist prospective and current students.
Overview of UPNG Acceptance Lists
UPNG publishes four distinct lists to manage admissions and student progression:
- New Intake Grade 12 School Leavers (SL) Acceptance List: This includes students accepted for undergraduate studies directly from Grade 12, based on academic merit and program preferences submitted via DHERST's National Online Application System (NOAS).
- Non-School Leavers (NSL) Acceptance List: This covers applicants who are not recent school leavers, such as mature-aged students, transfer students, or those with prior qualifications. Selections are made considering academic records, work experience, and program-specific criteria.
- Continuing Students Progression List: This confirms the advancement of currently enrolled students to the next academic year, provided they have met academic requirements and settled any outstanding fees.
- Re-enrolled Students Acceptance List: This lists students approved to resume studies after a period of absence, subject to re-admission policies and availability.
These lists ensure a structured approach to enrollment, helping UPNG maintain academic standards while accommodating diverse student backgrounds.
Changes in the 2026 Admissions Process
For the 2026 academic year, both school leavers and non-school leavers applied and were selected through DHERST's NOAS platform. This centralised system streamlines the process, allowing applicants to check their selection status directly on the NOAS "MyStatus" section without waiting for individual university releases.
The national selections were officiated on December 17, 2025, with a total of 23,428 students allocated places across Papua New Guinea's tertiary institutions, including UPNG. Of these, approximately 15,688 spots were for school leavers and 7,740 for non-school leavers.
Successful candidates receive offer letters from UPNG, which include details on registration, orientation, and fees. If an applicant's name does not appear in the selections, it indicates an unsuccessful application. Additional resources, such as updates on the Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) awards, are available through DHERST.
Accessing and Downloading the Lists
The acceptance lists are officially released by UPNG and DHERST toward the end of the previous year and early in the new year. For 2026, DHERST announced the national selections on December 17, 2025, with lists expected to be available shortly thereafter. Students can access their status as follows:
- Via DHERST NOAS: Log in to the NOAS portal (apply.dherst.gov.pg) using your credentials to view your "MyStatus" page. This is the primary method for both SL and NSL applicants.
- UPNG Website: Visit www.upng.ac.pg and navigate to the "Announcements" or "Admissions" section for downloadable PDFs of the lists, typically released between late December 2025 and mid-January 2026. Look for tabs or links labelled "2026 Acceptance Lists for School Leavers, Non-School Leavers, Continuing, and Re-enrolled Students."
- Alternative Resources: Websites like PNG Insight (pnginsight.com) often provide quick links to the lists once released. For TESAS-related information, refer to DHERST's announcements.
If you encounter issues accessing the lists, contact UPNG's admissions office or DHERST for assistance.
TESAS Status for NSL, Re-admitted, and Continuing Students
Non-school leavers, re-admitted, and continuing students must verify their TESAS status to determine eligibility for funding under the Academic Excellence Scholarship (AES) or Higher Education Contribution Assistance Scheme (HECAS). TESAS awards are merit-based and administered by DHERST.
Additionally, explore the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), a government-backed student loan scheme. Detailed guidance on applying for TESAS and HELP, including eligibility and application processes, can be found on the DHERST website or in UPNG's offer letters.
Key Dates for 2026 Fee Payments
Timely payment of fees is essential to secure your place at UPNG. Below are important deadlines and notes:
- New Students: Expect a Letter of Offer and Invoice by February 2, 2026. Pay compulsory fees in full online by Monday, February 2, 2026, to avoid automatic withdrawal of your offer. All new students must bring a personal laptop, as online and blended learning is a university requirement.
- All Students: Compulsory fees include tuition, service, administrative, and Student Representative Council (SRC) fees, payable online. Postgraduate and international students (including those from the South Pacific and dependents of UPNG expatriate staff) pay an additional K615.00 for residential and other fees.
- TESAS Scholarship Holders: Fees may be adjusted based on DHERST subsidies. Pay compulsory fees online to register.
- Accommodation: Campus housing is not guaranteed. Allocation requires full payment of compulsory fees plus 50% of board and lodging fees by Wednesday, February 4, 2026. First-time residential students must pay a non-refundable K300.00 security bond before occupancy.
- Continuing Students: Pay full compulsory fees online via the Proforma Invoice by Friday, February 6, 2026. No partial payments are accepted. For invoice queries, email feequeries@upng.ac.pg or call 3267321/3267604/3267249.
Failure to meet these deadlines may result in loss of enrollment or accommodation privileges.
Important Notes on Fees
1. All fees must be paid online; no exceptions for lesser or excess amounts.
2. Accommodation payments should be made upon arrival, covering compulsory fees plus 50% of prescribed accommodation costs.
3. UPNG emphasises digital processes for efficiency—ensure you have access to reliable internet for payments and registrations.
For further inquiries, visit the UPNG website or contact the relevant school offices. Congratulations to all selected students, and best wishes for a successful academic year at UPNG.
Related articles and helpful resources on PNG Insight
- More information on the Non-school Leavers Selection List for 2026 Dates, Releases and TESAS Lists is available here.
- In addition to the UPNG website, PNG Insight provides a helpful resource with quick links to access the non-school leavers and school leavers selection lists for 2026 as soon as they become available. You can find these links on the acceptance list download page.
- You should explore how to apply for HELP, the PNG government's student loan scheme. This article provides valuable insights into both TESAS and HELP, which you'll find helpful.
- If you are waiting for the UPNG Non-school Leavers Selection List 2025/2026, check out this article for more info.
