Kampala, Uganda — Joy, relief, and anticipation are sweeping across Uganda as the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) releases the 2025 Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) results. This year, a record 68.6 percent of candidates qualify for university admission, marking a milestone in Uganda’s education system.
For thousands of students and families, these results represent years of dedication, sacrifice, and dreams coming to fruition. “I never imagined I would pass with two principal passes,” said Sarah Nakitto, a Senior Six student from Kampala. “Now I can finally plan to join university next year.”
Rising Candidature Reflects Growth in Education
This year, 166,400 students registered for the UACE exams, up from 141,996 in 2024. 165,172 candidates sat the exams, reflecting dedication and the growing accessibility of advanced secondary education.
Increased exam centres from 2,255 to 2,452 made it easier for students, especially in rural areas, to take exams closer to home, reducing travel stress and improving focus.
Over 113,000 Students Eligible for University
UNEB reports that 113,291 candidates met the minimum requirements for university admission, offering hope and opportunity for degree-level education. Additionally, 145,129 candidates qualify for other tertiary institutions, including technical and vocational colleges, expanding options for career and skills development.
“I feel proud and excited,” said James Okello from Gulu. “All the hard work, late nights, and sacrifices have finally paid off.”
Girls Outperform Boys
This year, female candidates excelled, with 44.6% attaining three Principal passes, compared to 39.5% of boys. Lower failure rates among girls highlight the continuing rise in academic performance for young Ugandan women.
Education analyst Dr. Grace Namirembe noted, “Girls are breaking barriers in education, showing that with support and opportunity, they can achieve excellence in all fields.”
However, male students continue to dominate STEM subjects such as Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, signaling a need for continued encouragement of girls in these areas.
Positive Trends and Ongoing Challenges
Performance improved in Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology, Economics, and Literature in English. Special Needs Education (SNE) candidates, totaling 540, also participated, reflecting a growing commitment to inclusivity.
Despite the successes, challenges remain. Rural schools still face infrastructure gaps, limited laboratories, and teacher shortages. Addressing these issues is vital to ensure that the improvements seen in UACE results translate into long-term success.
The Significance of UACE
The UACE is more than an examination—it is the gateway to universities, technical colleges, and careers. For students and families, it represents years of perseverance, hope, and ambition. The results tell stories of determination, support, and the potential of Uganda’s youth.
With 68.6% qualifying for university and girls leading in performance, the 2025 UACE results mark both achievement and opportunity. They remind Uganda that with continued investment in education, every student can have the chance to succeed, regardless of gender or location.
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