What are the most popular Universities and Colleges in Mali? uniRank answers this question by publishing the 2025 Malian University Ranking of 10 Malian higher-education institutions meeting the following uniRank selection criteria:
Explore the uniRank League Table and University Ranking of 10 Universities in Mali
The Republic of Mali is divided into 10 regions and 1 capital district. The majority of higher education institutions meeting the uniRank selection criteria are located in the Bamako Capital District. The following uniRank league tables and sub-rankings consider all regions that include at least one Malian higher education institution meeting the uniRank selection criteria.
Bamako Capital District (8)
Koulikoro (1)
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Mali's higher education system comprises universities and specialized institutes, primarily concentrated in the capital Bamako. Established through a 2011 reform that decentralized the former University of Bamako into subject-focused institutions, the sector includes both public and private universities. Public institutions dominate the landscape, funded by the government and offering low-cost education. Most universities are non-profit entities providing undergraduate and graduate programs, though research output remains limited. Key growth areas include sciences, engineering, humanities and vocational training, with French as the primary language of instruction.
Mali has 10 recognized universities. Public institutions dominate the sector, constituting 80% (8 universities). Private universities represent 10% (1 institution), while control type is unreported for the remaining 10% (1 university). This distribution reflects the government's primary role in higher education provision.
No Malian universities currently rank in the global top 200 (0% of institutions). Similarly, none feature in the top 1,000 worldwide (0%). This indicates opportunities for international collaboration and research investment to enhance global competitiveness.
Q: What is the oldest university in Mali?
A: Institut Polytechnique Rural de Katibougou, established in 1897, is Mali's oldest higher education institution.
Q: Are there English-taught programs in Malian universities?
A: Most programs are French-taught. Limited English options may exist in international partnerships.
Q: How many public universities are in Bamako?
A> Bamako hosts 7 public universities, including specialized institutions for sciences, humanities, law and engineering.
Q: Does Mali have private universities?
A> Yes, though private institutions are uncommon. Université Mandé Bukari is the only confirmed private university.
Q: What are Mali's top-ranked universities globally?
A> University of Science and Technology of Bamako (#10,097) and University of Arts and Humanities of Bamako (#11,954) are Mali's highest-ranked institutions.
Since 2005, UniRank provides original research, valuable information and resources to help you explore and make informed decisions about Malian universities and their online presence.