Overview
The National University of East Timor (UNTL) is Timor-Leste’s leading public university, founded in 2000 after the country’s independence struggle. As the first and largest university in the nation, UNTL helps build the country’s workforce by training graduates for essential sectors such as education, agriculture, health, and public administration. The university supports about 15,000 students across its faculties in Dili and regional campuses.
UNTL’s academic mission focuses on national development needs while supporting Timorese cultural heritage. Many of its degree programs are designed to meet local priorities, including teacher training, economics and business, and applied research in agriculture and fisheries. The university also collaborates with international institutions to strengthen academic quality, research, and teaching practices.
2. General Information
| Name | Universidade Nacional Timor Lorosa’e (UNTL) |
| Established | November 17, 2000 |
| Type | Public University |
| Location | Dili, Timor-Leste (Main Campus) |
| Website | www.untl.edu.tl |
| Languages of Instruction | Tetum, Portuguese, Indonesian, English |
| Student Population | Approx. 15,000 |
3. Fee Structure
Tuition and registration costs can vary by faculty, program level, and any annual policy updates. Below is a practical overview of the typical annual ranges commonly listed for UNTL programs (in USD); always confirm the latest figures with the admissions office before applying.
| Program | Tuition Fee (Annual, in USD) |
| Undergraduate Programs | $100 – $300 |
| Graduate Programs | $200 – $500 |
| Teaching Certification | $150 – $250 |
| Vocational Programs | $50 – $150 |
| Registration Fees | $20 – $50 |
4. Academic Programs
UNTL offers a broad range of academic options aimed at both professional career pathways and public-sector service. If you are comparing study options in Timor-Leste, you can also review alternatives such as Universidade Oriental Timor Lorosa’e and Universidade Católica Timorense for different program formats and specializations.
- Faculty of Education, Arts and Humanities
- Faculty of Agriculture and Fisheries
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
- Faculty of Economics and Business
- Faculty of Engineering, Science and Technology
- Faculty of Social and Political Sciences
- Timor-Leste Studies Center
5. Facilities
- Central library with Timorese historical archives
- Basic science and computer laboratories
- Agricultural research station
- Teacher training facilities
- Student activity center
- Campus health clinic
For students interested in campus support and student services, it can help to compare how different universities structure student life and academic support. You may find it useful to explore João Saldanha University alongside UNTL when planning your study options in Dili.
6. Accommodation
UNTL provides limited on-campus housing primarily for students from remote districts. Most students arrange private accommodation in Dili or commute from family homes. Because availability can be competitive, it is recommended to confirm housing timing and eligibility early in the application cycle.
- Basic dormitory rooms (shared, 4-6 students)
- Monthly cost: $25 – $50 for university housing
- Private rooms near campus: $50 – $150/month
- Student housing office for assistance
7. Contact Information
- Email: info@untl.edu.tl
- Phone: +670 333 9000
- Address: Avenida Cidade de Lisboa, Dili, Timor-Leste
- Admissions Office: Main Administration Building
More Universities in East Timor
- Universidade da Paz
- Universidade de Díli
- João Saldanha University
- Universidade Católica Timorense
- Universidade Oriental Timor Lorosa’e
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