How to Use ARIS 3 UDSM: Complete Student Portal Guide

Introduction

Managing academics at university can often feel overwhelming, especially when students have to juggle registration forms, payments, exam results, and transcript requests. At the University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM), the Academic Registration Information System (ARIS 3) makes these processes simpler and more efficient.

ARIS 3 is an online platform that serves as the digital backbone of UDSM’s academic and financial management. Instead of moving from office to office for paperwork, students can log in to one system to handle everything: registering for courses, paying fees, requesting transcripts, or tracking grades.

This article provides a complete step-by-step guide to ARIS 3: what it is, how to register, how to log in, how to use its major features, and how to troubleshoot common problems. It also covers best practices and frequently asked questions that real students have. By the end, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to use ARIS 3 with confidence.

What is ARIS 3 UDSM?

ARIS 3 is the University of Dar es Salaam’s academic and financial management system. It integrates multiple services into one online platform, reducing paperwork and ensuring transparency.

The platform allows students and staff to:

Register for courses each semester
Access grades and academic progress
Manage financial records and pay tuition or other fees
Request official transcripts
Update personal details and receive notifications

Simply put, ARIS 3 is the digital hub of UDSM. Without it, students would have to rely on manual, time-consuming procedures.

Why ARIS 3 Matters for Students

Using ARIS 3 effectively brings several benefits:

Convenience – All services are available online 24/7.
Time Saving – Quick course registration, faster payments, and easier transcript processing.
Transparency – You can see payment history, outstanding balances, and academic performance clearly.
Security – Every transaction and academic record is tracked within the system.
Accessibility – Any device with internet access can connect, making it easier for students both on and off campus.

How to Create an ARIS 3 Account

Before using ARIS 3, you must first register and create an account.

Step-by-step registration process:

Open a browser and visit the official ARIS 3 website.
Click on “Sign Up” or “Register.”
Fill in personal details such as your full name, student ID or staff ID, and status (student or staff).
Choose a unique username (often your student registration number) and create a strong password.
Provide contact details such as phone number and email address. These will be used for notifications and password recovery.
Agree to the system’s terms and submit your details.
Check your email (if required) for an activation link to confirm your account.

Once completed, you can log in with your new credentials.

How to Log In to ARIS 3 UDSM

Logging in is straightforward:

Open the ARIS 3 website.
Select the login option for students or staff.
Enter your username and password.
Complete any security verification (like CAPTCHA).
Click “Login” to access your dashboard.

Tips for smooth login:

Always use a stable internet connection.
Use modern browsers such as Chrome, Firefox, or Safari.
If you forget your password, use the “Forgot Password” option.
If login fails repeatedly, check your student ID format or contact university IT support.

Exploring ARIS 3 Features

After logging in, you’ll see the dashboard, which contains several main features.

1. Course Registration

Navigate to the Registration or Academic menu.
Select the semester and add your desired courses.
Confirm course selection and submit.
Check that prerequisites and credit limits are met.

This process replaces physical registration forms, saving time and preventing scheduling errors.

2. Viewing Results and Academic Progress

Go to Results or Academic Progress.
View your grades for each semester.
Track GPA and cumulative credits.
Print or download reports for personal records.

This ensures students are always updated on performance.

3. Managing Financial Records and Payments

Open the Financial or Payments menu.
View bills, balances, and payment history.
Generate a control number for each payment.
Use mobile money services like M-Pesa, Tigo Pesa, or Airtel Money to complete payments.
Once paid, the system automatically updates your records.

Always save your control number and transaction confirmation as proof.

4. Transcript Requests

Go to Academic → Transcript Requests.
Click “Add New Request” and fill in required details (number of copies, destination address, etc.).
Generate a control number and make payment.
Download the transcript form, attach required documents, and submit it to the appropriate office if needed.

5. Profile and Notifications

Update contact details like email and phone number.
Change your password for better security.
Check for announcements such as registration deadlines or exam schedules.

Best Practices for Using ARIS 3

To maximize your ARIS 3 experience, keep these best practices in mind:

Plan ahead – Don’t wait until the last day of registration or payment; the system may be busy.
Keep contact details updated – This ensures you never miss important notifications.
Secure your account – Avoid sharing your password with others.
Keep proof of transactions – Always note down control numbers and payment receipts.
Use reliable devices – A modern browser and updated device reduce login or loading errors.
Check notifications regularly – Stay informed about university announcements.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Here are solutions to frequent issues:

Login errors: Reset your password, check for typos, or contact IT support.
Website not loading: Try a different browser, clear cache, or wait until traffic reduces.
Payment not showing: Verify the control number, wait for processing, or report the issue.
Transcript request delays: Make sure payment is complete and documents are attached.
Course registration blocked: Ensure prerequisites are met and credit limits are not exceeded.

Conclusion

ARIS 3 UDSM is more than just a student portal—it is the central platform that connects students and the university in a transparent and efficient way. With ARIS 3, you can handle nearly every important academic and financial process online: course registration, fee payments, transcripts, and grade tracking.

By learning how to register, log in, and navigate the system properly, you avoid common problems and make your academic journey smoother. The key to success lies in planning early, keeping your details updated, and saving proof of all transactions.

For UDSM students, mastering ARIS 3 is not optional—it’s essential. It saves time, reduces stress, and ensures you always stay on track academically and financially. With the knowledge shared in this guide, you are now ready to use ARIS 3 confidently and make your university experience far more manageable.

FAQs

1. What is ARIS 3 at UDSM?
ARIS 3 is the University of Dar es Salaam’s Academic Registration Information System. It manages student registration, payments, transcripts, and results in one online portal.

2. How do I register for ARIS 3 as a new student?
You sign up by visiting the ARIS 3 website, filling in personal and student details, creating login credentials, and confirming your account.

3. How can I pay fees through ARIS 3?
First, generate a control number in the system. Then use mobile money services such as M-Pesa, Airtel Money, or Tigo Pesa to complete the payment.

4. Can I request transcripts online using ARIS 3?
Yes. You can make a request in the “Transcript Requests” section, pay using a control number, and then submit supporting documents to the required office.

5. What should I do if ARIS 3 is not working?
Check your internet connection and browser, clear cache, or try again later when traffic is lower. If the problem persists, contact UDSM’s IT support.