Purpose – This paper aims to investigate the level of HIV/AIDS information among undergraduate students at two university colleges in Tanzania, and its role in changing risky sexual behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach – In total, 151 undergraduate students from Kilimanjaro Christian Medical College and Moshi University College of Cooperative and Business Studies were surveyed by means of a questionnaire. Findings – Of respondents 86 per cent were aware of the pandemic and its modes of transmission. The main sources of information were books, journals, magazines, television, internet, DVD/CD, radio and research reports. A total of 32 per cent reported having tested for HIV/AIDS; 40 per cent use condoms during sexual intercourse. Among condom users 63 per cent used them consistently. Factors hindering the use of HIV/AIDS information include the time spent on studies, the unavailability of the information, and the religious, cultural and family background of respondents.

Research limitations/implications – In a country with over 30 university and university colleges, generalization is not possible on the basis of research restricted to a small number.

Practical implications – Universities should establish partnerships and networks with various stakeholders to ensure access to HIV/AIDS information and to share experiences. Originality/value – The level of HIV/AIDS information among Tanzanian undergraduates is under-investigated. This paper helps to fill some of the gaps in the research.