Study in South Africa

South Africa boasts 26 universities, and these institutions cater to a diverse student population and offer many academic programs at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. When it comes to postgraduate studies, several universities in South Africa provide highly regarded masters programs for interested students. The University of Cape Town consistently secures a top spot in rankings figures, with Stellenbosch University, the University of the Witwatersrand and the University of KwaZulu-Natal also often featuring highly.

South African universities accommodate many students across different disciplines and maintain a balance between local and international students. Everyone interested in the programs offered has the chance to enjoy and benefit from a diverse and enriching academic environment. The diversity in postgraduate program offerings and student demographics contribute to the vibrancy of the higher education landscape in South Africa. The overall outcome is an enhanced learning experience for home and international students.

Find your Perfect Postgrad Program

South Africa: home to the best universities in Africa

South Africa is home to some of the best universities in the continent of Africa, according to the Times Higher Education Best Universities in Africa 2024 as this table shows.

Africa Rank 2024	University	Country
1	University of Cape Town	South Africa
=2	Stellenbosch University	South Africa
=2	University of Witwatersrand	South Africa
4	University of Johannesburg	South Africa
=5	University of KwaZulu-Natal	South Africa
=5	University of Pretoria	South Africa
=7	University of Cape Coast	Ghana
=7	Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology	Egypt
=7	North-West University	South Africa
=7	University of the Western Cape	South Africa

This ranking rates university performance using various indicators measuring teaching, research environment, research quality, international outlook and industry.

Entry requirements in South Africa

Eligibility for postgraduate programs in South African universities differ between the institutions however, some general requirements are mandatory for students willing to study a masters in South Africa. The following are the general conditions that anyone interested in studying in South Africa as an international student must fulfil.

Education requirements are critical. For undergraduate degrees, most vacancies call for a standard requirement of a secondary education certificate or a qualification recognised as equivalent to a South African national senior certificate. This could include International Baccalaureate (IB), A Levels, or any other widely recognised and academically rigorous curriculum as required. For a masters degree, interested students will need to hold an undergraduate/bachelors degree (or international equivalent).

English language proficiency is another important aspect, since most universities in South Africa use English as the medium of instruction. International students who want to study in South Africa must often prove their English language proficiency through an IELTS or TOEFL score. Minimum score requirements in these language tests will depend on the particular institution and the chosen program; checking the exact scores required for the assumed course is advisable.

Official documentation is needed to successfully complete the application process for international students. These may consist of university/training institution transcripts, English proficiency test results, and a copy of the applicant’s passport. Some institutions may provide special instructions or extra forms for applicants from other countries. Paying attention to all the advice concerning the application is significant.

Student visa is another important consideration for international students who hope to study in South Africa. Many will have to apply for a study visa, which entails presenting a letter of acceptance from a recognised institution in South Africa. M

Proof of financial stability is essential for international students as they must prove their ability to finance themselves for the duration of their studies. This usually involves the production of bank statements or proof of scholarship funding.

Medical insurance is another requirement for most applicants as students must prove they can afford medical expenses in South Africa.

Study in South Africa

Duration of masters courses in South Africa

Most masters courses at South African universities usually last between one and two years. However, the duration can differ according to the specialisation, for example, postgraduate programs in computer science could take three or more years. Specialised programs like medicine can take up to six years to complete.

Number of masters programs available

There is a wide variety of masters degrees available to study in South African higher education institutions is wide. Leading indicators reveal that business-related disciplines are well-represented among the most popular masters courses throughout the country. Courses such as business and management or accounting, marketing and international business interest learners who want to enhance their managerial and global business strategies. There is also a strong demand for finance and project management courses for those interested in specialising in some of the more significant areas of the business world.

International student tuition fees

Postgraduate program tuition fees are a consideration for international students wherever they are planning on studying and this is no different in South Africa. International students deal with higher tuition fees than their domestic counterparts and these fees can differ depending on the institution and masters program.

International students seeking higher learning institutions in South African learning institutions have several financial factors affecting them. The masters course fee for international students ranges from around R70,000 to R105,000 (approx. £3,000 to £4,400). Some universities charge their tuition fees per module based on credits and registration fees, rather than charging an annual tuition fee – so it’s important to check the fee structure of your university and course of interest. Students should also budget to set aside at least R6,000 (£250) for books and stationery.

Students from the Southern African Development Community (SADC countries) are usually charged the same tuition fees as the local South African students. SADC comprises 16 Member States – these are Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, United Republic of Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

South African scholarships

There are some scholarships available when choosing to study in South Africa, and scholarships could play an essential role in the learners’ education. Some of the universities in South Africa have special scholarships for students from other countries, meaning that they can cover their fees and other expenses as they study. So, check if anything like this is available to you from the institutions you are interested in.

Study visa requirements

The process of obtaining a student visa for South Africa, has several important stages. Aspiring applicants should first fill in the online form, namely the DHA-1738 or the paper version. A passport is required, and it must be at least six months from expiry at the time of exit from South Africa. In certain circumstances, a vaccination certificate may be part of the requirements as indicated by the job specifications. The origin of the financial background is another essential part of the application that proves the applicant’s ability to pay for tuition fees and everyday necessities during the study. The applicants submit a cash bond of a return ticket to the tourism director for approval. No student can apply for a student visa without getting a letter of acceptance from any accredited South African institution. Medical insurance is also required to complete the visa process.

Reasons to study in South Africa

Study in South Africa South Africa is a great country to undertake postgraduate studies – here are some of the reasons why.

International recognition

The universities in South Africa offer internationally accredited courses, and there are a lot of varied educational opportunities for students in South Africa that can be received at universities such as UCT or Stellenbosch. Their dedication to offering quality education has generated tremendous student turnout from different corners of the world, hence offering quality education that is closely associated with international recognition of their degrees.

Affordability

The relatively reasonable tuition fees charged to international students, as well as the comparatively low cost of living, in comparison to many other countries, is another big draw. With the British education system enabling students to complete their master and bachelors degrees within an affordable duration.

Skill development

South African institutes focus on building skills, imagination and strategies to yield competent generations in the market. The outcomes-based approach of delivery by universities provides a clear linkage of education to learners’ practical lives and prepares them with the right skills and competencies as required in the world market.

Cultural diversity

Living and learning in South Africa is interesting and engaging thanks to its multiracial population. Students will engage with a combination of African, Asian and European cultures and hence experience a range of different cultures preparing them well for a future of joining a global society.

Students living in South Africa

Students in South Africa get to study and live in a rich and diverse learning environment. The country has excellent opportunities for students living on the campuses of big cities and picturesque university towns. There is accommodation on campus and in adjacent areas if you want to look for a rented house or apartment. The South African student culture encompasses features of multiculturalism, where students participate in constructive activities such as extracurricular activities, sports and social activities.

South Africa offers diverse cultural experiences and a rich history, providing a vibrant backdrop for learning. English is widely spoken, making communication easier for many international students. The cost of living and tuition fees are relatively affordable compared to many Western countries. Additionally, South Africa's unique natural beauty and wildlife offer an enriching experience outside of university life.

Top 10 universities in South Africa

Here are the top 10 universities according to the recently published UniRank 2024 South African University Ranking. These universities are renowned for their academic quality, research outputs and international acceptance, and are prime choices for postgraduate education.

Ranking	University
1	University of Cape Town
2	Stellenbosch University
3	University of the Witwatersrand
4	University of KwaZulu-Natal
5	University of Johannesburg
6	University of Pretoria
7	University of the Western Cape
8	Rhodes University
9	University of the Free State
10	Tshwane University of Technology

This ranking places the South African universities in a slightly different order to the UniRank table – although it does feature the same institutions.