GetSmarter is a leading provider of accredited online short courses delivered through edX and 2U, partnering with world-renowned universities including the University of Cape Town, University of Stellenbosch, Harvard University, MIT, and Oxford University. Based in Cape Town, South Africa, GetSmarter has transformed professional education since its founding, offering flexible, high-quality learning opportunities for working professionals globally.
As a subsidiary of 2U Inc., GetSmarter combines cutting-edge online learning technology with academic excellence and expert instruction to deliver outcomes-based education. The platform specializes in professional development courses designed to help individuals advance their careers, acquire new skills, and earn recognized certificates from prestigious institutions.
With a proven track record of over 90% course completion rates and thousands of successful graduates across diverse industries, GetSmarter is the preferred choice for professionals seeking quality online education, flexible learning schedules, and employer-recognized credentials.
GetSmarter maintains accessible admission standards designed to welcome professionals at all career stages. Most online short courses have minimal formal prerequisites, focusing instead on professional experience and demonstrated commitment to learning.
Typical Admission Requirements: Minimum 18 years old (some advanced programs require 21+), secondary school completion or equivalent professional experience, fluent English (courses are conducted in English), reliable internet connection and a computer/laptop, 2-5+ years relevant professional experience (varies by course level), and commitment to 6-10 hours weekly learning.
GetSmarter accepts applications from professionals with diverse educational backgrounds. Career changers and career accelerators are equally welcome. Some advanced programs (particularly Harvard, MIT, and Oxford partnerships) may require specific prerequisites such as quantitative skills, business acumen, or industry experience.
GetSmarter is committed to making professional education accessible through various financial assistance and flexible payment options.
Available Funding and Payment Solutions: Installment Payment Plans allow spreading costs across 2-3 monthly payments. EdAid Interest-Free Financing offers six interest-free installments through contracted financing partner EdAid. Many employers offer professional development funds through Employer Sponsorship. In many jurisdictions, professional development courses qualify for tax deductions. Early-Bird Discounts and Bundle Discounts are regularly available for selected courses.
GetSmarter partnerships with University of Cape Town, University of Stellenbosch, and other institutions may include alumni discounts, institutional funding, or region-specific financial programs. There is no formal application required for financial assistance through GetSmarter itself. Costs are managed through direct payment or third-party financing options.
GetSmarter operates entirely as an online learning platform, providing globally accessible education without traditional campus facilities. All courses are delivered through GetSmarter’s state-of-the-art learning management system, integrated with edX’s robust online education infrastructure.
Physical Locations: While GetSmarter functions as an online-only platform, the company maintains regional operations hubs: Cape Town, South Africa (Primary headquarters, 358 Victoria Road, Salt River), Boston, United States (2U/edX corporate offices), and London, United Kingdom (European operations).
Learning Delivery Model: GetSmarter courses combine asynchronous (self-paced) and synchronous (live) components. Students access recorded lectures, interactive assignments, discussion forums, and peer collaboration spaces available 24/7. Live instructor sessions occur at scheduled times accommodating multiple time zones. The platform’s mobile-responsive design enables learning on smartphones, tablets, and computers.
GetSmarter offers rolling enrollment dates throughout 2026, allowing professionals to start their courses at convenient times aligned with their schedules. New course cohorts begin multiple times monthly, with specific start dates varying by program. This flexible scheduling accommodates professionals worldwide across different time zones and work schedules.
Typical Course Timeline 2026: Most GetSmarter programs run for 4 to 12 weeks, with the majority lasting 6 to 10 weeks. Participants typically commit 6 to 10 hours per week to coursework, which can be completed entirely online. Start dates for spring, summer, and fall 2026 cohorts are available now through the GetSmarter platform, with early registration discounts frequently offered.
To view specific start dates and enrollment periods for 2026, visit the GetSmarter website or contact the admissions team. Rolling admissions mean applications are reviewed continuously, and seat availability determines final enrollment capacity. Early application ensures access to preferred course dates.
GetSmarter course fees range from $900 to $3,000 USD, depending on the institution, course level, and specialization. Most university-partnered programs fall in the $1,000 to $2,500 range. For example, specialized courses like the MIT Sloan Pricing Strategy Program are priced at approximately $3,250 USD, while foundation-level courses may begin at $619 to $1,000 USD.
University of Cape Town courses and other South African university partnerships may offer localized pricing. Check individual course pages for current pricing, as promotional discounts and early-bird pricing are regularly available.
Payment flexibility is a key advantage. Courses of 4 weeks or less require full payment upfront. 5-to-9-week courses offer two-payment options, while 10-to-12-week programs provide three-payment installment plans. All payments accept credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, and electronic fund transfers (EFT).
Applying to GetSmarter courses is straightforward and entirely online. The application process typically takes 5-10 minutes and requires only basic personal and professional information. Rolling admissions mean you receive acceptance decisions quickly, often within 24-48 hours.
Step-by-Step Application Process: (1) Browse courses on the GetSmarter website by category, university, or duration. (2) Select your program matching your professional goals. (3) Complete application with your full name, email, phone number, and professional background. (4) Upload documents if required. (5) Select your preferred payment method and plan. (6) Review and submit your application. (7) Upon acceptance, access course materials within 24 hours.
GetSmarter does not require formal entrance exams or competitive selection. Instead, enrollment involves registration confirmation and payment processing, making courses accessible to working professionals seeking immediate enrollment without lengthy waiting periods.
GetSmarter maintains dedicated support teams across multiple regions to assist with course inquiries, technical support, and enrollment assistance.
GetSmarter Contact Information: Email: info@getsmarter.co.za. South Africa Phone: +27 87 550 6966. United States Phone: +1 617 977 6889. United Kingdom Phone: +44 20 3823 6998. Physical Address: 358 Victoria Road, Salt River, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa. Online Contact Form: www.getsmarter.com/contact-us
Course advisors provide guidance on program selection, career pathways, and learning strategies. Technical support addresses platform access, learning management system issues, and course functionality. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) are available on the GetSmarter website, covering topics such as course duration, certification, transfer credits, refund policies, and employer recognition.
GetSmarter offers comprehensive professional short courses across multiple disciplines, each designed to meet the evolving needs of modern workplaces.
Core Course Offerings Include: Business and Leadership featuring Accelerated Management Programs and executive education; Data Science and Analytics including Data Science Essentials and machine learning; Finance and Fintech with Financial Modeling and Blockchain Strategy; Healthcare and Medical covering Healthcare Management and Public Health; Technology and Digital Transformation including Cloud Computing and Cybersecurity; and Accounting and Finance with UCT-certified Cost Management Accounting.
Popular Programs 2026: GetSmarter’s most in-demand courses include the MIT Sloan Pricing Strategy Program, Harvard Fintech Innovation Course, Oxford Blockchain Strategy Programme, and UCT Graduate School of Business courses. All programs deliver digital badges and certificates of completion recognized by employers worldwide.