University of Cape Town (UCT)
The University of Cape Town (UCT) stands as Africa’s highest-ranked university, delivering world-class education and research to students from around the globe. Located in Cape Town, UCT is renowned for academic excellence, innovation, and social impact.
UCT offers comprehensive undergraduate and postgraduate programs across diverse disciplines with rigorous academic standards, cutting-edge research facilities, and dedicated faculty. With a vibrant campus community and state-of-the-art facilities, UCT provides an enriching environment for growth.
As a socially conscious institution, UCT is committed to transformation and social justice, promoting inclusivity and supporting NSFAS-funded students and various financial aid programs.
UCT operates from campuses strategically located across the Western Cape.
- Main Campus – Upper Campus (Rondebosch): At the foot of Table Mountain, housing faculty buildings, libraries, lecture theaters, accommodation, and recreational facilities
- Health Sciences Faculty (Anzio Road): Dedicated campus with modern medical facilities, teaching hospitals, clinical laboratories, and specialized learning spaces
UCT maintains partnerships with research centers and teaching facilities throughout Cape Town. The university’s location in this dynamic global city enables students to engage with international communities and develop professional networks.
UCT operates a transparent course-based fee structure with no hidden costs. Fees vary by faculty, program level, and student status.
- First Payment: R34,500 (or full fee if lower) – due 6 February 2026
- Balance Due: 31 July 2026
- Late Payment Surcharge: 5% if first payment missed
- International Study Abroad: USD 8,310 per semester
For international students, differentiated fee structures apply based on geographic location (SADC, other African, non-African). Consult the official 2026 Student Fees handbook for program-specific costs.
UCT is an approved NSFAS-funded institution. Eligible students can access government bursaries.
- Citizenship: South African citizen or permanent resident
- Household Income: R350,000 or less per year (R600,000 for students with disabilities)
- Coverage: Tuition fees, study materials, and living allowances
- Funding Model: N+1 (full program length plus one additional year)
Beyond NSFAS, UCT offers institutional bursaries, scholarships, and loans through the Department of Student Affairs. Contact them for personalized financial guidance.
Admission to UCT is highly competitive, requiring demonstrated academic excellence.
- Completion of senior secondary education (Grade 12 or equivalent)
- Strong performance in subjects relevant to chosen program
- Minimum academic achievement levels set by each faculty
- Subject-specific prerequisites (vary by program)
- English language proficiency for international students
Engineering and Science programs require strong mathematics and science backgrounds. Commerce programs emphasize quantitative skills. International applicants may need TOEFL or IELTS. Applications are reviewed holistically.
Applying to UCT is conducted entirely online through the dedicated application portal.
- Visit the UCT Application Portal
- Create your account with email and login credentials
- Complete application form with personal and academic details
- Upload required documents (certified certificates, ID)
- Select preferred faculty and program
- Review and submit before the deadline
- Track status through the portal
Application deadline for 2026 undergraduate entry is 31 July 2026. No late applications accepted. NSFAS applicants should apply to NSFAS independently.
UCT operates through six dynamic faculties with 57 departments.
- Faculty of Commerce: Business, economics, management, accounting, information systems
- Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment: Civil, electrical, mechanical, chemical, computer engineering, architecture
- Faculty of Health Sciences: Medicine, nursing, public health, pharmacy, dentistry
- Faculty of Humanities: Languages, philosophy, history, social sciences
- Faculty of Law: Criminal law, corporate law, human rights, constitutional law
- Faculty of Science: Chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, computer science
Students benefit from small class sizes, mentorship, and world-class facilities.
Application Period:
- Applications Open: 1 April 2026
- Application Deadline: 31 July 2026 (no late applications accepted)
Registration and Academic Calendar:
- Online Registration Opens: 2 January 2026
- Assisted Registration: 21 January – 7 February 2026
- Registration Deadline: 13 February 2026
- First Semester Begins: 16 February 2026
- First Semester Ends: 5 June 2026
Payment: First payment of R34,500 due by 6 February 2026 (5% late surcharge applies). Balance due 31 July 2026.