International Hotel School (IHS) is Africa’s premier hospitality management institution, recognized globally for excellence in hospitality education. Established over 25 years ago, the school has grown to become the only hospitality school in Africa ranked in the top 50 hospitality universities worldwide. The institution offers comprehensive hospitality management programs across multiple South African campuses, combining theoretical knowledge with extensive practical industry experience.
The school holds distinctive AHLEI accreditation, making it the only tertiary institution in South Africa offering American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) recognition. This partnership ensures that graduates meet international hospitality standards and are highly sought after by leading hospitality establishments across Africa and globally.
International Hotel School is registered with the QCTO (Quality Council for Trades and Occupations) as an accredited Skills Development Provider, ensuring quality and compliance across all campuses and programs. The institution’s commitment to excellence extends beyond academics to encompass personal development, ethical management practices, and industry readiness for emerging hospitality professionals.
The International Hotel School is a private institution and is not listed on the NSFAS-funded institutions directory. NSFAS funding is available only at public universities and TVET colleges.
Alternative Funding at the International Hotel School
Scholarships
The school has R3 million in scholarships available for full-time study in the March 2026 intake, with savings of up to 25% off tuition fees depending on the programme. Scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
Interest-free payment plans
All payment plans are interest-free. An enrolment deposit is payable upon acceptance, followed by monthly instalments over 12 months.
Early registration and settlement discounts
| Discount type | February/March intake | July/August intake |
|---|---|---|
| Early registration discount | 15–30% | 10–20% |
| Early settlement (paid in full before Registration Day) | 5% | 5% |
Student loans
The school has partnered with Student Hero to help students apply to major South African banks for student loans from a single platform at no cost.
2026 first-year fees (selected programmes):
| Programme | Duration | Cash fee (1st year) | Instalment total (incl. study pack) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Business Administration in Hospitality Operations Management | 3 years | R109,725 | R123,000 |
| Diploma in Hospitality Management (AHLEI) | 3 years | R107,350 | R125,840 |
| Diploma in Hospitality Management | 3 years | R93,765 | R111,540 |
| Higher Certificate in Hospitality Management | 1 year | R73,245 | R81,400 |
| Higher Certificate in Culinary Skills (École Ducasse) | 1 year | R121,125 | R140,340 |
| Professional Cookery Programme | 1 year | R93,765 | R111,540 |
Application fee: R1,000 for all programmes. Full fee schedule: IHS 2026 Full-Time 1st Year Fee Schedule (PDF).
For other bursary options, see our bursaries page.
International Hotel School operates multiple campuses strategically located across South Africa’s major hospitality centers, ensuring accessibility and industry proximity. Each campus is equipped with modern facilities, industry-standard teaching spaces, and student support infrastructure. The multi-campus approach enables students to select locations convenient to their circumstances while accessing consistent, high-quality hospitality management education.
Cape Town Campus: Located at 127 Cecil Road, Salt River — serving the Western Cape’s vibrant hospitality tourism sector. Johannesburg Campus: Located at 4 Kikuyu Road, Sunninghill, Sandton — positioned in Gauteng’s bustling business and hospitality hub. Durban Campus: Located at 124 Jan Hofmeyr Road, Westville — serving the KwaZulu-Natal coast’s growing hospitality industry.
Beyond these primary locations, International Hotel School has expanded to serve additional communities including campuses in Benoni, Pretoria, and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), providing broader geographic access. Each campus operates under consistent quality standards and QCTO accreditation, ensuring equivalent educational quality regardless of location.
Applying to International Hotel School is a straightforward process designed to be accessible and supportive. Prospective students can initiate their application through the online application portal available on the official website at hotelschool.co.za/apply-now/. The application process requires completion of the official Application Form with personal information, educational background, program selection, and supporting documentation.
Applicants must submit required supporting documentation including a valid ID Book or Passport, certified copies of educational credentials (National Senior Certificate or equivalent), and proof of English language proficiency where applicable. International applicants may need to provide additional documentation such as visa sponsorship requirements or foreign qualification verification.
Upon submission of a complete application, the admissions office reviews applications on a rolling basis. Accepted students receive an offer letter detailing program details, fees, payment procedures, and enrollment deadlines. Applicants are encouraged to attend open days and information sessions scheduled throughout 2026 to experience the campus and gain deeper program insights before finalizing their application.
International Hotel School operates on a flexible intake schedule designed to accommodate applicants throughout the year. The primary full-time program intakes occur in February and July 2026, allowing students to begin their hospitality management education at strategic points in the academic year. These main intake periods align with the Southern Hemisphere academic calendar and provide optimal timing for program commencement and industry placement coordination.
Beyond the primary intakes, the school offers flexibility through traineeship programs starting throughout 2026 and online courses with multiple start dates depending on program type. This flexible approach accommodates international students, working professionals, and applicants seeking alternative study pathways.
Students should note that application processing follows a rolling admissions process for most programs, with priority given to early applicants during high-demand intake periods. The school conducts open days and information sessions throughout 2026 to provide prospective students with campus tours and program information. Contact the admissions office directly for specific dates.
International Hotel School offers transparent and accessible fee structures for its various hospitality management programs in 2026. The tuition costs vary by program level, study mode, and duration, with comprehensive fee schedules available through the school’s online downloads portal. First-year program fees include tuition, course materials, examination fees, and additional institutional charges.
The institution recognizes diverse financial situations and offers personalized payment plans making hospitality education affordable for all qualified applicants. All payment plans are interest-free, with options for monthly installments following an enrollment deposit upon acceptance. Multiple financing options are available, including installment plans, corporate sponsorships, and funding partnerships.
For the most current and detailed fee information including program-specific costs, accommodation charges, and payment deadlines, visit the official International Hotel School downloads page at hotelschool.co.za/downloads/ or contact the financial services office directly for personalized guidance on funding options suitable to your circumstances.
Admission requirements for International Hotel School hospitality management programs vary by program level and study mode. For bachelor-level programs, applicants must hold a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with Bachelor entry or an equivalent qualification recognized by the school. Diploma and Higher Certificate programs have flexible entry requirements, welcoming applicants with varying educational backgrounds.
Importantly, mature applicants without Matric/Grade 12 are eligible to pursue National Certificate Culinary programs and other specialized courses that do not mandate traditional secondary education completion. This inclusive approach recognizes practical hospitality experience and commitment to the field. All applicants must provide supporting documentation including a valid ID Book or Passport and National Senior Certificate or equivalent educational credentials.
The application process is straightforward and student-centered. Prospective applicants must complete the official Application Form with accurate and complete information. The admissions team is available to answer questions throughout the application journey, providing guidance on program selection, admission criteria, and required documentation. Early application is recommended during peak intake periods.
International Hotel School offers a diverse range of hospitality management degrees, diplomas, and higher certificates designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the hospitality industry. The program offerings span multiple specializations including Hospitality Operations Management, Food and Beverage Management, Culinary Arts, and Events Management. Each program combines academic excellence with practical industry experience.
The school’s flexible study options accommodate diverse learning preferences through full-time programs, part-time courses, and online learning formats. Diploma in Hospitality Management with AHLEI Recognition programs provide specialized training with international recognition. Higher Certificate programs offer focused training in specific hospitality sectors, while degree programs provide comprehensive management education. All programs include mandatory practical work experience.
The curriculum covers practical competencies required in daily hospitality operations, from front office management and housekeeping operations to guest services and revenue management. Industry partnerships enable students to gain experience in premium properties while learning from experienced hospitality professionals.
International Hotel School maintains a dedicated support infrastructure to assist prospective and current students. The main administrative office is located at 8th Floor Strauss Daly Place, 41 Richefond Circle, Ridgeside Office Estate, Umhlanga, 4320, Durban, South Africa. The admissions team is available to answer inquiries about programs, admission requirements, application procedures, and financial aid options through phone, email, or the online inquiry form at hotelschool.co.za.
The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section on the International Hotel School website addresses common inquiries regarding programs, admission, fees, and student life. The Financial Aid Department provides personalized assistance with fee information, payment plan options, and available funding programs.
International Hotel School maintains a strong presence on professional platforms and welcomes inquiries through multiple channels. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the official website, attend information sessions, or contact the admissions office directly to discuss how the school’s hospitality management programs align with their career aspirations.