1: Decide where to go

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Feeling overwhelmed by the vast constellation of study options in SA? This section condenses the crucial information. It explains some key vocabulary, flags those visa issues and shows you how to cope with them. It lets you click over the top 8 institutions and get the comparative details, from application deadlines to fees, disability parking, and fun facts. 

First things first: are you an international or study abroad student?

International Students

Not all universities use the same terminology. For this tutorial series, we refer to an international student as someone who applies and enrolls directly with one of our universities full-time with the intention of obtaining a degree, diploma, certificate, or other qualification.

FYI: some universities might request a proof of English proficiency from you.

Study Abroad Students

A study abroad student is someone who comes to one of our universities for a short period of time (usually for a semester) and applies through either a university partnership programme or an international exchange programme. This is considered an exchange. Sometimes study abroad students are referred to as ‘exchange students’.

Attention non-SA Students:

• Mind the new Visa regulations! To apply to a university in South Africa, you need to get a Study Visa. We tell you all about this in Step 3!

• If you are an international or study-abroad student, you will also need to register with a medical aid scheme – because without it, you can’t get a Visa. See our Step 3 for detailed info on this topic

Universities and the Application Process

Below, we’ve made of list of the top 8 universities in South Africa that offer study opportunities for international and study-abroad students (there are of course many more universities in SA that offer great opportunities, but we’ve listed a pretty decent bunch from all over the country).

For each of the 8 universities you will find a general and short introduction, as well as the basic application process – this can vary from university to university, so pay attention to the process specific to the university you choose.

Top 8 Universities

University of Cape Town

General Info

UCT was established as a university a century ago. There are 7 campuses, and the main campus (Upper Campus) overlooks the city’s far-reaching Southern Suburbs and Franschoek mountains, bearing witness to sunrises that will leave you in awe. If you like focusing on research, this university is great, offering an enormous range of courses within the structure of its six faculties, particularly at a post-graduate level. For more info on UCT on our institution page.

Claim to Fame

UCT’s Jammie Steps! They are famous for being scattered with lecture-bunking, laughing students (some barefoot) and an ensemble of vicious pigeons that have been known to airlift entire burgers from the hands of shocked lunch-goers.

Application Process

Whether you’d like to study at UCT through an exchange programme, or take the initiative and register as an international student, the way to go about it is through IAPO, the International Academic Programmes Office – their website has all the information you will need to kick off your study experience at UCT

The two general steps you can take to apply:

1. Apply to UCT with the help and organisation of a partnership programme or international exchange programme
2. Apply directly to UCT as an international full-time student (on your own terms)

To make things a little easier, we’ve listed them for you below.

IAPO accommodates study-abroad and international students with the following options:

• Apply directly to UCT through University Partnership Programmes

Check if your home university is a UCT partner. If yes, consult your university’s International Office about the application process. Here is a list of UCT’s partnership universities.

• Apply to UCT through an International Exchange Programme

To apply, consult the respective website. These include organizations like CIEE, ISA , Connect 123 and IES.

• Apply directly to UCT as a Full-Time International Student

International and local students have the same online application process. Students apply through the UCT online application form. Select the year you wish to apply for and select the “Click here to continue” tab and follow the steps.

Application Fees

• International students (undergrad and postgrad) from an SADC region: R 100

• International students (undergrad & postgrad) from non-SADC regions: R 300

• For a Master of Business Science international students pay an application fee of  R 1100 if they are from an African country, and US $ 200 if they are from a country outside of Africa.

Application Deadlines

• Study abroad students:

For 1^st Semester (February – June): applications close on 15 Oct 2015

For 2^nd Semester (July – November): to be released soon

• International full-time students (undergrad and postgrad alike):

Closing date for all faculty applications is on 30 Sep 2015

Quick Facts

• UCT’s campuses are wheelchair-friendly, and there are even wheelchair-accessible bus shuttles. Click here to have a look at the campus wheelchair access and amenities map and information.

• The Student Wellness Service provides services like free HIV AIDS testing and counseling, reproductive health services, assistance for sports injuries – and many more.

Contact Info

IAPO:

Phone: +27 (0)21 650 2822/ 3740

Email: int-iapo@uct.ac.za

UCT Admissions Office:

Phone: +27 (0)21 650 2128

Email: admissions@uct.ac.za

General Postal Address:

University of Cape Town
Private Bag X3
Rondebosch 7701
South Africa

University of Stellenbosch

General Info

Surrounded by South Africa’s beautiful and celebrated winelands, the University of Stellenbosch (US) has a reputation for conducting and publishing extensive research, as well as focusing on positive social change projects. Its origins trace back to the 17^th Century with teachings in Theology. The university was officially renamed and established as the University of Stellenbosch in 1918. Click here for more about US! The main language spoken in Stellenbosch is Afrikaans, but most courses are available in English. Have a look at the language policy here.

FYI: This university can also be referred to as “SU” – Stellenbosch University.

Claim to Fame

Once you study at US, you shall be known as a ‘Matie’. 

Application Process

International and study-abroad students who’d like to study at US can apply through the Postgraduate and International Office. They have a super website with all the info you need.

The two general steps you can take to apply:

1. Apply to US with the help and organisation of a partnership programme or international exchange programme
2. Apply directly to US as an international full-time student (on your own terms)

To make things a little easier, we’ve listed them for you below.

The Postgraduate and International Office accommodates international students with the following options:

• Apply directly to US through University Partnership Programmes

Check if your home university is a US partner here. If yes, you need to approach your university’s International Office and ask the persons responsible to send a nomination letter to US on your behalf. US will respond with a web link that you may follow to complete the online application form. Click here for more information on the process and requirements.

To note: US will only consider applications from a student whose home universities have sent in a nomination for him or her.

• Apply to US through an International Exchange Programme

To apply, consult the respective website. This includes organisations like CIEE, USAC, or AIFS.

• Apply directly to US as a Full-Time International Student

International and local students have the same online application process. This link will take you to the US online application form. For detailed  information on postgraduate programmes in particular, see the US website for prospective postgraduate students.

• US also offers further study-abroad options, such the IPSU Summer School Programmes, or the Affiliate Research option. Follow this link for the complete list of options.

Application Fees

International Students application fee: not applicable

Study Abroad: not applicable

Application Deadlines

General Application Deadlines for studies in 2016:

• Study abroad students: 

For 1^st Semester (January – June): applications close 30 Sep 2015
(nominations need to be sent in between 1 and 31 August 2015)

For 2^nd Semester (July – December): to be released soon
(nomination deadlines to be released soon)

• International full-time students (undergrad and postgrad alike): 

Closing date for all faculty applications is on 30 Sep 2015

Quick Facts

• US’s campuses are wheelchair-friendly.

• Student Health offers students access to services like medical treatments, prescriptions, and counseling (you can claim this from your medical aid)

Contact Info

US Postgraduate and International Office:

Phone: +27 21 808 2565

Email: interoff@sun.ac.za

US Client Services Centre:

Phone: +27 21 808 9111

Email:  info@sun.ac.za

Postal Address for Client Services Centre:

Stellenbosch University
Private Bag X1
Matieland, 7602
South Africa

Rhodes University

General Info

Located in Grahamstown, Rhodes University is a small student town known for its unique culture and academic excellence. The institution is around 111-years old and its motto is ‘Where Leaders Learn.’ The university is so small that walking is the mode of transport. The town has a very familiar, friendly community-like feeling. Rhodes has around 6000 students, most of whom live in university residences.

Claim to Fame

Its Journalism and Media Studies department and liberal student life. Once you go to Rhodes, you become a ‘rhodent’ for life!

Application Process

International and study-abroad students who’d like to study at Rhodes can apply through the Rhodes International Office. They have a super website with all the required info.

The two general steps you can take to apply: 

1. Apply to Rhodes with the help and organisation of a partnership programme or international exchange programme 
2. Apply directly to Rhodes as an international full-time student (on your own terms) 

To make things a little easier, we’ve listed them for you below.

The Rhodes International Office accommodates study-abroad and international students with the following options:

• Apply directly to Rhodes through University Partnership Programmes

Check if your home university is a Rhodes partner – have a look at the list of partners here. If yes, you need to approach your university’s International Office. Once your home institution has confirmed that Rhodes is the best match for you, they will nominate you to the Rhodes International Office. Once successful, the Rhodes International Office will send you the required application materials.

To Note: If your home institution is not a partner with Rhodes and you are interested in coming to Rhodes as an Independent Study Abroad Student, please email internationaloffice@ru.ac.za.

• Apply to Rhodes through an International Exchange Programme

To apply, consult the respective website. This includes organisations like Erasmus Mundus or SANORD or Full Bright.

• Apply directly to Rhodes as a Full-Time International Student

International and local students have the same online application process. This link will take you to the online application system: https://ross.ru.ac.za/ugadmissions/. From there you need to register and fill in the online application form. For detailed information on postgraduate programmes in particular, see the Rhodes website for prospective postgraduate students.

Application Fees

• Study Abroad Students: not applicable
• International students: R 100

FYI: This is only the application fee. Additional fees will apply, such as registration/enrolment fees, and depending on your situation, possible fees for tuition, accommodation, etc.

Application Deadline

General Application Deadlines for studies in 2016:

• Study abroad students:

  For 1^st semester (February – June): 15 October 2015

  For 2^nd semester (July – November): 15 March 2016

• International full-time students (undergrad and postgrad alike):

  Closing date for all faculty applications is on 30 Sep 2015

Quick Facts

• Disabled parking facilities are spread across the Rhodes University campuses. Click here to see all their services.

• Rhodes has a Health Centre where students can go to seek advice, medical check-ups and more. 

Contact Info

To view an interactive map click here: https://www.ru.ac.za/maps/

Rhodes International Office:

Tel: +27 (0)46 603 8217

Email: internationaloffice@ru.ac.za

Rhodes Student Bureau:

Phone: +27 (0)46 603 8276

Email: registrar@ru.ac.za 

University of Pretoria

General Info

Having started as a small college with roughly 32 students, the University of Pretoria has experienced an explosive growth spurt over the past century, and is now one of South Africa’s leading universities, with outstanding success in research and academic publications. 

Claim to Fame

Coming soon.

Application Process

UP’s International Cooperation Division (ICD) takes care of all international student applications. See their website for more information.

The two general steps you can take to apply: 

1. Apply to UP with the help and organisation of a partnership programme 
2. Apply directly to UP as an international full-time student (on your own terms) 

To make things a little easier, we’ve listed them for you below.

ISD accommodates international students abroad with the following options:

• Apply directly to UP through University Partnership Programmes

Check if your home university is a UP partner. If yes, study-abroad students may contact a specialist consultant at the ISD who will send through an application form. This option is for students who wish to study at UP for 6 to 12 months, and who do not apply through an international exchange programme. 

• Apply directly to UP as a Full-Time International Student

International and local students have the same online application process. Students apply through the online application form. On the left side of the site, enter the 6 digits into the space below and then press “Create Application ID” – you will get an email with your application login details. (To note: when you apply, be careful to select either the undergrad or postgrad option.)

Click here for more information on the application procedure for exchange and study-abroad students. We also suggest you have a look at page 21 of UP’s ISD Newcomer’s Guide.

Application Fees

International Students application fee:  R300

Study Abroad Students application fee: contact the respective faculty

Application Deadlines

General Application Deadlines for studies in 2016:

• Study-abroad students:

  For 1^st Semester (January – June): applications close 30 Sep 2015

  For 2^nd Semester (July – December): to be released soon

• International full-time students (undergrad):

  Depending on which faculty you want to apply for, closing dates fall between 31 May and 31 Aug 2015. Follow this link to see which closing date applies to you. 

Quick Facts

• All UP campus buildings are wheelchair-accessible.

• The Student Health Services (S.H.S.) provides various services to students, including the treatment of injuries, advice on reproductive health, and dietary advise. 

Contact Info

• UP Client Service Centre Postal Address:

University of Pretoria
Private bag X20
Hatfield 0028
South Africa

• Contact Information

UP International Student Division:

Phone: +27 (0)12 420 311

Email: isd@up.ac.za

UP General Enquiries:

Phone:+27 (0)12 420 311

Email: csc@up.ac.za

FYI: We suggest that you contact UP via email, as their phone operators tend to always be occupied…

University of Western Cape

General Info

The University of the Western Cape is renowned for its role as an agent of change during the apartheid era, rejecting the racially oppressive ideologies far ahead of most other tertiary institutions. Located in Cape Town’s Northern Suburbs, UWC offers studies in 7 different faculties. 

Claim to Fame

Coming soon.

Application Process

The two general steps you can take to apply: 

1. Apply to UWC with the help and organisation of a partnership programme or do an exchange as an independent student

2. Apply directly to UWC as an international full-time student (on your own terms) 

To make things a little easier, we’ve listed them for you below.

The International Relations Office accommodates international students with the following options:

• Apply directly to UWC through University Partnership Programmes

Check if your university is a partner. If yes, your university needs to nominate you as an exchange candidate. Thereafter you will apply online.

FYI: UWC is currently updating its website and will soon release a list of partnership universities.

• Apply directly to UWC as an Independent Student

If you would like to study abroad at UWC but your university is not a partner, then you can complete the independent application. You will need a letter of support from your university and approval of courses. Find out more about this option at your International Office. To apply as an independent student, use the online application form.

• Apply directly to UWC as a Full-Time International Student

International and local students have the same online application process. Students apply through the online application form. Click on ‘New Application’ and then fill out your details. Once you submit, you will receive an application number.For more information on what you can study at UWC, follow this link to look a the prospectus.

Application Fees

International Students application fee: R150

Study Abroad Students application fee: R150

Application Deadlines

• Study abroad students: 

To find out the application deadline for the 1^st and 2^nd Semester, you need to contact the respective faculty of UWC

• International full-time students: 

All undergraduate applications close on 30 Sep 2015
(Except the faculty of dentistry, which closes at the end of August)

Quick Facts

• The Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) is there to assist students who are wheelchair-bound, or living with other impairments, to successfully obtain their tertiary degree

• UWC has various student health and wellness support programmes, such as health services, academic support, and psychological support

Contact Info

• UWC Address:

Robert Sobukwe Rd
Bellville 7535
Cape Town
South Africa

• Contact Information:

International Relations Office:

Phone: +27 (0)21 959 2487/2884 

Email: iro@uwc.ac.za

UWC Student Admission and Applications contact center: 

Phone: +27 (0)21 959 3900/01

Email: admissions@uwc.ac.za 

University of KwaZulu-Natal

General Info

Situated in the seaside city of Durban and the midlands of Pietermaritzburg, the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) provides rich heritage for anyone who visits. UKZN has 4 campuses across Durban and Pietermaritzburg. There are four colleges and 19 schools offering over 2000 academic programmes. If you are interested in research, UKZN’s research output is known to be the third best in South Africa. Currently there is admirable postgraduate research being done on TB and HIV treatment at the university. 

Claim to Fame

UKZN is the only university in SA that offers a qualification in Agricultural Engineering

Application Process

Whether you’d like to study at UKZN through an exchange programme, or take the initiative and register as an international student, the way to go about it is through UKZN’s International Relations Office – their website has all the information you will need to kick off your study experience at UKZN!

The two general steps you can take to apply: 

1. Apply to UKZN with the help and organisation of a partnership programme (or as an independent study abroad student)
2. Apply directly to UKZN as an international full-time student (on your own terms) 

To make things a little easier, we’ve listed the options for you below!

The UKZN International Relations office accommodates study-abroad and international students with the following options:

• Apply directly to UKZN through University Partnership Programmes

Check if your home university is a UKZN partner – click here to see the full list of university partnerships. If yes, consult your university’s International Office about the application process. You need to approach your university’s International Office and ask the person responsible to send a nomination letter to UKZN on your behalf. Once accepted, depending on the situation, either the International office will send the applicant the application forms or the applicant can find it on the website here.

• Apply directly to UKZN as a Full-Time International Student

International and local students have the same application process. UKZN does not use an online application process for non-SA applicants. Be sure to find out the specific requirements needed for your application. Students can download the application forms here and either post, email or fax it through to UKZN.

Undergraduate Application Form:

Click here.

Postgraduate Application Form: 

Click here.

• Apply to UKZN as an independent study abroad student

Students wanting to study abroad independently without the help from a partnership programme need to make arrangements with their specific university. For UKZN the same short term application form is used to apply for exchange and study abroad students. Click here to see requirements and application forms. For detailed information about postgraduate studies, have a look at the prospective guide UKZN offers.

To note: International postgraduate applicants must have their foreign qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA). Contact them at: Tel +27 (0)12 431 5070 or www.saqa.org.za

Application Fees

• Study abroad students: US $146 
• International Students – coming soon. 

FYI: This is only the application fee. Additional fees will apply, such as registration/enrolment fees, and depending on your situation, possible fees for tuition, accommodation, etc.

Application Deadlines

• Study abroad/ exchange students:

  For Semester 1 (February – June): 30 September 2015

  For Semester 2 (August – November): 30 April 2016

• International full-time students (undergrad and postgrad alike):

  Medicine (no late applications accepted): 30 June 2015

  All other programmes: 30 September 2015 

  Some programmes accept Second Semester intake (Semester 2 runs from Aug-Nov): application deadline is on 30 April (in the year of study) 

Quick Facts

• UKZN’s campuses are disabled friendly and there is a disability unit specifically targeted to facilitate and encourage students. To find out more information see here.

• UKZN also has a health clinic for students who are in need. Fully trained nurses are on duty and medical enquiries are welcome. See here for more information and contact details.

Contact Info

• UKZN Address:

Mazisi Kunene Road
Glenwood
Durban
University of KZN
Durban
4041

• Contact Information: 

UKZN International Relations Office:

Phone: +27 (0)31 260 3078 

Email: singht@ukzn.ac.za

General Enquiries:

Phone: +27 (0)31 260 8596

Email: enquiries@ukzn.ac.za

University of Witwatersrand

General Info

In 1922 Johannesburg’s University of Witwatersrand (Wits) was officially granted full university status, though its establishment goes back to 1896. It is home to a vast number of research units and specialized schools, like the 40-year old Wits Business School. The university also takes pride in its involvement with art and history, being home to 14 museums and 2 art galleries. 

Claim to Fame

Coming soon.

Application Process

At Wits, the team at the International Students Office takes care of the application processes. Here’s the link to their page. 

The two general steps you can take to apply: 

1. Apply to Wits with the help and organisation of a partnership programme or as an occasional student

      FYI: Wits does not offer exchanges through international exchange organisations

1. Apply directly to Wits as an international full-time student (on your own terms)

To make things a little easier, we’ve listed them for you below.

Wits accommodates international students abroad with the following options:

• Apply directly to Wits through University Partnership Programmes

Check if your university is a partner by clicking here – on the left side you can select the relative continent and browse which universities are partners. If your home university is a partner, approach your International Office and enquire about the application process. Follow this link for more details about studying abroad at Wits.

• Apply directly to WITS as a Full-Time International Student

International and local students have the same online application process. Students apply through the online application form. Select the tab that prompts you to complete a new online application form, fill in your details, and Wits will send you a confirmation email with a link that will take you to the online application.

• Apply to WITS as an Occasional Student

If your university is not a partner university, you can still study-abroad at WITS through the WITS Plus programme. You could, for example, complete one of the Short Certificate Courses that generally run over 3 or 12 months. See their website for more information on available courses, as well the application processes. To see further collaborative options for studies at WITS, follow this link. The WITS website includes a very handy application guide for studies in 2016 – have a look at it here. You can also select a faculty-specific guide on the Student Enrollment Centre page.

Application Fees

International Students application fee: R700

Study Abroad Students application fee: not applicable for exchange through partnership programmes

Application Deadlines

• Study-abroad students:

  For 1^st Semester (February – June): applications close on 1 Oct 2015

  For 2^nd Semester (July – November): applications close on 10 Apr 2016

• International full-time students: 

  Applications close on 30 Sep 2015 

  (To note: For Health Sciences, Architecture, Audiology and Speech-Language Therapy, applications close on 30 June 2015)

Quick Facts

• All WITS campus buildings are wheelchair-accessible 

• At the Campus Health and Student Centre students can access various medical services, including counseling, free HIV-AIDS testing, and minor surgical procedures. 

Contact Info

• Wits Address:

1 Jan Smuts Avenue
Braamfontein 2000
Johannesburg
South Africa

• Contact Information:

WITS International Students Office:

Phone: +27 11 717 1054 

Email: studysa.international@wits.ac.za

Wits Partnerships Office (for students applying with international exchange organisations):

Phone: +27 (0)11 717 1067

WITS University General Enquiries:

Phone: +27 (0)11 717 1000 

Email: webmaster@wits.ac.za 

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

General Info

The Cape Peninsula University of Technology here to see a full list of international exchange programmes affiliated with CPUT.

• Apply directly to CPUT as a Full-Time International Student

International and local students have the same online application process. This link will take you to the application forms available for download:

Undergraduate: https://www.cput.ac.za/storage/study_at_cput/undergrad_application_form_may2015.pdf

Postgraduate: https://www.cput.ac.za/storage/study_at_cput/postgrad_application_form_may2015.pdf

For detailed information on postgraduate programmes in particular, see the CPUT website for prospective postgraduate students.

Application Fees

International full-time students application fee: R100

Study Abroad students application fee: not applicable for exchange through partnership programmes

FYI: This is only the application fee. Additional fees will apply, such as registration/enrollment fees, and depending on your situation, possible fees for tuition, accommodation, etc. 

Application Deadlines

• Study abroad students:

  Closing date for all faculties: 31 August 2015 (although can be negotiated with faculties who have a memoranda of understanding)

• International full-time students (undergrad and postgrad alike):

  Closing date for all faculties: 31 August 2015

Quick Facts

• All campuses at CPUT are disabled friendly. CPUT’s disability unit offers multiple service for disabled staff, students and visitors. Click here for more information.

• The CPUT Campus Health Clinic provides services such as HIV counseling and testing, general medical consultations and many more. Click here for more information.

Contact Info

• CPUT Address:

Symphony Way
Belville South industrial
Cape Town 7530
South Africa

For a full list of the campuses click here.

• Contact Information: 

Cape Town Office of International Affairs:

Phone: +27 (0)21 460 3955 / 8390 / 3984

E-mail: mokoenam@cput.ac.za

Cape Town Admissions Office:

Phone: +27 (0)21 460 3393

info@cput.ac.za

Student Opinions

JoeJoe Ashley (studies at Keele University in England)

“I think the two main reasons that I chose to come to South Africa are a) I really wanted to experience a culture different than my own (like experiencing and learning about the Xhosa culture for example) and b) I really wanted to get away from the Western stereotype of ‘Africa’ (where Africa is portrayed in the media as one thing, full of poverty and all of the same people, rather that lots of different countries) and try and stop myself from the trap of the ‘savour complex’, which I know I was in before coming here.

Aside from the lifelong friends I’ve made, the incredible travels and magical scenery I’ve experienced here, I think my biggest ‘take-away’ here is that I’m a lot more aware of my privilege than I was when coming here, and through this I can evaluate myself better and what the right thing to do in certain situations is.”

Max Peters (studies at University College Utrecht)

“I am a Dutch student from Utrecht, in the centre of the Netherlands. I study at UCU (University College Utrecht), and this is a small honours college of Utrecht University, and the college is very much internationally oriented. Having visited Ghana two years ago, I wanted to explore more of Africa, because I was intrigued by the way in which people lived, and how much that differed, in a very positive way, from the Western society that I am used to. 

There are plenty of highlights, to mention a couple: seeing all of the Big Five, visiting Cape Town and other great cities, beautiful nature reserves, waterfalls, beaches and mountains where we hiked, and becoming friends with all kinds of different people. Coming to Rhodes made me realize how limited (racial) diversity actually is at home and I love how all these people with different backgrounds bring their own unique thing to the University. I have greatly enjoyed meeting these people, as well as the other exchange students, and I have made some very interesting friendships. It has overall been a beautiful learning experience, during which I learned so much about myself, whilst learning about other people and other cultures as well.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

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