Study destinations
Study in South Africa
Explore universities, programmes and study locations in South Africa.
About South Africa
The supplied destination notes describe South Africa as a regional option for university study. Explore institutions and compare programme requirements and locations.
Why study in South Africa
Compare university programmes, campus locations and academic prerequisites. Contact institutions for current information about admission and student support.
What sets South Africa apart
The supplied directory includes public universities and selected private institutions. Confirm programme availability and requirements with each provider.
Basic requirements
Prepare for the main requirements to study in South Africa.
Academic
Academic records
Check the institution's academic entry criteria and prepare the transcripts, certificates or other records requested for your programme.
English language
Language evidence
Language evidence depends on the programme and your previous education. Confirm accepted tests or exemptions with the institution.
Financial
Tuition and living budget
Build a budget for tuition, accommodation, travel and other expenses. Confirm current costs and any required financial evidence before applying.
Identity and visa
Identity and immigration documents
Document and immigration requirements depend on your circumstances and current rules. Check the official government guidance for your destination.
Student life
Your day-to-day experience depends on the city, campus and accommodation you choose. Compare transport, housing and current living costs for your shortlist, and confirm details locally before you commit.
Visa and work permits
Study visa
Eligibility: Foreign students generally need acceptance from a qualifying South African learning institution and must satisfy the Department of Home Affairs' current study visa requirements.
Validity: The visa is granted for a defined period related to the approved study. Check the visa and current Department of Home Affairs rules.
Official guidance checked 2026-10: https://www.gov.za/services/temporary-residence/visa-study (checked 2026-10)
Cities
Explore cities in South Africa where you can study and shape your future.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose a university or course?+
Compare the course content, qualification, teaching language, location, entry requirements and total cost. Confirm details directly with the institution before applying.
What documents will I need to apply?+
Requirements vary by institution and programme. They may include academic records, identity documents and language evidence. Use the institution's current application checklist.
Which visa or study permit should I apply for?+
The correct immigration route depends on your citizenship, programme and current rules. Check the destination government's official guidance before making travel plans.
Climate
Climate varies from Mediterranean in the southwest to semi-arid inland and subtropical in the east.
Key insights
- Capital
- Pretoria (administrative); Cape Town (legislative); Bloemfontein (judicial)
- Language
- isiZulu, isiXhosa, Afrikaans, English, Sepedi, Setswana, Sesotho, Xitsonga, siSwati, Tshivenda, isiNdebele, South African Sign Language
- Time zone
- South Africa Standard Time (UTC+2)
- Currency
- South African rand (ZAR)
Ready for your next step?
Find a course in South Africa
Explore courses and institutions, then speak with a counsellor about your options.