Are you looking to study in South Africa, but can't find any good schools? If yes, then this article on 25 best universities in South Africa 2024 is for you.
South Africa, although most students might not know this, is one of the top destinations in the world and home to some of the most globally recognised and renowned universities in the world. While many African applicants will prefer to go to outside the continent to study, what you should know is that this country and the schools in it will offer you that same value you are looking for in the UK, USA, or Canada. What's more is that South African universities rank high among the list of top 200 universities in Africa, including top 500 universities in the world.
A study in South Africa, will open you up to many possibilities and more importantly it might just be the starting point of your exploration of the African continent. On that note, keep reading to discover what the top universities in SA are.
In this article:
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6 reasons to study in South Africa
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Table showing the 25 best universities in South Africa 2024
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25 best universities in South Africa 2024
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University of Cape Town
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University of Witwatersrand
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Stellenbosch University
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University of KwaZulu-Natal
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Durban University of Technology
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North-West University
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University of Johannesburg
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University of Pretoria
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University of Western Cape
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University of South Africa
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Tshwane University of Technology
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Rhodes University
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University of the Free State
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Nelson Mandela University
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University of Fort Hare
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Central University of Technology
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Vaal University of Technology
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University of Venda
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University of Limpopo
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Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
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Mangosuthu University of Technology
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University of Zululand
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Walter Sisulu University
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Sol Plaatje University
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Cape Peninsula University of Technology
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Bonus Universities
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Conclusion
6 Reasons To Study In South Africa
South Africa, if you give it a chance, can quickly go from being an unexplored territory to your dream study destination. And if what you need is a good reason to study in South Africa, then besides its quality education, friendly environment, diverse culture, and affordable tuition, we will give you 6 reasons to study in South Africa.
1. Good Quality Education:
Its good quality education is one of the foremost reasons students should want to study in South Africa. SA is one of the countries in the world that has a quality education system, and 3 of its universities - University of Cape Town, University of the Witwatersrand, and Stellenbosch University making the list of 2019 QS World Rankings proves this. South Africa also has the best universities in Africa.
2. Affordable Tuition Rates
Although the tuition rates in South Africa vary due to factors like degree level, degree type, institution and student categorization, the country still has more affordable tuition rates than you would find in countries like the USA, UK, Canada or Ireland.
3. Low Cost Of Living
Like tuition, the cost of living in South Africa also varies, and this time it’s due to factors like the city you are studying in. While big cities are more expensive than smaller ones or towns, the cost of living in SA is still cheaper than that of other western countries.
4. A Chance To Speak A New Language
Although the most common languages used for teaching are English and Afrikaans, South Africa has 11 official languages and 8 other recognised languages, which you are free to learn how to speak as an international student. Additionally, a second language is always an impressive skill to have.
5. Multicultural Society, Beautiful Surroundings
Studying in South Africa opens you up to the opportunity to meet and learn about so many diverse cultures. Furthermore, the country has beautiful environs and tourist attractions which will make for a good bonus for studying there.
6. Easy Visa Application Process
While most countries can make their visa application process grueling and exhausting for students, with South Africa you will rarely experience such situations, as the government makes application for student visas easy and to the point. Note that your gaining a visa from South Africa is based on merit and meeting other requirements, but you have a good chance of getting one if you meet the criteria.
More Opportunities from South Africa: 15 Best Online Master's Programs in South Africa 2024.
Table Showing The 25 Best Universities In South Africa 2024
|
University |
Location |
Tuition Fee |
|
University of Cape Town |
Cape Town, South Africa |
R105,000 |
|
University of the Witwatersrand |
Johannesburg, South Africa |
On request |
|
Stellenbosch University |
Stellenbosch, South Africa |
On request |
|
University of KwaZulu-Natal |
Stellenbosch, South Africa |
USD 15,218 |
|
Durban University of Technology |
Durban, South Africa |
R4200.00 |
|
North-West University |
Potchefstroom, South Africa |
R 10 740 |
|
University of Johannesburg |
Johannesburg, South Africa |
On request |
|
University of Pretoria |
Pretoria, South Africa |
On request |
|
University of the Western Cape |
Cape Town, South Africa |
R60,000 |
|
University of South Africa |
Pretoria, South Africa |
R6 722,00 per module |
|
Tshwane University of Technology |
Pretoria South Africa |
On request |
|
Rhodes University |
Grahamstown, South Africa |
R26,100 |
|
University of the Free State |
Bloemfontein, South Africa |
On request |
|
Nelson Mandela University |
Port E, South Africa |
On request |
|
University of Fort Hare |
Alice, South Africa |
Varies by program |
|
Central University of Technology |
Bloemfontein, South Africa |
Varies by program |
|
Vaal University of Technology |
Vanderbijlpark, South Africa |
R 47490.00 per annum |
|
University of Venda |
Thohoyandou, South Africa |
On request |
|
University of Limpopo |
Limpopo, South Africa |
On request |
|
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University |
Ga-Rankuwa, South Africa |
On request |
|
Mangosuthu University of Technology |
Umlazi, South Africa |
R15 350 per semester |
|
University of Zululand |
Richards Bay, South Africa |
On request |
|
Walter Sisulu University |
Mthatha, South Africa |
On request |
|
Sol Plaatje University |
Northern Cape, South Africa |
On request |
|
Cape Peninsula University of Technology |
Cape Town, South Africa |
On request |
Related: 20 Best Universities in Africa 2024.
25 Best Universities In South Africa 2024
Just like other countries outside Africa, South Africa is bursting with quality study opportunities, and filled with renowned institutions of higher learning whose degrees and certificates are globally recognised for employment as well as further studies.
If you have decided to study there, these are the 25 Best Universities In South Africa 2024.
1. University of Cape Town
The University of Cape Town is the number one university in South Africa. UCT, prides itself as being an inclusive and engaged research-intensive African university which inspires creativity in its learners, through outstanding achievements in learning, discovery and citizenship; enhancing the lives of its students and staff, advancing a more equitable and sustainable social order and influencing the global higher education landscape.
Location - Cape Town, South Africa
Tuition fee - R105,000
Admission Requirements
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International students who have a non-South African school leaving certificate, must qualify for a matriculation exemption certificate.
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All applicants must demonstrate a level of English proficiency and should submit proof of this.
Learn more about the admission process.
2. University of the Witwatersrand
The University of Witwatersrand is an institution of higher learning distinguished internationally for excellent research, high academic standards, and commitment to social justice within Africa and beyond. Wits is also one of the best architecture universities in south africa.
Location - Johannesburg, South Africa
Tuition fee - On request
Admission Requirements
See the full list of admission requirements for University of Witwatersrand.
3. Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch University stands among South Africa’s leading tertiary institutions, an honor bestowed on it based on research outputs, student pass rates and rated scientists, and it is also recognised globally as an academic institution of excellence. SU is the best medicine university in south africa.
Location - Stellenbosch, South Africa
Tuition fee - On request
Admission Requirements
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30% knowledge for a South African Language of Learning and Teaching (English or Afrikaans).
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Achievement rating of 4 (50% - 59%) in four 20-credit subjects is also required.
Learn more about the admission process.
4. University of KwaZulu-Natal
Established on 1st January 2004 in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, the University of KwaZulu-Natal is a school made up of five campuses formed as a merger between the University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville. UKZN is among the largest, oldest, and most transformed universities in sub-Saharan Africa, and one of the best architecture universities in South Africa.
Location - Durban, South Africa
Tuition fee - USD 15,218
Admission Requirements
Undergraduates:
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Applicants with non- South African school leaving certificates should contact the South African Matriculation Board at +27 87 138 3001 / 2 or +27 10 591 4401 or consult [email protected], to find out if they qualify for a degree studies in South Africa.
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Applicants who have two A-levels (‘A’ – ‘E’) and three O-level passes (‘A’, ‘B’ or ‘C’) or equivalent, may qualify for exemption from the AEB or Cambridge examinations. However, they may also require setting subject groupings as passing the O-levels alone is not enough.
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Meet the subject, level and minimum O and A levels performance requirements of the UKZN colleges they are applying to. And also have the original documents during registration, as well as official translations where applicable.
Postgraduates:
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4-year Bachelor's degree or a 3-year degree plus a 1-year full time Honors degree in the relevant field to apply for a Masters degree.
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Before submitting an application to the university, applicants should first apply to the South African Qualifications Authority to get a certificate of evaluation.
Learn more about the admission process.
5. Durban University of Technology
With up to 33,000 students, Durban University of Technology is regarded as the province of KwaZulu-Natal’s first choice for higher education. Located in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, DUT as a University of Technology prioritizes the quality of teaching and learning by ensuring that its academic staff have the highest possible qualification they can get. Durban is one of the top universities in SA.
Location - Durban, South Africa
Tuition fee - R4200.00
Admission Requirements
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International students applying to DUT, have to apply through the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) or the Matriculation Board to get the qualifications evaluated.
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Diploma applicants need the SAQA evaluation, while degree applicants need the Matriculation Board evaluation.
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Application forms can be gotten from the SAQA office, downloaded from the SAQA website or applicants can apply online on the website.
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Certificates written in foreign languages should have sworn translations attached to them.
6. North-West University
More than just education, the North-West University offers people a chance to take their place in the world. Academically, NWU students benefit from great choice and flexibility that allows them to maximise their potential and prepare for their careers. North-West University is the best university for actuarial science in South africa.
Location - Potchefstroom, South Africa
Tuition fee - R 10 740
Admission Requirements
See the full list of admission requirements for North-West University.
7. University of Johannesburg
The University of Johannesburg is vibrant, multicultural, dynamic, and mirrors the pace and energy of the cosmopolitan city of Johannesburg, whose name it carries. Proudly South African, UJ is true to its African roots, and is well-prepared to actualise the potential higher education holds for the development of the continent. The University of Johannesburg is another best university to study medicine in South africa.
Location - Johannesburg, South Africa
Tuition fee - Request fee info.
Admission Requirements
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A completed application form with supporting documents and a non-refundable application fee of R200 should be submitted.
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Applicants can make a free online application.
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Supporting documents should be uploaded to the application platform or emailed to [email protected]
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Applicants applying with international credentials or in Grade 12 (Final Grade 11 results) should have Final School leaving results.
Learn more about the application process.
8. University of Pretoria
The University of Pretoria is among Africa’s top universities and the largest contact university in South Africa. UP produces socially impactful research to find solutions to the most pressing issues in the world, it has a high quality of teaching and learning in the classroom, online, or in communities, and has support in place for students to graduate timely as well-rounded, responsible citizens who are prepared for the world outside university. Students looking for best drama universities in south africa will find the University of Pretoria an excellent fit.
Location - Pretoria, South Africa
Tuition fee - On request
Admission Requirements
See the full list of admission requirements for the University of Pretoria.
9. University of the Western Cape
Founded in 1960, University of the Western Cape holds a significant position in the South African higher education landscape. UWC is a dynamic institution dedicated to excellence in learning, teaching, research and innovation in a globally competitive environment, while still remaining true to the value and ethos that shaped its identity as a university rooted in serving the public good. University of the Western Cape is one of the best universities in Cape Town.
Location - Cape Town, South Africa
Tuition fee - R60,000
Admission Requirements
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International applicants must meet the Admission Requirements for the programmes they are applying to.
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They can apply for exemption by following the USAf Application for Exemption Process or apply to have their Foreign Qualifications Evaluated by SAQA in the case of Postgraduate Programmes.
Learn more about the application process.
10. University of South Africa
University of South Africa is the leading open distance learning institution in Africa, offering internationally accredited qualifications and world-class resources that inspire students to create meaningful futures on their terms. UNISA is an African University that shapes futures in the service of humanity. It is the best university in South Africa for chartered accountant.
Location - Pretoria, South Africa
Tuition fee - R6 722,00 per module
Admission requirements
All applications to UNISa must be submitted online during the communicated application period. More information can be found here.
Undergraduate applicants:
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Submit a copy of school qualifications. See list of acceptable school qualifications for admission by country.
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Copy of tertiary academic qualifications where applicable is required.
Honours degree and postgraduate applicants:
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Copy of tertiary academic qualifications, including the ledger.
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Copy of your passport.
Masters and doctoral applicants:
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Submit copies of all official academic records including papers/modules passed, percentages obtained and the ledger. No need to provide Unisa academic records. Official records not in English must carry translations by a sworn translator.
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Provide a copy of ID or passport.
Learn more about the application process.
11. Tshwane University of Technology
Tshwane University of Technology is a South African institution of higher education that was formed as a result of a merger between technikons — Technikon Northern Gauteng, Technikon North-West and Technikon Pretoria. Besides being one of the leading universities in South Africa, Tshwane is also a best university for computer science in south africa.
Location - Pretoria South Africa
Tuition fee - On request
Admission Requirements
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Applicants should score a pass mark in English at Senior Certificate level. Note, minimum additional language; certain programmes may require first or home language status.
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Meet the specific admission requirements of each course.
Learn more about the application process.
12. Rhodes University
Since its establishment in 1904, Rhodes University has developed a reputation for academic excellence. Housing over 8,200 students, the University is a small one that enjoys the single privilege of having among the best undergraduate pass and graduation rates in South Africa, outstanding postgraduate success rates, and the best research output per academic staff member. Rhodes University is also recognised as one of the best drama universities in south africa.
Location - Grahamstown, South Africa
Tuition fee - R26,100
Admission Requirements
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Applications will be considered for students who qualify for Bachelor's degree study and satisfy faculty subject and percentage requirements. To qualify with a Bachelor's pass status, applicants should take seven subjects, four of which are compulsory (two languages, Life Orientation and either Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy) and three of the learner's own choice from the subjects on offer at the school.
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To qualify for Rhodes University's degree studies, prospective students must pass English language at an achievement rating of 4 (50 - 59%) or above.
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At least four of the seven subjects from the recommended subject list - Accounting, Agricultural Science, Business Studies, Consumer Studies, Dramatic Arts, Engineering Graphics & Design, Economics, Geography, History, Information Technology, Languages, Life Sciences, Mathematics / Mathematical Literacy, Music, Physical Science, Religion Studies, Visual Arts. With an achievement rating of 4 (50 - 59%) or above.
Learn more about the application process.
13. University of the Free State
Established in 1904 as the Grey University College, the Free State is one of the oldest and most respected higher education institutions in South Africa. UFS is among the best universities that offer architecture in South Africa.
Location - Bloemfontein, South Africa
Tuition fee - On request
Admission Requirements
See the full list of admission requirements for UFS.
14. Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
Opened on 1st January 2005, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University was created as a merging of the PE Technikon the University of Port Elizabeth (UPE) and the Port Elizabeth campus of Vista University (Vista PE). NMMU is a comprehensive university that offers professional and vocational training, and also recognised as one of the best universities for media studies in south africa.
Location - Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Tuition fee - On request
Admission Requirements
See the full list of admission requirements for NMMU.
15. University of Fort Hare
The University of Fort Hare is a vibrant, equitable, and sustainable public university in South Africa that is committed to teaching and research, at the service of its students, scholars, and the wider community. UFH is one of the top law universities in South Africa.
Location - Alice, South Africa
Tuition fee - Varies by program
Admission Requirements
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International Bachelor’s students who have a non-South African School-leaving, should get a certificate of exemption from the Matriculation Board of South Africa to be admitted into the undergraduate qualification.
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Foreign postgraduate applicants who have non-South African qualifications should get evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
Learn more about the application process.
Related: 30 Best Universities in the World 2024.
16. Central University of Technology
Established in 1981 as "Technikon Free State", the Central University of Technology is a University of Technology located in Bloemfontein in the Free State province of South Africa. CUT is one of top ranked universities in South Africa.
Location - Bloemfontein, South Africa
Tuition fee - Varies by program
Admission Requirements
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To be admitted to CUT, international undergraduate applicants should have the equivalent of a South African National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a degree endorsement.
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Applicants with high school results and qualifications obtained outside South Africa should apply for an exemption from the Matriculation Board of South Africa (USAf).
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International postgraduate students who have foreign college/university school qualifications obtained outside of the Republic of South Africa should get those qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA).
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Foreign qualifications can be evaluated at the SAQA website.
Learn more about the application process.
17. Vaal University of Technology
Vaal University of Technology is one South Africa’s largest residential Universities of Technology, housing over 25,000 students and tutoring more than 300 programs all taught in English. Vaal is a tertiary institution that attracts students all over South Africa. It is among the best mechatronics universities in South Africa.
Location - Vanderbijlpark, South Africa
Tuition fee - R 47490.00 per annum
Admission Requirements
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VUT prospective students should ensure that the programme they want to study is offered by the University, and that they meet the entry requirements for admission into them.
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Applicants are admitted based on merit by the concerned faculty concerned and selection may include selection and / or placement tests
Learn more about the application process.
18. University of Venda
Established in 1982, the University of Venda is a comprehensive rural-based South African institution located in Thohoyandou in Limpopo province. Venda since its establishment, has experienced tremendous growth and change, and is now one of the top universities in SA.
Location - Thohoyandou, South Africa
Tuition fee - On request
Admission Requirements
See the full list of admission requirements for University of Venda.
19. University of Limpopo
Founded in 1st January 2005 in the Limpopo Province, the University of Limpopo is a university born out of a merger between the University of the North and the Medical University of South Africa (MEDUNSA). UL is another of the top law universities in South Africa.
Location - Limpopo, South Africa
Tuition - On request
Admission Requirements
See the full list of application requirements for UL.
20. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University was founded on 1st January 2015 in Pretoria North, Gauteng Province. SMU has a vision to be the benchmark institution which provides holistic health sciences education that meets the health needs of the individual, the family, the community, and the population. It is the best university for medicine in South Africa.
Location - Ga-Rankuwa, South Africa
Tuition - On request
Admission Requirements
See the full list of admission requirements for Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University.
21. Mangosuthu University of Technology
Mangosuthu University of Technology intends to be distinguished and singled out among all other institutions of higher learning, as having superiority in performance in selected fields as a University of Technology. MUT houses three faculties - Engineering, Management Sciences and Natural Sciences, and in the last 41 years has amassed for itself a total of over 14,500 students with a gender parity of 50/50. Mangosuthu earns its spot amongst the best universities in South Africa.
Location - Umlazi, South Africa
Tuition - R15 350 per semester
Admission Requirements
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Applicants should have the National Senior Certificate with a diploma pass or N3 with 50% pass in Mathematics and English.
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A minimum of 5 subjects with level 4 pass for diploma study and level 3 for Access Courses is required for admission.
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Prospects should have English Home Language or First Additional language, level 4 pass.
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Specific subject combination and pass level relevant to the qualification should be met.
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Applicants should score minimum points as per faculty requirement and as listed on the CAO handbook.
Learn more about the admission requirements.
22. University of Zululand
The University of Zululand is prided as the only comprehensive tertiary educational institution north of the Tugela River in KwaZulu-Natal South Africa; a new status bestowed upon it as a result of South Africa's National Plan for Higher Education aimed at eradicating inequity and costly duplication. UniZulu as this list shows is one of the top universities in SA.
Location - Richards Bay, South Africa
Tuition fee - On request
Admission Requirements
International students applying to UniZulu, should submit the following documents:
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A valid passport.
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Study permit for UniZulu.
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SAQA verification certificate.
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Documents that show proof of financial means that they can cover living expenses in South Africa and pay tuition fees like bank statements, bursaries, cash available/traveller’s cheque.
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Medical insurance cover for the duration of their studies in SA.
Learn more about the admission requirements.
23. Walter Sisulu University
Located in Mthatha, Walter Sisulu University is a university of technology and science which was established on 1st July 2005, due to a merger of the former Border Technikon, Eastern Cape Technikon and the University of Transkei. Walter Sisulu is one of the top ranked universities in South Africa.
Location - Mthatha, South Africa
Tuition - On request
Admission Requirements
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Applicants should first apply for evaluation of school results or other degree/diploma certificates via the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and Universities South Africa (Usaf).
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After the get their results back from Usaf, prospective students can start the application process and upload required documents like transcripts in English, copies of certificates, diplomas, degrees previously obtained, a certified copy of passport, marriage or divorce decree(s) and identity document for a parent or legal guardian if they are less than 21 years.
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Students should meet the admission requirements for their program choice.
Learn more about the application process.
24. Sol Plaatje University
Opened in 2014, Sol Plaatje University is the first of the two new universities to be established in post-apartheid South Africa, and also the first university to be established in the Northern Cape Province. SPU refers to itself as a niche university which offers high intellectual academic programmes in disciplines that cater to the needs of the South African thrust, to build a nation proud of its heritage and roots.
Location - Northern Cape, South Africa
Tuition fee - On request
Admission Requirements
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SPU has minimum academic requirements for gaining admission to its 2024 study programmes.
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These requirements are based on applicants' results in the South African National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations.
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Applicants with certificates from a different examination system will be considered for admission individually.
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Meeting these minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admittance into SPU.
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Final decision on admission is based on academic performance and available space in the programme of choice.
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Students who have a better academic performance above the minimum, have a higher chance of studying at SPU in 2024.
Learn more about the application process.
25. Cape Peninsula University of Technology
The Cape Peninsula University of Technology, sits at the heart of Africa’s technology education and innovation. As an internationally acclaimed institution, CPUT is the only university of technology in the Western Cape, and the largest in the region enrolling over 30,00 students. The university houses six faculties providing undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Applied Sciences, Business, Education and Social Sciences, Engineering, Informatics and Design, Health and Wellness Sciences. CPUT is one of the top universities in Cape Town.
Location - Cape Town, South Africa
Tuition fee - On request
Admission Requirements
10 Best Architecture Universities in South Africa
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University of Capetown School of Architecture, Planning and Geomatics
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Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture, University of Johannesburg
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Discipline Of Architecture, Planning & Housing, University Of Kwazulu-Natal
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University of Witwatersrand School Of Architecture And Planning
5 Best Drama Universities in South Africa
8 Best University for Actuarial Science in South Africa
6 Best Universities for Media Studies in South Africa
7 Best University in South Africa for Chartered Accountant
8 Best University to Study Medicine in South Africa
9 Best University For Computer Science in South Africa
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School of Computer Science and Applied Mathematics, University of Witwatersrand
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Academy of Computer Science and Software Engineering, University of Johannesburg
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School of IT (incorporating Computer Science and Information Systems), University of Cape Town
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School of Computer Science and Information Systems, North-West University
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School of Mathematics, Statistics & Computer Science, University of Kwazulu-Natal
5 Best Mechatronics Universities in South Africa
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Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, Stellenbosch University
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Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, Cape Peninsula University of Technology
8 Top Law Universities in South Africa
Conclusion: South Africa Is Waiting
Dear student, you are just one step away from studying at the number one university in South Africa. All you need to do is visit the website of any of these best universities in South Africa we have mentioned here, browse through their requirements, and start your application to the ones you feel suit your career path and future goals best. You might be closer to becoming a South African student than you think.
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