South Africa

Magical, that is South Africa. The diversity, the landscape, the wild life, the history, the drama but also the hope in a better future, they are fascinating and inspiring. And of course you will only get to know South Africa from the inside when you are there not only as a tourist, but as a student. South Africa’s comfortable climate and diverse landscape offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. From exotic beaches to majestic mountain ranges, the country's terrain is like no other. Considering also the temperate climate with plenty of warm sunny days and cool nights, and South Africa’s near-perfect weather, it is no wonder that South Africa is regarded as one of the most popular study destination among students. With a growing numbers of international students, from other African countries and from around the world, there are nearly 54,000 foreign students attending the country’s 23 public universities, and today international students comprise more than 7% of a total higher education student population of 735,000.

South Africa: Past, Present and Future The current state of South Africa’s higher education system is richly informed by its turbulent past, dynamic present and promising future. The past decade has seen remarkable transition in the wake of 2004 legislation overturning years of racial segregation, and universities have also undergone sweeping change to replace the racially-based system of years past. Today, South Africa is home to 23 public universities comprising a mix of the traditional, vocational and hybrid models. Each now accepts students from all segments of the population. 

While others read about history in textbooks, international students who choose to study here are immersed in history-making moments. Also: South Africa’s emerging economy presents a unique perspective into the global marketplace. 

While no formal language tests are required for admissions, international students will need to show proficiency in English, Afrikaans or one of South Africa’s nine (nine!) other official languages. While English is widely spoken in South Africa, some former Afrikaner universities still offer coursework primarily in Afrikaans. Make sure to inquire in advance about the teaching language at your prospective university.

Attributed to an income gap handed down from apartheid, crime remains a very real problem in South Africa. International students can be targets, so learn about common schemes perpetrated by criminals, stay vigilant at all times, and avoid exhibiting indications of wealth. With domestic student confidence levels at all-time highs and a continued government commitment to higher education, we can only expect to hear more from this emerging nation as an increasingly popular international study destination. Learn more about studying in South Africa here.  

Another advantage: the cost of study and the living expenses are not high and this is one big positive factor that makes students who want to study abroad turn to South Africa.

Fun to know: There are more than 2000 native plant species on Table Mountain, more than in the entire United Kingdom. There are more than 12.000 elephants in Kruger Park.

Greeting: Howzit? (How are you?)