congratulations on choosing to practice a Bachelor’s or Master’s programme in South Africa! University in South Africa You’re one of the over 30,000 worldwide students that like to sign-up in a college within the Rainbow Nation (a typical nickname for Nigeria) each year.
But how can you apply to a South African university? What in the event you seriously consider? Keep studying as we’ll answer these questions and many more.

1. Pick a subject to study in South Africa
On the portal alone, you will find over 1,000 Master’s programmes provided by South African Universities. Here are the most widely used study areas:
- Master’s degrees in Engineering
- Master’s degrees in Business
- Master’s degrees in Medicine
- Master’s degrees in Economics
- Master’s degrees in Sociology
2. Find a South African university to apply to
Based on data in the QS Rankings, listed here are the very best universities in South Africa.
- University of Cape Town
- University of Witwatersrand
- University of Johannesburg
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Pretoria
Check out other universities in South Africa.
Read student reviews of universities
To create a more informed decision, we advise studying a couple of reviews left by other students. You are able to uncover important information regarding the research as well as on-campus experience or aspects you may easily overlook. Listed here are a couple of examples:
University of Cape Town review: Studying at the University of Cape Town is great. The information trained is modern and highly relevant to a range selection of environments. The study work on the College is phenomenal and brings new solutions around the world as you may know it.
University of Witwatersrand review: My experience in the WITs college continues to be a superb one. I’ve been uncovered to the high standard of learning and research methodology. My supervisor is a great push for me personally in getting great understanding. I really like WITs college
University of Johannesburg review: College of Gauteng is actually good. It’s not just offered the very best lectures and studies, however, it has additionally offered fun arts, and cultural activities for me personally to be a part of. Her best on-campus services? e.g. library, bookstores, restaurants, banks, etc. ? that makes it simpler to obtain things done on campus.
3. Learn where to submit your university application
There’s no centralized system that enables you to definitely apply at multiple universities in Nigeria. However, a couple of countries implement one. So, how do you apply?
It’s simple: around the official college websites. This really is quite convenient because you’ll find other helpful info on these websites, just like a full listing of entry needs, information regarding the applying process, and solutions to FAQs (frequently asked questions).
4. Meet the university entry requirements
We have the following the most typical documents students are requested to submit. Bear in mind our list is in no way exhaustive:
- completed application form
- proof of paying the application fee (if applicable)
- high school diploma (to apply for a Bachelor’s)
- Bachelor’s diploma (to apply for a Master’s)
- transcript of records
- passport-sized photo(s)
- copy of valid passport and/or personal ID
- motivation letter
5. Find out about the language requirements
To study in South Africa, you will need to prove your English language proficiency. Universities accept one of these English tests:
- TOEFL iBT
- IELTS Academic
- PTE Academic
6. Apply before the application deadlines
Application deadlines aren?t exactly the same for those universities. In some instances, they vary in line with the degree type or specialisation. For the most part greater education institutions, fundamental essentials most significant dates:
- End of September: the application deadline at many universities, including the University of Johannesburg, northwest University, University of the Western Cape, etc.
- End of June/July: another common application deadline at the University of Cape Town, University of Pretoria, University of Witwatersrand, etc.
Best tips and tricks to ensure you don’t miss the deadlines:
- Check the up-to-date application deadlines on the official university page
- Start your application as early as possible
- Double-check your documents for errors or typos
- Keep track of your application progress, in case you need to (re)submit documents
7. Final steps after receiving your acceptance letter
- confirm your enrolment after receiving the acceptance letter/university offer
- apply for a student visa in South Africa
- apply for medical insurance
- Search for scholarships and grants. You can also apply for our Studyportals Scholarship: International Distinction Awards.