South Africa offers a worthwhile adventure through its exquisite natural scenery, colorful political history, and rich cultural diversity. Located on the southernmost tip of the African continent, this country gives international travelers and students a different point of view.
The country is a champion of diversity, with 12 officially recognized languages after South African Sign Language was recognized as the 12th official language. Its balance of African history, tradition, and openness to modern technologies has helped create a higher education system that is unique and valued. South Africa’s adult literacy rate was 91.15% in 2024, according to World Bank data. Today, the country has 26 public universities, as well as registered private higher education institutions. Public universities such as the University of Cape Town and the University of Johannesburg appear in major global and regional university rankings.
Moreover, education in South Africa is more than just books. It includes exploring natural wonders outside the city, debating and reflecting on life in a post-apartheid society, and uncovering traditional yet modern South African culture. Adventures can include visiting townships, strolling through national parks, and watching the waves crash near the Cape of Good Hope.
With its high priority for education and comparatively affordable study options, South Africa is an attractive destination for international students looking for a meaningful educational adventure. In this article, we will discuss how to study for a bachelor’s degree in South Africa.
Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
Common requirements for applying for a bachelor’s degree in South Africa may include a completed application form, a high school diploma or equivalent, official transcripts or final school-leaving results, proof of English proficiency where required, proof of funding, and a valid passport or birth certificate as proof of identity. Additional requirements may include a curriculum vitae, letters of recommendation, and a letter of motivation. Some art, design, architecture, or creative programs may also require applicants to submit a portfolio, entrance assessment, or sample work.
International students applying for first-degree study must also make sure their school-leaving qualifications meet South African university entrance standards. Universities South Africa’s Matriculation Board evaluates international school qualifications and issues a certificate of exemption to applicants who qualify. Degree applicants should check whether their university requires USAf exemption confirmation before registration.
A study visa is an important requirement for international students who need permission to study in South Africa. Students should contact the nearest South African embassy, high commission, consulate, or visa application center in their country of residence. Applicants are usually asked to submit a completed DHA-1738 form, a valid passport, proof of payment of the applicable fee, an official acceptance or provisional acceptance letter from the university, proof of sufficient funds, proof of medical cover from a South African-registered medical scheme, and a police clearance certificate. Documents not issued in English may need sworn translations. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required only where applicable, such as for travelers coming from or transiting through a country with a yellow fever risk.
Language Proficiency Tests Needed for Undergraduate Studies
The country’s 12 official languages might sound intimidating, but many university programs and international admissions processes use English. However, the language of instruction can vary by institution, program, and module, so students should check the current program page before applying.
Proof of English proficiency is an important requirement for many international applicants. South African universities may accept tests such as IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, or an institution-specific English test, depending on the university and program.
At the University of Johannesburg, undergraduate applicants must provide proof of English proficiency if English was not used as the medium of instruction, learning, or teaching. UJ currently prefers IELTS with an overall score of 6, TOEFL with an average score of 80 to 104 for undergraduate programs, or the University of Johannesburg English Language Programme Test (UJELP) with an overall score of 6. Applicants should note that ETS introduced a new TOEFL iBT 1-6 score scale from January 21, 2026, while also providing comparable 0-120 scores during a transition period, so students should confirm how each university will assess newer TOEFL score reports.
Bachelor’s Degree Application Process
Step 1. Applying for Courses
The South African higher education application process is largely university-based, which means students usually apply through the website or application portal of each institution. For undergraduate study in South Africa, applicants should check each university’s current prospectus, admission requirements, program-specific requirements, and deadlines. Additional documents can usually be uploaded through the application portal or submitted according to the university’s instructions.
Step 2. Applying for Student Visa
With an acceptance letter in hand, the next step is to apply for a South African study visa if one is required. Students should apply through the South African mission or visa application route that serves their country of residence and should follow that office’s current checklist. Visa fees and payment methods vary by mission and submission route, so students should confirm the current amount before paying.
Visa processing times vary, and some missions and universities advise students to allow at least six to eight weeks. It is best to start as soon as the university has issued the required acceptance documents. A South African study visa may also allow eligible higher education students to work part time for up to 20 hours per week.
Step 3. Applying for Matriculation Exemption
While program requirements vary, international students applying for an undergraduate degree in South Africa must ensure their school-leaving qualifications meet the standards for matriculation exemption where required. To apply for an exemption certificate, applicants can obtain the M30e form from university admission offices, download it from the Matriculation Board website, or request it from the Matriculation Board. Applicants should also be prepared to submit required supporting documents, such as identification documents and school-leaving certificates.
The Matriculation Board states that online applications usually take 5 to 10 working days to process. If the applicant qualifies, a provisional exemption letter can be issued for admission purposes, while the actual exemption certificate is issued six to eight weeks after receipt of all relevant and correctly certified documents and the required payment.
For more information, check out the following universities in South Africa and their application processes and requirements:
We hope this article on how to apply for a bachelor’s degree in South Africa was helpful. Check also the Available Undergraduate Programs for International Students to learn more about studying abroad.
