10 Best Universities in South Africa That Are Often Overlooked but Offer High Quality
Continuing education abroad is certainly an extraordinary experience, and the best campus options in the world are not only in America and Europe. When talking about higher education in Africa, many international students immediately think of the University of Cape Town or the University of Pretoria.
However, overshadowed by these large institutions, there is a list of the best universities in South Africa that are often overlooked. If you are looking for an alternative for studying abroad, you should consider these campuses.
Best Universities in South Africa That Can Be an Option
With a lower cost of living compared to Europe or America, South Africa is an attractive destination for students from Southeast Asia. Here are 10 of the best universities in South Africa that are often overlooked but offer high quality and great opportunities for your future.
1. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
You might not have heard much about UWC, but this campus is one of the centers for transformational education in South Africa. Located in Bellville, Cape Town, UWC is known for its commitment to social justice, access to education for marginalized groups, and socially impactful research.
This campus is part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Study programs at UWC include natural sciences, public health, social sciences, law, and education. With tuition fees around 50,000–80,000 ZAR per year (IDR 52.5–84 million), UWC offers very high educational value for your investment.
2. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
UKZN is the result of a merger of two large universities in South Africa and is now one of the most dynamic institutions in the country. You will find a friendly campus environment, modern facilities, and diverse study programs from medicine to environmental science. The Faculty of Medicine at UKZN is known as one of the best in Africa, with a focus on public health and healthcare services in rural areas. Tuition fees at UKZN range between 60,000–100,000 ZAR per year (IDR 63–105 million).
3. Stellenbosch University
Although better known academically, Stellenbosch is often overlooked by Asian students due to the dominance of the Afrikaans language. However, many programs here are offered in English, especially at the postgraduate level. This university ranks in the global top 400 and is known for its strength in engineering, agricultural science, and business. Tuition fees are around 80,000–120,000 ZAR per year (IDR 84–126 million).
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4. University of South Africa (UNISA)
UNISA is the largest distance learning university in Africa, with more than 400,000 students from all over the world. If you want flexibility without sacrificing academic credibility, UNISA is the ideal choice. Its programs cover almost all fields, from law to information technology, and many are internationally accredited. Tuition fees are very affordable, starting from 20,000 ZAR per year (IDR 21 million).
5. University of Zululand
Located in a rural area of KwaZulu-Natal, the University of Zululand offers strong education in agriculture, arts, and social sciences. If you want to understand the social and cultural context of Africa in depth, you will get a unique experience here. Tuition fees are very affordable, around 40,000 ZAR per year (IDR 42 million).
6. North-West University (NWU)
NWU has three main campuses and offers more than 700 study programs. You will find excellence in business, education, and sports science. NWU is also known for its innovation in digital learning and competency-based approaches. Tuition fees range between 55,000–90,000 ZAR per year (IDR 57.7–94.5 million).
7. Rhodes University
Specializing in undergraduate education, Rhodes University offers a very low student-to-faculty ratio. Its beautiful campus in Grahamstown (Makhanda) creates an inspiring learning environment. The Faculty of Journalism and Communication Science at Rhodes is highly respected in Africa. Tuition fees are around 65,000–85,000 ZAR per year (IDR 68.2–89.2 million).
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8. University of Fort Hare
As one of the oldest universities for the African community, Fort Hare has a rich history in the struggle for independence. Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo once studied here. If you are interested in history, politics, and African studies, you will feel inspired by the legacy of this campus. Although simple, its facilities are continuously being updated, and the tuition fees are very affordable, around 45,000 ZAR per year (IDR 47.2 million).
9. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
If you want to study engineering, design, or information technology, CPUT is a practical choice. As a leading polytechnic, CPUT emphasizes work-based learning and direct skills. Its location in Cape Town provides easy access to industry and internship opportunities. Tuition fees are around 50,000–70,000 ZAR per year (IDR 52.5–73.5 million).
10. Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
MUT focuses on technology and engineering, with a curriculum designed in collaboration with the industry. You will get in-depth technical training and be ready for the workforce after graduation. Tuition fees are around 48,000 ZAR per year (IDR 50.4 million).
This is the list of the best universities in South Africa. You do not always have to choose a famous university to get a quality education. By choosing a campus that is often overlooked but academically strong, you can get greater value.
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