The cost of higher education in South Africa varies significantly, with some universities commanding particularly high fees due to their prestigious reputations, exceptional academic programs, and state-of-the-art facilities. These institutions often provide unparalleled opportunities for learning, research, and personal development, making them highly sought after by students aiming for excellence. This list of the top 10 most expensive universities in South Africa for 2024 highlights the institutions that charge premium fees and deliver a world-class education that justifies the investment.
1. University of Cape Town (UCT)
The University of Cape Town (UCT) is South Africa’s oldest university, founded in 1829. It is widely recognized as one of Africa’s leading research institutions, known for its academic excellence, diverse student body, and vibrant campus life. UCT is consistently ranked as the top university in Africa and is among the top 200 universities globally. The university’s main campus is situated on the slopes of Table Mountain, offering breathtaking views and a unique learning environment.
Courses Offering
UCT offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties, including:
Commerce: Business Science, Economics, Accounting, Finance
Engineering & the Built Environment: Civil, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering, Architecture, Urban Planning
Health Sciences: Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, Physiotherapy
Humanities: Languages, Social Sciences, Psychology, Fine Arts
Law: LLB, International Law, Human Rights Law
Science: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees at UCT vary depending on the program and level of study. For 2024, undergraduate fees range from approximately ZAR 70,000 to ZAR 90,000 per year for most programs, with specialized courses like Medicine or Engineering potentially higher. Postgraduate fees also vary, with Master’s programs typically ranging from ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 60,000 per year, depending on the course and research requirements.
Location
UCT’s main campus is in Rondebosch, Cape Town, South Africa. The university’s central location provides easy access to the city center and various cultural and natural attractions, including the iconic Table Mountain.
Contact Details
Address: University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7700, South Africa
Phone: +27 21 650 9111
Website: www.uct.ac.za
Email: info@uct.ac.za
2. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
The University of the Witwatersrand, commonly known as Wits, is a leading South African university with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1922. Located in Johannesburg, Wits is renowned for its academic rigor, diverse student population, and strong emphasis on research and innovation. The university is consistently ranked among the top universities in Africa and is known for its contributions to fields such as health sciences, engineering, and social justice.
Courses Offering
Wits offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various faculties, including:
Commerce, Law and Management: Business Administration, Economics, Accounting, Law
Engineering and the Built Environment: Civil, Mining, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering, Architecture
Health Sciences: Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Physiotherapy, Public Health
Humanities: History, Political Studies, Psychology, Sociology, Arts
Science: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Geology
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees at Wits vary depending on the program and level of study. For 2024, undergraduate fees typically range from ZAR 60,000 to ZAR 90,000 per year, depending on the course. Postgraduate fees vary widely, with Master’s programs ranging from ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 60,000 per year, depending on the specific program and research requirements.
Location
Wits University is located in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, South Africa. Its central location in Johannesburg makes it accessible and well-connected to the city’s cultural, economic, and social hubs, providing students with a dynamic urban learning environment.
Contact Details
Address: 1 Jan Smuts Avenue, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa
Phone: +27 11 717 1000
Website: www.wits.ac.za
Email: info@wits.ac.za
3. Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch University (SU) is one of South Africa’s oldest and most prestigious universities, established in 1918. Located in the picturesque town of Stellenbosch in the Western Cape, the university is known for its high academic standards, research excellence, and a strong focus on innovation. SU has a diverse student body and is committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity and global engagement. It is particularly recognized for its contributions to agriculture, engineering, and the arts.
Courses Offering
Stellenbosch University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across its various faculties, including:
AgriSciences: Viticulture, Soil Science, Agricultural Economics
Arts and Social Sciences: Philosophy, Political Science, Music, Visual Arts, Languages
Economic and Management Sciences: Accounting, Economics, Business Management, Public Administration
Education: Curriculum Studies, Educational Psychology, Early Childhood Development
Engineering: Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial Engineering
Law: Public Law, Mercantile Law, Private Law
Medicine and Health Sciences: Medicine, Physiotherapy, Nursing, Nutrition, Public Health
Science: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Biological Sciences, Computer Science
Theology: Systematic Theology, Practical Theology, Religious Studies
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees at Stellenbosch University vary depending on the course of study and level. For 2024, undergraduate fees typically range from ZAR 55,000 to ZAR 80,000 per year. Postgraduate programs have different fee structures, with Master’s programs generally costing between ZAR 35,000 and ZAR 70,000 per year, depending on the field of study and research components.
Location
Stellenbosch University is located in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa, approximately 50 kilometers east of Cape Town. The university’s campus is set against the backdrop of the scenic Stellenbosch Mountains, providing a tranquil and inspiring environment for study.
Contact Details
Address: Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, Stellenbosch, South Africa
Phone: +27 21 808 9111
Website: www.sun.ac.za
Email: info@sun.ac.za
4. University of Pretoria (UP)
The University of Pretoria (UP) is one of South Africa’s leading higher education institutions, known for its academic excellence, research output, and innovation. Established in 1908, UP has grown to become one of the largest universities in the country, with a diverse student population and a strong commitment to community engagement. UP is recognized for its high standards in teaching and learning, as well as its contributions to various fields of research and development.
Courses Offering
The University of Pretoria offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across its faculties, including:
Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences: Accounting, Business Management, Economics, Public Administration
Faculty of Education: Early Childhood Development, Educational Psychology, Curriculum Studies
Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology: Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Architecture
Faculty of Health Sciences: Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy
Faculty of Humanities: Psychology, Sociology, Languages, Political Sciences, Philosophy
Faculty of Law: Private Law, Public Law, Mercantile Law
Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences: Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Agricultural Sciences, Environmental Sciences
Faculty of Theology and Religion: Systematic Theology, Practical Theology, Religious Studies
Faculty of Veterinary Science: Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Nursing, Veterinary Public Health
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees at the University of Pretoria vary depending on the course of study and the level of the program. For 2024, undergraduate tuition fees typically range from ZAR 40,000 to ZAR 75,000 per year. Postgraduate program fees vary widely depending on the specific course and research components, ranging from ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 70,000 per year.
Location
The University of Pretoria’s main campus is located in Hatfield, Pretoria, in the Gauteng province of South Africa. UP has several other campuses and faculties spread across Pretoria and the surrounding areas, including the Onderstepoort campus for Veterinary Science and the Groenkloof campus for Education.
Contact Details
Address: University of Pretoria, Lynnwood Road, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa
Phone: +27 12 420 4111
Website: www.up.ac.za
Email: ssc@up.ac.za
5. Rhodes University
Rhodes University, established in 1904, is one of South Africa’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Located in the small town of Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) in the Eastern Cape, Rhodes is known for its high academic standards, small class sizes, and strong emphasis on research and intellectual freedom. The university has a vibrant campus life and a reputation for producing graduates who are well-prepared to make significant contributions to society.
Courses Offering
Rhodes University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across its six faculties:
Faculty of Commerce: Accounting, Economics, Management, Information Systems
Faculty of Education: Foundation Phase Teaching, Intermediate Phase Teaching, Educational Leadership and Management
Faculty of Humanities: Journalism and Media Studies, Psychology, History, Philosophy, Drama, Sociology, Political and International Studies, Fine Art
Faculty of Law: Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Legal Theory, Constitutional Law, Commercial Law
Faculty of Pharmacy: Pharmacy Practice, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmacology, Pharmaceutics
Faculty of Science: Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Mathematics, Microbiology, Physics, Zoology
Tuition Fees
For 2024, undergraduate tuition fees at Rhodes University typically range from ZAR 40,000 to ZAR 70,000 per year, depending on the faculty and course of study. Postgraduate fees vary according to the program, generally ranging from ZAR 35,000 to ZAR 65,000 per year. Additional costs such as residence fees, student levies, and course-specific expenses should also be considered.
Location
Rhodes University is situated in Makhanda, a small town in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The town is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and as the home of the National Arts Festival.
Contact Details
Address: Rhodes University, Drosty Road, Makhanda (Grahamstown), 6139, South Africa
Phone: +27 46 603 8111
Website: www.ru.ac.za
Email: registrar@ru.ac.za
6. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
The University of Johannesburg (UJ) was established in 2005 through the merger of several institutions, including the Rand Afrikaans University, Technikon Witwatersrand, and parts of the University of the Witwatersrand. Located in Johannesburg, Gauteng, UJ is a vibrant, innovative institution known for its focus on research, community engagement, and providing a diverse and inclusive educational environment. The university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs and is recognized for its contribution to knowledge and development across various fields.
Courses Offering
UJ provides a wide array of courses across its seven faculties:
College of Business and Economics: Accounting, Business Management, Economics, Human Resource Management, Finance, Marketing, Supply Chain Management
Faculty of Education: Early Childhood Development, Senior Phase Teaching, Further Education and Training, Educational Psychology
Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment: Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management
Faculty of Health Sciences: Biomedical Technology, Public Health, Environmental Health, Nursing
Faculty of Humanities: Psychology, History, Sociology, Philosophy, Political Science, Linguistics, Media Studies
Faculty of Law: Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Legal Studies, Criminal Justice
Faculty of Science: Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Environmental Science
Tuition Fees
For the 2024 academic year, undergraduate tuition fees at UJ range from approximately ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 60,000 per year, depending on the faculty and course of study. Postgraduate fees generally range from ZAR 35,000 to ZAR 70,000 per year. Additional costs such as residence fees, registration fees, and course related expenses are also applicable.
Location
UJ has multiple campuses across Johannesburg, including the Kingsway Campus, the Auckland Park Bunting Road Campus, the Doornfontein Campus, and the Soweto Campus. Each campus specializes in different academic disciplines, providing a comprehensive educational experience.
Contact Details
Address: University of Johannesburg, Kingsway Campus, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, 2092, South Africa
Phone: +27 11 559 4555
Website: www.uj.ac.za
Email: info@uj.ac.za
7. North-West University (NWU)
North-West University (NWU) is a comprehensive institution that emerged from the merger of several universities in the North West Province of South Africa. It is known for its diverse academic offerings, research excellence, and commitment to community engagement. NWU operates across multiple campuses, with a focus on providing high-quality education and fostering innovation. The university aims to develop knowledgeable, skilled graduates who can contribute meaningfully to society.
Courses Offering
NWU offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across its faculties:
Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences: Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, Finance, Human Resource Management, Marketing, Public Administration
Faculty of Education: Early Childhood Education, Primary Education, Secondary Education, Educational Leadership, Special Education
Faculty of Engineering: Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering
Faculty of Health Sciences: Nursing, Public Health, Pharmacy, Biomedical Sciences
Faculty of Humanities: History, Psychology, Sociology, Philosophy, Political Science, Linguistics, English
Faculty of Law: Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Legal Studies, International Law
Faculty of Natural Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Environmental Science
Tuition Fees
For the 2024 academic year, undergraduate tuition fees at NWU typically range from approximately ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 50,000 per year, depending on the program and faculty. Postgraduate fees range from ZAR 35,000 to ZAR 60,000 annually. Additional costs, such as residence fees, registration fees, and course materials, may also apply.
Location
NWU has campuses in Potchefstroom, Mahikeng, and Vanderbijlpark. Each campus caters to specific academic disciplines and provides extensive facilities to support student learning and research.
Contact Details
Address: North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, Private Bag X6001, Potchefstroom, 2520, South Africa
Phone: +27 18 299 1111
Website: www.nwu.ac.za
Email: info@nwu.ac.za
8. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is a leading South African institution known for its commitment to research, teaching, and community engagement. Established in 2004 through the merger of the University of Durban-Westville and the University of Natal, UKZN has campuses across the KwaZulu-Natal Province. The university is recognized for its diverse student body and robust academic programs, aiming to provide a transformative educational experience that meets global standards.
Courses Offering
UKZN offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across its various faculties:
Faculty of Agriculture, Engineering, and Science: Agricultural Management, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Mechanical Engineering
Faculty of Education: Early Childhood Education, Foundation Phase Education, Intermediate and Senior Phase Education, Further Education and Training
Faculty of Health Sciences: Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health, Optometry, Clinical Psychology
Faculty of Humanities: Anthropology, History, Linguistics, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology
Faculty of Law: Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Criminal Justice, International Law, Constitutional Law
Faculty of Management Studies: Business Administration, Economics, Finance, Human Resource Management, Marketing
Faculty of Social Sciences and Development: Development Studies, Social Work, Gender Studies, International Relations
Tuition Fees
For the 2024 academic year, undergraduate tuition fees at UKZN generally range from approximately ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 55,000 per year, depending on the program and faculty. Postgraduate fees range from ZAR 35,000 to ZAR 60,000 annually. Additional costs, including registration fees, residence fees, and course materials, may also apply.
Location
UKZN has multiple campuses spread across KwaZulu-Natal:
Durban: Howard College Campus, Westville Campus
Pietermaritzburg: Pietermaritzburg Campus
Edgewood: Edgewood Campus
UKZN Medical School: Located at the Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine in Durban
Contact Details
Address: University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X54001, Durban, 4000, South Africa
Phone: +27 31 260 1111
Website: www.ukzn.ac.za
Email: info@ukzn.ac.za
9. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is a prominent South African university located in Bellville, Cape Town. Established in 1960, UWC is renowned for its commitment to social justice, transformation, and quality education. The university emphasizes research, community engagement, and academic excellence, catering to a diverse student population from across South Africa and beyond.
Courses Offering
UWC offers a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs through its various faculties:
Faculty of Arts and Humanities: African Languages, English, History, Philosophy, Theatre and Performance, Visual Arts
Faculty of Community and Health Sciences: Nursing, Public Health, Social Work, Sport Science
Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences: Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, Finance, Human Resource Management, Marketing
Faculty of Education: Foundation Phase, Intermediate Phase, Senior Phase, Further Education and Training
Faculty of Law: Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Legal Studies, Criminal Justice, Human Rights Law
Faculty of Science: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental and Geographical Science, Mathematics and Statistics, Physics
Faculty of Theology: Biblical Studies, Church History, Systematic Theology, Practical Theology
Tuition Fees
For the 2024 academic year, undergraduate tuition fees at UWC range from approximately ZAR 25,000 to ZAR 50,000 per year, depending on the program and faculty. Postgraduate fees typically range from ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 55,000 annually. Additional costs such as registration fees, residence fees, and course materials may apply.
Location
UWC is situated in Bellville, a suburb of Cape Town:
Address: University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville, 7535, South Africa
Contact Details
Phone: +27 21 959 2911
Website: www.uwc.ac.za
Email: info@uwc.ac.za
10. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
Nelson Mandela University, located in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, is a prominent South African institution known for its focus on innovation, research, and community engagement. Established in 2005 through the merger of several institutions, NMU honors the legacy of Nelson Mandela by promoting social justice and excellence in education. The university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various fields, with a commitment to providing a world-class education and contributing to societal development.
Courses Offering
NMU offers a comprehensive range of programs across its faculties:
Faculty of Business and Economic Sciences: Accounting, Business Management, Economics, Financial Planning, Human Resource Management, Marketing
Faculty of Education: Early Childhood Education, Foundation Phase Education, Intermediate Phase Education, Senior Phase Education
Faculty of Engineering, the Built Environment, and Information Technology:
Faculty of Health Sciences: Environmental Health, Medical Sciences, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy
Faculty of Humanities: Communication Studies, Development Studies, History, Psychology, Sociology, Political Science
Faculty of Law: Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Legal Studies, Dispute Resolution
Faculty of Science: Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Mathematical Sciences, Physics
Tuition Fees
For the 2024 academic year, undergraduate tuition fees at NMU range from approximately ZAR 27,000 to ZAR 55,000 per year, depending on the program and faculty. Postgraduate fees typically range from ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 60,000 annually. Additional costs for registration, accommodation, and course materials may apply.
Location
Nelson Mandela University is situated in Port Elizabeth:
Address: Nelson Mandela University, PO Box 77000, Nelson Mandela Bay, 6031, South Africa
Contact Details
Phone: +27 41 504 1111
Website: www.mandela.ac.za
Email: info@mandela.ac.za
