How do you qualify for a Masters in South Africa?

To qualify for a Master's programme in South Africa, you typically need a relevant undergraduate degree with a minimum of a second-class honours. Some programmes may require a specific grade point average (GPA) or additional qualifications such as a postgraduate diploma. International students must also provide proof of English proficiency, usually through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Additionally, a well-written statement of purpose and letters of recommendation are often required. It's important to check the specific requirements of the programme you are interested in, as they can vary between institutions and disciplines.

What are the top universities in South Africa?

South Africa is home to several prestigious universities that offer high-quality Master's programmes. The top universities in South Africa include the University of Cape Town, the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, and Stellenbosch University. These institutions are renowned for their academic excellence, research opportunities, and affordable tuition fees. They offer a wide range of Master's programmes across various fields, making them attractive options for international students seeking affordable yet high-quality education.

Why are master's degrees so affordable in South Africa?

Master's degrees in South Africa are notably affordable due to several factors. Firstly, the South African government provides substantial funding to public universities, which helps keep tuition fees low. Additionally, the cost of living in South Africa is generally lower than in many Western countries, which contributes to more economical education. Furthermore, many universities offer scholarships and financial aid to both local and international students, making it even more accessible. This combination of government support, lower living costs, and available financial aid makes South Africa an attractive destination for affordable Master's degrees.

What are the language requirements for cheap master's degrees in South Africa?

For cheap master's degrees in South Africa, most universities require proficiency in English. This is typically demonstrated through standardised tests such as the IELTS or TOEFL. The minimum score requirements can vary depending on the programme and institution, but generally, a score of 6.5 on IELTS or 80 on TOEFL is common. Some programmes may accept alternative English proficiency tests or consider other evidence of English language skills, such as previous studies conducted in English. It's essential to check the specific language requirements of the programme you are applying to.

Can I study part-time while studying in South Africa?

Yes, international students in South Africa are allowed to work part-time while studying. The South African government permits students on a study visa to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during university holidays. This provides an opportunity for students to gain work experience and help cover living expenses. However, it's important to ensure that part-time work does not interfere with your academic responsibilities. Additionally, students should be aware of any specific regulations or restrictions that may apply to their visa type.

Are there hidden costs beyond tuition for affordable programmes in South Africa?

While tuition fees for affordable Master's programmes in South Africa are low, there are other costs to consider. These include living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and healthcare. On average, international students should budget between ZAR 8,000 to ZAR 15,000 per month for living costs, depending on the city and lifestyle. Additionally, there may be costs associated with obtaining a student visa, such as application fees and medical examinations. It's also advisable to budget for textbooks, study materials, and occasional social activities. Planning ahead and budgeting carefully can help manage these additional expenses effectively.

South AfricaAffordable

433 Affordable Master's degrees in South Africa

When considering affordable programmes in South Africa, it's essential to understand the range of tuition fees available. The lower-end tuition fee, represented by the €189, offers a cost-effective option for students seeking quality education without breaking the bank. This fee is designed to be accessible, allowing students from various financial backgrounds to pursue their academic goals.

For those looking for a more typical tuition fee, the €1,297 provides a balanced option. This fee is representative of the average cost for affordable programmes in South Africa, making it a popular choice among international students. It strikes a good balance between cost and quality, ensuring that students receive value for their investment.

On the higher end of the spectrum, the €2,470 represents the upper boundary for affordable programmes in South Africa. While this fee is higher than the average, it still falls within the affordable range, offering students access to premium educational experiences without the exorbitant costs associated with some institutions.

Additionally, the 32% highlights the growing trend of online learning in South Africa. This percentage indicates the proportion of affordable programmes that are available online, providing students with flexible learning options that can accommodate various schedules and learning preferences.

In conclusion, South Africa offers a diverse range of affordable programmes to suit different financial situations and learning styles. Whether you're looking for the lowest possible tuition fee or prefer the convenience of online learning, there's an option that's right for you.

Biblical and Christian Studies (Research) University of Johannesburg

4,3(229)Johannesburg, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

Department of Religion Studies from Faculty of Humanities at University of Johannesburg offers a MA in Biblical and Christian Studies (Research).

M.A. Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$2,443/yr

Private Law (Research) University of Johannesburg

4,3(229)Johannesburg, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

The Department of Private Law from Faculty of Law at University of Johannesburg offers a LLM in Private Law (Research).

LL.M. Full-time +2 On-campus

$2,443/yr

Education Central University of Technology, Free State

4,4(23)Bloemfontein, South Africa +1

The programmes offered in the departments of the Faculty are designed to equip diplomates and graduates with the necessary skills and expertise to be leaders in their chosen professions. The Education programme is offered at Central University of Technology, Free State.

M.Ed. Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$296/module

Entrepreneurial Management Central University of Technology, Free State

4,4(23)Bloemfontein, South Africa

The Entrepreneurial Management programme from Central University of Technology, Free State is a structured programme consisting of two-thirds coursework and one-third research.

MIM Part-time On-campus

2 years$423/module

Agriculture Central University of Technology, Free State

4,4(23)Bloemfontein, South Africa +1

The main purpose of this Agriculture programme from Central University of Technology, Free State is to develop research competence in students so that they can make a significant academic contribution in their disciplines or fields

Master Full-time +2 On-campus

2 years$2,685/module

Engineering Management (Research) University of Johannesburg

4,3(229)Johannesburg, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

The Postgraduate School of Engineering Management from Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment at University of Johannesburg offers a MEng in Engineering Management (Research).

M.Eng. Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$2,443/yr

Investments with Specialisation in Financial Planning (Coursework) University of Johannesburg

4,3(229)Johannesburg, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

The Department of Finance and Investment Management from College of Business and Economics at University of Johannesburg offers a MCom in Investments with Specialisation in Financial Planning (Coursework).

Master Full-time +2 On-campus

2 years$1,919/yr

Civil Engineering (Research) University of Johannesburg

4,3(229)Johannesburg, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

The Department of Civil Engineering Science from Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment at University of Johannesburg offers a MPhil in Civil Engineering (Research).

M.Phil. Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$2,443/yr

Afrikaans (Research) University of Johannesburg

4,3(229)Johannesburg, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

The Department of Language, Cultural Studies & Applied Linguistics from Faculty of Humanities at University of Johannesburg offers a MPhil in Afrikaans (Research).

M.Phil. Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$2,443/yr

Biochemistry (Research) University of Johannesburg

4,3(229)Johannesburg, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

The Department of Biochemistry from Faculty of Science at University of Johannesburg offers a MSc in Biochemistry (Research).

M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus

2 years$2,443/yr

Geography (Research) University of Johannesburg

4,3(229)Johannesburg, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

Department of Geography, Environmental Management & Energy Studies from Faculty of Science at University of Johannesburg offers a MA in Geography (Research).

M.A. Full-time +2 On-campus

2 years$2,443/yr

Occupational Therapy (Structured) University of the Western Cape

4,3(85)Cape Town, South Africa Top 15% in Worldwide

At Occupational Therapy (Structured) from the University of the Western Cape, you'll use the knowledge and research to impact society.

M.Sc. Full-time +2 On-campus

3 years$943/yr

Tourism and Hospitality Management University of Johannesburg

4,3(229)Johannesburg, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

The Master in Tourism and Hospitality Management at University of Johannesburg assists in the continuing professional development of managers and leaders in tourism and hospitality management.

Master Full-time +2 On-campus

2 years$2,443/yr

Creative Writing University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

4,2(158)Johannesburg, South Africa Top 4% in Worldwide

Immerse yourself in the art of creative writing and master self-reflection, critical thinking and analysis. Specialise in prose (fiction or creative nonfiction), poetry or script writing in a writing- and reading-intensive, practice-based research degree with the MA in Creative Writing offered at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg.

M.A. Part-time On-campus

2 years$2,490/yr

Audiovisual Communication University of Johannesburg

4,3(229)Johannesburg, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

The Faculty of Humanities is offering a Master of Arts in Audiovisual Communication at University of Johannesburg.

M.A. Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$2,443/yr

Philosophy University of Johannesburg

4,3(229)Johannesburg, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

The Faculty of Humanities offers a Master of Arts in Philosophy at University of Johannesburg. Join us and expand your career!

M.A. Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$2,443/yr

Leadership Coaching (CW) University of Johannesburg

4,3(229)Johannesburg, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

The Master in Leadership Coaching (CW) at University of Johannesburg will further provide a personal development experience in becoming a competent and professional leadership coach meeting ethical guidelines and professional standards.

M.Phil. Full-time +2 On-campus

2 years$1,919/yr

Electrical Engineering - Smart Grid Cape Peninsula University of Technology

4,1(68)Cape Town, South Africa

Electrical Engineering - Smart Grid from Cape Peninsula University of Technology aims to emerge as a major driver of socio-economic change in the region.

M.Eng. Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$206/module

Marketing Cape Peninsula University of Technology

4,1(68)Cape Town, South Africa

Marketing from Cape Peninsula University of Technology aims to provide academic excellence; operating at the cutting edge of our disciplines; creating and disseminating knowledge through high level research.

Master Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$206/module

Anthropology University of Johannesburg

4,3(229)Johannesburg, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

The Master of Arts in Anthropology at University of Johannesburg. study programme comprises a dissertation written under supervision on a topic selected in consultation with the Department of Anthropology and Development Studies. An article ready for publication on the dissertation content is also required.

M.A. Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$2,443/yr

Frequently Asked Questions

To qualify for a Master's programme in South Africa, you typically need a relevant undergraduate degree with a minimum of a second-class honours. Some programmes may require a specific grade point average (GPA) or additional qualifications such as a postgraduate diploma. International students must also provide proof of English proficiency, usually through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Additionally, a well-written statement of purpose and letters of recommendation are often required. It's important to check the specific requirements of the programme you are interested in, as they can vary between institutions and disciplines.
South Africa is home to several prestigious universities that offer high-quality Master's programmes. The top universities in South Africa include the University of Cape Town, the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, and Stellenbosch University. These institutions are renowned for their academic excellence, research opportunities, and affordable tuition fees. They offer a wide range of Master's programmes across various fields, making them attractive options for international students seeking affordable yet high-quality education.
Master's degrees in South Africa are notably affordable due to several factors. Firstly, the South African government provides substantial funding to public universities, which helps keep tuition fees low. Additionally, the cost of living in South Africa is generally lower than in many Western countries, which contributes to more economical education. Furthermore, many universities offer scholarships and financial aid to both local and international students, making it even more accessible. This combination of government support, lower living costs, and available financial aid makes South Africa an attractive destination for affordable Master's degrees.
For cheap master's degrees in South Africa, most universities require proficiency in English. This is typically demonstrated through standardised tests such as the IELTS or TOEFL. The minimum score requirements can vary depending on the programme and institution, but generally, a score of 6.5 on IELTS or 80 on TOEFL is common. Some programmes may accept alternative English proficiency tests or consider other evidence of English language skills, such as previous studies conducted in English. It's essential to check the specific language requirements of the programme you are applying to.
Yes, international students in South Africa are allowed to work part-time while studying. The South African government permits students on a study visa to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during university holidays. This provides an opportunity for students to gain work experience and help cover living expenses. However, it's important to ensure that part-time work does not interfere with your academic responsibilities. Additionally, students should be aware of any specific regulations or restrictions that may apply to their visa type.
While tuition fees for affordable Master's programmes in South Africa are low, there are other costs to consider. These include living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and healthcare. On average, international students should budget between ZAR 8,000 to ZAR 15,000 per month for living costs, depending on the city and lifestyle. Additionally, there may be costs associated with obtaining a student visa, such as application fees and medical examinations. It's also advisable to budget for textbooks, study materials, and occasional social activities. Planning ahead and budgeting carefully can help manage these additional expenses effectively.