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.

Geology Rhodes University

4,2(21)Grahamstown, South Africa Top 20% in Worldwide

The aim of the Geology program of Rhodes University is to help students develop appropriate mathematical tools necessary to represent and interpret information quantitatively. It also aims to develop certain skills and meaningful ways of thinking, reasoning and arguing with quantitative ideas in order to solve problems in any given context.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

2 years$2,695/yr

Zoology and Entomology Rhodes University

4,2(21)Grahamstown, South Africa Top 20% in Worldwide

The aim of the Zoology and Entomology program of Rhodes University is to help students develop appropriate mathematical tools necessary to represent and interpret information quantitatively. It also aims to develop certain skills and meaningful ways of thinking, reasoning and arguing with quantitative ideas in order to solve problems in any given context.

M.Sc. Full-time On-campus

2 years$2,695/yr

Film and Television University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

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

The Film and Television programme offered at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg aims to stimulate learning at a postgraduate level through the application of theory with practice.

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

1 year$2,490/yr

Communication and Media Cape Peninsula University of Technology

4,1(68)Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Peninsula University of Technology offers you the chance to study Communication and Media at the Faculty of Informatics and Design.

Master Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$206/module

Agriculture Cape Peninsula University of Technology

4,1(68)Cape Town, South Africa

Agriculture from Cape Peninsula University of Technology aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to conduct research in agriculture.

Master Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$206/module

Chiropractic University of Johannesburg

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

After the successful completion of the Professional Master of Health Sciences in Chiropractic from University of Johannesburg you will be entitled to register with the Allied Health Professions Council of South Africa.

Master Full-time On-campus

2 years$1,919/yr

Interdisciplinary Digital Knowledge Economy Studies University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

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

The Interdisciplinary Digital Knowledge Economy Studies offered by University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a postgraduate academic qualification that provides capacity to operate in Africa's dynamic ICT ecosystem and digital knowledge economy.

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

1 year$2,490/yr

Commerce University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

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

The Master of Commerce by research offered at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a supervised dissertation on an approved topic within the areas of Management, Human Resource Management, Marketing, Insurance and Risk Management, and Industrial Organisation.

Master Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$2,519/yr

Quality Engineering University of Johannesburg

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

The purpose of the Quality Engineering program at University of Johannesburg is to develop a postgraduate student by offering the student the opportunity to show evidence of independent and exploratory research within the field of Operations Management.

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

1 year$2,443/yr

Adult Education University of South Africa (UNISA)

4,2(486)Online Top 15% in Worldwide

We offer a Master of Education in Adult Education programme at the University of South Africa (UNISA).

M.Ed. Part-time Online

3 years$180/module

Design (Department of Multimedia) University of Johannesburg

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

The purpose of the MA in Design (Department of Multimedia) from University of Johannesburg is to educate and train researchers who can contribute to the development of knowledge at an advanced level.

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

1 year$2,443/yr

Physics University of South Africa (UNISA)

4,2(486)Online Top 15% in Worldwide

The vision of the master in Physics at University of South Africa (UNISA) is to “develop world class, futuristic, African science, engineering and technology leaders, who aspire to extend the frontiers of innovation”.

M.Sc. Part-time Online

3 years$361/yr

Sustainable Mining (CW) University of Johannesburg

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

The purpose of this Master in Sustainable Mining (CW) from University of Johannesburg is to provide a programme to all persons involved within the mining value chain, from exploration to rehabilitation, to develop research and innovative practices to develop sustainable mining practices within the African continent.

Master Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$2,443/yr

Management Stadio Higher Education

4,1(11)Online

The focus of the Master of Management programme from Stadio Higher Education is the formulation, design, conducting and completion of a research project in the field of management.

MIM Part-time Online

2 years$1,418/yr

Teaching and Learning Rhodes University

4,2(21)Grahamstown, South Africa Top 20% in Worldwide

Teaching and Learning is the study of ancient cultures; their art, literature, thought and history. The focus of Classics is the ancient Mediterranean – Greece, Rome, Egypt and the Near East – but our courses also include modules on ancient Africa, India and China. The Classics program of Rhodes University is designed to stimulate, inform, and encourage reflection.

Master Full-time On-campus

2 years$2,695/yr

Public Health University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

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

The Public Health Postgrad.Dip from University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is offered in the fields of Exposure and Health, Health Systems and Policy, Maternal and Child Health, Rural Health, and Social and Behaviour Change Communication

Postgraduate Diploma Part-time On-campus

2 years$1,979/yr

Language Practice Central University of Technology, Free State

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

The main purpose of this Language Practice 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$487/module

ICT Cape Peninsula University of Technology

4,1(68)Cape Town, South Africa

The Master of ICT at Cape Peninsula University of Technology is designed for those seeking advanced knowledge in Information and Communication Technology. This full-time or part-time programme equips students with essential skills over a duration tailored to their needs, culminating in a comprehensive understanding of ICT principles.

Master Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$206/module

Chinese Studies Rhodes University

4,2(21)Grahamstown, South Africa Top 20% in Worldwide

Chinese Studies is the study of ancient cultures; their art, literature, thought and history. The focus of Classics is the ancient Mediterranean – Greece, Rome, Egypt and the Near East – but our courses also include modules on ancient Africa, India and China. The Classics program of Rhodes University is designed to stimulate, inform, and encourage reflection.

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

1 year$2,695/yr

German Studies Rhodes University

4,2(21)Grahamstown, South Africa Top 20% in Worldwide

German Studies program of Rhodes University is designed to stimulate, inform, and encourage reflection.

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

1 year$2,695/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.