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.

Social and Behaviour Change Communication University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

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

The Master of Public Health in the field of Social and Behaviour Change Communication at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a 2 year full-time degree or a 4 year part-time degree.

M.P.H. Full-time +2 On-campus

2 years$2,668/yr

Theology South African Theological Seminary

3,7(3)Online

Our Master of Theology from South African Theological Seminary is a research-based degree that is fully accredited and completely online.

Master Part-time Online

2 years$246/module

Deaf Education University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

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

Masters of Education in Deaf Education (MEd) offered at University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a maximum 2 years full-time or 4 years part-time course.

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

2 years$1,560/yr

Nanoscience (CW) University of Johannesburg

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

The coursework Master of Science in Nanoscience (CW) at University of Johannesburg consists of six modules and a minor dissertation.

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

2 years$1,919/yr

Film and Television University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

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

This Film and Television MA programme from 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

Business Administration - Entrepreneurship Cape Peninsula University of Technology

4,1(68)Cape Town, South Africa

Business Administration - Entrepreneurship from Cape Peninsula University of Technology aims to equip candidates with skills to produce interesting and innovative learning programmes and business initiatives, which encourage the development of entrepreneurial skills.

Master Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$206/module

Psychology University of Johannesburg

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

The Master of Arts in Psychology at University of Johannesburg is located within a dynamic, research-oriented environment within the Psychology Department.

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

1 year$2,443/yr

Public Management and Governance (CW) University of Johannesburg

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

The Master of Arts in Public Management and Governance (CW) is offered for students at University of Johannesburg .

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

2 years$1,919/yr

Educational Psychology University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

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

Apply to the Master of Educational Psychology by coursework and research report offered at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg if you want to gain in-depth knowledge of the psychology of education and help learners reach their potential.

M.Ed. Full-time On-campus

2 years$2,616/yr

Artificial Intelligence University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

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

The MSc by Coursework and Research Report in the field of Artificial Intelligence from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg offers topics ranging from computational intelligence, machine learning, multi-agent systems through to computer vision and natural language processing.

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

1 year$2,320/yr

Geography University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

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

The Master of Arts in the field of Geography from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is offered over 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time.

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

1 year$2,490/yr

Medicine University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg

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

The Master of Medicine from the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg is a full-time degree offered in a range of specialties over 3 to 5 years, depending on the specialty.

Master Full-time On-campus

3 years$1,006/yr

Educational Psychology University of Johannesburg

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

The Faculty of Education offers its Master of Education in Educational Psychology at University of Johannesburg.

M.Ed. Part-time On-campus

2 years$1,919/yr

Local Economic Development University of Johannesburg

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

The purpose of the Master in Local Economic Development at University of Johannesburg is to develop an advanced level of knowledge,skills and applied competence in the field of Local Economic Development(LED).

Master Full-time +2 On-campus

2 years$1,919/yr

Complementary Medicine University of Johannesburg

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

The purpose of this MHS in Complementary Medicine from University of Johannesburg is to develop a graduate competent in the knowledge, attitudes, insight and skills required for diagnosing and treating patients in the field of CM as well as formulating comprehensive management plans for health promotion.

Master Full-time On-campus

2 years$1,919/yr

Visual Art University of Johannesburg

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

Having obtained this MA in Visual Art from University of Johannesburg, students will be able to conduct advanced independent research in a particular area of the visual arts, demonstrating complex analytical and practical skills and knowledge in writing a dissertation and, where applicable, an exhibition of original work or artefacts appropriate to the research mode

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

2 years$2,443/yr

Mercantile Law University of South Africa (UNISA)

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

We offer our students at the University of South Africa (UNISA) a Master of Law in Mercantile Law programme.

LL.M. Part-time Online

3 years$180/module

Master of Business Administration University of the Free State

4,5(38)Bloemfontein, South Africa Top 20% in Worldwide

The Master of Business Administration programme content of the University of the Free State MBA enhances and develops managers and leaders, broadly covering all aspects and challenges which managers and leaders might face in today's ever-changing business environment.

M.B.A. Full-time On-campus

2 years$701/module

Accounting University of Johannesburg

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

The purpose of the Accounting program from University of Johannesburg is to develop applied specialised competencies in the mastering, interpretation, understanding, analysis and application of accounting principles in the financial accounting field.

Master Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$2,443/yr

Technology Education University of South Africa (UNISA)

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

We offer our students a Master of Science in Technology Education degree at the University of South Africa (UNISA).

M.Sc. Part-time Online

3 years$180/module

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.