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Top universities in South Africa 2026 | Studyportals University Meta Ranking
Choosing the right university in South Africa can be a daunting task for international students. To assist with this decision, we have compiled a ranked list of universities in South Africa using a meta-ranking score. This score takes into account various factors such as academic reputation, research output, and student satisfaction.
One important consideration for international students is the availability of online programmes. In South Africa, 10% of programmes are offered online, providing flexibility for those who may have other commitments or prefer a more flexible learning environment.
Tuition fees are another crucial factor to consider. The lower-end tuition fee for international students in South Africa is €306, making it an affordable option for many. On the other hand, the higher-end tuition fee is €15,709, which may be a consideration for those with higher budgets.
For those looking for a more typical tuition fee, the median tuition fee for international students in South Africa is €3,170. This provides a good benchmark for budgeting and comparing different universities.
We hope this information helps international students make an informed decision when choosing a university in South Africa. Remember to consider factors such as location, campus facilities, and student support services in addition to the meta-ranking score and tuition fees.
University of Cape Town
4.1(157)LocationMultiple locationsAttendanceOnline / On campus / BlendedGlobal Ranking175Institution typePublicMasters111Scholarships38University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
4.1(147)LocationJohannesburg, South AfricaAttendanceOnline / On campus / BlendedGlobal Ranking282Institution typePublicMasters192Scholarships38Stellenbosch University
4.3(126)LocationStellenbosch, South AfricaAttendanceOn campus / BlendedGlobal Ranking327Institution typePublicMasters238Scholarships38University of Johannesburg
4.2(211)LocationJohannesburg, South AfricaAttendanceOnline / On campusGlobal Ranking404Institution typePublicMasters153Scholarships38University of Pretoria
4.2(191)LocationMultiple locationsAttendanceOnline / On campus / BlendedGlobal Ranking499Institution typePublicMasters303Scholarships38University of Kwazulu Natal
LocationMultiple locationsAttendanceOnline / On campusGlobal Ranking489Institution typePublicMasters151Scholarships38North-West University (NWU)
4.3(229)LocationPotchefstroom, South AfricaAttendanceOnline / On campusGlobal Ranking764Institution typePublicMasters1Scholarships38University of the Western Cape
4.1(87)LocationCape Town, South AfricaAttendanceOn campusGlobal Ranking945Institution typePublicMasters81Scholarships38University of South Africa (UNISA)
4.1(392)LocationPretoria, South AfricaAttendanceOnline / On campusGlobal Ranking1196Institution typePublicMasters136Scholarships38University of the Free State
4.4(23)LocationBloemfontein, South AfricaAttendanceOnline / On campusGlobal Ranking1374Institution typePublicMasters1Scholarships38Rhodes University
4.2(28)LocationGrahamstown, South AfricaAttendanceOn campus / BlendedGlobal Ranking1296Institution typePublicMasters45Scholarships38Tshwane University of Technology
4.3(37)LocationMultiple locationsGlobal Ranking1480Institution typePublicMasters59Scholarships38Nelson Mandela University
4.4(75)LocationPort Elizabeth, South AfricaGlobal Ranking1804Institution typePublicMasters2Scholarships38Regent Business School
5(1)LocationMultiple locationsAttendanceOnlineGlobal RankingNot rankedInstitution typePrivateMasters2Scholarships38Wits Business School
3.3(4)LocationJohannesburg, South AfricaAttendanceOn campusGlobal RankingNot rankedInstitution typePublicMasters5Scholarships38Stadio Higher Education
4(10)LocationMultiple locationsAttendanceOnline / On campusGlobal RankingNot rankedInstitution typePrivateMasters1Scholarships38Regenesys Business School
5(2)LocationJohannesburg, South AfricaAttendanceOn campusGlobal RankingNot rankedInstitution typePrivateMasters2Scholarships38Cape Peninsula University of Technology
4.1(68)LocationRosebank, South AfricaAttendanceOnline / On campus / BlendedGlobal RankingNot rankedInstitution typePublicMasters35Scholarships38The Management College of Southern Africa (MANCOSA)
4.4(13)LocationDurban, South AfricaAttendanceOnline / On campusGlobal RankingNot rankedInstitution typePrivateMasters4Scholarships38Milpark Business School
5(2)LocationCape Town, South AfricaAttendanceOnline / On campusGlobal RankingNot rankedInstitution typePrivateMasters1Scholarships38
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to study in South Africa?
Tuition fees in South Africa vary widely depending on the university and programme. Public universities generally have lower fees compared to private institutions. International students can expect to pay between 10,000 to 30,000 USD per year for a master's programme. However, there are affordable options available. For instance, some universities offer programmes under 10,000 USD. It's important to budget for living expenses, which can range from 600 to 1,000 USD per month. To find affordable programmes, visit affordable master's programmes in South Africa.
- Can I study online at universities in South Africa?
Yes, online study options are available in South Africa. Many universities offer online master's programmes, allowing students to study from anywhere in the world. These programmes are often flexible and can be completed part-time. To explore online programmes, visit online master's programmes in South Africa.
- Are there part-time study options available in South Africa?
Yes, part-time study options are available in South Africa. Many universities offer part-time master's programmes, allowing students to balance their studies with work or other commitments. These programmes are ideal for those who cannot commit to full-time study. To find part-time programmes, visit part-time master's programmes in South Africa.
- Are there 1-year master's programmes in South Africa?
Yes, 1-year master's programmes are available in South Africa. These programmes are intensive and designed for students who want to complete their studies quickly. They are often full-time and require a strong commitment. To find 1-year programmes, visit 1-year master's programmes in South Africa.
- Can I study at a top-ranked university in South Africa with a scholarship?
Yes, it is possible to study at a top-ranked university in South Africa with a scholarship. Universities like the University of Cape Town, University of the Witwatersrand, and Stellenbosch University offer various scholarships for international students. These scholarships can cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both. To find scholarship opportunities, visit scholarships for master's programmes in South Africa.
- How is the Studyportals University Meta Ranking calculated?
The Studyportals University Meta Ranking is calculated by aggregating multiple ranking sources. This methodology helps compare universities in South Africa with institutions globally. It provides a comprehensive view of university performance across various criteria. To learn more about the methodology, visit Studyportals University Meta Ranking.
