Opportunities in South Africa

In South Africa, admission is handled by each university, and international applicants apply to the institution rather than through a single national portal. At the University of Cape Town, for example, undergraduate applications for 2026 entry closed on 31 July and postgraduate applications on 30 September, with proof of English proficiency required from international applicants and offers needed by mid-November to leave time for a study visa.

The main national research funder is the National Research Foundation, which announces DSTI-NRF postgraduate funding calls for each academic year. Whether foreign nationals qualify depends on the individual call, so the call documents must be read before applying. A study visa requires confirmation of acceptance from a South African institution, a provisional acceptance letter stating the course duration, and an undertaking from the institution that proof of registration will follow within 60 days. Other documents include medical cover, proof of funds and police clearance.

Study visa holders at higher education institutions may request part-time work of up to 20 hours a week, which needs a job offer and the institution's consent. Rules for staying on to work after study should be checked with the Department of Home Affairs. Common mistakes are applying for the visa before an acceptance letter exists, missing the university's offer deadline, and assuming every funding call is open to non-South Africans.