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.

AffordableSouth Africa

610 Affordable Master's degrees in South Africa

When considering an affordable master's degree, it's essential to understand what qualifies as 'affordable'. In our system, any master’s programme with tuition fees ranging from 0 to 2,500 euros per year is considered affordable. This range makes it accessible for many international students who are budget-conscious. In South Africa, affordable master's programmes can start from €0, meaning some universities offer tuition-free options. This makes South Africa an appealing destination for students searching for budget-friendly master's programmes. With a variety of cheap master's in South Africa available, international students can find quality education without breaking the bank. Whether you're looking for a cheap master degree in South Africa or an affordable master's degree in South Africa for international students, there are numerous options to explore. To get started, check out the top universities in South Africa offering affordable programmes.

University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)

Online Top 5% in Worldwide

Labour Law

The master in Labour Law at University of South Africa (UNISA) provides comprehensive open distance learning in a socially responsible and distinctive manner that produces excellent scholarship and research, provides quality tuition and fosters active community engagement.

LL.M. Part-time Online

$350/yr

Rhodes University4,2(28)

Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

Political and International Relations

The Political and International Relations program at Rhodes University offers courses from across the spectrum of political studies, while the postgraduate program allows students to critically engage with a number of topics.

Master Full-time On-campus

1 year$2,097/yr

University of Pretoria4,2(327)

Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear Medicine from University of Pretoria aims to maintain health standards through quality education, research and community service.

Master Full-time On-campus

2 years$2,842/yr

University of Pretoria4,2(327)

Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

Prosthodontics

Prosthodontics from University of Pretoria aims to maintain health standards through quality education, research and community service.

Master Full-time On-campus

4 years$2,842/yr

University of Johannesburg4,1(219)

Johannesburg, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

Artificial Intelligence (CW)

The purpose of the Artificial Intelligence (CW) program at University of Johannesburg to develop skilled graduates able to work at a high level of competence with cutting edge Artificial Intelligence applications and concepts across a range of fields, including engineering, commerce and economics, mathematical sciences, natural sciences and computer science.

Master Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$2,858/yr

University of Pretoria4,2(327)

Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

Church History and Church Polity

This Church History and Church Polity programme from University of Pretoria offers the student with a four-year BDiv, a BThHons or equivalent qualification, the opportunity of theological specialisation and research at master’s level.

Master Full-time On-campus

1 year$2,842/yr

Rhodes University4,2(28)

Grahamstown, South Africa Top 6% in Worldwide

Law

The Faculty of Law offers the Law program of Rhodes University by thesis only. Normally, only candidates who have obtained an average of 65% or above in the final year of their LLB study will be admitted to the LLM.

LL.M. Full-time On-campus

1 year$2,097/yr

University of South Africa (UNISA)4,1(402)

Online Top 5% in Worldwide

Linguistics

The master of Linguistics at University of South Africa (UNISA) offers high-quality general academic and career-focused distance education tuition in the arts, humanities, social sciences, religion and theology.

M.A. Part-time Online

$350/yr

Cape Peninsula University of Technology4,0(75)

Cape Town, South Africa

Consumer Science - Food and Nutrition

At Consumer Science - Food and Nutrition from Cape Peninsula University of Technology graduates will be able to conduct research in the consumer science (food and nutrition) fields, to enhance the quality of life of the consumer.

Master Full-time +2 On-campus

1 year$211/module

University of Pretoria4,2(327)

Pretoria, South Africa Top 2% in Worldwide

Nursing Management

Nursing Management from University of Pretoria aims to maintain health standards through quality education, research and community service.

Master Full-time On-campus

2 years$2,842/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.