Key Takeaways
- UP holds top African spots, like 26th globally for international research networks per QS.
- Tuition starts low for South Africans at around R30,000-R90,000 yearly depending on the program, with international levies adding R4,725.
- Nine faculties cover engineering to veterinary science, with strong employability rankings.
- Campus in Hatfield, Pretoria, boasts vibrant student life and high graduate success rates.
University of Pretoria’s Impressive Global and Local Rankings
When I first stepped onto the University of Pretoria’s lush campus in Hatfield, I was struck by its reputation as one of Africa’s leading institutions. According to the QS World University Rankings, UP sits at 362nd out of over 1,500 universities worldwide, a testament to its research prowess and academic excellence. What really caught my eye was their 26th global position in the International Research Network, highlighting partnerships that span continents and drive real-world solutions.
Diving deeper, Times Higher Education places UP in the 501-600 band for world rankings, with strong scores in teaching (43.6-46.1) and international outlook (65.2). Locally, it’s consistently among South Africa’s top five, ranking 5th in QS and shining in employability at 251st globally.
I remember chatting with alumni who credited UP’s employer reputation (2nd in SA) for landing them roles at multinational firms right after graduation.
Standout Ranking Highlights
- Top 250 globally for employment outcomes (138th) and sustainability (168th).
- Academic reputation at 381st worldwide, bolstered by impactful research in health and engineering.
- In Africa, it’s a powerhouse, often in the top 10 per the THE and Scimago rankings.
Detailed Breakdown of University of Pretoria Tuition Fees
One of the first questions prospective students ask me about UP is affordability, and from my visits to the admissions office, I can share that fees are structured to be accessible yet reflective of quality. For South African undergraduates, the initial registration payment is R11,000, with annual tuition varying by faculty, like R31,800 to R89,880 for Economic and Management Sciences master’s programs.
International students from SADC countries pay local rates plus a R4,725 levy, while others face higher initial payments of R40,000.
Postgraduate fees ramp up for specialized fields; honors in Engineering and IT range from R50,800 to R93,000. I spoke with a current engineering student who noted how bursaries covered much of this, emphasizing UP’s commitment to funding via NSFAS and merit awards. Always check the official fee calculator on www.up.ac.za for personalized quotes, as exemptions apply for refugees and permanent residents.
Undergraduate Local Fees Card
R11,000 initial payment. Annual costs scale with program intensity.
International Student Levy
R4,725 annually for SADC. Higher deposits for non-SADC.
Postgrad Examples
Law master’s: R32,800-R62,800. Engineering honors up to R93,000.
Exploring University of Pretoria’s Diverse Academic Programs and Faculties
UP’s nine faculties offer over a hundred programs, from an undergraduate BCom in Economics to a PhD in Veterinary Science, catering to ambitious minds like mine when I audited a lecture in their Engineering faculty. The Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences leads with finance and accounting degrees praised for practical modules, while Health Sciences excels in medicine and nursing with cutting-edge labs.
I was particularly impressed by the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, where courses like BSc Computer Science integrate AI and cybersecurity, aligning with global demands. Humanities and Education provide flexible PGCE teaching qualifications, and Natural and Agricultural Sciences delve into biotechnology. For a full list, visit UP’s program yearbooks, and book campus tours via +27 (0)12 420 4111 or info@up.ac.za.
Top Faculties and Sample Programs
- Veterinary Science: BVSc with hands-on animal clinics.
- Law: LLB blending Roman-Dutch and international law.
- Theology: BTh for community leadership roles.
- Education: MEd in Educational Leadership with a policy focus.
Campus Location, Contact Info, and Getting There
Situated on Lynnwood Road in Hatfield, Pretoria, UP’s main campus is a green oasis just minutes from the city center. I navigated there effortlessly using public transport from Pretoria Station, and the vibe is electric with student residences and sports facilities. For directions, use this responsive map:
Official contacts: www.up.ac.za, +27 (0)12 420 4111, info@up.ac.za. Follow on social media for updates.
Real Student Reviews and Campus Life Experiences
From my time shadowing students, UP scores high on support; one first-year shared, “UP takes academics seriously but balances with advisor help and friendships.” Reviews praise excellent courses and development opportunities, though some note organizational hiccups in large classes. Overall rating hovers around 4.2/5 from platforms like School Parrot, with alumni loving the sisterhood in residences.
Pros of Studying at UP
Vibrant campus life, strong employability, diverse programs.
Cons from Reviews
Occasional tutor shortages in popular courses.
Accommodation and Travel Booking Tips Near UP
For visits or studies, book nearby stays via Agoda, Booking.com, or Hotels.com. Check TripAdvisor for Hatfield reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions About University of Pretoria
What is the University of Pretoria’s global ranking this year?
QS ranks it 362nd worldwide, with a top 50 in international research networks.
How much are UP tuition fees for international students?
SADC pays local plus a R4,725 levy; non-SADC higher deposits, like R40,000 initial.
What courses does the University of Pretoria offer?
Programs across nine faculties, including engineering, law, health sciences, and more.
Where is the University of Pretoria located?
Lynnwood Road, Hatfield, Pretoria. Easy access via major roads and public transport.
Is the University of Pretoria a good university for engineering?
Yes, strong rankings and practical courses with high employability.

