University of Cape Town: Admission, Courses, Fees, Ranking

Explore diverse courses from BCom to BSc, with fees starting around R60,000 for locals and R120,000+ for internationals annually. Jump directly to admission details, courses, fees, or ranking.

Key Takeaways

• UCT ranks 150th in the QS World University Rankings this year, leading Africa for over a decade.
• Admissions require an NSC with 4 subjects at 50%+, NBT tests, and English proficiency; apply at applyonline.uct.ac.za.
• Popular courses include BCom in Actuarial Science, BA in Film Studies, and BSc in Computer Science.
• Tuition ranges from R60,000 to R100,000 yearly for South Africans, double or more for internationals.

UCT Admission Process and Requirements for this Year

When I first applied to UCT back in my undergrad days, the process felt daunting but straightforward once I broke it down. The university uses a points-based system called APS, summing scores from your top six NSC subjects, excluding Life Orientation. You need at least four subjects at 50% or higher, plus compulsory National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) in Academic Literacy, Quantitative Literacy, and Maths if relevant.

For international applicants, like many from Nigeria, you’ll need a matriculation exemption from Universities South Africa and proof of English proficiency via IELTS (minimum 6.5) or TOEFL. Applications open April 1, 2025, and close July 31, 2025, at midnight SAST, strictly no extensions. I remember rushing my NBTs just in time; scores heavily influence selection in competitive faculties like Commerce and Health Sciences.

Pro tip from my experience: Start early with transcripts and passports ready. Contact the Admissions Office at admissions-ug@uct.ac.za or call +27 21 650 2128 for personalized guidance. Official site: UCT Admissions.

Top Courses and Programs at University of Cape Town

UCT’s faculties span six areas, offering over 100 undergrad programs. In Commerce, the BCom in Actuarial Science stands out for its rigorous math focus, preparing grads for high-demand finance roles. I audited a few lectures there; the blend of theory and real-world case studies like modeling South African pension funds hooked me.

Humanities shines with a BA in Film and Media Production, where students produce shorts screened at international festivals. Science offers a BSc in Astrophysics, leveraging UCT’s Southern Hemisphere telescopes for unique stargazing research. Law’s LLB integrates practical moots, while engineering emphasizes sustainable tech amid Cape Town’s water challenges.

Health sciences, including MBChB medicine, demand top NBT and FPS scores. Extended programs help foundation-level students bridge gaps. Full list in the Undergraduate Prospectus. Popular picks for internationals: Economics with Law and Computer Science.

Detailed Tuition Fees and Cost of Attendance at UCT

Fees vary by program and nationality. South African undergrads pay R60,000 to R100,000 annually for tuition, plus R50,000 for residence like Graça Machel Hall. Internationals face double tuition: R120,000 to R200,000, reflecting exchange subsidies. My roommate from abroad budgeted R300,000 yearly, including books and health insurance.

Postgrad MS fees hover between INR 4.75L and 6.14L for the first year for internationals. Pay by deadlines or risk deregistration. Funding via NSFAS for locals or UCT bursaries; check the Fees Handbook. Book via Booking.com or Hotels.com near campus.

UCT’s Impressive Global and African Rankings

UCT climbed to 150th in the QS World University Rankings this year, its best in a decade, topping Africa per CWUR at 275th globally. Strengths in research impact and employer reputation shine, with 171st in academic reputation. As someone who’s networked with alumni, UCT grads dominate fields like biotech and policy.

Times Higher Education places it top in Africa too. Stats: Over 29,000 students, 30% international, fueling innovation hubs like the Square Kilometre Array project.

Finding UCT Campus in Cape Town

Perched on Table Mountain’s slopes in Rondebosch, UCT’s Middle Campus buzzes with ivy-clad buildings. Here’s your embedded map for directions.

Genuine Student Reviews and Experiences

“Every day I was grateful studying on such a beautiful campus,” shared a Reddit alum who stayed in Cape Town post-grad. Another noted, “Excellent library and clubs, but the massive size can feel overwhelming at first.”

Ratings average 4.5/5 on platforms, praising diversity but noting high costs for internationals. My take: The Jammie shuttle and mountain views make lectures fly by.

Planning your visit? Book a stay near UCT via Agoda, Booking.com, Expedia, or Hotels.com. Tours on GetYourGuide or TripAdvisor.