The Semester Study Abroad programme charges a package fee covering: enrolment in up to four semester courses (one semester’s worth of a full-degree course load), membership of up to three student clubs or societies, airport transfer on arrival, orientation activities, and access to a 24-hour referral number in the event of a critical incident or an emergency. Your application route will determine what fees you are charged.
Apply through your home university
SSA students who apply through their home university under an inter-institutional mobility agreement will be invoiced by their home university. Consult with your home university international office about the fee they charge and payment terms.
Apply directly as a freemover
SSA students who apply independently pay a package fee. The fee per semester in 2026 and 2027 will be USD8,310.
Apply through our study abroad organisations
Students enrolling via a partner provider organisation pay fees directly to the provider. This covers the programme fee and a range of additional services including accommodation. Fees vary by provider.
Cape Town is one of the most affordable study abroad destinations in the world. These are some indicative costs for living in private rented accommodation in the areas surrounding campus.
| Expenses | Rand cost per month | Dollar cost per month | Semester total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | ZAR 9 000 | USD 485 | USD 2 426 |
| Meals | ZAR 5 000 | USD 270 | USD 1 348 |
| Books | ZAR 5 000 per semester | USD 270 | USD 270 |
| Transportation | ZAR 2 500 | USD 135 | USD 674 |
| Spending money | ZAR 4 000 | USD 216 | USD 1 078 |
| Living costs | ZAR 5 000 | USD 270 | USD 1 348 |
| Medical Aid Cover | ZAR 645 | USD 35 | USD 209 |
| Tuition | per semester | USD 8 310 | |
| Total | USD 15 663 |
*Calculated at exchange rate USD 1 / ZAR18.55