University of Cape Town
“Spes Bona” — Good Hope
Overview & History of University of Cape Town
The University of Cape Town (UCT), founded in 1829, is Africa’s leading university and the oldest in South Africa.
With 29,000+ students from 100+ countries, UCT offers a unique academic experience on the slopes of Table Mountain.
UCT is known for its strong research output and commitment to addressing African challenges.
Details at a Glance â University of Cape Town
| 1. University Name | University of Cape Town |
|---|---|
| 2. Founded | 1829 |
| 3. Location | Cape Town, South Africa |
| 4. Type | Public Research University · African Leading |
| 5. Total Students | 29,000+ |
| 6. International | 15%+ |
| 7. Programs | 200+ courses |
| 8. World Ranking | #275 QS | #160 THE | #301-400 ARWU |
| 9. Acceptance Rate | ~40% |
| 10. Official Website | www.uct.ac.za ↗ |
Rankings of University of Cape Town
Subject-wise Rankings
| Subject | QS Rank | THE Rank | Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicine | #1 in Africa | #60 World | Strong clinical research |
| Engineering | #1 in Africa | #100+ World | Electrical, mechanical, civil |
| Law | #1 in Africa | #80+ World | South African & intl law |
| Commerce | #1 in Africa | #100+ World | UCT Graduate School of Business |
| Humanities | #1 in Africa | #150+ World | African studies, literature |
| Science | #1 in Africa | #200+ World | African biodiversity research |
Total Programs & Available Subjects
Harvard offers bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs across virtually every academic discipline:
Admission Timeline — When to Apply
Applications Open
UCT online application portal.
Application Deadline
Varies by program.
Admission Decisions
Offers sent via email.
Acceptance Period
Confirm and pay deposit.
Visa Application
International students apply for study visa.
Academic Year Begins
South African academic year starts in February.
Scholarships for International Students
Harvard practices need-blind admission for all applicants — including international students — and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. Families earning under $100,000/year typically pay nothing.
UCT MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program
Full scholarship for African students: tuition, accommodation, stipend.
Successful Alumni from University of Cape Town
Tuition & Monthly Living Costs
| Tuition & Fees (per year) | ZAR 50,000-80,000 |
|---|---|
| Housing & Meals (per year) | ZAR 40,000-80,000 |
| Books, Personal & Travel | ~$4,500 |
| Total Cost of Attendance | ZAR 150,000-300,000 / year |
FAQs â University of Cape Town
Can internationals apply?
Yes. ~15% of students are international. Separate application track.
Full scholarships?
MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program, UCT Entrance Scholarships.
English requirements?
IELTS 6.5 (min 6.0) or TOEFL 90 (min 22).
When to apply?
Applications typically close mid-year. Apply via UCT online portal.
Is Cape Town safe?
Campus has good security. Cape Town is a beautiful, vibrant city with standard urban safety precautions.
Ready to apply to University of Cape Town?
Need-blind admission · Full financial support · Deadline Jul 31, 2027
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