What to Consider When Choosing a University in South Africa

South Africa has many different universities offering a variety of courses to choose from. Selecting the right university is one of the significant decision post matric. The university you select can impact your future career and personal development. In this blog we will cover some key factors to consider when choosing a University in South Africa.

Here are some things to consider when choosing a university in South Africa:

• What do you want to study?

First decide which career path you want to venture into. then check which universities offer the course or courses you want to apply for. In a notepad, list all the universities that offer your desired courses. In South Africa there are 26 universities located across the country. Note; sometimes the courses that you are interested in can be offered in all universities in South Africa, making your options wide. Below we have listed all the 26 universities you can choose from.

Here's a list of the 26 public universities in South Africa:

1. University of Cape Town (UCT)
2. University of the Witwatersrand (WITS)
3. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
4. University of Pretoria (UP)
5. Stellenbosch University (SU)
6. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
7. University of the Free State (UFS)
8. North-West University (NWU)
9. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
10. University of Limpopo (UL)
11. University of Venda (UNIVEN)
12. Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
13. University of Fort Hare (UFH)
14. University of Zululand (UNIZULU)
15. Rhodes University (RU)
16. University of Mpumalanga (UMP)
17. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
18. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
19. Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
20. Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
21. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
22. Durban University of Technology (DUT)
23. Central University of Technology (CUT)
24. University of South Africa (UNISA)
25. Sefako Makgato University (SMU)
26. Sol Plaatjie (SPU)

• Do you meet requirements?

Next, you should find out what the requirements are for the courses you are interested in at all the universities that offer them. Eliminate all the universities you don't meet their entry requirements and list the remaining universities you meet requirements in your notepad. Remember, meeting requirements is the most important factor because not meeting requirements could mean that you will not be accepted in your favourite university.

• Is the course Accredited?

Ensure the courses you're considering are accredited by reputable bodies like the Council on Higher Education (CHE). Accreditation is a stamp of approval, indicating that the course meets high-quality standards and is recognized by employers and other educational institutions.

• Is the University Ranking?

 Consider university rankings from reputable sources. While rankings are not the sole determinant, they can provide insights into a university's overall reputation and academic standing. Also research which universities are favoured by employers in your desired industry. A strong reputation can improve your job prospects, making it easy for you to secure a job. 

• Where is the university?

When choosing a university, you need to consider its location therefore you need to answer the the following questions regarding the universities you qualify to. "Are they located near you?" "are they located in another province?", "are you willing to relocate?" If you are happy with the location of the universities you qualify to then you can consider applying to them. 

• How is the Campus Culture

If you can, visit the campus to experience the atmosphere and assess the quality of facilities such as libraries, laboratories, and student housing. This will give you a first hand sense of the campus culture and help you determine if it's the right fit for you. Seeing the university live will help you decide if you want to be part of that environment or not. 

• What kind of support does the university offer?

Look for universities that provide comprehensive academic advising services to help you navigate your studies and make informed decisions. Explore the availability of career counselling services to assist you with job search strategies, internships and professional development. 

• How much does it cost to go to the university?

Research the tuition fees and living expenses associated with attending the university. Explore scholarships, bursaries, and student loans available to help you fund your education. If funding your studies is an issue consider researching the availability of part-time job opportunities on campus or in the surrounding area.

• Consider Student Life Activities:

Consider the variety of extracurricular activities and clubs offered by the university to enhance your overall experience and personal growth. Participating in these activities can help you develop new skills, make lifelong friends, and explore your interests outside the classroom. For example if you are into netball, you would want to consider a university that has netball courts. 

• Is the university safe?

Is the university safe? Research the crime rates in the university's city or town to ensure your safety. Inquire about the security measures implemented by the university, such as campus patrols, surveillance systems, and emergency response plans. A safe campus environment is essential for a positive and productive student experience.

Additional: Tips When choosing a university:

When selecting a university, it's essential to ensure that the institution aligns with your academic goals, personal preferences, and future aspirations. Analyse which factors are most important to you and prioritize them accordingly.

If you're unsure which university to choose, don't hesitate to seek advice from friends, teachers, or relatives who have attended university. They can provide valuable insights into their experiences and help you narrow down your options.

Additionally, consider joining university Facebook groups to connect with current students and gather first-hand information about the institution, its academic programmes, campus life, and student experiences. Engaging with students can give you a better understanding of the university's culture and whether it's the right fit for you.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and select a university that aligns with your academic goals, personal preferences, and future aspirations. Remember to visit campuses, talk to current students, and research universities thoroughly to make the best choice for your higher education journey.