If you are planning to attend college, you may already be thinking about which schools you might like to attend. During this decision making process, you might also consider attending college in another country. If so, you will probably want to find out as much information as you can about countries that are of interest to you.

In this article, we focus on providing you with some general information about South Africa for those of you who may be interested in attending school there. We also provide you with an overview of the requirements that will need to be met before becoming a student in this rapidly evolving country.

About South Africa

Situated at the extreme south of Africa, South Africa is a country with a widely varied environment and a population of more than 43 million. The most prominent and well-known cities in this country are Cape Town, the legislative capital, and Johannesburg.

Johannesburg is a cosmopolitan city much like other large cities throughout the world. This city has the technology and amenities to provide students with the level of comfort that they may very well be used to. In that sense, there are no huge adjustments that will need to be made in order to live in this country while you are a student.

One of the most important things to realize is that English is not the most commonly used language, though quite a few people in South Africa can communicate quite well in English. Afrikaans is the most widely spoken language, and in total there are 11 different languages used in South Africa.

How to become a Student

If you are an international student, you will need to apply for, and be awarded, a study permit. This is the first step you will need to take in order to be admitted into the country and enrolled in your university of choice. When you apply for a study permit, you will need to submit an application along with the following.

• A letter offering you admission to a South African school.
• Your valid, up-to-date passport.
• The permit fee – you will need to obtain the correct amount from the South African Department of Home Affairs. The specific amount may occasionally change, so check with this office before you submit a fee.
• Provide proof that you, or your family, have the financial means necessary to pay for your education.
• A written statement to the effect that you plan to return to your home country once you have completed your education.
• Proof of medical insurance coverage that is valid in South Africa.

You may also be required to make a bank deposit with enough funds to pay for a return plane ticket home, in the event that you do not fulfill the permit requirements. There are certain circumstances, however, in which this requirement might be waived, so make sure you check with the Department of Home Affairs ahead of time.

The South African government only issues study permits for one year at a time, so be prepared to renew your permit request each year. In addition, you may also qualify for other types of permits in some situations, so be sure to ask a representative at the Home Affairs office so that you will be fully aware of your options.