University fees in South Africa in 2026
A detailed analysis of the tuition fees of the 78 institutions in South Africa that published their fees: bachelor, master, doctorate, public vs private.
Fee summary in South Africa
According to our data, the average bachelor fee in South Africa is 61,103 ZAR per year, for the 78 universities that published their fees. Costs vary considerably by institution, field of study and public or private status.
The most attractive bachelor fee starts at 35,000 ZAR per year, with a maximum observed of 120,000 ZAR per year. This range illustrates the gap that can exist between public institutions and private schools.
Fees by study level
Bachelor's degree
Based on 78 universities
From
35,000
ZAR
Average
61,103
ZAR
Up to
120,000
ZAR
Master's degree
Based on 78 universities
From
45,000
ZAR
Average
72,000
ZAR
Up to
150,000
ZAR
Doctorate
Based on 34 universities
From
55,000
ZAR
Average
73,176
ZAR
Up to
180,000
ZAR
Public vs Private — Bachelor fees
Average bachelor fee
Minimum bachelor fee
Looking for the most affordable options?
Discover our selection of the cheapest universities in South Africa, ideal for optimising your study budget.
Cheapest universitiesFrequently asked questions about fees in South Africa
How much does a bachelor's degree cost in South Africa?
A bachelor's degree in South Africa costs between 35,000 and 120,000 ZAR per year, with an average of 61,103 ZAR, depending on the institution and field.
Are public universities cheaper in South Africa?
Yes, generally. On average, a bachelor's degree costs 46,269 ZAR at a public university versus 68,519 ZAR in the private sector, a difference of 48.1%.
How much does a master's or doctorate cost in South Africa?
For a master's, fees range from 45,000 to 150,000 ZAR per year. A doctorate costs between 55,000 and 180,000 ZAR per year.
Do these amounts include all fees?
No. The fees shown correspond to the tuition announced by the institutions. Application, housing, living and insurance costs remain the student's responsibility and vary by city and lifestyle.
Universities included in this analysis
The 78 universities in South Africa that published their minimum bachelor fees. Only the first 30 are shown — use the button to reveal more.
University of South Africa
Walter Sisulu University
Vaal University of Technology
University of Mpumalanga
Mangosuthu University of Technology
University of Venda
University of Limpopo
South African Theological Seminary
Sol Plaatje University
University of Fort Hare
University of Zululand
Tshwane University of Technology
Nelson Mandela University
Mukhanyo Theological College
University of the Free State
Central University of Technology
Durban University of Technology
North-West University
Bible Institute of South Africa
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Nazarene Theological College
University of KwaZulu-Natal
Baptist Theological College of Southern Africa
Akademie Reformatoriese Opleiding
Edutel Higher Education
Stellenbosch University
University of Johannesburg
Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary
AROS