78 cheapest universities in South Africa in 2026
The most affordable universities in South Africa, ranked by minimum bachelor fees. Ideal for optimising your study budget.
Lowest fee
35,000 ZAR/yr
Price range
78 universities ranked by increasing fees
No. 1University of South Africa
Public South African university specializing in distance education.
No. 2Walter Sisulu University
Public South African university focused on sciences, engineering, and technology.
No. 3Vaal University of Technology
Public South African university specializing in technology and applied sciences.
No. 4University of Mpumalanga
Public South African university focused on sciences, agriculture, and rural development.
No. 5Mangosuthu University of Technology
Public South African university specializing in technology and applied sciences.
No. 6University of Venda
Public South African university focused on sciences, agriculture, and humanities.
No. 7University of Limpopo
Public South African university specializing in sciences, agriculture, and rural development.
No. 8South African Theological Seminary
Private South African seminary specializing in theology and biblical studies.
No. 9Sol Plaatje University
Public South African university focused on humanities, education, and arts.
No. 10University of Fort Hare
Historic public South African university renowned for social sciences and humanities.
No. 11University of Zululand
Public South African university focused on sciences, education, and arts.
No. 12Tshwane University of Technology
Public South African university specializing in technology and engineering.
No. 13Nelson Mandela University
Public South African university focused on social sciences, education, and development.
No. 14Mukhanyo Theological College
Private South African college specializing in theology and Christian ministry.
No. 15University of the Free State
Public South African university offering a wide range of academic programs.
No. 16Central University of Technology
Public South African university specializing in technology and applied sciences.
No. 17Durban University of Technology
Public South African university focused on technology, engineering, and business.
No. 18North-West University
Public South African university offering varied programs in multiple fields.
No. 19Bible Institute of South Africa
Private South African institute specializing in biblical studies and theology.
No. 20Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Public South African university specializing in technology, engineering, and applied sciences.
No. 21Nazarene Theological College
Private South African college specializing in Nazarene theology.
No. 22University of KwaZulu-Natal
Public South African university renowned for diverse programs and innovative research.
No. 23Baptist Theological College of Southern Africa
Private South African college specializing in Baptist theology.
No. 24Akademie Reformatoriese Opleiding
Private South African academy specializing in theology and Reformed studies.