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. 25Edutel Higher Education
Private South African institution specializing in distance higher education.
No. 26Stellenbosch University
Leading public South African university with diverse programs.
No. 27University of Johannesburg
Modern public South African university renowned for academic excellence.
No. 28Seth Mokitimi Methodist Seminary
Private South African seminary specializing in Methodist theology.
No. 29AROS
Private South African academy specializing in Reformed studies and theology.
No. 30Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Public South African university specializing in health sciences and medicine.
No. 31George Whitefield College
Private South African college focused on theology and Christian ministry.
No. 32University of Pretoria
Leading public South African university renowned for research and academic excellence.
No. 33St Augustine College of South Africa
Private South African college specializing in theology and humanities.
No. 34Rhodes University
Public South African university renowned for academic excellence and student environment.
No. 35University of the Western Cape
Public South African university renowned for academic excellence and diversity.
No. 36Akademia
Private South African institution specializing in professional and technical training.
No. 37Cornerstone Institute
Private South African institution specializing in humanities and theology.
No. 38University of Cape Town
Public South African university, one of Africa’s and the world’s best.
No. 39Centurion Academy
Private South African academy offering varied programs in management and technology.
No. 40CTU Training Solutions
Private South African institution specializing in professional and technical training.
No. 41Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology
Private South African institute specializing in technology and management.
No. 42STADIO Higher Education
Private South African institution focused on higher education and professional training.
No. 43Berea College of Technology
Private South African institution specializing in technology and engineering.
No. 44MANCOSA
Private South African institution specializing in management and administration.
No. 45Academic Institute of Excellence
Private South African institution focused on academic and professional excellence.
No. 46Academy for Facilities Management
Private South African academy specializing in facilities management.
No. 47Century City Academy
Private South African academy offering varied educational programs.
No. 48University of the Witwatersrand
Leading public South African university renowned for research and academic excellence.