26 public universities in South Africa in 2026
The public universities in South Africa offer accessible education to as many students as possible, with recognised programs and a strong tradition of academic research.
26 public universities
South Africa has public institutions offering a wide range of programs, often with government-regulated fees and a strong tradition of academic research.
Central University of Technology
Public South African university specializing in technology and applied sciences.
University of South Africa
Public South African university specializing in distance education.
University of Fort Hare
Historic public South African university renowned for social sciences and humanities.
University of Johannesburg
Modern public South African university renowned for academic excellence.
University of the Free State
Public South African university offering a wide range of academic programs.
University of Pretoria
Leading public South African university renowned for research and academic excellence.
Stellenbosch University
Leading public South African university with diverse programs.
Durban University of Technology
Public South African university focused on technology, engineering, and business.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Public South African university specializing in technology, engineering, and applied sciences.
Tshwane University of Technology
Public South African university specializing in technology and engineering.
Vaal University of Technology
Public South African university specializing in technology and applied sciences.
Mangosuthu University of Technology
Public South African university specializing in technology and applied sciences.
University of Venda
Public South African university focused on sciences, agriculture, and humanities.
University of the Witwatersrand
Leading public South African university renowned for research and academic excellence.
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Public South African university specializing in health sciences and medicine.
University of Cape Town
Public South African university, one of Africa’s and the world’s best.
University of the Western Cape
Public South African university renowned for academic excellence and diversity.
University of KwaZulu-Natal
Public South African university renowned for diverse programs and innovative research.
University of Limpopo
Public South African university specializing in sciences, agriculture, and rural development.
University of Mpumalanga
Public South African university focused on sciences, agriculture, and rural development.
North-West University
Public South African university offering varied programs in multiple fields.
University of Zululand
Public South African university focused on sciences, education, and arts.
Nelson Mandela University
Public South African university focused on social sciences, education, and development.
Rhodes University
Public South African university renowned for academic excellence and student environment.