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Study in South Africa

Wildlife, conservation and veterinary study on the doorstep of real field sites, at a fraction of Western tuition.

Tuition / year
$3,000 – $9,000

ReferenceReviewed estimate — confirm figures before you decide.

Living cost / year
$5,000 – $8,000

ReferenceReviewed estimate — confirm figures before you decide.

Visa complexity
Moderate
Scholarships
Moderate

Cost ranges are ARISE reference estimates for planning — not a guarantee. Confirm the current figure before you decide.

What you'll need to apply

  • Class 12 with relevant science subjects
  • IELTS 6.0
  • SAQA evaluation of your qualification
  • Medical cover with a South African provider

Popular programs & cities

Wildlife ConservationVeterinary ScienceTourismMining EngineeringCape TownJohannesburgPretoriaDurban

After you graduate: Critical-skills routes exist; no automatic post-study visa.

Your student visa checklist

  • Valid passport

    Document

    Valid for the full duration of your course.

  • University offer / admission letter

    Document

    Confirmed enrolment from the institution.

  • Proof of funds

    Financial

    Tuition plus living costs, held for the required period.

  • Medical and health documents

    Health

    Medical fitness or screening where required.

  • Health insurance

    Health

    Cover that meets the destination's minimum for students.

  • Visa application and fee

    Step

    Complete the official form and pay the fee.

  • Biometrics / appointment

    Appointment

    At the embassy or visa application centre.

  • SAQA certificate of evaluation

    Document

    South Africa evaluates your Indian qualification before enrolment.

Your first month after landing

  • 24 hoursReach your accommodation and check in
  • 24 hoursMessage family that you have arrived safely
  • 24 hoursActivate your local SIM / eSIM
  • 7 daysOpen a student bank account in South Africa
  • 7 daysComplete university registration / enrolment
  • 7 daysCollect your student ID card
  • 7 daysSet up transport and learn your campus route
  • 30 daysRegister for healthcare access
  • 30 daysUnderstand local laws, tenancy and safety rules
  • 30 daysFind the Indian student association on campus
  • 30 daysCheck part-time work rules before taking any job
South Africa Community Hub

Talk to students & workers currently in South Africa

Ask honest questions about rent, part-time jobs, and culture in our verified nation group.

Join South Africa ChatView Events

Where to go next

Courses in South AfricaCost of living in South AfricaScholarships for South AfricaSponsored jobs in South AfricaConnect with students in South Africa →Compare South Africa with another country

Costs, visa conditions and work rights change often. Use what is here to plan and compare, then confirm the details before you decide.