There are a lot of opportunities for medical scientists in South Africa. The demand for these professions increases by the day. As a result, studying medical laboratory science in South Africa can be rewarding. With this career, you can work in places such as hospitals, laboratories or research centres around the world. Additionally, you will have the potential to earn a significant amount of income. Studying medical laboratory science in South Africa can be an exciting venture. The serenity of the environment as well as the facilities make it interesting to learn well. Additionally, the universities in South Africa are well-equipped with resources and facilities to provide students with both theoretical and practical knowledge.  

In this piece, I will walk you through the academic requirements that are needed for studying medical laboratory science in South Africa. 

Requirements for Studying Medical Laboratory Science in South Africa. 

1. Have a National Senior Certificate: You must have a National Senior Certificate or an equivalent qualification before you can study medical laboratory science in South Africa. Additionally, you must have science subjects in your Grade 12 certificate.
2. Meet the Required Subjects Percentage: You need to meet the minimum percentage for each subject in your certificate. Your certificate must include subjects such as Mathematics, English, physical science and life science. The minimum required score for these subjects is 50%. Additionally, you may be required to have a minimum percentage in a South African language. This is based on the location of the University you apply to. Furthermore, you need to have a minimum of 30% in Life orientation.
3. National Certificate Vocational: The National Certificate Vocational can also be used as an alternative to gain admission. However, you must have the required subjects in your certificate. You should have subjects such as Biology, English, Mathematics, Physical science and life science. Additionally, the minimum score for these subjects is 70%.
4. Meet the Admissions Requirements: You need to meet the admissions requirements of the university you wish to study at. Most Universities have similar admissions requirements. However, some might have slight differences. Therefore, you need to verify from the school’s website before you make your application. Most Universities will require a minimum score on the National Benchmark Test(NBT) to screen applicants. Generally, the minimum admissions points score for accounting in most universities is 30 points. 
5. Submit your Academic Transcripts: You need to submit all the transcripts of your previous education. Additionally, your transcript should be written in English. Your transcript should contain all your grades and courses you have studied. 
6. English Language Requirements: English Language is the language of instruction for South African schools. Therefore, you need to show proof of your English Language Proficiency. Additionally, you need to pass English Home Language or First Additional Language with a minimum of 60%.
7. International Students: If you are not a citizen of South Africa, your qualifications must be evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). Additionally, you must have a valid study permit.

How to Apply 

Firstly, you need to visit the school’s Website. Secondly, you should fill out the application form online and submit all the necessary documents. 

Duration 

The duration for studying medical laboratory science in South Africa is four years. 

Tuition Fee

Generally, the average tuition fee for studying medical laboratory science in South Africa ranges between R48,000 and R86,000. However, this may vary based on the university you choose to apply to. Additionally, International students pay higher tuition fees. 

Universities in South Africa that Offer Medical Laboratory Science

1. University of Cape Town, Cape Town
2. University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
3. North-West University, Potchefstroom and Mafikeng
4. University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch
5. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban and Pietermaritzburg
6. Rhodes University, Grahamstown
7. University of Fort Hare, Alice and East London 
8. University of the Free State, Bloemfontein
9. Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth
10. University of Pretoria, Pretoria
11. University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Cape Town 
12. Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria
13. University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg
14. University of South Africa, Pretoria 
15. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria
16. University of Venda, Thohoyandou
17. University of Limpopo, Polokwane and Turfloop
18. Durban University of Technology, Durban
19. Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town
20. University of Zululand, Richards Bay
21. Walter Sisulu University, East London and Mthatha
22. Vaal University of Technology, Vanderbijlpark
23. Central University of Technology, Bloemfontein
24. Mangosuthu University of Technology, Umlazi, Durban

In Conclusion, you need to visit the university’s website and verify the basic requirements before you make your application. Each University may have additional requirements that you must meet. Additionally, you should ensure that you have all the required documents and submit them appropriately. You can reach out to us for further inquiries and assistance. 

Good luck! 

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