Architecture is a rewarding and fulfilling career path to pursue in South Africa. This career path requires a combination of creativity, technical skills and dedication. Studying architecture in South Africa will give you a wholesome education that covers all the important aspects of this field. South Africa has a unique pattern of building structures and facilities. As a result, it makes it easy for aspiring architects to have an excellent ground to practice what they have learnt after graduation. Additionally, there are vast career opportunities for architects to explore in South Africa.
Studying architecture in South Africa requires you to have the right qualifications and portfolio. Additionally, you also need to have the right skills that will enable you to scale through the learning process.
In this piece, I will walk you through the admission requirements that are needed for studying architecture in South Africa.
Requirements for Studying Architecture in South Africa
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Meet the Academic Qualifications
You must have a National Senior Certificate or an equivalent qualification before you can study architecture in South Africa. Additionally, you must have subjects such as Mathematics, Visual Arts or Engineering Graphics, Design and Physical science in your Grade 12 certificate.
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Meet the Required Subjects Percentage
You need to meet the minimum percentage for each subject in your certificate. The minimum percentage for English Language is 50-59% while the minimum for Physical science is 50-59%. Additionally, the minimum percentage for Mathematics is 60-69%. This includes areas such as pure math or math literacy. 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.
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Submit your Portfolio
You need to submit a portfolio that showcases your creative work. This can include works such as drawings, sketches, or computer-aided designs. However, this is not compulsory for all universities. Therefore, you need to verify if it is needed by the university you are applying to. You should also verify the format that you should use for the submission.
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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 admission point for architecture in most universities is 26-30 points.
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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.
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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%.
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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
You need to apply to the University of your choice to study architecture. You should visit the school’s website and make your applications online. Additionally, you must ensure that you submit all the required documents such as your transcripts and your English proficiency tests.
Duration
The duration for studying architecture in South Africa is based on the degree you apply for. The bachelor’s degree takes about three years. Additionally, the master’s degree takes about one to two years.
Tuition Fee
The tuition fee for studying architecture in South Africa ranges from R40,000 to R66,000. However, this may vary based on your university and your type of citizenship.
Top Universities in South Africa that Offer Architecture
1. University of Pretoria, Pretoria
2. University of Cape Town, Cape Town
3. North-West University, Potchefstroom, Mahikeng, and Vanderbijlpark campuses
4. University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
5. Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth
6. University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch
7. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Campuses in Durban and Pietermaritzburg
8. Durban University of Technology, Durban
9. University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg
10. University of South Africa, Multiple campuses across South Africa
11. University of the Free State, Bloemfontein
12. Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria
13. Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Cape Town
Finally, you need to assess the entry requirements for the university you have selected to attend. Additionally, It is also advisable that you send in your applications ahead of the deadline. This will increase your chances of being admitted. If you need help or have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Good luck!