Studying computer science in South Africa gives students a vast knowledge of computing skills. Additionally, you will gain a solid foundation that will be useful in your IT career and improve your problem-solving abilities. South Africa has universities that are equipped with the right facilities and resources to impact students with standard computer skills.
The BSc in Computer Science degree comprises both fundamental as well as elective modules that contain a variety of computer science and mathematics courses. Therefore, studying computer science in South Africa can be a venture that will lead to a fruitful career.

In this piece, I will guide you through the basic requirements that are needed for studying computer science in South Africa.

Requirements for studying computer science in South Africa

1. Meet the Academic Qualifications

   You must have a National Senior Certificate or an equivalent qualification before you can study computer 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. The minimum percentage for English Language is 60 -69%. Additionally, the minimum percentage for Mathematics is 70 – 79%. 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. Furthermore, you need to have a minimum of 50 – 59% in Life orientation.

3. 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 computer science in most universities is 30 points.

4. 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.

5. 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%.

6. 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 choose a university that you would like to study in. Secondly, you should visit the website of the university and fill out the application form. You need to make sure that all the documents that are required are submitted while making your application.

Duration

The duration of studying computer science in South Africa depends on the degree you wish to acquire. The bachelor’s degree takes at least three to four years to obtain. Additionally, the master’s degree takes between one to two years.

Tuition fee

The tuition fee for studying computer science in South Africa can be based on the university. However, the average tuition fees range between R68,000 – R84,000 per year. Additionally, International students pay higher tuition fees.

Universities in South Africa that offer Computer Science

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

In Conclusion, apart from the requirements written above, different universities might have specific requirements that they require from applicants. Therefore, you need to make sure that you visit the school’s website and find out the admission requirements before submitting your application. Feel free to contact us for further inquiries or assistance.

Good luck!

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