Studying Pharmacy in South Africa offers a dynamic and rewarding career to aspiring professionals in this field. Pharmacy is one of the career paths that is in high demand in South Africa. Pharmacists have access to a wide range of job prospects as well as a comfortable earning potential. As a result of factors such as population growth, and an increase in the pharmaceutical industry, pharmacy has become one of the valued courses in South Africa.

South African universities are well-equipped to provide top-notch pharmacy education. Studying pharmacy in South Africa will give you a combined knowledge of healthcare and science to create lasting solutions. However, the application process for pharmacy in South Africa can be quite competitive and strict. Therefore, you need to know all the requirements that are needed beforehand before you make your application. Additionally, adhering strictly to deadlines and providing accurate, complete documentation while making your application is crucial.

In this piece, I will walk you through the basic admission requirements that are needed for studying pharmacy in South Africa.

Requirements for Studying Pharmacy in South Africa

1. Meet the Academic Qualifications

   You must have a National Senior Certificate(NSC) or an equivalent qualification before you can study pharmacy in South Africa. Additionally, you must have a minimum of a pass in subjects such as Mathematics, Physical Science, English, Life Orientation and Biology.

2. Meet the Required Subjects Percentage

   It would be best if you met the minimum percentage for each subject in your certificate. The minimum percentage for English Language or a home language is 50-59% while the minimum for Physical science is 60-69%. Additionally, the minimum percentage for Mathematics is 60-69%. However, this requirement may vary based on the university you apply to.

3. Meet the Admission Point Score(APS)

   The minimum admission point score that is required to study pharmacy in South Africa is 38. This is calculated based on the percentage of your subject score in your Grade 12 results.

4. Meet the Admissions Requirements

   You need to meet the admissions requirements of the university you wish to study. 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. Additionally, most Universities will require applicants to take the National Benchmark Test(NBT)

5. Submit your Academic Transcripts

   You need to submit all the transcripts of your previous education. Additionally, you need to submit your transcript 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 50-59%.

7. Health Requirements

   Some universities might require you to show a medical certificate to confirm your health status. Additionally, you may be asked to carry out drug screening and take vaccinations.

8. 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 pharmacy. 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 certificates.

Duration

The duration for studying pharmacy in South Africa is four years. Additionally, you must complete a year internship program. This is compulsory to qualify you as a registered pharmacist in South Africa.

Tuition Fee

The tuition fee for studying architecture in South Africa ranges from R15,000 to R70,000. However, this may vary based on your university and your type of citizenship. Therefore, you must verify from the institution you are applying to.

Universities in South Africa that offer Pharmacy

1. University of Pretoria, Pretoria
2. University of the Western Cape, Cape Town
3. North-West University, Potchefstroom
4. Rhodes University, Grahamstown
5. University of Cape Town
6. Nelson Mandela University, Port Elizabeth
7. University of the Free State, Bloemfontein
8. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria
9. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban
10. Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria
11. University of South Africa, Pretoria
12. Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha
13. University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg
14. University of Limpopo, Polokwane
15. Durban University of Technology, Durban
16. University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg
17. University of Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch

Studying Pharmacy in South Africa can be tasking. Therefore, it is necessary to prepare well to deal with the many challenges and responsibilities that may arise in this journey. The first step towards starting a vital career in the healthcare sector is to meet the admission requirements. Therefore, you need to ensure that you are up-to-date with the university’s entry requirements before you begin your application. Feel free to contact us for further inquiries and assistance.

Good luck!

Click to discover an extensive list of local and international schools offering courses and programs in various career path