Universities in South Africa
Explore top-rated universities and colleges in South Africa. Discover rankings, campus details, and key information about top South African higher education institutions to help you choose the best place to study.
South Africa is home to 76 universities and colleges listed in our directory, spread across 22 cities. Of these, 26 are public and 45 are private institutions. The highest-ranked institution is University of Cape Town (world rank #395). The oldest dates back to 1829. Use the filters to compare them by ranking, campus setting, and control type.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many universities are there in South Africa?
Our directory lists 76 universities and colleges in South Africa across 22 cities. You can filter them by control type, campus setting, and more.
Which is the top-ranked university in South Africa?
Based on world ranking, University of Cape Town is the highest-ranked institution in South Africa in our directory (world rank #395).
Are there public and private universities in South Africa?
Yes. South Africa has 26 public and 45 private institutions in our directory. Public universities are typically state-funded, while private institutions are independently run.
How do I choose the right university in South Africa?
Compare institutions by world and country ranking, location, campus setting (urban, suburban, or rural), and control type. Open any university profile for detailed admission information, programs, and fees.
What is the difference between an urban and a rural campus?
An urban campus sits in or near a city, putting internships, public transport, and cultural life within easy reach, though living costs are often higher. A rural or suburban campus offers a quieter, community-focused environment with more space and typically lower costs. Use the Campus Type filter to match the setting to your lifestyle.
Top Universities in South Africa
University of Cape Town
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
University of the Witwatersrand
Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
University of Pretoria
Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
University of Johannesburg
Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa
University of KwaZulu-Natal
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Universiteit Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
North-West University
Potchefstroom, North West, South Africa
University of South Africa
Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
University of the Free State
Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa
University of the Western Cape
Bellville, Western Cape, South Africa
Tshwane University of Technology
Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
Nelson Mandela University
Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Durban University of Technology
Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Walter Sisulu University
Mthatha, Eastern Cape, South Africa
University of Fort Hare
Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Rhodes University
Grahamstown, Eastern Cape, South Africa
University of Venda
Thohoyandou, Limpopo, South Africa
Central University of Technology
Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
University of Limpopo
Polokwane, Limpopo, South Africa
