Are you still trying to find out if you can study psychology in South Africa and universities where you can do that? Then this is for you. Trying to choose the right place to pursue a degree in psychology is an important decision for aspiring students. South Africa has some top universities known for their strong research practices, practical training, and comprehensive psychology programs. So, your options are wide for those asking if there is a place where they can study psychology in South Africa. As the demand for mental health professionals continues to grow, South Africa stands out as an excellent choice for students ready to start a fulfilling career in psychology. There is a reason why over 36,000 international students choose South Africa for their studies.
Where Can I Study Psychology in South Africa in 2025
We have compiled a list of top universities in South Africa where you can psychology, based on their reputation and research in the field. Here are some of the top institutions, along with their global standing and key highlights:
Why Study Psychology in South Africa
Most people don’t know that studying psychology in South Africa right now offers a unique opportunity to engage with the country’s pressing social issues. As a field, psychology will equip you with essential skills to address mental health challenges, promote well-being, and as well as fostering social change, making it highly relevant in the South African context. Let’s look at some points on why you should study psychology in south africa.
Addressing Mental Health Needs
South Africa faces significant mental health challenges, with approximately 17% of the population experiencing mental disorders. There is a critical shortage of trained psychologists to address these issues, highlighting the need for more professionals in the field. By studying psychology, students can contribute to improving mental health services and support systems across communities, promoting better mental health outcomes.
Cultural Relevance
South Africa’s rich diversity necessitates a culturally sensitive approach to psychology. Studying psychology in this context will allow you to understand and engage with various cultural perspectives, enhancing your ability to provide effective and relevant mental health care.
Research Opportunities
South African universities are increasingly focusing on research that addresses local and regional mental health challenges. As a Student, you can participate in groundbreaking research projects that explore topics such as trauma, addiction, and community mental health. Engaging in research not only contributes to the body of knowledge in the field but also helps to inform policy decisions and improve mental health services at various levels.
Career Prospects
The demand for psychologists in South Africa is growing, offering a range of career opportunities in clinical settings, schools, NGOs, and government institutions. Graduates can specialize in areas such as clinical psychology, counselling, and industrial psychology. This offers you a versatile career path. The skills acquired through studying psychology, including critical thinking, empathy, and communication, are highly transferable and valued across many sectors.
Admission Requirements to Study Psychology in South Africa
Let me tell you the truth, admission requirements to study psychology in South Africa vary between institutions but generally follow a similar structure. Let me just outline some key criteria for undergraduate psychology programmes across most South African universities:
National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Equivalent
To be eligible for admission to a psychology programme, students must have completed their National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification. The NSC is the high school exit exam in South Africa, and applicants typically need to achieve a bachelor’s degree pass (also known as a matric exemption).
Minimum APS Score
Most universities in South Africa use the Admission Points Score (APS) system to assess applications. The required APS score for psychology programs usually ranges from 28 to 36 points, depending on the competitiveness of the institution. Top universities such as the University of Cape Town (UCT) or Stellenbosch University may require higher APS scores due to their prestigious programmes. You can calculate your APS score using our calculator on this page.
Subject Requirements
While psychology programs generally do not have specific subject requirements, having a strong background in English and Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is often advantageous. Some institutions may also recommend or require subjects such as Life Sciences or Social Sciences.
Language Proficiency
Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English, as it is the medium of instruction for most psychology programs in South Africa. For students who have not studied in English, an English language proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL may be required.
Additional Requirements
Certain universities may require applicants to submit a motivation letter explaining their interest in studying psychology or may conduct interviews as part of the selection process. These additional requirements are more common for postgraduate psychology programs but can sometimes be requested at the undergraduate level, depending on the university.
Please I encourage you to check the specific admission requirements for the university you are applying to, as these can vary slightly between institutions. Admissions for psychology programs are competitive, particularly at top universities like UCT, Wits, and Stellenbosch, so meeting the minimum requirements does not always guarantee a place.
Cost of Studying Psychology in South Africa
The cost of studying psychology in South Africa will also vary across universities, and the total expenses include tuition fees, study materials, accommodation, and other living expenses. Here’s a breakdown of key costs and funding opportunities for psychology students:
Tuition Fees
Undergraduate Programs: Tuition fees for undergraduate psychology degrees usually range from ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 70,000 per year (approximately USD 1,800 to USD 4,200). For instance:
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- The University of Cape Town (UCT) charges between ZAR 55,000 and ZAR 70,000 per year depending on the specific course load.
- Universities like UNISA offer more affordable distance learning options, with fees ranging from ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 40,000.
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Postgraduate Programs (Honours and Master’s): Honours programs cost approximately ZAR 35,000 to ZAR 60,000, and Master’s programs range between ZAR 60,000 and ZAR 80,000 per year, depending on the university.
Additional Costs:
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- Study Materials: Expect to spend ZAR 2,000 to ZAR 6,000 annually on textbooks, research materials, and other resources.
- Accommodation: On-campus housing costs range from ZAR 4,000 to ZAR 10,000 per month, depending on the university and city.
- Living Expenses: Monthly living costs, including food, transport, and utilities, can vary from ZAR 8,000 to ZAR 12,000 based on location and lifestyle.
Scholarships and Financial Aid Opportunities:
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- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) provides funding to financially disadvantaged students, covering tuition, accommodation, and study materials.
- University-Specific Scholarships: Most universities offer merit-based scholarships. For example:
- UCT and Stellenbosch University provide scholarships for academically excellent students.
- Private Scholarships: Opportunities include the Canon Collins Trust (for postgraduate students) and the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship (for international students).
- SACAP Bursaries: For students pursuing applied psychology, SACAP offers bursaries based on need and academic merit.
Distance Learning and Online Options
For students who need flexibility, several universities in South Africa offer distance learning and online psychology programs. These programs allow students to pursue their education while managing other commitments such as work or family.
Universities Offering Distance or Online Psychology Programs:
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- University of South Africa (UNISA): The largest provider of distance education in South Africa, UNISA offers a well-established Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and various postgraduate options. It is ideal for students seeking flexibility and affordable tuition.
- Stellenbosch University: Stellenbosch offers blended learning programs, which combine online coursework with occasional in-person sessions, especially for their postgraduate psychology courses.
- University of Johannesburg (UJ): UJ’s online programs offer flexibility in psychology-related fields, particularly in areas like industrial psychology.
See the Top 10 Distance Learning Universities in South Africa
Comparison of Online vs. On-Campus Learning Experiences:
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- Online Learning: Online psychology programmes offer convenience and accessibility, especially for students in remote areas. These programmes typically use virtual classrooms, video lectures, and online assessments, allowing students to study from anywhere.
- On-Campus Learning: In-person programmes provide a more traditional university experience, with access to campus facilities, face-to-face interaction with professors, and peer collaboration. This can be beneficial for practical psychology courses requiring hands-on training or lab work.
- Hybrid Programs: Some universities offer blended learning options, combining the best of both methods—students attend lectures online but participate in practical sessions on campus when needed.
You can choose the learning format that best fits your lifestyle, needs, and career goals.
I hope the information provided in this article met your expectations and was able to fulfil your needs.
