Degree Details
The Cape Town University Studies Program offers students the opportunity to pursue courses in their designated fields of study through direct enrollment at the University of Cape Town. Students will also be able to take advantage of staff, facilities and cultural excursions offered by IES Abroad. The University of Cape Town is the highest ranked university in Africa and oldest university in South Africa. Cape Town offers students the opportunity to experience modern South African society and explore the natural wonders surrounding the city.
Key Facts
Area of Study
Location
Home University
Program Structure
Internship Availability
Term
Coursework Level
BU Hub Offered
NoneHousing
Language of Instruction
Requirements & Considerations
- All students must enroll according to, and remain in compliance with, the Boston University Study Abroad Course Load Policy.
- Admissions requirements for all programs
- Students must also meet eligibility requirements for IES Abroad
- Students wishing to pursue Direct Enrollment at UCT must also meet the following criteria:
- Per UCT admissions policy, 3.0 GPA or better on a 4.0 scale (GPAs under 3.0 will be considered on a case-by-case basis and will require additional documents outlined in a section below)
- Sophomore, Junior, or Senior standing when program begins. Applicants need to have at least three semesters of course work when they enroll at the UCT (first semester sophomores can apply). Some local university courses may not be available to students of Sophomore standing. Please contact your IES Abroad Representative for more details.
Curriculum
Students choose from courses in the following faculties through direct enrollment at University of Cape Town.
Housing & Student Services
Residence Halls
- Students live in a private residence hall with other international students. Students live in a furnished single room with a kitchenette, private bathroom, and a digital safe is provided. Living spaces are shared, and there is a gym on site. Internet access is available. Meals are not included.
- An IES Abroad Resident Assistant lives in the residence hall and can serve as a great resource for tips on integrating into the local culture.
Program Dates
This program follows rolling admissions and may fill before the official deadline.
Fall Term
Program Dates
Early-July to Mid-November
Fall Term
Applications Open
December 15
Fall Term
Application Deadline
March 15
Spring Term
Program Dates
Late January to Mid-June
Spring Term
Applications Open
June 1*
Spring Term
Application Deadline
October 1
This program is rolling admissions; applications are reviewed once all application materials are received, prior to all deadlines. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that all required materials are received by the BU Study Abroad office. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible as some programs and internship tracks have limited space and may fill up before the deadline. Submitting a complete application prior to the application deadline, does not guarantee acceptance. Students will be emailed an admissions decision within three weeks of a completed application.
Information for BU Students Awaiting an Admissions Decision and exceptions to the standard admission calendar for all students can be found here.
In addition to completing the standard BU Study Abroad application, students must apply through the IES Abroad online system. The IES Abroad application may not yet be available for your chosen semester.
Please note: Non-U.S. citizens must contact BU Study Abroad prior to submitting an application
Cost & Financial Considerations
- 2025/2026 Tuition & Fees: $29,842 per term
Cost includes tuition, housing, program related activities, administrative fee, overseas medical insurance, and emergency evacuation coverage - Estimated program budget including cost of living expenses.
- Grants and Scholarships available