List of All Universities in South Africa

South Africa has a strong and diverse higher education system, offering opportunities for both academic and vocational studies. There are 26 public universities in South Africa, divided into three categories: traditional universities, comprehensive universities, and universities of technology.

Whether you’re planning to study further with Grade 12, or looking for a specific field like engineering, teaching, or law, this full list will help you explore your options.

See: How to Find Your First Job After Grade 12

Types of Universities in South Africa

Before we list all universities in South Africa, it’s helpful to understand the types:

• Traditional Universities – Focus on research and academic degrees.
• Comprehensive Universities – Offer both academic and vocational qualifications.
• Universities of Technology – Emphasise career-focused and technical programs.

Traditional Universities in South Africa

These institutions offer bachelor’s degrees, postgraduate programs, and research opportunities:

1. University of Cape Town (UCT) – Cape Town
2. University of Fort Hare (UFH) – Alice, East London, Bhisho
3. University of the Free State (UFS) – Bloemfontein, QwaQwa
4. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) – Durban, Pietermaritzburg, Westville
5. University of Limpopo (UL) – Sovenga
6. North-West University (NWU) – Potchefstroom, Mahikeng, Vanderbijlpark
7. University of Pretoria (UP) – Pretoria
8. Rhodes University (RU) – Makhanda (Grahamstown)
9. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) – Ga-Rankuwa
10. Stellenbosch University (SU) – Stellenbosch
11. University of the Western Cape (UWC) – Bellville
12. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) – Johannesburg

Comprehensive Universities in South Africa

These institutions offer both academic and career-based qualifications:

13. University of Johannesburg (UJ) – Johannesburg
14. Nelson Mandela University (NMU) – Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), George
15. University of South Africa (UNISA) – Pretoria (distance learning)
16. University of Venda (Univen) – Thohoyandou
17. Walter Sisulu University (WSU) – Mthatha, Butterworth, East London, Queenstown
18. University of Zululand (Unizulu) – KwaDlangezwa, Richards Bay

Universities of Technology in South Africa

These institutions offer diplomas and degrees focused on engineering, sciences, and practical careers:

19. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) – Cape Town, Bellville
20. Central University of Technology (CUT) – Bloemfontein, Welkom
21. Durban University of Technology (DUT) – Durban, Pietermaritzburg
22. Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) – Umlazi
23. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – Pretoria, Soshanguve, Ga-Rankuwa, Mbombela, Polokwane, eMalahleni
24. Vaal University of Technology (VUT) – Vanderbijlpark, Ekurhuleni, Secunda, Upington

Newest Public Universities in South Africa

These universities are newer but fully accredited:

25. University of Mpumalanga (UMP) – Mbombela
26. Sol Plaatje University (SPU) – Kimberley

What to Do With Grade 12 and University Entry

If you’ve completed Grade 12 (matric), you may qualify for:

• Diploma and degree programs at many of these institutions
• Distance learning through UNISA
• TVET college entry if you’re upgrading or changing fields

Make sure to check individual university websites for:

• Admission requirements
• Closing dates for applications
• Accredited courses

My Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning to pursue a degree in medicine, business, education, or engineering, these universities in South Africa offer a wide range of study options. Choose an institution that aligns with your career goals, location preferences, and funding opportunities.