The World Endeavors Study Abroad in South Africa program takes place in Stellenbosch, South Africa. Stellenbosch University is one of the most advanced institutions of higher education in the country, consistently producing world-class research since its founding in the late 1800s. Stellenbosch University offers programs in a wide range of fields and attracts students from over 100 countries.
Program Overview
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Study at one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in all of South Africa. The presence of the university in Stellenbosch has shaped the city primarily into a college town. You’ll feel right at home with a healthy mix of local and international students to coexist with.
Craft an educational program to fit your personal and academic needs. Choose from a full curriculum of courses taught in English, from a required South African history & culture course, to local and indigenous languages, sciences, liberal arts, business, mathematics, social sciences, and more.
REQUIREMENTS
- Approval received from the home university.
- Current official undergraduate degree transcript.
- Valid passport until at least 6 months after your program end date. Copy of your passport (photo page).
- Most students will be required to obtain a study visa. The application process can be extensive but World Endeavors staff will walk you through it!
Location
Stellenbosch is a small town on the outskirts of Cape Town in western South Africa. Nestled in the Boland Mountains of the South African wine country, Stellenbosch is the second oldest Dutch colony in the country, founded in 1679. Most of the town’s landscape is taken up by the sprawling university campus, home to upwards of 32,000 students during the school year. The town’s viticulture is its main attraction, as the nexus of South Africa’s wine industry and the site of the country’s first vineyards. Towering over the town on all sides are the breathtaking peaks of the Boland Mountains, where visitors and a thriving mountain biking community take full advantage of the rocky expanse’s ripe potential for adventure.
Housing
Campus housing is available to international students in the Concordia and Academia student residences. Rooms in Academia have private bathrooms and shared living rooms and kitchens, but you will need to provide your own utensils/cooking equipment. Coin-op washing machines are available to students. In Concordia, kitchen facilities are furnished and linens are provided. All rooms in all residences have access to the school’s WiFi network. Routes to and from the student residences are patrolled by campus security.
Life in Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch sits in a valley surrounded by picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and majestic mountains. Just a short distance from Cape Town, this is a relaxed college town with opportunities to explore nature right in the backyard. The presence of Stellenbosch University provides a splash of youth and cultural diversity that livens up the experience for students coming from abroad. Home to numerous wineries, the city is soaked in wine culture which will provide a unique living and educational experience.
Support
World Endeavors study abroad programs offer full support, starting with airport pickup and accommodation transfer upon arrival followed by an on-site orientation covering health, safety, and local tips. Emergency support from your in-country coordinator, 24/7 travel medical insurance, and continuous contact with your advisor for additional assistance throughout the program helps you feel secure and supported. Whatever challenges life throws your way, we’ve got you covered!
Academic
After successful completion of the program, academic credit and transcripts will be issued by Stellenbosch University, which is approved and accredited by the South African Department of Education.
The World Endeavors process is designed to take the guesswork out of academic credit and credit transfers. Our experienced advisors work with each student and his or her academic advisor before the program begins to ensure students earn the credit expected for courses taken abroad.
Eligibility
- Applicants must have a GPA of at least 2.9 on a 4.0 scale.
- Fluency in English is required.
Course Load
Students will have access to the full curriculum with the ability to choose any course offered by Stellenbosch University where all prerequisites are met. Max total credits per semester are 15 with the option to enter into 3 different program tracks.
Full Curriculum Program: Students can choose any course offered by Stellenbosch University if prerequisites are met. Choose up to 5 courses for a total of 15 credits.
General Education Program: Students may choose up to two General Education courses as well as the Global Service Learning course (for 6 or 9 credits) and can also select courses from the Full Curriculum. Choose from courses including “An Overview of South African History”, “Politics and Cultural Change in Contemporary South Africa”, “Gender and Identity in Africa”, “Understanding HIV in South Africa” and “Afrikaans for Beginners”. Choose up to 5 courses for a total of 15 credits.
Global Service Learning Program: This program comprises 90 class hours and 45 hours of on-site community engagement. Students take the Global Service Learning course for either 6 or 9 credits plus two or three courses from the Full Curriculum Program or the General Education Program for a total of 12-15 credits.
You can view the full curriculum.
What's Included/ Costs
INCLUDED
- Dedicated Program Advisor who is accessible and experienced
- Tuition: 12-18 credits per semester (up to 5 courses)
- Academic transcript from Stellenbosch University
- Pre and post arrival orientation; re-entry guidance
- Student services and learning support
- Access to university facilities, clubs, and extracurricular activities
- 24/7 emergency phone support
- Airport reception and welcome
- Student housing accommodations
- Comprehensive travel medical insurance
- Travel visa guidance and support
- Advice on how to get a local phone number
NOT INCLUDED
- Round-trip transportation to Stellenbosch
- Meals
- Visa expenses
- Optional trips and excursions
- Textbooks and other course materials
- Daily transportation
- Personal expenses
Dates & Deadlines
Fall Semester 2024: July 22nd – December 13th
Application Deadline: March 15th, 2024
Spring Semester 2025: February 12th – June 28th
Application Deadline: November 15th, 2024
Program dates listed are for reference only and are subject to change. Please wait until after acceptance and you have received the confirmed dates to book any flights.
Every World Endeavors Study Abroad Program Includes
Our study abroad programs are as unique as our destinations, but there are program features that unify all of our study experiences.
YOUR STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM
- Top accredited universities
- Flexible durations – 2 to 4 weeks to a full academic year
- Expansive destination options
- English instruction offered in all locations
ACCOMMODATION
- Vetted accommodations selected with quality and safety in mind
- Friendly community of peers from local host country and around the world
TEAM OF EXPERTS
- Dedicated one-on-one advisor
- Local on-site coordinator
PREPARATION AND SUPPORT
- Airport pickup
- Pre-arrival and on-site orientation
- 24/7 local support
- Activities and cultural engagement
- On-campus social events, clubs and sports
ACADEMIC CREDIT
- Professional assistance and collaboration with home institution on course approvals and credit transfers
- Transcript received directly from university abroad
PEACE OF MIND
- Comprehensive travel medical insurance
- Mental Health First Aid-certified staff
- 24/7 emergency travel assistance
YOUR STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM
- Top accredited universities
- Flexible durations – 2 to 4 weeks to a full academic year
- Expansive destination options
- English instruction offered in all locations
ACCOMMODATION
- Vetted accommodations selected with quality and safety in mind
- Friendly community of peers from local host country and around the world
TEAM OF EXPERTS
- Dedicated one-on-one advisor
- Local on-site coordinator
PREPARATION AND SUPPORT
- Airport pickup
- Pre-arrival and on-site orientation
- 24/7 local support
- Activities and cultural engagement
- On-campus social events, clubs and sports
ACADEMIC CREDIT
- Professional assistance and collaboration with home institution on course approvals and credit transfers
- Transcript received directly from university abroad
PEACE OF MIND
- Comprehensive travel medical insurance
- Mental Health First Aid-certified staff
- 24/7 emergency travel assistance
HEALTH & SAFETY
When you feel safe and respected abroad, you will flourish. World Endeavors participants are transformed through enriching, rewarding and safe experiences around the world. We meticulously monitor travel recommendations and will only facilitate programs where we can ensure our participants’ safety.
We take key steps to ensure our participants’ well-being, including providing a pre-trip success guide, 24/7 local support, in-country trained staff, pre and post-arrival orientation, comprehensive travel medical insurance, and Mental Health First Aid-certified staff. Please contact us if you have any specific questions or concerns.
WHAT TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME IN SOUTH AFRICA
When you have some free time in South Africa, you’ll find a variety of activities and experiences to try out. Here are a few suggestions:
- Go on Safari: Embark on a thrilling safari adventure in world-renowned game reserves, like Kruger National Park, where you can spot the Big Five and other wildlife.
- Visit Cape Town: Explore the vibrant city of Cape Town, ascending Table Mountain for breathtaking views, and exploring the picturesque Cape Peninsula.
- Experience Cultural Heritage: Visit cultural villages to interact with locals or experience traditional music and dance performances.
- Explore the Garden Route: Drive or take a tour along the stunning Garden Route, experiencing diverse landscapes, beautiful beaches, and charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay.
Not sounding like the right program for you? Try our program finder to filter based on your choices.
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South Africa Study Abroad FAQs
Is South Africa expensive?
South Africa (SA) has a weak currency in relation to Europe, the UK and the US. If you travel to South Africa with a strong currency, like US dollars, then life in this country is very affordable.
Is South Africa safe?
As in many other countries, there are areas in SA that are safer than others. Remember not to flash cash or expensive cameras and phones, stick to the safer areas and be aware of your surroundings. Safety is our top priority for all of our programs, and we take several measures to ensure your experience abroad is as safe as possible.
What countries are near to South Africa?
South Africa is bordered by Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Swaziland. South Africa also encapsulates the small mountain kingdom of Lesotho.
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How to apply for a Study Abroad Program
You’ve decided to study abroad – congratulations! Applying for your World Endeavors program is easy and stress-free. Get ready to CHANGE YOUR WORLD!
STEP 1
EXPLORE & ASK
Research and compare. If you can’t decide on a program, we can guide you toward the best fit.
STEP 2
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
Fill out our online application form to share all your relevant details with our team.
STEP 3
ENROLL & PREPARE
Receive your official acceptance and enroll. We’ll give you all the info you need to get ready!
STEP 4
START YOUR ADVENTURE!
You’ve researched, planned and saved. Now you’re ready to study and explore like never before!