Applying to Stellenbosch University: Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide
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Stellenbosch University (SU) is not just a cornerstone of
South Africa's higher education landscape; it is deeply ingrained in the
cultural and historical fabric of the nation. Situated in the picturesque town
of Stellenbosch, nestled in the Western Cape province, SU's journey traces back
to its humble beginnings in the 19th century. The roots of SU can be found in
the establishment of the Stellenbosch Gymnasium in 1866, a pivotal institution
in the region dedicated to providing education in both traditional academic
subjects and the arts. This institution laid the groundwork for what would
later become Stellenbosch University.
In 1887, the institution underwent a significant
transformation, evolving into the Victoria College. This marked a crucial moment in its history as it expanded its academic offerings and solidified its
reputation as a centre for higher learning in South Africa. Under the banner of
Victoria College, the institution continued to grow, attracting students and
scholars from across the country and beyond. However, it was not until 1918
that Stellenbosch University was officially founded. This milestone was a
testament to the institution's growth and development over the decades,
culminating in its recognition as a fully-fledged university. With this
transition, SU cemented its place as a leading institution of higher education,
committed to academic excellence, research, and community engagement.
The journey from Stellenbosch Gymnasium to Stellenbosch
University is a testament to the institution's resilience, adaptability, and
unwavering dedication to education. Today, SU stands as a beacon of learning,
innovation, and intellectual inquiry, continuing to shape the minds of future
generations and contribute to the advancement of knowledge and society.
Chancellors
Stellenbosch University has had a series of distinguished
chancellors who have played significant roles in the institution's development:
1. Johannes Izak Marais (1918–1919)
2. Balthazar Johannes Vorster (1968-1983)
3. Dr. Johann Rupert (2009–2019)
4. Justice Edwin Cameron (2019–present)
Awards and Achievements
Stellenbosch University has garnered numerous accolades and
achievements:
- Academic Excellence: SU consistently ranks among the top
universities in Africa and the world for its research output, innovation, and
academic performance.
- Research Initiatives: The university is renowned for its
contributions to various fields such as health sciences, engineering, and
social sciences.
- Innovations: SU is known for its significant contributions
to technology and sustainability, with various patents and innovations to its
name.
Rankings
Stellenbosch University is highly regarded in both national
and international rankings:
- QS World University Rankings: Stellenbosch University is
frequently listed among the top 400 universities globally.
- Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings: SU is often ranked
in the top 300 worldwide, with particular strengths in engineering, life
sciences, and social sciences.
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): Known for
its strong research output and academic reputation.
Open Days
Stellenbosch University hosts annual open days to provide
prospective students with insights into university life, academic programs, and
campus facilities. Typically scheduled for the end of April these events
typically include campus tours, information sessions, and interactions with
faculty members and current students. Open days are crucial for applicants to
gain a deeper understanding of the programs and services offered.
Why Choose Stellenbosch
There are several reasons why
choosing Stellenbosch University (SU) could be a great decision:
1. Academic Excellence: SU is
known for its high-quality education and academic standards. It ranks among the
top universities both nationally and internationally, offering rigorous and
reputable programs across various fields.
2. Diverse Range of Programmes:
Whether you're interested in humanities, sciences, engineering, business, or
health sciences, SU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate
programs to suit different interests and career goals.
3. Research Opportunities: SU is
a hub for research and innovation. Students have the opportunity to engage in
cutting-edge research projects and work alongside renowned professors and
experts in their fields.
4. Community Engagement: The
university is committed to making a positive impact on society through
community outreach programs, social initiatives, and partnerships with local
organizations.
5. Beautiful Campus: Situated in
the picturesque town of Stellenbosch, SU boasts a stunning campus with modern
facilities, green spaces, and a vibrant student life.
6. International Recognition:
SU's reputation extends globally, providing students with opportunities for
international collaboration, exchange programs, and exposure to diverse
cultures.
7. Supportive Environment: The university
offers various support services to help students succeed, including academic
tutoring, career guidance, counselling, and financial aid.
8. Networking Opportunities: SU
provides ample opportunities for students to network with industry professionals,
alumni, and fellow students, fostering connections that can be valuable for future
career prospects.
Overall, Stellenbosch University
offers a compelling combination of academic excellence, research opportunities,
community engagement, and a supportive environment, making it an attractive
choice for higher education.
Faculties and Departments
Stellenbosch University is organized into ten faculties, each
housing numerous departments:
1. Faculty of AgriSciences
- Agronomy, Animal
Sciences, Food Science, Viticulture and Oenology
2. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
- Drama, History,
Music, Philosophy, Political Science, Sociology
3. Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
- Business
Management, Economics, Logistics, Public Leadership
4. Faculty of Education
- Curriculum
Studies, Educational Psychology, Sport Science
5. Faculty of Engineering
- Civil, Electrical
and Electronic, Mechanical and Mechatronic
6. Faculty of Law
- Mercantile Law,
Public Law, Private Law
7. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
- Biomedical
Sciences, Clinical Medicine, Physiotherapy
8. Faculty of Military Science
- Human and
Organisational Development, Security and Africa Studies
9. Faculty of Science
- Biochemistry,
Botany, Chemistry, Physics, Zoology
10. Faculty of Theology
- Old and New
Testament Studies, Practical Theology, Systematic Theology
Courses Offered
SU offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate
courses across its ten faculties. Programs include Bachelor’s degrees, Master’s
degrees, and Doctoral degrees in diverse fields such as:
- Humanities: BA in Social Dynamics, BA in Language and
Culture
- Sciences: BSc in Computer Science, BSc in Molecular
Biology
- Engineering: BEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Business: BCom in Management Sciences, MBA
- Health Sciences: MBChB, BSc in Physiotherapy
When to Apply
Applications should be submitted online, taking careful note
of the specified closing dates. Applicants must ensure that their applications
are submitted before the designated deadline. It is essential to provide a
valid email address and phone number during the application process to
facilitate communication. Upon creating a profile, applicants can proceed by following
the prompts provided by the system. It is crucial to adhere to the closing
dates for various application categories. For undergraduate applications and
residence applications, the opening date is 4 April, with the closing date set
for 31 July. Financial assistance applications at SU are open from 15 June to
30 November. NSFAS bursary applications have a distinct timeline set by NSFAS,
running from 1 September to 30 November. For Diploma in Public Accountability
applications (Telematic education), the application period spans from 4 April
to 15 December.
Documents Required
When applying to Stellenbosch University, applicants need to
submit:
- Certified copy of the applicant's ID or passport
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of application fee payment
- A completed application form
- English language proficiency test results (if applicable)
- Curriculum Vitae (for postgraduate applications)
- Motivation letter or personal statement (for certain
programs)
Application Fee
- South African Applicants: The application fee is R 100.
- International Applicants: The fee is R 400.
-Stellenbosch Business School applicants; MBA programmes –R1050,
all other programmes-R850
Applying to Stellenbosch University (SU) involves several steps
1. Review Requirements: Before applying, carefully review
the admission requirements for the programme you are interested in. These
requirements may vary depending on the level of study (e.g., undergraduate or
postgraduate) and the specific program. Click here to apply.
2. Create an Online Profile: Visit the SU website and create
an online profile on the university's application portal. You'll need to
provide basic personal information such as your name, contact details, and
educational background.
3. Select Program: Choose the program(s) you wish to apply
for and ensure you meet the minimum eligibility criteria.
4. Gather Documents: Prepare the necessary documents for
your application, which may include academic transcripts, certificates,
identification documents, English language proficiency test results (if
applicable), recommendation letters, and a motivation letter or personal
statement.
5. Submit Application: Complete the online application form,
providing accurate information and uploading all required documents. Make sure
to double-check the information before submitting your application.
6. Pay Application Fee: Pay the application fee, which is required
for processing your application. The fee amount may vary depending on your
nationality and the program you're applying for.
7. Monitor Application Status: After submitting your
application, you can monitor its status through the online application portal.
Keep an eye out for any updates or requests for additional information.
8. Receive Admission Decision: Once the admissions committee
reviews your application, you'll receive an admission decision via email or
through the online application portal. This decision will indicate whether
you've been accepted, placed on a waiting list, or declined admission.
9. Accept Offer: If you receive an offer of admission,
carefully review the terms and conditions, including any deadlines for
accepting the offer and paying any required deposits.
10. Complete Registration After accepting the offer, follow
the instructions provided by the university to complete the registration
process, which may include submitting additional documents, paying tuition
fees, and attending orientation sessions.
It's essential to adhere to all deadlines and requirements
throughout the application process to ensure a smooth and successful
application to Stellenbosch University. If you have any questions or need
assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to the university's admissions office
for support.
Minimum Admission Requirements
The admission and selection criteria must be met before
applying to Stellenbosch University. Prospective applicants should ensure they
fulfill the basic academic requirements for a bachelor’s degree and meet the
specific requirements and selection criteria for their chosen program(s).
However, meeting these criteria does not guarantee admission, as the university
receives numerous applications each year, and available space is limited.
For a bachelor’s degree, applicants must have:
- At least 30% in a South African Language of Learning and
Teaching (English or Afrikaans).
- An achievement rating of 4 (50% - 59%) in four 20-credit
subjects.
To calculate the National Senior Certificate average,
applicants should add the highest score in the Language of Learning and
Teaching (English or Afrikaans) to five times the best results in 20-credit
subjects (excluding Life Orientation, Advanced Mathematics, Mathematics 3, and
any other non-NSC subjects), and then divide the total by 6.
For international qualifications, appropriate calculations
and conversions will be applied according to the guidelines for the specific
examination.
Requirements for Each Course
- Undergraduate Programs: Minimum admission requirements
include the National Senior Certificate (NSC) with specific subject
requirements and performance levels that vary by program.
- Postgraduate Programs: Requirements include a relevant
Bachelor’s degree with specific prerequisites depending on the chosen field of
study.
Housing and Transportation
Stellenbosch University offers a range of on-campus and
off-campus housing options:
- Residences: SU provides accommodation in university
residences with various amenities.
- Private Accommodation: Off-campus options include private
apartments and houses.
- Transportation: The university offers shuttle services for
students. The town is also well-serviced by public transport and is
bicycle-friendly.
Contact Details
- General Enquiries
- Tel: +27 21 808
9111
- Email:
info@sun.ac.za
- Website: Stellenbosch University Website
Stellenbosch University is really good at academics and new
ideas, not just in South Africa but all over the world. It has been around for
a long time and offers lots of different courses. The university also does a
lot of research and works with the community. It's a great place for students
from anywhere because it has lots to offer, whether you want to study for your
first degree or continue with more advanced studies. SU has a friendly campus
and lots of support, making it a top pick for higher education.
