Study Abroad in South Africa
Study in South Africa and discover one of the world’s most affordable and vibrant countries.
Located in the southernmost tip of Africa, South Africa is a unique study abroad destination with a diverse landscape, rich culture, and relaxed lifestyle. Choose one of CIEE’s study abroad programs in South Africa and explore the country’s notable landmarks, stunning wildlife, hiking trails, history museums, and more.
When you study in South Africa, you’ll be in one of the country’s largest cities, Cape Town, where you can attend local theater, music, and dance productions; enjoy museum tours and visits to rural cooperatives; cheer for teams at a cricket or rugby match. Come for a semester of service learning, a year of arts and sciences study, or a summer exploring community development and social justice!
While abroad, students may enhance their academic experience by completing a full- or part-time internship in South Africa. This unique opportunity allows students to gain real-world international work experience, expand their professional networks, and develop valuable skills that complement their studies. Internships are available across diverse industries, including business, marketing, manufacturing, sustainability, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience.
With homestays, cultural clubs, excursions and volunteering opportunities, CIEE study abroad in South Africa is a uniquely immersive international experience. If you’re looking to explore beyond South Africa, join our Open Campus Block Network and create a custom program that includes Cape Town, plus up to two other study abroad destinations.
Study Abroad Programs in South Africa
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Study Program
Have you ever considered trading the northern hemisphere mid-winter for the southern hemisphere mid-summer?
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Study Program
Gain a strong grasp of South African history, politics, educational challenges, and values and traditions.
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Study Program
- Full-Time Internship
In Cape Town, opportunities abound in a variety of sectors.
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Study Program
Study abroad next summer in Cape Town, South Africa, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of one of Africa's most dynamic cities with CIEE.
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
...for 1, 2, or 3 term blocks!
Our Open Campus Block program allows you to start studying in Cape Town, then study in two other countries in one term.
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Full-Time Internship
Spend 12 weeks interning abroad FT (30-40 hours/week) and earning academic credit while experiencing outdoor adventures in Cape Town, South Africa.
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend 12 weeks interning abroad PT (20 hours/week) and earning academic credit while immersing yourself in the cultural and dining capital of Cape Town.
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend your summer earning academic credits toward your degree while simultaneously gaining practical real-world work experience in one of Cape Town’s top industries, including agriculture, the arts, health science, human services, and law.
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend your semester in Cape Town and experience a one-of-a-kind study abroad adventure! This program is designed for students of all majors who want to immerse themselves in a different culture while making real-world connections and pursuing their undergraduate degree.
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Explore Cape Town through a local lens as you tackle some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges during your semester abroad.
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend a semester in Cape Town and explore how South Africa's capital is shaping the future with cutting-edge innovation and smart city planning.
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Study Program
- Part-Time Internship
Spend your semester in Cape Town and experience a one-of-a-kind study abroad adventure! This program is designed for students of all majors who want to immerse themselves in a different culture while making real-world connections and pursuing their undergraduate degree.
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Study Program
It’s an experience that’s sure to stick with you for life.
South Africa Blog Posts
Reflecting on South Africa as a Frederick Douglass Global Fellow
By: Sam Li Stepping off the plane in Cape Town felt like stepping into a whirlwind of vibrant energy, complex history, and breathtaking landscapes. This wasn't just any summer adventure... keep reading
South Africa Study Abroad: The Ultimate Guide
South Africa is simply astonishing. From its varied topography and rich culture to its complex history and diverse wildlife, a South Africa study abroad program promises the adventure of a... keep reading
4 Best Countries to Study Abroad in Africa
Africa is the world’s second-largest and second-most-populous continent on the planet. The people, the landscapes, the animals, and more that make up this magnificent region are diverse and profound. If... keep reading
Frequently Asked Questions
There are several reasons why you should study abroad in South Africa, from the country’s great climate and natural attractions to its stunning landscape and multicultural cities. In Cape Town, you’ll experience a vibrant, diverse city with an exciting nightlife, cultural attractions, restaurants, and more!
If you’re wondering how to study abroad in South Africa, you can complete a few simple steps – search our study abroad programs in South Africa, connect with your campus study abroad office, and start your application.
While the cost of studying abroad in South Africa varies depending on your program, duration of your program, and location, there are several scholarship opportunities to study abroad in South Africa. Students can find more information on CIEE's scholarship offerings on our Study Abroad Scholarships and Grants page.
South Africa is a good place to study abroad for students interested in studying at a top university, University of Cape Town, where they can complete courses including African ecology and conservation, business, anthropology, public health, engineering, and more. In a destination grappling with vast socioeconomic inequalities and a global economy, students are sure to learn a lot about South Africa’s past, present, and future.
Yes! CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad South Africa programs, including the GAIN Travel Grant, Douglass O'Connell Scholars Grants, MSI Grant, and more Need-Based and Merit-Based funding opportunities.
Read more: How to Apply to a Study Abroad Scholarship at CIEE: 4 Steps
Yes, you can absolutely complete an internship abroad in South Africa with CIEE. Our international internship programs allow college students to choose from a variety of full- and part-time internships abroad in a variety of fields, including manufacturing, finance, hospitality, healthcare, public policy, and more!
Search our internship opportunities to get started!
Study in up to 3 Cities this Semester
With CIEE’s Open Campus Block programs, you’re in charge! You can design your semester abroad to include up to three dynamic locations - plus, select your academic focus and length of stay.
