cape-town-signal-hill-overview
Cape Town, South Africa

Semester in Cape Town

Study Program Part-Time Internship

Dates

-

18 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Dates

TBD

Costs

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

The application deadline has passed.

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

18 weeks

Costs

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Tentative Dates

-

17 weeks

Credit

12 - 18 semester hours

18 - 27 quarter hours

Eligibility

Application Deadline

Apply Now

Request Information

Overview

Your Semester in Cape Town program lasts a full semester and is designed for students from all academic backgrounds. You will enroll in a combination of CIEE courses, host institution courses, and courses taught online through CIEE's global academic partner, ASU. Enhance your experience with co-curricular and extracurricular activities while immersing yourself in South African culture. Live and learn in Cape Town!

Unique Experiences

Experience the Natural Beauty of Cape Town

where stunning nature reserves, pristine beaches, and vibrant botanical gardens blend seamlessly into the city's landscape

Immerse Yourself in the Multicultural Heritage

by sampling the city's diverse cuisine, joining cooking classes, and experiencing the rhythms of African dance and music

Visit Renowned Wine Farms In and Around Cape Town

indulging in tastings and learning about the region's wine-making traditions, while taking in the scenery of the Cape Winelands

Experience
  • summer study abroad students cape town

Your Destination

Cape Town is South Africa's vibrant city, offering an inspiring environment for students of all disciplines. The city's unique blend of African, European, and Asian cultures, iconic natural landmarks like Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, bustling markets, and lively arts scene create an enriching backdrop for studying abroad. Whether you're studying business, science, engineering, technology, communications, psychology, health sciences, liberal arts, language, or fine arts, Cape Town is the perfect place to study abroad.

cape-town-chef-intern

Program Highlights

  • Academic Courses: Choose from CIEE courses, host institution courses, and online courses delivered by CIEE’s global partner, ASU, that align with your academic major.
  • Optional Internship Placements: Enhance your program with an optional for-credit internship that aligns with your career aspirations.
  • Immersive Experiences: Participate in activites, excursions, study tours, and more that showcase your host city's culture, values, and local art, film, music, cuisine, and sports scenes.
  • Academic Projects: Enroll in an optional for-credit independent research project or service-learning project for increased professional development opportunities. 
cape town surfing

Excursions & Activities

CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Cape Town will open doors for you to explore South Africa's rich diversity, language, culture, history,  and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad.      

Samples of past excursions and activities: 

  • Explore Cape Town's museums like the Iziko Slave Lodge, Robben Island, and District Six Museum, each offering a unique perspective on the country's journey
  • Take a tour of Bo-Kaap or participate in a cooking course at Eziko, where you'll learn about the vibrant traditions and cultural significance of its diverse cuisine
  • Get creative and active by testing your skills in surfing, learning traditional beadwork techniques, or moving to the rhythms of African dance

Please note: Activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.    

Program Blogs

From CIEE

Skeleton Gorge: A Beautiful, Grueling Adventure in Cape Town

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

By: Jeanne d'Arc Koffi Hiking Skeleton Gorge in Cape Town was an experience I’ll never forget. The guidebooks warned it would be challenging, but as someone with hiking experience, I... keep reading

From CIEE

Reflecting on South Africa as a Frederick Douglass Global Fellow

By College Study Abroad Ambassador at CIEE

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

From CIEE

South Africa Study Abroad: The Ultimate Guide

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

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

Housing
Academics

Academics

CIEE Cape Town: Study in the vibrant student-friendly suburb of Rondebosch near central Cape Town. CIEE Cape Town boasts two main classrooms, a small meeting room, a student lounge, a student life office, and an academic advising office.

University of Cape Town (UCT): Established as South African College in 1829, UCT is internationally recognized as the top-ranked African research university. In 2022, UCT ranked 160th in the world (QS rankings). The UCT campus has beautiful grounds and attractive facilities which include a range of commercial, medical, recreational, and sporting facilities.  

Arizona State University (ASU): Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar. 

GPA

3.0

Language Requirements

There are no specific language requirements for this program.

Immigration/Entry Requirements

Visa Required: Yes

Additional Requirements

Please refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.  

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Requirements

All Semester in Cape Town students take 3 to 4 courses for a total of 12-18 semester credits choosing from: 

  • 0-2 CIEE courses 
  • 2-3 courses taught in English at the University of Cape Town 
  • Up to 2 ASU online courses (up to 6 total credits), only after 12 in-person credits have been met 
    • Spring Term: Students can enroll in session B only 
    • Fall Term: Students can enroll in session A and/or B  

Program Credit

Total credit: 12-18 U.S. semester/18-27 quarter credits

Course Credit

  • CIEE Courses: 3 U.S. semester/4.5 quarter credits; 45 contact hours 
  • University of Cape Town (UCT) Courses: Typically, 4-6.5 U.S. semester/3.75-9.75 quarter credits; 120-300 notional hours pre course
  • ASU Online Courses: Typically, 3-4 U.S. semester/4.5-6 quarter credits; 45-60 contact hours 

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Academic Culture

Students typically find that UCT courses require greater responsibility and initiative in a less structured environment than they are accustomed to. It is important to be motivated, self-sufficient, and deeply interested in the subject matter. Teaching methods at UCT include a mixture of lectures, tutorials, seminars, and, in the sciences, laboratory classes. CIEE courses are designed to follow U.S. academic culture and standards. The class environment typically features a combination of traditional lecture and discussion with co-curricular excursions and activities. Heavy emphasis is placed on student participation. To avoid falling behind, students should not plan personal travel out of the city when classes are in session.  

Arizona State University: Most ASU online courses are asynchronous. You may find yourself in classes with students from ASU, other American universities, and students from around the world. You’ll receive direct and individualized support from faculty, 100% online.

Class Format

Classes are scheduled Monday to Friday and typically meet two to three times per week. Attendance is strictly enforced. Students should expect an average of two hours of preparation required for each hour in class. UCT courses include UCT undergraduates and CIEE courses are for CIEE students only. Class sizes at UCT range from 100 to 300 with larger lectures and smaller tutorials (sections) of 20 to 40 students.  

ASU online courses meet in “sessions” that are 7.5-weeks long in the semester, and all work must be completed within the session dates regardless of when your other CIEE courses begin or end.

Grading

UCT courses all include continuous assessment, often (but not necessarily always), with 50% of the final grade based on the final exam, which is moderated by external examiners. Grades are based on a South African scale of 100 and later converted to the U.S. system of A-F. For CIEE courses, the U.S. grading scale of A-F is used. Students are graded based on their attendance, class participation, homework, project work, presentations, and midterm and final examinations. The assessment of learning outcomes is continuous through these methods of evaluation as set out in course syllabi.  

ASU grading follows the same format and standards as ASU courses taught in-person. “Pass/fail” or “Audit” is not allowed for CIEE students.

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Language of Instruction

English

Individual courses may have additional prerequisites; for CIEE courses, these are listed in the syllabi below. Students are responsible for having their own course approval conversations with their advisors. Your study abroad advisor and CIEE staff can help you understand your course options if you don't see a recommendation that fits your course needs.

Courses

Course Information

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Visual and Performing Arts

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Agriculture

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Social Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Academic Projects

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Biological and Physical Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Social Sciences

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Visual and Performing Arts

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Agriculture

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Business, Economics, Management, and Marketing

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Engineering and Engineering Technologies

Course
Language
Semester Credit

Natural Resources, Conservation, and the Environment

Course
Language
Semester Credit

UNIVERSITY OF CAPE TOWN

 

Below is a list of the subjects available at the University of Cape Town. For specific course listings, please refer to the UCT Handbook. Please note that not all courses within UCT subject areas or departments are suitable for program participants, and many have prerequisites.  

Faculty of Commerce  

  • Accounting  
  • Finance and Tax  
  • Management  
  • Actuarial Science  
  • Economics  
  • Commerce IT (Information Systems)  

Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance

  • Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment  
  • Mechanical, Chemical, Civil, and Electrical Engineering  
  • Geomatics    
  • Architecture and Planning  

Faculty of Humanities  

  • African Languages and Literature  
  • African Studies  
  • Afrikaans and Netherlandic Studies  
  • Classics  
  • Drama  
  • English Literature  
  • Film and Media Studies  
  • Fine Art  
  • Hebrew and Jewish Studies  
  • History  
  • History of Art  
  • Independent Research  
  • Linguistics  
  • Music  
  • Philosophy  
  • Political Studies  
  • Psychology  
  • Religious Studies  
  • Social Anthropology  
  • Sociology  
  • Theory of Literature  

Faculty of Science  

  • Archaeology  
  • Astronomy  
  • Botany  
  • Chemistry  
  • Computer Science  
  • Environmental and Geographical Science  
  • Geological Sciences  
  • Mathematics  
  • Oceanography  
  • Physics  
  • Statistical Sciences  
  • Zoology  

Faculty of Law  

  • Criminology  

 

CIEE proudly partners with ASU to deliver asynchronous, 100% online coursework that aligns with your degree requirements from anywhere you study abroad.

CIEE and ASU offer courses online per program eligibility, at no additional charge. Be sure to review online courses with your home school advisor.

Check the CIEE Program Dates and ASU start dates below to maximize course options within your program! 

Search ASU Online Courses BROWSE FAQs for more INFO

 

Program Options
Program Options

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Internships

Discover Internship Opportunities

We're excited you're considering this program! Next, explore the types of internships you can choose from for an epic internship abroad with CIEE Study Abroad.

Explore Industry Options

The work culture in Cape Town is laid-back yet professional, emphasizing work-life balance, creativity, and innovation. Interns can expect to work with local NGOs, startups, or established businesses. There’s a strong sense of community, and colleagues often socialize after work in a friendly, multicultural environment. 

A female intern picks crops from a field

Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources

Gain experience in agricultural markets, agribusiness companies, and NGOs to study food production and global processes.

A female intern sits in front of a studio A/V board while recording

Arts, Audio/Video Technology and Communications

Immerse yourself in today's cutting-edge global media by working in film studios, media companies, the theater, and more.

A intern teacher works with her students in the classroom

Education and Training

Experience international teaching methodologies and curriculum development in classrooms around Jordan, Spain, and more.

A student intern sitting at a microscope in a lab

Health Science

Immerse yourself in global healthcare systems to study cross-border medical practices and address public health challenges.

Interns wearing hardhats at a community development site

Human Services

Deepen your knowledge of human services through social welfare work, community development, and international advocacy.

A lawyer and an intern reviewing documents in an office

Law, Public Safety, Corrections and Security

Experience international legal systems, global justice issues, and law enforcement challenges in courts, firms, and agencies.

Browse Internship Opportunities

Explore internship placements available through this program to find the right fit for your academic and professional goals.

Disclaimer: Internship placements are subject to availability and host employer hiring discretion. Application and payment of CIEE fees does not guarantee specific placement. This internship listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party.

Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

CIEE offers scholarships and grants annually to help students like you make your study abroad dream a reality.

Students who apply to this program are eligible for the following scholarships and grants:

  • Wollitzer Merit Scholarships in Area or Comparative Studies
  • Ping Scholarships for Academic Excellence
  • CIEE Gilman Go Global Grant
  • MSI Grant
  • Trailblazer Grant

To be considered, submit the CIEE Scholarships & Grants application within your CIEE program application.

Learn more about scholarships

Dates & Fees

Dates & Fees

You get more for every dollar when you study abroad with CIEE, because our high-quality programs include everything from excursions to insurance. There are no hidden charges, and no disappointing surprises when you arrive.

Program

Application Due

Start Date

End Date

Fees & Housing

Program Fall 2025 18 weeks Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date End Date Fees & Housing $20,950
Program Academic year 2025-2026 Application Due Deadline Passed Start Date * End Date TBD* Fees & Housing $40,850
Program Spring 2026 18 weeks Start Date * End Date * Fees & Housing $20,950
Program Fall 2026 17 weeks Start Date * End Date *

*Dates for this program are provided as tentative dates. Please consult with your study abroad advisor to confirm dates before purchasing your flights.

To help you budget, keep in mind that students are responsible for the cost of international airfare, local transportation, books and supplies, visas, and personal expenses. In addition, your college or university may charge additional fees for study abroad, or may require you to receive a transcript via CIEE's School of Record, which carries an additional fee of $500.

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation $300 *
Educational Costs $16,706 **
Housing $3,750 ***
Insurance $194
Visa Fees $0
Total Fees $20,950

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee $1,328
International Airfare $1,450 ††
Local Transportation $500
Books & Supplies $100
Visa Fees $135
Potential travel to consulate for visa $500 †††
Personal expenses $235 ††††
Total Costs $4,248

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For groceries if you plan on making your own meals, budget more money if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††If no consulate in your home area

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation $300 *
Educational Costs $32,356 **
Housing $8,000 ***
Insurance $194
Visa Fees $0
Total Fees $40,850

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee $1,328
International Airfare $1,450 ††
Local Transportation $500
Books & Supplies $100
Visa Fees $135
Potential travel to consulate for visa $500 †††
Personal expenses $235 ††††
Total Costs $4,248

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For groceries if you plan on making your own meals, budget more money if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††If no consulate in your home area

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Participation Confirmation $300 *
Educational Costs $16,206 **
Housing $4,250 ***
Insurance $194
Visa Fees $0
Total Fees $20,950

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

Meals not included in program fee $1,401
International Airfare $1,450 ††
Local Transportation $500
Books & Supplies $100
Visa Fees $135
Potential travel to consulate for visa $500 †††
Personal expenses $240 ††††
Total Costs $4,326

*non-refundable fee

**direct cost of education charged uniformly to all students

***Housing fees listed are for financial aid purposes only and should not be considered a basis for calculation of refunds.

For groceries if you plan on making your own meals, budget more money if you plan on eating out regularly.

††round-trip based on U.S. East Coast departure

†††If no consulate in your home area

††††$100 emergency fund + cell phone expense + toiletries

Program Fees

CIEE offers the most student support of any provider in its program fee, including an airport greeting, full-time leadership and support, orientation, cultural activities, local excursions, pre-departure advising, and CIEE iNext travel protection with benefits.

Financial Aid

CIEE offers the most grants and scholarships of any study abroad organization, including $8 million/year in travel grants, merit-based scholarships, institutional and MSI grants, and Gilman Go Global Grants.

See Scholarships

Estimated Costs

Students are responsible and manage costs related to travel, meals, books, and personal expenses. Below are estimates for consideration.

What's Included

Tuition

Housing

Pre-departure Advising

Advising before you depart to set goals and answer questions

Optional on-site airport meet-and-greet

Orientation

Introduction to your program plus practical information about living in your host city

On-site Staff

Full-time program leadership and support in your city

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Travel Protection

CIEE iNext travel protection

24/7 emergency on-site support

Staff

Our Staff

Caleb Kay

Student Life Coordinator

Caleb has a degree in Political Science, Governance, and Sociology from the University of Cape Town.

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application

You're one step closer to an amazing study abroad experience!

2

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.

3

Contact Us

Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

Request Info