Thinking of studying at one of Africa’s top-ranked universities? The University of Cape Town (UCT) is more than just a campus on a hill; it’s a launchpad for world-changers, innovators, and future leaders. Here's your 2026 insider’s guide to UCT's undergraduate experience, from degrees and housing to sports, applications, and beyond.

Why Choose UCT?

UCT isn’t just about academics. It’s about balance, offering top-quality education, student wellness, and a beautiful campus lifestyle.

📍 Set on the slopes of Devil’s Peak in Cape Town, UCT is a global university that blends natural beauty with academic power. With over 29,000 students and 5,000+ international learners from more than 100 countries, you're walking into a diverse and dynamic environment.

📚 What You Can Study

UCT has six faculties offering globally recognised degrees:

• Commerce – Accounting, Economics, Finance, Information Systems

• Engineering & Built Environment – Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Architecture

• Health Sciences – MBChB, Audiology, Occupational Therapy

• Humanities – Social Work, Psychology, Theatre, Philosophy

• Law – LLB and Law Majors

• Science – Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Marine Biology

Each faculty offers both standard and extended programmes to support different educational backgrounds.

🏡 Student Housing & Campus Life

UCT provides modern student housing across multiple campuses, complete with sports facilities, clubs, societies, and cultural activities.

🎭 Want to dance, act, or debate? Join one of UCT’s 100+ student societies.

⚽ Prefer rugby, soccer, or hiking? Get involved in any of the 40+ sports clubs.

📶 And yes, Wi-Fi and support structures are everywhere, from academic mentoring to mental health resources.

📝 Application Process

UCT applications for 2026 open on 1 April 2025 and close on 31 July 2025. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Online Application: applyonline.uct.ac.za

• Application Fee: R100 for South Africans, R300 for international applicants

• Required Tests: National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) — especially for Health Sciences and Law

• Supporting Documents: Your latest school results, ID/passport, and proof of payment

📌 Tip: Always check the specific requirements of the programme you're applying for.

🔎 UCT Admission Requirements: Quick Breakdown

Admission to UCT is based on the Faculty Points Score (FPS) and Weighted Points Score (WPS), which consider your:

• NSC or international school results

• NBT scores (Academic & Quantitative Literacy)

• Maths, English, and key subject percentages

• Disadvantage factor (for SA citizens)

Each programme has its own Band A, B, and C thresholds for guaranteed, probable, and possible admission.

Special Programmes & Standouts

UCT is known for its unique streams:

• 🎥 Film & Media Production – Hands-on training in storytelling and editing

• 🎶 South African College of Music – Degrees in Jazz, Opera, Composition

• 🎭 Theatre & Performance – Audition-based, professional-level acting training

• 📐 Architecture & Design – Portfolio submission required

• ⚕️ MBChB (Medicine) – One of Africa’s most competitive medical degrees

International Students

UCT welcomes students globally and offers:

• Study visa support

• English language requirements (TOEFL, IELTS, or NBT)

• International fee structures

• Dedicated international student office

Fees, Funding & Financial Aid

• UCT Tuition & Housing Fees: Updated annually (check uct.ac.za)

• Funding Options: NSFAS, UCT Scholarships, Bursaries

• Career Services: UCT helps students find jobs, internships, and even supports entrepreneurs for 3 years after graduation.

📅 Key UCT 2026 Dates to Remember

Final Word

UCT is not just a university, it’s a community, a movement, and a place where futures are shaped. Whether you dream of launching a startup, becoming a doctor, or performing on stage, UCT can help you fly.

"Higher education helps us recognise opportunity hidden inside every challenge." – UCT VC