Welcome to UCT
Welcome to the University of Cape Town - South Africa's oldest university and one of Africa's leading teaching and research institutions.
Through this website we hope to give you a virtual tour of academic and student life at UCT, and an idea of what to expect should you decide to pursue your studies with us.
UCT is proud of its internationally acclaimed academic record. We are distinct from other tertiary institutions in that UCT is home to the highest number of world-ranked, A-rated researchers in South Africa, as well as the lion's share of National Research Foundation chairs established in 2007. This means that our undergraduate and postgraduate students share lecture halls and laboratories with outstanding researchers who are recognised world leaders in their field.
Our aim is to prepare leaders for the future. UCT therefore takes a holistic view of student development, ensuring that you will receive education that goes beyond the classroom curriculum There are many opportunities to develop your leadership skills; participation in the different clubs and societies on campus, as well as engaging in residence committees and student governance in the form of the Student Representative Council and Student Parliament. We also place great importance on social engagement and community service through student-led initiatives such as the Students' Health and Welfare Centres Organisation (SHAWCO), which runs a suite of programmes in disadvantaged communities around the Western Cape.
At UCT, you will also have the privilege of studying in a dynamic, multicultural environment with staff and students from over 100 countries in Africa and the rest of the world. International students make up about 20% of the student body, which allows you to interact with young people from different cultures and backgrounds.
We are keen to attract talented, committed students and we have many programmes and different options on offer and support in terms of academic work, social engagement and financial aid.
I encourage you to browse through this website and also take a look at the videos below which will give you an insight into life on campus.
YouTube videos:
We look forward to welcoming you to UCT.
Dr Max Price
Vice-Chancellor
