University of Cape Town / Applying to UCT / International applicants

Full degree study

IAPO services: Postgraduate services

UCT prides itself on its diverse student body, which reflects the many cultures and backgrounds of the region. The university also welcomes international students and is currently home to over 4 000 international students from 111 different countries. The International Academic Programmes Office (IAPO) provides services to international students and visitors, UCT staff and local students. Services are offered to both international undergraduate and postgraduate students.

International postgraduate student support

IAPO's specific support to international students includes working alongside UCT departments and faculties to improve and enhance services and address issues affecting international postgraduates. The Manager: International Full Degree Students is responsible for providing international postgraduate students with service and support for the duration of their degree or stay at UCT. Assistance, advice and information are offered to international postgraduates in the following ways:

providing pre-arrival as well as on-campus orientation
international students' pre-registration, i.e. checking study visas
arranging joint international postgraduate student orientation programmes with faculties and departments.
general counselling
advising on study visas and other immigration issues, student fees and health insurance.
developing opportunities for integration, including postgraduate seminars, social activities, etc.
enhancing communication between international postgraduate students and the UCT community by running a mailing list and an international students' newsletter
developing international postgraduate information booklets on subjects such as pre-arrival, orientation and application procedures.

International postgraduate student handbook

Please refer to the Application and Admission Guidelines for International Postgraduate Students booklet for information on how to apply to UCT. Many of the questions you have regarding applying to the University and postgraduate student life will be answered here.