Exchange guide Stellenbosch University
Courses, housing, visa, campus life and exchange basics for studying at Stellenbosch University in Stellenbosch, South Africa.
City
StellenboschCountry
South AfricaInternational
3,000+
Enrollment
28,000+ (including 3,000+ international students)
Study abroad at Stellenbosch University: overview
Enrollment
28,000+ (including 3,000+ international students)
International Mix
3,000+
Why students choose it
Best for students who want Viticulture & Oenology (wine science), Agricultural Sciences, Business (Stellenbosch Business School) and are willing to check language, seats, campus rules and housing before choosing.
Language of instruction: English, Afrikaans (some undergraduate modules)
Exchange & application at Stellenbosch University
✅Requirements
Formal nomination from your home university, completion of SU's exchange application once an access code is issued, and a maximum course load of 60 RSA credits per semester (equivalent to a full-time SU student's load).
📨Nomination Process
Your home university's international office submits a formal nomination. No application is considered without it. Once received, SU's Semester Mobility Office issues you an access code to complete your own application. For questions, contact the Exchange Coordinator for Incoming Exchanges, Ms Alecia Erasmus (aleciaerasmus@sun.ac.za, +27 21 808 9437).
🧭Orientation Week
🗓️Deadlines by intake
| Intake | Nomination deadline | Application deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 (Feb-Jun) | Confirm with the Exchange Coordinator (aleciaerasmus@sun.ac.za) — dates vary by partner agreement | Issued via access code after nomination |
| Semester 2 (Jul-Nov) | Confirm with the Exchange Coordinator (aleciaerasmus@sun.ac.za) — dates vary by partner agreement | Issued via access code after nomination |
Arrival Checklist
- Confirm your home university has formally nominated you before booking flights — SU will not issue an access code without it.
- Apply separately for accommodation as soon as you're nominated — academic admission alone does not secure you a place to stay.
- Pay the compulsory Exchange Administrative Fee (EAF, amount set annually) before registration.
- Arrange medical cover from a South African Council for Medical Schemes-registered provider — required for all international students.
Academics & courses at Stellenbosch University
📝Course Registration
Course registration is coordinated through the Semester Mobility Office after your access code and nomination are confirmed; course load is capped at 60 RSA credits per semester.
🎓Credit System
Stellenbosch uses the South African HEQSF credit framework; a full-time semester load is typically up to 60 RSA credits.
💯Grading System
Percentage-based marks, not GPA — broadly in line with the wider South African public university system. Confirm SU's specific grading bands with the Exchange Coordinator for transcript conversion.
✍️Exam Culture
Lectures are supplemented by tutorials with attendance expectations that vary by faculty; exams are held at the end of each semester.
📚Library Access
Library, digital resources and study spaces become available after activating the university account.
Tuition & fees at Stellenbosch University
| Student Type | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| EXCHANGE | Check official fee page | Tuition is waived under the exchange agreement, but a compulsory Exchange Administrative Fee (EAF) applies and changes annually — confirm the current amount … |
| Full degree student | ZAR 36435-72875/year | Full-degree (non-exchange) international students from outside SADC pay an International Tuition Fee (ITF) on top of regular tuition: ZAR 72,875/year for Bac… |
Check official fee page
Tuition is waived under the exchange agreement, but a compulsory Exchange Administrative Fee (EAF) applies and changes annually — confirm the current amount …
ZAR 36435-72875/year
Full-degree (non-exchange) international students from outside SADC pay an International Tuition Fee (ITF) on top of regular tuition: ZAR 72,875/year for Bac…
Fees change annually — verify current rates on the official exchange office page
Student housing at Stellenbosch University
Stellenbosch University offers official housing
Apply for housing the moment you're nominated — SU is explicit that being accepted academically does not secure you a room, and the town has limited stock relative to demand.
Apply for housingFull housing guide
Find housing in Stellenbosch
Official contacts, student residences, private platforms, tips & red flags.
Insurance & campus support at Stellenbosch University
Confirm current approved schemes with SU International
Campus services
SU International (Semester Mobility Office)
Nomination processing, access codes, orientation, and housing mediation for incoming exchange students.
Campus Security & Walk-With Service
Free evening security escort service (18:00 onward) and a night shuttle covering a 6km radius from the Neelsie hub.
Student life at Stellenbosch University
Student Clubs
- Student Representative Council (SRC) societies
- RAG charity fundraising committees
- Faculty-based associations (especially active in Agriculture and Business)
Buddy Program
SU International peer-support contacts for incoming exchange students
Sports & Recreation
- Rugby (Maties)
- Rowing
- Athletics
- Hockey
Public Groups & Communities
Stellenbosch University official Facebook page
SU International channels
Your First 2 Weeks
- Attend SU International's orientation for incoming exchange students.
- Finalize your housing if not already confirmed before arrival.
- Complete registration and confirm your 60-credit course load with your faculty.
- Set up a local SIM with RICA registration.
- Download the Buzzer safety app and note the Walk-With service hours.
Key exchange dates at Stellenbosch University
-
1
Semester 1
February to June
Main academic semester; confirm exact dates with the Exchange Coordinator each cycle.
-
2
Semester 2
July to November
Second academic semester; confirm exact dates with the Exchange Coordinator each cycle.
-
3
Housing application window
Immediately after nomination
Apply for accommodation as soon as you're nominated — it is a separate process from academic admission and fills fast.