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Study Permits

Where to apply for a study permit?

A study permit should be applied for from outside of the Republic of South Africa. You can apply for a study permit at your nearest South African Embassy, High Commission, Consulate or Trade Mission. If there is no South African representative, prospective students must apply to the South African High Commission, Embassy, Consulate or Trade Mission nearest to their home country. It is imperative that students await the outcome of this application for a Study Permit in their own country of residence or origin.

When to apply for a study permit?

You will need to apply for a study permit after you have submitted the necessary application documentation and have received your letter of acceptance from the University and prior to your arrival in South Africa. You will NOT be permitted to attend classes at the University without a valid study permit.

Please Note:

Prospective international students are advised to submit their study permit documentation as soon as possible. It normally takes six weeks for applications to be processed. The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University cannot register a student until a valid study permit has been provided. Passports, valid for the duration of the studies, with a valid study permit must be presented to the University during registration.

Which documents should be submitted to obtain a study permit?

  • A passport valid for not less than 30 days after intended studies;
  • Administrative fee (as required at the time by the Department of Home Affairs of South Africa);
  • Proof of payment of a South African Medical Aid Cover of a Medical Scheme registered with the Council for Medical Schemes in South Africa. Cover must be valid for the duration of a full academic year (January - December); and
  • Admission Letter from the University stating:
    • The duration of the degree.
    • Proof of finances to cover tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of studies in South Africa.

To download the study permit checklist form click here. To visit the South African Home Affairs' website click here.