Global Learning Programmes FAQ's

Online application: Complete and submit
Offline application: Download, print, complete and submit to gsap@uct.ac.za

Dependent on the programme offered (under-/postgraduate) international students

When selecting your subject, you would either already be a student in this subject or considering taking the subject in the near future, as prior knowledge will be of assistance. However, if you have never studied the subject before, having a strong interest will be beneficial and will allow you to engage in the subject matter. In order to gain the most from the courses, we encourage participants to engage fully in lectures and participate fully in class discussions.

All programmes and courses are held in the English language. Therefore, we expect all participants to have a very good level of English which allows them to interact with fellow participants, as well as the faculty and programme team members. Participants also have to be able to get involved in academic discussions and take part in assessments and tests at the end of each course.

For each course you attend, there will be an assessment component.

We do not award credits for our programmes. Credits to be awarded by your home university. We encourage participants to contact the study-abroad office in your home university to learn about the applicable regulations and rules.

You will receive a certificate of participation/attendance at the end of certain programmes. This is awarded to students that complete and attend at least 90% of lectures, field trips, and other student projects and activities. Our programmes are non-credit bearing, therefore you will NOT receive an academic transcript.

Depending on the type of passport you hold, you may need a visa to travel to South Africa. Learn more about visa requirements.

Yes, we will collect you at the airport as well as transport students to the airport on departure.  The shuttle service is free on arrival and departure to the airport.  If you have booked accommodations with us, you will be met by a UCT staff member at the accommodation to receive your keys and checked in.

Depending on the period the programme is offered, you will be staying either in on-campus or off-campus (vetted) accommodation. Students will have the options of single rooms with shared bathroom facilities or en-suites. Breakfast is included with accommodation.  Internet connection is normally available in all rooms.

Unfortunately, cooking is not allowed inside the UCT dormitory rooms or at guests houses and UCT kitchens, except in self-catering apartments.  Laundry facilities are generally available.

It is a programme offered by a third party. It is not a UCT programme, though it may use UCT academics to teach all or part of it. these UCT staff doing so in their private capacities. The programme participants may use UCT facilities.

Prior to your travel, decide about the level of insurance cover appropriate to the possessions you will have with you. Electronic equipment (such as laptops, iPods and digital cameras) are highly attractive for petty thievery, however basic measure can protect your possessions. Also consider luggage insurance, in case luggage is lost in transit.

• Please ensure you have personal medical insurance (Comprehensive Cover). Cape Town has a number of world class hospitals with their own emergency rooms, and details of these will be provided in the Welcome Packs. It is imperative that you have your medical insurance details with you.
• The University of Cape Town makes use of private emergency ambulance provider ER24 (084 124). Alternatively, there is a second provider called Netcare911 (082 911). In each case you will be responsible for the cost of an ambulance if required. Please ensure your medical insurance covers this cost.
• South African doctor’s prescriptions can be filled in one of the nearby pharmacies. We recommend, that if possible, you bring an adequate, labelled supply of any prescription medicines you regularly take, as ingredients in medications sometimes vary from one country to another (remember to keep medications in original containers). Also, please note that medication names vary from country to country, so consult a pharmacist to be sure. Please declare any known illnesses/allergies and special needs requirements for our information in case of an emergency.

Weather:
Cape Town’s weather is changeable. Most buildings and public transport are not centrally heated or cooled. Dress appropriately for the weather to keep warm or cool. Rainproof jackets are advisable for the wet winter season (average temperatures = Low 3°C/38°F; High 15°C/59°F). Hats and sunscreen are advisable for the summer season (average temperatures = Low 15°C/59°F; High 43°C/110°F). Additionally, comfortable walking shoes/hiking boots are recommended to enjoy the mountain and natural landscapes of the Western Cape.

Mobiles/Cell Phones
Check with your cellphone/mobile provider about whether your phone will work in South Africa, and roaming data rates. Otherwise, you can easily buy a South African sim card at the airport or in local stores. The best service providers for the Cape Town area are Vodacom or MTN.

Power
South Africa utilises 220/240V 15-amp power. The main power outlet type is ‘M’ type but ‘C’ type plugs work with an adaptor. Please ensure you bring the correct adaptors with you and that any electrical appliances (hairdryers, etc.) are suitable for use in a 250-volt system. International adaptors can also be purchased locally at selected stores.

• The local currency in South Africa is the Rand (ZAR). You may exchange your foreign currency and traveller’s cheques on arrival at the airport, when you arrive in South Africa. Foreign Currency Exchange services are also available at local banks.
• If you travel with your credit card, please notify your bank of your travel plans so your card is not registered as stolen. If you have an account at home which is linked to the CIRRUS system you will be able to withdraw cash at South African auto-banks (ATMs) bearing the CIRRUS signs. There are auto banks available on the UCT Campus and in the surrounding suburb areas.
• Please be aware of the constantly changing exchange rate. View the latest exchange rates.