Why study for an MBA in South Africa?
South Africa is Africa’s premier provider of business qualifications, with an international MBA program from a South African university being a mark of quality. As the continent’s biggest economy, South Africa has a huge economy and a growing demand for MBA graduates.
Choosing to study an MBA in South Africa might not be top of your list, but if you’re looking for a quality education in an area with huge potential, it might just be the right option for you.
What international MBA programs are offered in South Africa?
South Africa is home to 20 accredited MBA programs, with more than 4,000 students enrolling on business courses each year. Full-time MBA programs are the most popular with international students, but modular, distance learning and online MBA courses also exist.
You should expect a South African MBA to offer real-world learning, with less of a focus on business theory.
Particularly popular MBA specialisations in South Africa include entrepreneurship, international management and strategy.
Immigration and visas in South Africa
Visa entry requirements for South Africa vary from country to country, with most countries requiring you to get a study permit if your course lasts longer than three month. You will not be able to register with a South African business institution or MBA provider without a study permit.
In order to apply for a study permit, you will need:
- Confirmed letter from an approved university
- Details of a person who will act as your guardian
- Proof of finances to cover the duration of your studies
- Health insurance
What are the costs of studying for an MBA in South Africa?
One of the major attractions of studying an international MBA program in South Africa are the cheaper tuition fees, particularly in comparison to European and North American business courses.
You should expect an MBA in South Africa to cost between R35,000 – R50,000 (£1,950-£3,000).
Working in South Africa
South Africa has a developing economy, which is still struggling to get to the levels in wants. South Africa has high unemployment and a high rate of poverty, but it is improving. Agriculture forms a large part of the country’s employment and exports, particularly with other African countries and partners such as the US, China, Japan and the United Kingdom.
However, for students on an international MBA program in South Africa, it is the tourism industry that is most likely to attract and provide employment. Tourism accounts for a substantial amount of revenue into South Africa’s economy, from the beaches of Cape Town to the safaris of the north.
What to do next
If you would like more information on choosing and applying for an MBA program in South Africa, sign up to our Free Application Service. We’ll get in touch with you with information tailored to your requirements, including advice on the best business course for you.
